STATE FORESTER ISSUES BURN BAN FOR SOUTH GEORGIA
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE APRIL 22, 2026 Georgia’s extreme drought is worsening and the risk of wildfires is rising, especially in southern region of the state. As a result, Georgia’s State Forester today issued a ban on outdoor burning for 91 counties in the lower half of the state. “We need everyone to take this situation … Continue Reading →
Time to Applaud Our Planet – and Take Action!
GFC Guest blog by Gloria Camacho, Director, Georgia Forestry Foundation Georgians are joining more than one billion people in 190+ countries this week to celebrate Earth Day! Wednesday, April 22, 2026 is the 56th anniversary of this global environmental movement. It brings together individuals, students, communities, faith groups, elected officials, and organizations worldwide to coordinate … Continue Reading →
Love it or hate it…the truth about tree pollen.
Have your conversations turned to “yellow” yet? They will be soon. Pollen time is upon us. And as much as we humans may dislike the dust, birds, bees, and trees really dig it! We’ve shared this information before and it deserves another go’round. As you spray away “Wash Me!” from your car, take a moment … Continue Reading →
Understanding Fire in Georgia: Why You May See Smoke During Drought Conditions
Across Georgia, dry conditions have led to an increase in wildfire activity. When rainfall is limited and vegetation dries out, even the smallest spark can quickly turn into a wildfire. That’s why the Georgia Forestry Commission is urging everyone to use extreme caution when spending time outdoors. But for many Georgians, this moment can feel … Continue Reading →
FOLKSTON FORESTRY LEADER HONORED AT STATE CAPITOL
A 25-year veteran of the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) has been recognized at the state capitol for earning the agency’s highest honor. Roger Todd, a native of Folkston, Georgia, received the 2025 GFC Director’s Award for his leadership as chief ranger in Charlton County and for his quick response to a local plane crash. State … Continue Reading →
COWETA COUNTY MAN INDICTED ON TIMBER THEFT-RELATED CHARGES
A Coweta County man has been indicted by Georgia Forestry Commission law enforcement officials on charges of failure to pay for natural products and theft by conversion following an investigation into suspected timber theft. Forty-one-year-old Jeremy Evens of Senoia is charged with one count of failure to pay for natural products and one count of … Continue Reading →
SERIAL ARSON SUSPECT ARRESTED
A Union County man is in custody following his arrest by law enforcement officials with the North Carolina Forest Service, with assistance from the Georgia Forestry Commission’s Law Enforcement unit, on wildland arson charges. Forty-eight-year-old Kevin James Roper of Blairsville is charged with 10 counts of arson of lands in connection with a series of … Continue Reading →
Georgia’s Champion Tree Program: An Arbor Day Salute
Georgia’s Arbor Day is the ideal time to celebrate the champions among us – Champion Trees, that is! The Champion Tree Program is a vital initiative that highlights the tallest and most majestic trees across the state. In a recent conversation on GFC’s podcast, The Forestry Forum, our Urban Forestry Specialist Dave Long shared insights … Continue Reading →
GEORGIA CELEBRATES THE VALUE OF TREES THIS MONTH
Georgians across the state will celebrate the benefits of trees in honor of Georgia Arbor Day. Arbor Day is observed annually on the third Friday of the month, which in 2026 falls on February 20. “Arbor Day is a time to recognize the important role trees play in Georgia’s communities,” said Johnny Sabo, State Forester … Continue Reading →
NEIGHBORS PROTECTING NEIGHBORS: GEORGIA’S RURAL FIRE DEFENSE PROGRAM
Blog by: Justin Brown, Georgia Forestry Commission Rural Fire Defense Coordinator Every rural fire department has a story—of volunteers stepping up, neighbors helping neighbors, and communities built on resilience. For decades, the Rural Fire Defense Program has played a vital role in those stories, helping protect lives, homes, and Georgia’s natural landscapes. Today, we’re working … Continue Reading →
