Wednesday, December 17, 2003
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Wednesday, December 17, 2003 |
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Native Black-Eyed Susan Remains on 2004 Wildflower Auto Tag 2004 Georgia Specialty Tags Change Template In 2004, Georgians will once again be able to purchase a pop of bright color for their car tags. The Wildflower Auto Tag will continue to feature the Georgia native Black-eyed Susan and the slogan, “...wildflowers in my heart!” Georgia drivers can buy the new Wildflower Auto Tags for a one-time $25 donation, in addition to the $20 annual car registration fee. The Wildflower Auto Tag provides the only guaranteed funding for the Georgia Department of Transportation’s Wildflower Program. Through Wildflower Auto Tag sales, Georgia DOT conducts research on native species to promote conservation. Ongoing studies include maintenance of native species, longevity and growing patterns to identify appropriate flowers for roadside beautification. Since the tag was introduced in 1998, over 36,000 Georgians have bought the Wildflower Auto Tag. Because of this, 130 acres of wildflowers such as Gaillardia, Plains Coreopsis and Black-eyed Susans were planted on state routes and byways in 2003. Georgia DOT expects this number will increase to 160 acres in 2004. “The Wildflower Auto Tag represents Georgia DOT’s commitment to native species and conservation, and our communities statewide are direct beneficiaries,” said Georgia DOT State Maintenance Engineer Bryant Poole. “Georgia native wildflowers help communities retain distinct character in each of the state's growing regions. In addition, we are hopeful that the public will be less likely to litter on flower-lined state routes since litter removal is an ever-increasing expense. Simply put, everyone wins with the Wildflower Auto Tag.” The Wildflower Program began in 1974 and since has grown. Other participants in the Georgia DOT Wildflower Program include the University of Georgia and The Garden Club of Georgia, who both remain as key partners today. “We are extremely pleased the Wildflower Auto Tag will remain the same because the program will continue to build on its existing familiarity,” said Garden Club of Georgia President Jaydee Ager. “All Georgians recognize the Black-eyed Susan. I will encourage all 15,000 Garden Club of Georgia members to purchase a new 2004 tag.” While the Wildflower Program emphasizes current and future research, the program has a rich history involving the tireless efforts of two important women-conservationist Virginia Hand Callaway and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Each woman played a pivotal role in securing legislative support and providing education on wildflowers. For more information on the project, visit the new Wildflower Program section at www.dot.state.ga.us. For information on purchasing the Wildflower Auto Tag, visit www.dmvs.ga.gov.
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