Chamber promotes environmental efforts

Partners: Participants sought

  • Fannin County Chamber of Commerce President Christie Gribble, left, presents Ashley Hoppers, of Mercier Orchards, with a certificate in recognition of their Commitment to Conservation Tuesday, April 22. They are also shown with, from left, Becky Griffin and Emily Owenby.
    Fannin County Chamber of Commerce President Christie Gribble, left, presents Ashley Hoppers, of Mercier Orchards, with a certificate in recognition of their Commitment to Conservation Tuesday, April 22. They are also shown with, from left, Becky Griffin and Emily Owenby.
  • Ashley Hoppers with Mercier Orchards tells about one of the business’s conservation efforts – true biodegradable bags –Tuesday, April 22.
    Ashley Hoppers with Mercier Orchards tells about one of the business’s conservation efforts – true biodegradable bags –Tuesday, April 22.

    Conservation is important to the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce, and President Christie Gribble is dedicated to  promoting initiatives to support the area’s environment.

    A testament of that dedication is the chamber’s new Commitment to Conservation initiative.

    Going forward, the chamber will recognize and reward businesses that are using eco-friendly practices.

    Gribble announced the initiative during a gathering of state and local officials, businesses and organizations at Mercier Orchards on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22.

    She explained that being a native to the area, she appreciates the natural resources it has to offer and reminisced on hikes with her father as a child.

    Becky Griffin, entomologist with the University of Georgia Extension Service, told of being questioned about an absence of fireflies in the area, which ultimately sparked the partnership between herself and the chamber.

    Also included in that partnership is the Fannin County Board of Education and specifically Blue Ridge Elementary STEM teacher Tori Arp who has introduced students to lessons about the insect and grown milkweeds, which protects fireflies from predators.

    Emily Owenby of Noontootla Creek Farms told about school students planting native plants in local parks as part of the conservation effort.

    Businesses interested in earning a Conservation Badge must practice at least three of the following: foster community engagement and education, reduce waste and recycle, use energy-efficient practices, conserve water, source sustainably, support wildlife and their habitats and plant milkweed seeds.

    Those ready to earn their badge must submit an application with a $50 fee, then a site visit or review will be performed.

    Once approved, businesses will receive a window cling and certificate along with the badge or plaque.

    More details about the program are available by visiting www.blueridgemountains.com/commitment-to-conservation-program/.

    Learn more about the chamber’s conservation efforts at www.blueridgemountains.com/community/conservation/.