“When we safeguard Fannin County’s biodiversity, we create a global impact.”
Oyster is SO fortunate to live in Southern Appalachia. We stand in awe completely enveloped by nature unlike any other eco-system.
North Georgia, specifically Fannin County, arguably boasts one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. Over 40% (approximately 100,000 acres) of Fannin County is protected within the Chattahoochee National Forest and Cohutta Wilderness area. Home to thousands of connected species, North Georgia’s ecosystem is at a critical tipping point that requires proactive measures to remain resilient.
Many of you know our “not so little” (now 16-years-old), Veronica (Roni) Oyster. Born and raised in Blue Ridge, Georgia, Roni has spent more time in nature at 16-years-old than most people do in a lifetime. Her habitat is the National Forest. Only after visiting areas not encompassed by nature did she see how crucial intact ecosystems are and how quickly we take our home for granted.
“The little things matter.”
This is how Roni became Oyster’s “Conservation Liaison”. It sounds fancy but most of her time spent in this arena involves picking up trash all over Main Street in downtown Blue Ridge, GA where Oyster is located. As tourism has exploded, just keeping up with the trash on our corner of town is daunting.
Last month, Veronica hosted a field trip here at Oyster for Fannin County High School’s FFA & Agriculture students. Oyster has done plenty of class trips over the years, but this one leaned into the intersection of rural farming, protecting our natural resources, and the growing tourism and development in Fannin County—affecting home.
After doughnuts were served, Roni focused on her presentation on Oyster Bamboo Fly Rods earning Fannin County’s Commitment to Conservation Certification.
Resulting from the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce’s relentless devotion to conservation and steadfast stewardship, this certification marks a a meaningful milestone.
“In all things of nature, there is something of the marvelous.” - Aristotle