
Sung to the tune of “School’s Out for Summer!”
Guest Blog by Conservation Education Coordinator Chelsea York Temperatures are rising, graduations are being celebrated, and end-of-year parties are underway. Can the summer doldrums be far behind? One can almost hear that woeful whine, “I’m BOOORRRRRED!” For anyone simultaneously excited and fearful of the summer ahead, we have some great news for you! Georgia’s forests … Continue Reading →

Safety Reminders for Storm Debris Burning
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE APRIL 13, 2023 As area residents continue cleaning up from recent severe weather, the Georgia Forestry Commission is issuing an important reminder. The burning of vegetative debris is allowed, ONLY if piles do NOT contain man-made or construction/demolition (C&D) debris. Such items can contain potentially harmful toxins and may not be included … Continue Reading →

North Georgia Burn Ban Beginning May 1 Boosts Air Quality
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE APRIL 27, 2023 On May 1, an outdoor burn ban will begin in 54 Georgia counties, primarily in the northern half of the state. Affected residents are asked to refrain from burning yard and land clearing debris, whose smoke can negatively impact the state’s air quality during the hot summer months by … Continue Reading →

High-flying Tools for Fire – and More!
High-flying Tools for Fire – and More! By RT Lumpkin, GFC Prescribed Burn Center Coordinator Science and technology are critical tools utilized daily by the Georgia Forestry Commission. One such tool we are strategically moving forward with is UAS – Unmanned Aerial Systems. More commonly known as drones, they provide a unique opportunity to complete … Continue Reading →

A Note from GFC’s New Deputy Director
GFC Family and Friends, It is truly my pleasure to be serving you as Deputy Director as we promote forestry and protect Georgia’s natural resources, both through a stewardship ethic and protection from wildfires. I would also be remiss if I did not start by thanking Tim Lowrimore, the GFC Board of Directors, those who … Continue Reading →

Here comes summer – your trees are getting thirsty!
By Seth Hawkins, GFC Urban Forest Specialist Now that planting season has ended, springtime is delivering longer days and warmer temperatures. Trees are waking up for the growing season and their water needs are also waking up. It’s time to start a watering regimen for trees that were planted this or last planting season. So, how much supplemental … Continue Reading →

Pass the Tissue, it’s Pollen Time!
It’s that special time of year in Georgia, when Mother Nature coaxes everything around us to sprout, bloom, and reach for the sunshine. For many people, however, it’s the most miserable time of year, when all the pollen, both visible and invisible, wreaks havoc on human bodies. Despite its shady reputation with some, we’d be … Continue Reading →

Forestry Employees Honored for Outstanding Service to Georgia
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FEBRUARY 21, 2023 Georgia Forestry Commission employees serving a 21-county region in west-central Georgia have been honored with a prestigious agency award. The annual “Area of the Year” recognition for 2022 was presented to Newnan-based Area 3, for its performance in wildfire response, landowner services, and safety, among other criteria. “This group … Continue Reading →

Forestry Employees Honored for Outstanding Service to Georgia – Forest Management Team of the Year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FEBRUARY 21, 2023 A group of Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) employees is being honored for exemplary cost-share service to landowners. The ten foresters from throughout the state have been named GFC’s Fiscal Year 2022 Forest Management Team of the Year. “Cost-share programs are available for a number of purposes,” said Georgia Forestry … Continue Reading →

Georgia Celebrates Trees this Month
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FEBRUARY 13, 2023 Communities across the state are planting trees and recognizing their benefits this month for Georgia’s Arbor Day. The day is observed annually on the third Friday in February, which this year falls on Friday, February 17. “Special events are being held all over Georgia this month to mark the … Continue Reading →