Chinese (Ligustrum sinense), European (Ligustrum vulgare) and Japanese (Ligustrum japonicum) privets are all listed as invasive-exotic species that threaten native South Carolina forests. These are semi-evergreen, multi-stemmed shrubs or small trees that can grow up to a height of 20 feet. Ligustrum sp. are native to China, parts of Europe and Japan, and were first introduced into the United States around 1909 for ornamental use as shrub borders, erosion control plantings and wildlife forage. Characteristic flowers of Ligustrum species are showy, panicles of tiny, creamy-white flowers that are very fragrant and abundant in late spring through summer. Fruit produced are small, rounded dark-purple berries that persist throughout the winter, especially favored by birds.

Description of the Event: On Tuesday, April 5th, and Wednesday, April 6th, a strong storm system produced multiple tornadoes, mainly across central and South Georgia. Georgia Forestry Commission management foresters and GIS foresters helped assess and map out the damage that occurred throughout the state. There
were 33 tornado touchdowns, with seven of the tornadoes causing timber damage that required an assessment.

Georgia’s leadership in the production of forest products in the U.S. south, nation and world is possible because of the
state’s highly productive forests. On average, Georgia’s 23.8 million acres of commercial timberlands grow in excess of 24
million tons more wood per year than is harvested, resulting in growth exceeding removals by 48% for all species combined.

Species list for U&CF funded grant projects involving food forest. Contains species for North Georgia and South Georgia

Thousands of Tree City USA communities—large and small—have made a commitment to their urban tree canopy and their residents. Check them our.

List of Firewise Communities in Georgia.