GFC Leaf Watch: October 16, 2020

…across the region are in various stages of fading greens but with color getting more involved each day. Species specific: Dogwood – Red / Burgundy Birch – Yellow Yellow-poplar –…

Environmental Risks to Arthropods from Imidacloprid Applications for Hemlock Conservation

Managing hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) can involve use of insecticides. When it does, the non-target impacts (negative effects to other organisms) need to be thoroughly considered
and weighed against the environmental cost of inaction or alternative management approaches. Insecticides applied for HWA management are used for conservation purposes, which may seem counterintuitive. However, hemlocks are a key forest species, and so their loss can result in severe ecological consequences. To justify insecticide use against HWA, we have to ask: What are the possible negative consequences of using insecticides in the forest? We must consider these trade-offs in hemlock management. It is important to remember that there will be trade-offs in any kind of resource management discussion, even if it may not initially seem apparent. The negative environmental consequences of hemlock mortality must be weighed against the known consequences of insecticide use to preserve hemlocks.

2021 Cogongrass Spring Newsletter

The Georgia Forestry Commission has begun the 15th year of its campaign to fight the exotic, invasive weed known as cogongrass. Forty three new detections have been confirmed from January 1, 2021 through March 17, 2021 in Georgia, bringing the statewide cumulative total to 1,501 cogongrass spots. This number is moderately higher than the 31 detections made during this same time period in 2020.

What it cost to remove a tree?

Tree removal costs can vary widely depending upon a number of factors, many of which may be beyond control. There could be any number of scenarios requiring you to contract with a tree removal service, from storm damage to home remodeling. Requiring immediate service may drive up the cost, perhaps unnecessarily, if there are no structures involved or damage is minimal.

Huber “Trees for Georgia” Program

…qualified landowners. Signup period: The signup period ends on August 16, 2024. To apply, complete a Huber “Trees for Georgia” seedling application and return it to the local GFC Forester….

One Tree Planted – Reforestation Program

…tree planting plan for the acreage involved. The plan will quantify acreage and address site preparation and planting specifications. The applicant must agree to follow the plan to be eligible…

2019 GA Carbon Sequestration Summary

Over 1.5 billion metric tons of carbon is sequestered on Georgia timberland according to 2019 Forest Inventory & Analysis (FIA) data, provided by the U.S. Forest Service. This includes 23.2 million acres on federal, state/local, and private property. It accounts for carbon in aboveground and belowground live and dead biomass, aboveground and belowground understory vegetation, coarse woody debris, soil, and leaf litter. This estimate excludes timberland primarily consisting of exotic species and non-stocked stands (previously forested land that has yet to be replanted or produce substantial natural vegetation).