World Heritage Watch: UNESCO added Georgia’s Okefenokee Swamp to the World Heritage List, highlighting its vast freshwater wetlands, long peat record, and biodiversity—while some locals worry about increased outside involvement. PFAS & Drinking Water: Rome City Commission will review equipment for a new reverse osmosis PFAS reduction facility after state review of pilot results; the project is funded by a settlement tied to Oostanaula River contamination. Wildlife & Public Lands: Georgia loggerhead sea turtle nesting hit a 37-year record, with counts topping 4,110 nests—described as a slow rebound for a threatened species. Invasive Species Alert: The yellow-legged hornet—first detected in Georgia in 2023—has been confirmed in North Carolina, raising new risks for bees and pollinators. Outdoor Season Countdown: Georgia’s squirrel hunting season is set to begin soon, with coverage focused on getting new hunters into the field. Community & Food Safety Tech: A Snellville student’s AI handheld device aims to detect pesticide residue on fruits and vegetables in seconds. Weather & Sky News: The Perseid meteor shower peaks Aug. 12–13, with moonless skies boosting viewing chances over Northeast Alabama and Northwest Georgia. Water System Safety: A Delta flight returned to Atlanta after reports of cockpit fumes, underscoring ongoing attention to safety in travel.