New Speaker Series Explores Georgia’s Coastal Environment

The College of Coastal Georgia hosted the first program of its new Environmental Speaker Series for students, faculty, and staff at the College who are interested in conservation, natural and environmental sciences, and associated policy/governance. Envisioned by Tim Lowe, board member of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and former Coastal Resources Division (CRD) Director Duane Harris, the program is designed to expose students to experts in their respective fields.

The inaugural event of the series was a panel discussion held on Nov. 15. Panelists included former CRD directors Spud Woodward, Susan Shipman, and Harris, and was moderated by the current CRD Director Doug Haymans. Over 100 students attended the discussion and asked questions about Georgia’s coastal environment for a better understanding of past and current coastal environmental issues.

For the next series event in January, students will hear from former U.S. Rep. Lindsay Thomas. Future programs will feature Gov. Brian and First Lady Marty Kemp, Attorney General Chris Carr, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter, Environmental Protection Director (EPD) Jeff Cown, former Georgia DNR Commissioner Mark Williams, former EPD Director Jud Turner, and Georgia DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon.

Story written by Duane Harris