Glenn Cook, Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission Supervisor

03/06/2025

02/01/2025

I'm up early to continue my attendance at the 34th annual Weekend for Wildlife at The Cloister on Sea Island, Georgia, this weekend. This event, organized by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), has raised over $17 million to conserve our state's nongame wildlife.

As a Board member of The Environmental Resources Network (TERN), I sincerely appreciate our collective efforts in supporting DNR's Wildlife Conservation Section. TERN is the only organization that raises funds solely to conserve Georgia's nongame resources. Our contributions aid research, habitat management, and educational initiatives, ensuring species protection like the painted bunting and the bald eagle.

The Weekend for Wildlife offers a unique opportunity to engage with fellow conservationists and learn more about preserving Georgia's natural heritage.
Together, we can significantly impact the conservation of Georgia's nongame wildlife.

01/27/2025

I'm so proud of my sister Cindy for her generosity in donating a stunning piece of pottery from her Fat Cow Studio to the Weekend for Wildlife silent auction, benefiting the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. This annual event, held at The Cloister on Sea Island, supports conservation efforts through TERN (The Environmental Resources Network), where I’m honored to serve on the board. Cindy’s piece perfectly reflects her artistry and love for nature, and it’s just one of the many exceptional items up for grabs.
You don’t have to attend to participate—tell all your friends they can bid online! Visit weekendforwildlife.com, click 'Tickets and Sponsorships,' scroll to the bottom, and get the 'Access to Silent Auction' ticket for just $10—a small price for access to incredible items. Don’t miss this opportunity to support conservation while snagging unique treasures.
Also, check out Cindy’s work at FatCowStudio.com to see more of her handmade creations that celebrate the beauty of nature. Happy bidding, and thank you for supporting such a meaningful cause

01/05/2025

When the days are getting shorter,
When the nights are long and chill,
With my cares and work forgotten,
And the whole world hushed and still—
Then I love to make a fire,
Watch the flamelets dance and race,
For things are mighty cozy,
By the fire-place.

I love to have a friend or two
To make the deal complete—
Shoes off, cocked on an extry chair,
We toast our weary feet;
A bowl of pop-corn sittin' near,
While time slips by apace,
Why folks, it's awful cozy,
By the fire-place.

- Arthur Franklin Fuller

12/19/2024

Today marked my final meeting with the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC) at the Jacob’s Plantation, a memorable occasion that doubled as our Christmas party. Jim Waters, our Chairman and a dedicated farmer from Pierce County treated us to the best steaks in southeast Georgia, showcasing the same passion he brings to conservation.

Serving alongside Jim, NancyAnne Conner, our Conservation Regional Manager for Region III, and Katelyn Poppell, our committed Conservation Specialist, has been an honor and a privilege. Their unwavering dedication to protecting Georgia's natural resources often goes unrecognized, yet their contributions are invaluable to our state's environmental health.

Over the past two years, our team has worked tirelessly to promote the conservation of soil and water resources across Georgia. Through education, technical assistance, and program oversight, we've empowered local conservation districts, landowners, and governments to implement best management practices that ensure sustainable use of our natural resources.

Our efforts have included sponsoring demonstrations, school readings, and field days to acquaint citizens, farmers, and land users with methods for protecting soil and water resources. We've also promoted new conservation practices and worked with city and county governments to consider the preservation of prime farmland in land use decisions.

Leaving this position due to Georgia constitutional requirements—mandating my resignation upon running for the Georgia House of Representatives District 180—is bittersweet. Georgia is one of only five states with such stipulations for candidates. While I am heartbroken to step down, I am profoundly grateful for the learning experiences and the incredible people I've met during my tenure.

My commitment to conservation remains steadfast. I will continue to advocate for the sustainable management of our soil and water resources, ensuring that our progress is for future generations.

To Jim, NancyAnne, Katelyn, and all my colleagues at the GSWCC and the Georgia Association of Conservation Districts, thank you for your dedication, camaraderie, and the invaluable work you do for our state. It's been an honor to serve alongside you.

10/08/2024

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the incredible residents of Jekyll Island for their overwhelming generosity in supporting Katrina's efforts to provide meals to those in need in Long County after the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. Katelynn Poppell, GACD Regional Program Manager for Southeast Georgia, first notified me of Katrina’s remarkable mission, where she started cooking for 150 people a day. Now, thanks to the help of good friends, she’s preparing 200 meals daily.

Katrina is a go-getter and, as Katelynn described, "an angel on earth." Alongside her meal efforts, she's caring for her son, an Army intel soldier who’s recovering from knee surgery, and another young man recovering from an infection due to complications after an ATV accident. All of this while also raising five children she adopted from foster care. She wakes up at 3 a.m. daily to get everything done, and her deep concern for others drives her to help however she can.

Today, Wendy and I were honored to take my truck, loaded with donated supplies, to Katrina. The outpouring of support has been extraordinary—not only did we fill the truck’s bed and back seat, but we also collected $1,000 to help Katrina buy meat and the cooking containers she needs to continue her work. She is as frugal as she is hardworking, always shopping for the best deals to make every dollar count.

Long County was hard hit by Hurricane Helene, with many areas still without power and water. But thanks to Katrina’s spirit and this community’s generosity, the people there received the help they desperately needed.

We are truly blessed to live in such a caring and compassionate community, always ready to step up in times of need. Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of this enormous effort.

As the saying goes, “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” Thank you for all your kindness.

10/08/2024