Category: Blog Post

Blog Post, Press Releases , , ,

RELEASE: Introducing the Savannah area warehouse dashboard

by Ogeechee Riverkeeper July 9, 2026

07/08/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Meaghan Gerard
Communications and Administrative Director
Ogeechee Riverkeeper
meaghan@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org

Contact: Steven Uhles
Communications and Brand
Savannah Riverkeeper
communications@savannahriverkeeper.org

Contact: Jeff Beauvais
North Coast Advocate
One Hundred Miles
jeff@onehundredmiles.org

INTRODUCING THE SAVANNAH AREA WAREHOUSE DASHBOARD
Coastal environmental orgs launch updated tool

Local environmental organizations Savannah Riverkeeper, Ogeechee Riverkeeper, and One Hundred Miles are introducing an improved Warehouse Dashboard — an interactive tool developed to help community members, stakeholders, and decision-makers visualize and understand the full scope of established industrial facilities in the Greater Savannah Area. 

The dashboard includes a map and data illustrating some concerning truths about the Greater Savannah area’s expansive warehouse market. As of July 1, 2026, nearly 700 individual developments have been charted on the dashboard, which includes completed facilities, facilities under construction, and those slated to be built in the near future.

Industrial construction has accelerated dramatically in Coastal Georgia in recent years. Sector market analysis confirms the region has experienced its highest vacancy rates of this decade over the past three years, hovering around 10 percent. 

The Warehouse Dashboard helps to visualize the sprawling footprint of industrial facilities surrounding the ports, which are increasingly encroaching on the fragile habitats that act as buffers, and the coastal region’s vital floodplains. Continued industrial expansion threatens further harm to disappearing wetlands, green spaces, and natural areas in the region.

Screenshot of Warehouse Dashboard

The dashboard provides a publicly accessible inventory with raw data, available to anyone. The tool is the most comprehensive Savannah-region warehouse inventory available to the public without a subscription. Entries include location, date of construction, property owner, legal description, and square footage of the development, collated from available public records. Work on data collection for the tracking tool was supported by a grant from the Sapelo Foundation.

Download the Colliers Q2 2026 Savannah Industrial Market Report, which includes vacancy rates and warehouse square footage available or being built.

Citizens, advocates, researchers, and decision-makers can use the Warehouse Dashboard to better understand and contextualize the region’s industrial market. By combining information from multiple local governments and using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools to give a visual representation of how warehousing interacts with waterways and floodplains, the impacts of this warehousing boom are dramatically clear. This tool will help bridge the gap between dense technical development proposals and what this development looks like across communities.

The Warehouse Dashboard is intended to be a living, collaborative, community-supported resource. It has been built to improve visualization and understanding about the cumulative impacts of industrial development. Savannah Riverkeeper, Ogeechee Riverkeeper, and One Hundred Miles will continue to regularly update the data with collaboration and input from the public. 

The Warehouse Dashboard is available at: https://savrk.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/438f7c1bd32845628aac697703ac7537#

A survey for the public to “Report a Development” is open for anyone to submit findings or concerns. 

About Ogeechee Riverkeeper: Ogeechee Riverkeeper 501(c)(3) works to protect, preserve, and improve the water quality of the Ogeechee River basin, which includes all of the streams flowing out to Ossabaw Sound and St. Catherine’s Sound. The Canoochee River is about 108 miles long and the Ogeechee River itself is approximately 245 miles long. The Ogeechee River system drains more than 5,500 square miles across 20 counties in Georgia. More at ogeecheeriverkeeper.org.

About Savannah Riverkeeper: Savannah Riverkeeper is the leading guardian of the Savannah River, actively protecting the entire 400+ river basin and 10,000 square mile watershed through action, education, advocacy, and collaboration. Learn more at savannahriverkeeper.org. 

About One Hundred Miles: One Hundred Miles is a coastal nonprofit working to protect Georgia’s 100-mile coast through advocacy, education, and community engagement. Learn more at onehundredmiles.org.

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PDF download: 07.2026 – Press Release – Warehouse Tracking Map

Blog Post, Press Releases , , ,

RELEASE: LCDA and ORK Announce Water Quality Monitoring Partnership 

by Ogeechee Riverkeeper July 7, 2026

Katie Dye
Director of Marketing & Communications
Liberty County Development Authority
(912) 655-3081
katie.dye@comegrow.global 

Meaghan Gerard
Communications and Administrative Director
Ogeechee Riverkeeper
866-942-6222 x3
meaghan@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org 

Liberty County Development Authority and Ogeechee Riverkeeper Announce Water Quality Monitoring Partnership 

LCDA contracts ORK for baseline data ahead of water reclamation plant project 

HINESVILLE, GA – The Liberty County Development Authority (LCDA) and Ogeechee Riverkeeper (ORK) have reached a landmark agreement to establish a comprehensive baseline water quality monitoring program for the Laurel View and North Newport Rivers in Liberty County. 

The partnership brings together a local economic development organization and a respected water conservation nonprofit to collect independent, science-based data to inform future decisions on water resources and environmental stewardship in Liberty County. 

All data will be publicly available at https://www.ogeecheeriverkeeper.org/libertywater/. ORK’s dedicated webpage will also include collection protocols, quality control measures, and methodology. Further, ORK has created a guide for understanding the various data points and what they mean for the health of the river. 

Using remote-enabled probes, the monitoring program includes continuous water-quality measurements and laboratory testing of samples collected from the Laurel View and North Newport rivers. ORK’s testing will track dissolved oxygen, temperature, and salinity through continuous monitoring, as well as 5-day BOD, enterococci, ammonia, total phosphorus, orthophosphate, pH, and total kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), through monthly sampling. 

The program is designed to establish a clear understanding of existing environmental conditions and provide valuable baseline information for the community, regulators, scientists, and local decision makers. Periodic reports will be produced during the project and be made available to the public to help residents better understand the health of local waterways.

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to transparency, sound science, and informed decision making,” said Brynn Grant, CEO of LCDA. “We believe meaningful conversations about our community’s future should be grounded in credible data. We are grateful to Ogeechee Riverkeeper for bringing their expertise and reputation to this important effort.” 

“Ogeechee Riverkeeper has and always will push for science-based decision making,” said Damon Mullis, Riverkeeper and executive director of ORK. “We will also continue to advocate treatment at the highest possible level for the waste created and push for the most stringent permit conditions we can get to protect our waters as growth continues. We are encouraged by the LCDA’s willingness to collect more data and ORK is willing to partner with organizations that seek to make important and impactful decisions fully based in the best science.” 

Before any sampling begins, ORK will develop a detailed monitoring plan in coordination with Thomas & Hutton Engineering that identifies where samples will be collected, how often they will be taken, how they will be handled, and the quality standards to be followed to ensure the results are accurate and reliable. 

The year-long monitoring program (with an option to be renewed for up to three consecutive years) is expected to provide a comprehensive baseline water quality dataset for these waterways of the Ogeechee River Basin. 

LCDA plans to build a wastewater treatment facility that would discharge up to 3 million gallons of treated water per day when operating at full capacity, which is estimated to take 20-30 years to reach. The current plans include a water reclamation facility with advanced Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology to treat water to near-drinking water quality. This highly-treated water is safe to use for irrigation, fire suppression systems, and in industrial processes–a key component to protecting aquifer water for drinking use only. Potential receiving bodies of the treated water include the Laurel View River and the North Newport River.

LCDA Board Chairman and State Representative Al Williams said. “This effort is about learning, listening, and ensuring that future decisions are informed by quality data and a transparent process.” 

For more information, visit www.cleanwaterbrightfuture.com or contact LCDA at info@comegrow.global. 

About Ogeechee Riverkeeper: Ogeechee Riverkeeper 501(c)(3) works to protect, preserve, and improve the water quality of the Ogeechee River basin, which includes all of the streams flowing out to Ossabaw Sound and St. Catherine’s Sound. The Canoochee River is about 108 miles long and the Ogeechee River itself is approximately 245 miles long. The Ogeechee River system drains more than 5,500 square miles across 20 counties in Georgia. More at ogeecheeriverkeeper.org. 

About Liberty County Development Authority: Working in partnership with local, regional, and state leaders, the Liberty County Development Authority (LCDA) is dedicated to attracting new investment, supporting existing businesses, preparing strategic sites and infrastructure, and fostering a skilled workforce. Through responsible economic development, LCDA works to strengthen the local economy, expand the tax base, and create opportunities that improve the standard of living for current and future generations. More at www.lcda.com.

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PDF download of release: PRESS RELEASE LCDA ORK Agreement July 2026

Blog Post, Press Releases ,

RELEASE: ORK announces award winners

by Ogeechee Riverkeeper June 8, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
06/08/2026
Contact: Meaghan Walsh Gerard
Communications and Administrative Director
meaghan@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org

OGEECHEE RIVERKEEPER ANNOUNCES ORK AWARD WINNERS
The awards presentation took place at ORK’s annual membership meeting

Ogeechee Riverkeeper (ORK) presented the 2026 ORK Awards at the annual membership meeting on Saturday, June 6, under the oaks at the historic Glen Echo Farm in Ellabell, Georgia. The awards recognize outstanding efforts by businesses and individuals in water protection in the basin. Each was presented with a printed photograph from the winning entries of the previous annual photography contest. The event also included updates from Riverkeeper Damon Mullis, cornhole under the ancient oaks, kids activities, and more.

Volunteer Award was presented to Ernie and Lind Hollingsworth, Adopt-A-Stream volunteers who have consistently collected water samples for decades. This award is given to a volunteer who exemplifies the spirit of ORK’s commitment to public outreach, educational opportunities, and meaningful efforts for clean water in our basin.

The Rising Star Award was presented to Cathryn Martin, a recent graduate of Richmond Hill High School, for her research into area development on flooding and effective stormwater management. The award is given to someone under the age of 21 who has the spirit and drive to initiate change for safe, clean water in the basin.

Legacy Award was given to Don Stack, an environmental attorney and founding member of the organization. This award is presented to an individual who has dedicated themselves, their time, or their work to protecting water quality in our basin.

The Business Award is presented to a company that is making a real-world difference in their everyday operations to protect clean water through sustainable choices. This award was given to Hunter Cattle in recognition of their commitment to ethical and environmental practices. 

Educational Partner Award was presented to Richard Evans with UGA Chatham County Extension Office for his assistance with the Master Naturalist program.  The award is given to an individual, educational program, or school that is always ready to help ORK connect supporters with meaningful learning experiences.

Excellence in Water Science Award is presented to a scientist or researcher (or project)  that has added to the body of knowledge about the Ogeechee watershed. The award was given to Jaivime Evaristo,  C. Rhett Jackson, and Todd C. Rasmussen for their work on aquifer groundwater connected to surface water in Georgia.

Please note: Cathryn Martin and Richard Evans were unable to attend. Their headshots are included. Todd Rasmussen accepted for the group.

About Ogeechee Riverkeeper: Ogeechee Riverkeeper 501(c)(3) works to protect, preserve, and improve the water quality of the Ogeechee River basin, which includes all of the streams flowing out to Ossabaw Sound and St. Catherine’s Sound. The Canoochee River is about 108 miles long and the Ogeechee River itself is approximately 245 miles long. The Ogeechee River system drains more than 5,500 square miles across 20 counties in Georgia. More at ogeecheeriverkeeper.org.

PDF of Press Release – ORK awards

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2026 Annual Member Meeting

Blog Post, Press Releases , ,

RELEASE: ORK to host Clays for the Canoochee

by Ogeechee Riverkeeper May 20, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
05/20/2026
Contact: Meaghan Walsh Gerard
Communications and Administrative Director
meaghan@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org

OGEECHEE RIVERKEEPER TO HOST CLAYS FOR THE CANOOCHEE
The new event is a sporting clay shoot fundraiser

Ogeechee Riverkeeper (ORK) invites sportsmen and women to participate in a sporting clay shoot, benefitting the nonprofit’s fight to secure clean, safe water. Participants will have a chance to show off their skills on the 50-shot course at 17 South Rod and Gun Club, a 300-acre private club with 15 scenic stations that challenge shooters of all levels. The event is a morning of friendly competition, followed by an award luncheon and raffle.

Those looking to aim higher can become a Clays for the Canoochee sponsor. Depending on the level, sponsors will have increased visibility for their business or organization and special event-day perks, as well as registration for 1-2 teams of 4 shooters each. Not a shooter? Organizations can still sponsor limited edition merchandise, including reusable water bottles, tote bags, and more. 

Event details, including schedule, registration, and sponsorship options: https://www.ogeecheeriverkeeper.org/clayshoot/

If interested in onsite coverage, please contact staff ahead of this event: hesper@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org

About Ogeechee Riverkeeper: Ogeechee Riverkeeper 501(c)(3) works to protect, preserve, and improve the water quality of the Ogeechee River basin, which includes all of the streams flowing out to Ossabaw Sound and St. Catherine’s Sound. The Canoochee River is about 108 miles long and the Ogeechee River itself is approximately 245 miles long. The Ogeechee River system drains more than 5,500 square miles across 20 counties in Georgia. More at ogeecheeriverkeeper.org.

Blog Post, Educational , , , , ,

Birding Basics

by Ogeechee Riverkeeper May 2, 2026

Do you often see or hear birds but don’t know how to identify them? Birding is a safe outdoor activity, and you can use our custom birding bingo to get started! And be sure to join in for the World Migratory Bird Day celebration. 

More than just pretty animals, birds are an important part of the ecological system, including the Ogeechee River basin. Various species inhabit different layers of the food web — from birds that eat seeds and insects to the most expert hunting predators. They keep populations in check.

They also help spread seeds and pollen which is vital for plant growth. Maintaining a healthy environment for birds to thrive is crucial to the balance of ecosystems locally and globally.

Red-shouldered hawk. Photo by Chris S. Wood, Macauley Library

What is “birding”? 

Birding is the act of birdwatching for recreational, research, or citizen science reporting purposes. Also known as ‘birdwatching,’ it’s the observation of birds in their natural habitats as a hobby or an amateur activity.

Wood Storks. Photo by Mary Ellen Urbanski. Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge

I see birds all the time, but I don’t know what I’m looking at. 

Learn what to look or listen for when birding starting with color, shape, flight pattern, body size, bill or beak shape, calls and more. 

Check out these sites for bird guides. 

Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Birdwatcher’s Digest
Rare birds in the ORK watershed

Northern parula on red twig. Photo by Dan Fein.

I’m enjoying this. How can I get better?

Consider purchasing a pair of binoculars (aka “bins”) and searching out local birding trails or sites. You might also join a local chapter of the Audubon Society, an organization dedicated to protecting birds and sharing resources for enthusiasts.

Audubon Society
Ogeechee Audubon Society
Coastal Georgia Audubon Society
Georgia Audubon Society
Birding trails in Georgia

Always follow the American Birding Association Code of Birding Ethics

American Goldfinch. Photo by Adam Jackson, Macauley Library.

I want to share some of the amazing things I’ve seen. Is there a way to do that?

Engage in citizen science. Download the eBird app or the Merlin app for free. It’s a digital way to keep track of the birds you see or hear while birding. This type of citizen science reporting — the collection of scientific data by amateur scientists — benefits the people participating as well as researchers.

Adult male Barn Owl. Photo by Shlomo Neuman, Audubon Photography Awards

ORK Birding Activity

  • Plan a birding trip in your backyard or neighborhood park, near a waterway or in a city greenspace.
  • Download eBird or Merlin Bird ID and record what you see/hear. If you aren’t sure how to ID a certain bird, you can search through the Cornell Lab of Ornithology website by characteristics. 
  • Share your checklists with friends and other birders! You can also share your findings and photos through email at info@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org.

This activity is compatible with Project Wild “Bird Song Survey” activity which is geared towards middle and high school students in science and environmental education. Birding in general can be a fun family/friends outing for all ages, abilities, and environments. 

Activity is open to all ages and meets the needs or can be combined with other activities for the following Georgia Standards of Excellence in science, ecology, environmental science, and zoology.

  • S3L2. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about the effects of pollution (air, land, and water) and humans on the environment.
  • S4L1. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about the roles of organisms and the flow of energy within an ecosystem.
  • SEC3. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to construct explanations of community interactions.
  • SB6. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to assess the theory of evolution.
  • SEC5. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information on the impact of natural and anthropogenic activities on ecological systems.

    First published May 2022. Updated May 2026.