Chapters in Georgia Native Plant Society
History
Over two decades ago, the Georgia Native Plant Society was founded by people based in metro Atlanta. Since that time, their initiative and message around the importance of native plants to our lives and the ability of individuals to make a difference locally in their protection, stewardship, rescue and propagation, has spread across Georgia and in fact across the USA. Today our members are served in other locations across the state where local groups are providing educational information, restoration opportunities and opportunities to learn more.
Realignment
In November 2019, GNPS adopted new bylaws, which implemented a state-wide governing board to set organizational policy, define its strategic vision, and directly support chapter activities. This new organizational structure paved the way for more chapters to form throughout Georgia.
Join a chapter
There are currently 8 chapters of the Georgia Native Plant Society. As a member of GNPS you too can get to work and join like minded people in your area by aligning yourself with one of our chapters.
For current members, login and update your chapter affiliation through the chapter affiliation form. For new or renewing members, select your chapter affiliation on the membership form.
Form a chapter
Let us know if you are interested in learning more about how to join or start up a local chapter near you in the state of Georgia by using the Contact Us form. Current members can also use the Chapter Interest Form. To learn more about the overall process, view the Chapter Quick Start Guide. For a more in-depth guide to forming and running a chapter, see the Chapter Manual.
News & Events
West Georgia Chapter June Newsletter Now Available
The June newsletter is now available to read or download. Contents include:
- June 17 chapter meeting with program on plant rescues
- Chapter Board of Directors update
- Buffalo Creek Trail update
- Plant profile: Hairy sunflower
The Hight Bridge at Buffalo Creek
Nature Walk at the Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge
The Fringed Campion Chapter members and friends (that includes you!) are invited to gather at the Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 9 am for an easy Forester led hike. Participants will get the opportunity to view areas of past prescribed burns and learn how the refuge is managed with fire. We will meet in the parking lot of the Allison Creek Trail. To get to this parking lot, continue past the turn off for the visitor center and proceed to the end of the road.
Piedmont Wildlife Refuge Interactive Map
Piedmont Wildlife Refuge Trail Map (pdf)
This is anticipated to be an easy walk, but be prepared for the challenges of mud, roots, rocks, and elevation change. Check the weather forecast and be prepared with ponchos or sunblock (but with Georgia weather, maybe both!). Ticks are present in the refuge and bug spray is recommended, as are long pants, long sleeves, a hat, and sturdy closed toe shoes.
Cell phone service at the Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge is spotty at best. Restrooms and potable water are not available.
All participants will sign a GNPS waiver of liability before the event.
Check the Facebook event for any last minute updates: https://www.facebook.com/events/611870608525319
June Meeting Will Get You “Rescue Ready”
The West Georgia Chapter’s June 17 meeting features a presentation on “Pro TIps for Better Plant Rescues.” (Note – the date of this meeting was listed incorrectly in the May newsletter.) If you have never been on a GNPS plant rescue, or if it’s been a while since your last one, don’t miss this informative session. We’ll explain how to register for a rescue, the rules that participants must follow, how to prepare for the rescue, what to take with you, and how to get your plants home safely. We’ll also help you avoid common newbie mistakes that can spoil the experience.
“New members are often nervous about going on their first rescue,” notes Jackie Miller, one of the chapter’s rescue facilitators. “They aren’t sure how to dress or what to take with them, and they may be worried because their plant ID skills are weak. But we want them to know that first-timers always get lots of support from more experienced rescuers, and they will go home with some great plants.”
There will be a reception with light refreshments at 6:30, and the presentation will start at 7:00, followed by a drawing for door prizes at the end of the meeting. There’s no admission charge, and the meeting is open to everyone; however, note that participation in rescues is limited to GNPS members.
Athens-East Piedmont Spring Plant Sale THIS Weekend!
Join us on Saturday May 3 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Sunrise Nursery (550 Athens Road, Winterville). We’ll have a wide selection of native perennials, grasses, sedges, ferns, shrubs, trees, and vines – Twice as many plants as last year! See below for the current availability list. See you there!
Smoke Stack Farmer’s Market (Macon) Plant Sale
The Fringed Campion Chapter has accepted an invitation to be a vendor at the Smoke Stack Farmer’s Market on Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 9 am until 1 pm. The Smoke Stack Farmer’s Market will be at 342 Rose Avenue in Macon, on the lawn at Payne Mill Antique Market.
We hope that you stop by to visit with chapter members, learn about chapter activities, ask questions about native plants, share your experiences about adding natives to your home habitat, and shop a wide selection of native plants ideal for middle Georgia yards. Plants at our sale are propagated and donated by chapter members passionate about the importance of native plants in the landscape.
Contact fringedcampion@gnps.org if you would like to volunteer your time or donate plants you have grown for the sale.
Check the Facebook event for any last minute updates: https://www.facebook.com/events/1175421487152307
