Program Recap: Protecting Savannah's Coastal Wildlife Refuges

Metro welcomed Matthew, President of Friends of the Savannah Coastal Wildlife Refuges and Refuge Friends and Advocacy Manager for the National Wildlife Refuge Association, for an eye-opening conversation about conservation, community, and protecting our coastal treasures.

Matthew kicked things off with a murky bottle of Savannah River water that gradually cleared as sediment settled throughout his presentation—a fitting visual for a discussion about the importance of our natural waterways!

Members learned about the seven National Wildlife Refuges in our region, spanning 56,000 acres and 100 miles of coastline. From alligators and bobcats to coastal forests and salt marshes, these protected spaces are home to incredible biodiversity while also providing essential benefits to our community. In fact, just one acre of wetlands can store up to 1.5 million gallons of floodwater!

Matthew also discussed the challenges of balancing Savannah's rapid industrial growth with environmental conservation, particularly around the Savannah River and harbor expansion. He shared a guiding philosophy from John Muir: "Not blind opposition to progress, but opposition to blind progress."

Perhaps the most meaningful moment came when Matthew shared his personal "why": ensuring his children, and eventually their children, can experience the same wonder of running toward the ocean and watching fireflies light up the night.

Want to get involved? Friends of Coastal Refuges offers volunteer opportunities ranging from trail maintenance and visitor center support to helping with its free Tuesday morning mobility shuttle. The organization is also preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary in April 2027!

Learn more, become a member, or explore volunteer opportunities:

• Friends of Coastal Refuges Membership

• Friends of Coastal Refuges Newsletter