About Us
The Keeping it Wild Program was created in 2005 by several Atlanta citizen-advocates who perceived the need to bring together members of diverse conservation communities in order to promote better stewardship for the natural lands in our area. We are dedicated to connecting members of the urban communities to the special nature areas Georgia has to offer through education, experience, and action.
"Keeping it Wild" is part of The Wilderness Society's Eastern Forest Program. Our independent 21-member Steering Committee includes Atlanta community leaders as well as representatives from local grassroots groups and leading regional and national conservation organizations such as the Appalachian Trail Club of Georgia, Chattooga Conservancy, Georgia ForestWatch, Georgia Wildlife Federation, National Wildlife Federation, The Conservation Fund, Trees Atlanta, Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, and the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance.
We offer a wide range of hikes and outings for all skill levels to beautiful Georgia wilderness as well as to green spaces in Atlanta's backyard. The outings are led by field experts who are knowledgeable about local ecosystems.
Our seminar series features scholars and conservation community leaders from across the country, with a special focus on the perspectives of African Americans and other people of color. They are offered in partnership with Morehouse and Spelman Colleges, Emory University, and other educational institutions.
The program culminates each year with our Annual Gala, which draws hundreds of celebrants together to honor our progress throughout the year. The Gala is keynoted by inspirational speakers such as Congressman John Lewis, Gala 2005, and Charles Jordan, Chairman of the Board of the Conservation Fund, Gala 2006. This year Majora Carter, founder and Executive Director of Sustainable South Bronx, will deliver the Keynote at the Keeping it Wild Gala, November 3, 2007.
Please join us in learning about, enjoying, and caring for the precious natural lands of Atlanta, Georgia and the Southeast. See the events section of this website for a list of hikes and outings, educational talks, and other activities. Most events are free, but require an RSVP.
To RSVP for outings and special events, to receive our email announcements, to contribute to our program, and for more information, please call 404-872-9453 ext. 13.
112 Krog St., Suite 23, Atlanta, GA 30307 - 678-904-2200 - keeping_it_wild@tws.org