Saving Sturgeon: St. Marys Riverkeeper's Lunch and Learn

The St. Marys Riverkeeper invites Fernandina residents to the next “Lunch and Learn” webinar​ series on Jan. 15, 2025, from 12-1 p.m. This free webinar​ will explore the federally endangered Atlantic sturgeon. “This virtual event offers a unique opportunity to discover why these ancient fish are critical to the St. Marys River and how ongoing conservation efforts aim to protect them,” according to the St. Marys Riverkeeper.

During the Lunch and Learn, participants will enjoy a seven-minute sneak peek of the forthcoming documentary, “Tale of Two Rivers,” produced by award-winning Into Nature Films, showcasing beautiful footage from all four sections of the St. Marys River watershed – including new material captured during fall sturgeon sampling. Attendees will receive updates on the documentary’s full production, supported by The Nature Conservancy, and how it underscores the importance of preserving the St. Marys River and its wildlife.

The St. Marys Riverkeeper states, “Attendees will also hear about a recent visit from author and Georgia native Frances Mayes, best known for her bestselling memoir “Under the Tuscan Sun” (later adapted into a major motion picture). Mayes recently joined St. Marys Riverkeeper for a private boat tour, where she learned about the importance of protecting the sturgeon’s southernmost habitat. Mayes’ visit – expected to be featured in an upcoming national magazine article – will soon bring renewed attention to the River and the Okefenokee region’s unique ecosystems and cultural heritage.”

“Having Frances experience the river firsthand was an incredible way to highlight the natural treasures in our own backyard,” said Emily Floore​, Executive Director of St. Marys Riverkeeper. “Her enthusiasm for the St. Marys/Okefenokee region helps underscore the significance of protecting the Atlantic sturgeon and other native species.

“Frances Mayes, who grew up in Fitzgerald, Georgia, rose to international acclaim for her evocative travel writing, vivid storytelling, and exploration of place, culture, and heritage. Her books and movies – Under the Tuscan Sun, Bella Tuscany, and more – have inspired countless readers to explore their roots, travel off the beaten path, and discover a sense of place wherever they go. She continues to draw inspiration from her roots, weaving Southern sensibilities into vividly descriptive prose.”

The Lunch and Learn webinar​ series is part of the Riverkeeper’s strategic plan to educate our community about the health, sustainability, and resilience of the St. Marys River. They are working to develop and implement community events that foster meaningful connections that support the St. Marys River mission.

Recently the St. Marys Riverkeeper released its “Strategic Plan and Executive Summary 2024-2027.” The 10-page summary outlines, “Our vision is to have a vibrant St. Marys River ecosystem that nurtures communities, sustains biodiversity and fosters sustainable economic development, anchored in pride for the area’s natural beauty. Communities along the Florida-Georgia​ border, from Oke to Ocean, are united in conserving our waterway today​ and for future generations, ensuring it remains a leading example of ecological integrity, shared stewardship, and enduring appreciation.”

The Atlantic sturgeon historically occurred in at least 35 North American rivers. Populations have been greatly reduced from their historic levels of abundance prior to​ commercial fishing. Sturgeon were listed as a federally endangered species under the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 2012. Possible signs of recovery are beginning to be seen in some river systems, including the St. Marys River. However, there remains much to be learned concerning the ecology, life history, and biology of the sturgeon. You can read more about “The Natural History of the Sturgeon in North America” in an article I wrote for the Fernandina Observer in September of 2024.

Register for the St. Marys Riverkeeper “Lunch and Learn” webinar​ about the federally endangered sturgeon and “The Tale of Two Rivers” here.