A 402,000-acre refuge spanning Georgia and Florida, protecting swamp, wildlife and water systems.
Local residents near the Okefenokee Swamp express strong opposition to UNESCO World Heritage designation, citing property concerns and U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO. Officials say designation would not transfer UN ownership, but opponents warn of land-use implications. News outlets report mixed views from county officials and activists.
UNESCO has expanded and inscribed new sites, including Okefenokee Swamp and Jingdezhen porcelain, while South Korean tidal flats are extended. Locals fear increased UN involvement amid political tensions as communities weigh environmental heritage against land rights.