Georgia Extends Conservation Program, Increases Funding by 50%
Georgia lawmakers extended the state’s conservation program for 10 years with a 50% funding boost, while other environmental bills failed during the 2026 session.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA — The Georgia Legislature extended the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program for another 10 years and increased its funding by 50% during the 2026 legislative session, marking a significant victory for environmental conservation efforts across the state.
The conservation program extension now awaits Governor Brian Kemp’s signature, with the governor having one month to decide whether to sign the bill into law. Since its inception in 2019, the program has allocated over $142 million to 74 conservation and outdoor recreation projects throughout Georgia.
Proven Track Record of Success
Mike Worley, head of the Georgia Wildlife Federation, praised the program’s extension and funding increase. “I like to say that when we passed this initially, it was done with a 10-year sunset so that we could prove this was a good, beneficial project,” Worley said. “I think we have clearly proved that through the years, and also proved that there’s a significant need out there beyond what we’ve been able to fund.”
Recent conservation achievements include the acquisition of nearly 4,000 acres along Trail Ridge near the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge for conservation activities such as hunting and fishing.
Other Environmental Bills Fall Short
While the conservation program succeeded, the 2026 legislative session saw numerous environmental proposals fail to advance. The session began with a wide range of bills aimed at addressing the recent surge in data center proposals and other environmental concerns.
Most of these environmental bills failed to overcome the last-minute negotiations that typically characterize the final day of Georgia’s legislative session. Data center regulation bills and PFAS-related legislation were among the measures that did not survive the session’s conclusion.
Funding Structure and Future Impact
The current Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program allocates 40% of tax revenue from sporting goods purchases to conservation projects. The 50% funding increase will expand the program’s ability to protect natural areas and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities for Georgia residents.
The program’s extension ensures continued support for land conservation, habitat protection, and outdoor recreation infrastructure improvements across Georgia through 2036. Conservation groups view the extension as recognition of the program’s effectiveness in preserving the state’s natural resources while providing economic benefits to local communities.
