2019 Conservation and Restoration Priorities in the Middle Chattahoochee River Basin

The Chattahoochee River originates in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains above Helen, Georgia, and drains almost 5.6 million acres (8770 mi2) of piedmont and coastal plain landscape in Alabama and Georgia. With a length of 430 miles, it is commonly divided into three segments, with the Upper Chattahoochee flowing through Atlanta before becoming the Middle Chattahoochee through Columbus. From Lake Walter F. George, the Lower Chattahoochee
flows south toward Lake Seminole, where it joins with the Flint River to form Lake Seminole, which drains, in turn, into the Apalachicola River and the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, the Chattahoochee provides drinking water for more than half of all Georgians and recreation opportunities on the reservoirs above the 13 dams that punctuate its course.

Caring for your Trees: Proper Watering

…young trees require more water and attention. It is best to water trees in the late afternoon or early morning when evaporation rates are at the lowest point. Newly planted…

Virtual Meeting Brings Together Prescribed Fire Proponents

…our communities.” Georgia Forestry Commission Acting Director Gary White will open the meeting with an update on “The State of Fire in Georgia.” Recent air quality episodes will be discussed…

Save Energy – Plant Trees!

Plant trees to lower utility bills, save energy, and add value to your property. A homeowner learns how in this Georgia Forestry Commission video.

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…

Landowners Can Help Reduce Wildfire in Georgia

By Frank Sorrells, GFC Chief of Protection. Over the years, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) Protection team has responded to tens of thousands of wildfires. In fact, each year more…

Cogongrass: Identifying one of the Most Invasive Plant Species

Cogongrass is one of the most invasive plants in Georgia. Follow along with Lynne Womack, our Forest Health Coordinator, and Mark McClure, our Forest Health Specialist, as they discuss the characteristics, common look-a-likes, and location of Cogongrass.

Georgia 2021 SPB Aerial Survey Report

Southern pine beetle (SPB) activity was very low across the state in 2021. Above average rainfall throughout the summer maintained healthy tree vigor resulting in very few pine beetle spots. Flights were flown across the state in August and September for a total of 5,509
miles.

10-13-21 Leaf Watch Report

Lowering temperatures and adequate rainfall has led to the beginning of foliage color change in NW GA.

10-20-21 Leaf Watch Report

The past week has been cool and sunny with a little rain, allowing many of the trees to slowly progress with color change. Areas with high concentrations of blackgum and sourwood are currently showing the most vivid colors providing differing shades of red and orangeSassafras is also beginning to show a variety of colors including yellow, orange and red.