Wild Cumberland is dedicated to protecting the wilderness, native species and the ecology of Cumberland Island. Cumberland, Georgia’s largest barrier island, has 9,800 acres of congressionally designated wilderness, including maritime forests, saltwater marshes and undeveloped beaches, home to endangered sea turtles and shorebirds. Cumberland is also an important site to the Timucua, Muscogee and Yamassee. Despite its local and global significance, its Wilderness remains at risk without a management plan; increasing recreational and vehicular use, climate change, and dredging also have profound implications to its ecological functions. Now, the island is at risk of being altered forever as Camden County Commissioners discuss the possibility of rezoning 1,000 acres to allow for private redevelopment. The complex history of Cumberland Island requires public oversight and stewardship. Wild Cumberland’s purpose is to educate the public and hold decision-makers accountable.
Map of Cumberland Island. Image: National Park Service
Wild Cumberland is a grassroots organization staffed entirely by volunteers. Our team is guided by a board with decades of experience in biology, oceanography, geology, communications, and environmental activism. Among them is scientist and author Carol Ruchdeschel, who has lived on Cumberland for nearly 50 years and was instrumental in the establishment of the Cumberland Island Wilderness. Wild Cumberland’s various projects are all aimed at restoring the island to a true wilderness, and promoting sustainable access to the island as a reserve that helps visitors appreciate its ecological value.