Keeping Georgia green

What’s your favorite endangered species? Maybe a charismatic mammal, an elusive reptile, or a graceful bird? What about a plant? There are many species of wildlife that are at risk of extinction, and this includes plants! We’ve highlighted a variety of species benefiting from Zoo Atlanta’s conservation partners this year, and this month, we want to share with you the important work being done right here in Georgia to study and conserve our native flora. 

Thanks to the wide range of ecological habitats found here – from coastal marshes to the foothills of some of the oldest mountains in the world – Georgia is home to an incredible diversity of both wildlife and plants. Scientists have documented over 3,000 native plant species and subspecies in Georgia. Over 800 of those (about 20%) are rare enough to be considered a special concern for conservation. 

Plants fill vital roles in all types of ecosystems. From regulating the climate and maintaining water quality to serving as a source of food and medicine, plants are essential to ensuring that ecosystems and human communities thrive. This is partly why habitat protection is crucial to wildlife conservation. But it’s also important to understand the conservation status of flora for its own sake, even in ecosystems that aren’t home to rare or endangered fauna with dedicated conservation programs. 

That’s where the Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance (GPCA) comes in. Zoo Atlanta is proud to be part of this collaborative network of more than 75 universities, botanical gardens, zoos, state and federal agencies, conservation organizations, and private companies. Their mission is to study and conserve Georgia’s flora and fauna through research, education, and advocacy. They coordinate over 100 projects designed to benefit plants deemed Species of Greatest Conservation Need by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. 

Our Horticulture Team works closely with the GPCA, in addition to keeping the Zoo grounds looking beautiful year-round. In a future blog, you’ll hear more about their work beyond the Zoo to save endangered flora from extinction and protect plant biodiversity. 

Sarah Hamilton
Interpretive Engagement Specialist 

References 

• Kruse, L., C. Steppe, H. Umstead, and J. Ceska. 2025. Plants technical team report for Georgia’s State Wildlife Action Plan 2025 revision. In Georgia 2025 State Wildlife Action Plan. Social Circle, GA: Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Available online.