Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is one of many refuges in the United States that offer hunting opportunities to the visiting public. The primary objective of a national wildlife refuge is to provide habitat for the conservation and protection of all species of wildlife. Public hunting opportunities are a way to provide recreational opportunities and permit the use of a valuable resource. Public hunting on the Okefenokee NWR is permitted in three areas: the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area, the Pocket, and the Cowhouse Unit during certain seasons each year. All hunters must possess all applicable Georgia hunting licenses in accordance with state regulations. Hunters may view the refuge-specific hunt brochure (available online at www.fws.gov/refuge/okefenokee) for additional hunt regulations and information.

At last, Georgia has seen the writing on the wall, well if they were concentrating that is. We are now the 16th state in the country to enact a bill that would ban drivers from having a cell phone in their hands while behind the wheel of a vehicle. Sorry but in my mind this has been a no brainer for years, but thankfully Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal has signed House Bill 673 into law, which goes into effect on July 1.