Community Tree News
A newsletter for Georgia's tree board members. Inside this issue; Tree City, Campus and Line USA deadline, Tree Board Roundtable, Five-Year Plan, online resources and more.
Chuck Williams
GFC Welcomes New Director

The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) welcomed Chuck Williams as Director on September 1. Chuck carries a deep love for all forestry and Georgia's natural resources. He has served as the Representative for Georgia's House District 119 since August of 2011 and during his term held leadership roles on various committees, including Agriculture and Consumer Affairs and Natural Resources and Environment. Chuck's passion for forestry and commitment to being a good steward of the land led him to be recognized as Tree Farmer of the Year in 2005. He holds a B.S. in Agricultural Economics from the University of Georgia. 
Tree City USA, Tree Campus USA and Tree Line USA Deadline

The deadline to apply or recertify for the Tree City USA, Tree Campus USA and Tree Line USA programs is Nov. 15 in Georgia. Please use the Arbor Day Foundation's online application system. If recertifying, the city contacts, tree board members and a copy of your tree ordinance have been saved from last year and can be edited as needed. This time saver is one of the many benefits of submitting your application online. You must upload a copy of your 2017 Arbor Day proclamation that has been signed by the mayor and a copy of your Arbor Day program agenda, photos or flyer.
 
Tree Campus USA new certifications and recertifications should also be entered online in the application system .
 
Bonny Adams ([email protected], 478-751-3498 or 3485) or Susan Granbery, ([email protected], 678-476-6227) are available to assist with any questions.
Idea sharing at the 2016 tree board roundtable.
Hot Topics for Tree Boards -  Join Us at Callaway Gardens

The latest and greatest information for tree board members including a new tree ordinance tool box website, iTree Canopy tutorial and plans for Arbor Day 2018 will be announced at the second annual tree board roundtable. Join us on November 7 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at in the Sourwood Room at Callaway Gardens, just before the annual conference. It's a free event and you'll have the opportunity to network and share what's working and what's not in your community with tree board members from communities of all sizes. Refreshments provided.
Five-Year plan committee on September 27 in Macon.
Five-Year Plan for Georgia's Urban & Community Forest 2018 - 2022

The GFC and Georgia Urban Forest Council are working together to develop a new Five-Year Plan for Georgia's Urban and Community Forest 2018 - 2022. The planning committee, made up of a diverse and dedicated group from across the state, has identified changes such as our audiences, the political climate, more intense natural storms, social media, access to data and demand for green infrastructure that have become the basis for new goals and actions. Moderated by the US Forest Service, the committee will meet again in November and have a complete plan by the end of the year. To participate, join the Five-Year Plan breakout session at the annual conference.
A storm-struck Georgia community.
After a Storm: Keeping Your Trees Healthy and Safe

Involve an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist to assess trees after a storm for tree risk and public safety. Learn which trees need watering, fertilizing, pruning and mulching during the course of the year. Let your certified arborist advise you on proper maintenance to minimize potential damage from severe storms. On a periodic basis, update your tree assessments and plan for any needed major care.

  • Conduct a self-survey. Periodically, note any changes to tree structures. Call your arborist friend, if needed.
  • Does that tree need to come down? Before pruning/removing a tree, consult an expert. DIY efforts too often result in injury to people or property. When in doubt, call a certified arborist!
Resources from the GFC for communities and homeowners.
North Georgia Fall Leaf Reports

Good things are here for Georgia's fall foliage season! The Georgia Forestry Commission is providing weekly updates on where the colors are peaking and suggest some viewing areas for enjoying the season. Get the latest update on significant color  here . #gatrees #leafwatch2017
 Pentz Pecan 
2017 Great American Tree Awarded

The American Grove's 2017's "Great American Tree" was the Pentz Pecan of Sommerville, TN. Second place was awarded to the bigleaf magnolia at the Woodland's Garden in Atlanta, GA. Read more about these amazing shade trees here.
 
@plantyourlegacy
#greatamericantree #GATC17
The Forests of Georgia

The forests of Georgia are majestic. From the city to the countryside, we are all connected to our 24 million acres of forestland. They are a rich, renewable resource, home to hundreds of animal species and the number one state for timber production, supporting thousands of jobs. The Georgia Forestry Commission and our partners work hard - guided by our Forest Action Plan - to ensure that our forests continue to provide for generations to come.
Help us share the message. #HealthyTreesHealthyLives
Fall means cooler weather and hikes with beautiful vistas of multicolored leaves. Get out and get healthy! 
Contact Us | Sustainable Community Forestry Program | 
Georgia Forestry Commission|  gatrees.org
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