Antwon Nixon was attending a Juneteenth celebration in his hometown of Folkston, Georgia, more than two years ago when he first noticed signs urging protection of the Okefenokee Swamp.
Opponents of the mining proposal are trying to ramp up pressure on lawmakers to pass a measure that some see as the best shot at protecting the ridge from mining.
A mine near the Okefenokee promises jobs. But many locals oppose it ajc.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from ajc.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Environmental activists are warning there will be contamination and devastating damage to the ecosystem in both Florida and Georgia if a company is allowed to come in and mine for minerals near the Okefenokee swamp. The company contends it won't do any harm and will bring money and jobs to the area.