Georgia FORESTRY USPS No. 217120 Summer 2002 No. 2 Vol. 55 Roy E. Barnes, Governor J. Frederick Allen, Director Sharon Dolliver, Chief - Forest Information and Urban & Community Forestry STAFF Lynn A. Walton, Editor William S. Edwards, Assoc. Editor Julia Baker, Graphic Artist BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Jim L. Gillis, Jr., Chairman, Soperton H. G. Thomas New, Louisville James G. Fendig, Savannah Larry S. Walker, Oglethorpe P. W. Bryan, Jr., Thomasville DISTRICT OFFICES District One 3086 Martha Berry Hwy./Rome, GA 30165 706-295-6021 District Two 3005 Atlanta Hwy./Gainesville, GA 30507 770-531-6043 District Three 1055 E. Whitehall Rd./Athens, GA 30605 706-542-6880 District Four 187 Corinth Rd./Newnan, GA 30263 770-254-7218 District Five 119 Hwy. 49 West/Milledgeville, GA 31061 478-445-5164 District Six 1465 Tignall Rd./Washington, GA 30673 706-678-2015 District Seven 243 U. S. Hwy. 19 N./Americus, GA 31709 229-931-2436 District Eight 2395 U. S. Hwy. 41 N./Tifton, GA 31794 229-386-3617 District Nine 3561 Hwy. 112/Camilla, GA 31730 229-522-3580 District Ten 18899 U. S. Hwy. 301 N./Statesboro, GA 30461 912-681-0490 District Eleven Route 1, Box 67/Helena, GA 31037 229-868-5649 District Twelve 5003 Jacksonville Hwy./Waycross, GA 31503 912-287-4915 Georgia Forestry is published quarterly by the Georgia Forestry Commission, 5645 Riggins Mill Road, Dry Branch, Georgia 31020-9699. Periodical postage paid at Macon, GA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Georgia Forestry Commission, 5645 Riggins Mill Road, Dry Branch, Georgia 310209699. For subscription additions, changes, or deletions, please contact Kassie Odum: E-mail: kodum@gfc.state.ga.us, Phone: (478) 751-3530, Fax: (478) 751-3559, Toll-Free: 1-800-GA-TREES, Mail: P.O. Box 819, Macon, GA 31202-0819. 2 Georgia Forestry Commission P. O. Box 819, Macon, Georgia 31202-0819 (478) 751-3500, Fax (478) 751-3465 Roy E. Barnes Governor J. Frederick Allen Director Dear Georgia Citizens and Forest Landowners: The recently passed 2002 Farm Bill includes a number of programs of vital significance to forestry and forestry landowners. Forest landowners should be aware of these programs and how they can become actively involved. A prime example (Section 8002) is the Forest Land Enhancement Program (FLEP), which replaces the Forestry and Stewardship Incentives Program. FLEP emphasizes sustainable forest management to enhance productivity of timber, fish, wildlife habitat, soil and water quality, wetlands recreational resources, and aesthetic values of forestlands all through landowner cost-share assistance. The Community and Private Land Fire Assistance Program (Section 8003) is a newly established program designed to improve landscape-level wildfire protection. Implemented by State Foresters, this effort expands outreach and education programs to homeowners and communities with emphasis on wildland-urban interface situations. The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is detailed in Section 2101. The continuing CRP effort conserves and improves soil, water, and wildlife resources on highly erodible croplands, marginal pasturelands, and other sensitive farmland areas. Participating landowners can receive annual rent payments and cost-share assistance for following program guidelines. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), described in Section 2301, provides technical and cost-share assistance to help landowners comply with regulations related to soil, water, and air quality as well as wildlife habitat and ground water conservation. The Bio-refinery Development Grants program (Section 9003) assists in developing new technologies using biomass to develop energy sources that diversify markets for agricultural and forestry products. There are other significant forestry and conservation components included in the 2002 Farm Bill, but these are some of the most vital. Further information on these and other forestry programs may be obtained by accessing the Georgia Forestry Commission website (www.gfc.state.ga.us), or websites concerning the various programs Farm Bill website (www.usda.gov/farmbill/). Sincerely, Jim L. Gillis, Jr. Chairman, Soperton J. Frederick Allen Director H. G. Thomas New Louisville J. G. Fendig Savannah Larry S. Walker Oglethorpe An Equal Opportunity Employer P. W. Bryan Thomasville ON THE COVER: This wetland area is located on Roy Malone's property near Dublin. Malone was a recent Tree Farmer of the Year. Photo by William Godfrey Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 Page 4 Page 8 Page 14 Page 16 Summer 2002 /Summer 2002 TABLE OF CONTENTS 4 Building the Urban Forest Preserving and Planting Urban Trees 8 GROWS Field Day 2002 Charlane Plantation Hosts 2002 Field Day 10 Forest Landowners Association Profile The Association Provides a Voice for Southern Forest Landowners 11 Wildlife Menu American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) 14 Leaves and Mercury Research Leads to Toxic Indications 16 IWF 2002 Scheduled for Georgia World Congress Center Biggest Event in Center's 36-Year History 18 Brantley County Wins State Forestry CDE Finals Wheeler County Takes Second Place 19 Fire Equipment Show Attracts Big Crowd Helicopter Demonstration and Tanker Among Highlights 20 Announcements Irwin Named National Project Learning Tree Educator of the Year SESAF Annual Meeting Georgia Urban Forest Council 2002 Annual Conference and Awards Luncheon Prescribed Burn Certification Sessions 21 Fun Page Clean Water 22 Fun Page Forests Are Fun 23 50 Years Ago Foresters Learn Aerial Photo Methods 24 Native Trees of Georgia Slash Pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) Georgia Forestry 3 This youngster, starting to plant trees at an early age, represents the future of urban forestry. Environmental and forestry-related education of his generation is the key to establishing the Model Urban Forests of tomorrow. 4 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 Editor's Note: The following article is the fourth in a series reviewing sections of the GFC publication (Georgia Model Urban Forest Book) providing communities with information for preserving and developing a green infrastructure in an urban environment. Following planning procedures (see previous segments of series), the actual preservation, planting, and managing of urban forest trees begins. At this stage, it is vital that those responsible for design of the program understand longterm growth patterns related to large biological systems. Tree biology, as it influences landscape changes, is now very well clarified. A review of resource material, especially Principles and Practices of Planting Trees and Shrubs, provides an excellent review of critical factors. There are frequently many different interests and individuals involved in a single project, and the process may go on for years. The success of any tree protection or planting effort may require the actions of numerous people some of whom may not have even the slightest interest in trees. Keeping this in mind, it should be emphasized that it may take only one mistake to kill a large tree and/or make it impossible for new trees to grow. A mislaid plumbing line or washing out a concrete truck (in the wrong location) can kill the sturdiest of trees and drastically change soil composition. Obtaining advice from an urban forester, consulting arborist, or landscape architect (with urban forestry expertise) can greatly increase success rates of urban forest projects. BUDGET The cardinal rule in beginning an urban forestry project is to ensure the budget and schedule are sufficient to accomplish objectives. Costs of tree preservation and soil improvement are often underestimated and project objectives are unrealistic. For example, many tree related practices, such as root pruning, fertilization, insect control, and tree planting are seasonal. Also, these practices may be ineffective if used too close to environmental impacts caused by construction. When preserving large trees in a construction area, preparation should begin at least a year before construction begins. Immediately following construction, additional tree recovery efforts should be started; these include supplemental watering, disease and insect control, and pruning. Recovery practices may continue for several years. Building an urban forest becomes less difficult in direct relation to understanding and following basic principles. Combining basics forms a sound structure for a community urban forest program realistically based on a sufficient budget. PRESERVATION Preservation of trees in heavy construction areas often creates the dilemma of which trees should be preserved and whether or not resources used to save the trees are well spent. Mature trees are more valuable aesthetically and ecologically than young trees, but young trees are easier to save. Also, more emotional public response is often involved in saving larger trees, even though the trees may not be good candidates to withstand the consequences of construction activity. All trees within a construction area should be examined by a certified arborist before making any tree-saving decisions; trees also should be evaluated for hazard potential using International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards. An integral part of the tree preservation process is community education on harmful activities such as soil compaction and chemical spills. The educational effort Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry 5 numerous short videos that lead communities through such projects -- and often simplify what can be a complicated and confusing effort. CRZ After identifying trees to be saved, the critical root zone (CRZ) should be marked (this area must be protected to ensure tree survival). Any compromise on the CRZ makes it difficult for a tree to adapt to the post-construction environment. For each tree, or group of trees, a protection plan should be established to include in construction documents. Obviously, quality soil is a priority with Lack of planning for tree preservation can result in a barren landscape for new the recognition that trees do not adapt homeowners. easily to changes in water table levels, soil compaction, or soil depths. Most tree roots are within can be as simple as a discussion with each crew on a the top one-foot of soil, so removing or adding even a construction site, or the process may be directed toward few inches of topsoil can cause significant damage. the entire community. Roots need oxygen as well as water; adding more than two inches of heavy soil can block oxygen flow and The actual process of protecting a tree (or group of trees) kill roots. during construction may be a complex undertaking. The ISA has published an excellent guide and offers Another important factor to clarify is that tunneling under a tree root-mat, to install utility lines, does little damage compared to making even a small trench through the roots. Using a pneumatic excavating tool for work inside the CRZ can greatly reduce tree damage because soil can be removed from around roots without damaging them. MAJOR SURGERY Construction performed near a tree is like major surgery performed on a human; the older they are the harder it is for them to recover. Getting a tree into good condition before a construction operation greatly increases the potential for survival and future good health. The older the tree, the longer post-operation care period. It may take only one mistake to kill a large tree or make it impossible for new trees to grow. A mislaid plumbing line or a concrete truck cleaned out in the wrong place, can kill a tree or drastically alter soil composition. Also, just as with humans, the operational and recovery environment is important. When development occurs adjacent to or within an existing forest, shape and size of the resulting forest remnant determines characteristics of the future forest. Smaller interior areas make it harder to develop tree preservation schemes, but may establish successful buffers and wildlife corridors. Rounder shapes make tree preservation 6 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 easier and, if large enough, serve as better wildlife habitat. SPACED OUT ABOVE AND BELOW In any urban environment, space is a primary concern for anything-- this includes trees and planting space. To use the space principle effectively, space above and below the ground must be preserved. The above-and-below concept should be applied to a number of situations including: promoting cluster development, smaller parking lots, shorter cul-de-sacs, flexible sidewalk standards, eliminating tree-restricted planting holes in pavement, and planning for shorter/narrower streets. While space objectives should be determined in early planning stages, making space for trees is a critical factor and cannot be over- Growing and preserving large trees requires making root space at least equal to canopy space. Preservation of Georgia's famous Thomasville Oak shows what can be accomplished with urban forestry planning. emphasized at any phase of operations. Enlarging planting areas in existing sidewalks is IMPROVING TREE-GROWING ENVIRONMENT expensive, but should be done when new trees are planted. A tree's environment is its home; it can be a healthy or an unhealthy home. Healthy tree environments include When a planting site is located, soil improvement may necessary soil drainage and space for future canopy include more drainage or organic modifications. If planting growth. Treating stormwater as a resource not a waste space is limited, modified designs may be necessary to product is also a plus factor. maintain cost effectiveness and long-term tree health. Planting proposals should be based on specific conditions. A standard planting detail should not be used in guidelines. Soils vary from one location to another so should the guidelines for tree planting. continued on page 12 Consultation with urban foresters and/or landscape architects in analyzing growing conditions is a necessary first step, especially for difficult sites and larger projects. SOIL AND DRAINAGE Designation (in advance) of ground space for planting trees should offer some relief from the endless competition for urban space. The fact should be accepted that a tree is often forced to find rooting space under adjacent pavement, and plans should be made accordingly. (A good selection of alternative details on finding rooting space under pavement is available in the 10th edition of Architectural Graphic Standards.) Unfortunately, most existing tree spaces were designed with inadequate room for roots. Tree planting island (18 x 36 feet) in new parking lot provides sufficient prepared soil for early growth of these two trees. However, additional space under the concrete must be found for long-term growth. Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry 7 FIELD DAY 2002 Charlane Plantation in Twiggs County was the site for this spring's GROWS (Georgia Recognizes Our Woodland Stewards) Field Day. This beautiful forest is owned and operated by Chuck and Rose Lane Leavell, the 1999 National Tree Farmers of the Year and two-time Georgia Tree Farmers of the Year. While bobwhite quail management is the primary Charlane Plantation objective, timber management also has an important role. A pleasing visual aspect of all operations is another obvious high-priority concern. Members of GROWS were treated to three separate tours that visited different sites. Several vendors, who performed work on Charlane Plantation, discussed their products and equipment. GFC Director Fred Allen, Chuck Leavell, and GROWS Director Karen Johansen welcome all to the Field Day. Pictured above is one of several entrance signs to Charlane Plantation. Chuck Leavell, Field Day host, discusses his forest and wildlife management practices with other forest landowners. 8 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 (Left) Landowners watch equipment operating and ask questions of the experts. Brushcutter/mulcher (above) is designed for low impact brush removal or precommercial thinning. Charles Hill, owner of Hill Logging Company - This operation was showcased because of high quality of work. Equipment is maintained at a "like new" state and tree removal was done so as not to damage residual trees. Planted food plots are managed to have food and cover available throughout the year. Trams transport attendees on the guided tours of Charlane's many different forest stands. Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry 9 FOREST LANDOWNERS ASSOCIATION PROFILE by Steve Newton Executive Director The Forest Landowners Association was formed in 1941 in Valdosta, Georgia to provide a voice for southern forest landowners in Washington, DC. From that beginning, the Association has grown to national prominence and recognition as the organization that speaks exclusively for forest landowners at the local, regional and national level. Today, the Forest Landowners Association reaches over 200,000 individuals who own, manage, and recreate on private forestland, through the Association's various publications, workshops, and newsletters. Members of the Forest Landowners Association receive the awardwinning "Forest Landowner" magazine. Published six times a year, it provides applied forest management information written so that landowners can easily understand and apply complex forest management and tax management principles. All members also receive "Hunt Club Digest" published three times a year and oriented toward enjoying the game and non-game benefits of forest land management. Members are also eligible for group insurance rates on "Hunt Lease Liability Insurance" and "General Liability Insurance." The Forest Landowners Association is the only forest landowner association in the country with a full-time staff in Washington, DC and devoted exclusively to advocating interests of forest landowners on legislative and regulatory issues. To receive a sample issue of Forest Landowner magazine and Hunt Club Digest magazine and/or to become a member of the Forest Landowners Association, please call (800) 325-2954 to enroll or visit our website at www.forestlandowner.org. FOREST STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM RECOGNIZES NEWEST CERTIFIED STEWARDS This Winter seven landowners were recognized for their efforts in managing their forest resources following recommendations made for them in their Forest Stewardship Plan. Of special note is the first Department of Natural Resources property to be cited as a Stewardship Forest. The new Certified Stewards are: Georgia Dept. Of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division Clybel WMA Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center.................. Newton/Jasper County Preston and Christina Robertson................................. Grady County John Bembry................................................................ Pulaski County Creekside Farm Barry, Julie, and Makayla Jones................................... Bleckley County Wrayswood Richard Curtis .............................................................. Greene County Georgia Forestry Commission Spirit Creek Educational Forest....................................Richmond County Georgia Forestry Commission Dixon Memorial State Forest........................................ Ware County The addition of these well-managed forestlands brings the total number of Certified Stewards to 155 in Georgia. If you are a participant in the Forest Stewardship Program and would like to be considered for designation as a Certified Steward contact your Georgia Forestry Commission Forester or Rick Hatten at 1-800-GA TREES. 10 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 AMERICAN BEAUTYBERRY (Callicarpa americana) The bright purple fruits of the American Beautyberry can be found in the Georgia Piedmont and Coastal Plain. Not every brilliant color in the plant world is lavished on the tropics. The bright purple fruits of the American Beautyberry can be found in the Georgia Piedmont and Coastal Plain. This mediumheight shrub with oppositely arranged, deciduous leaves, is generally found in the light shade of pines, in woodland openings, or along woodland margins. The flowers appear in summer and are followed by the purple fruits that are clustered tightly around the stem. The fruits persist well into winter, and provide a welcome food source for songbirds, bobwhite quail, deer, squirrel, raccoon, opossum, and fox. Among the songbirds, robin, mockingbird, catbird, and brown thrasher are particularly fond of beautyberry. Beautyberry is valuable when landscaping with wildlife in mind. The shrubs look especially attractive when massed under pines, in similar conditions to those used for massing azaleas. Because the fruit lasts for quite some time on the shrub, it can be a valuable food source for neotropical migrant bird species as they pass through. Although white-fruited beautyberry is now available in the nursery trade, many may still prefer the natural, albeit shocking purple color of the American Beautyberry. Those fruits are certainly a flashy addition to late Summer and Autumn in the Georgia pinelands. Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry 11 continued from page 7 SITE HISTORY Development tends to disturb and compact soil. Sites with several development cycles (buildings being torn down and rebuilt) will be more difficult to plant in trees, especially if development activity is recent. In contrast, sites where there has been no significant disturbance in 50 years may be easier to plant (construction techniques before the 1940s were less disruptive to soil and there is good possibility that soils may have recovered over this time period). Space for this tree may have looked fine when it was planted - but time has now caught up with the lack of planning. just too bad for the tree and the purchaser; multiply this unfortunate circumstance by hundreds of trees and the problem becomes obvious. However, there is in reality no all-encompassing, universally effective planting detail. Design professionals now use a variety of details including different growing conditions, soil types, regional climates, plant types, and nursery practices. The ISA and American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) have such details on websites. The resulting guideline is that any new construction activity needs to be controlled to protect soil resources or it is a virtual certainty soil will need to be refurbished before new planting begins. Drainage is another key aspect. Good drainage, both on the surface and below ground, must be provided to ensure soil improvement efforts are not wasted; poor drainage is a major cause of declining tree populations. It should be noted that vast numbers of trees have been killed or damaged by good intentions. Excessive watering of newly planted trees is a common example. In contrast, light surface irrigation does not penetrate the root balls of trees -- which can result in sickly or dead trees. NO UNIVERSAL PLAN In the past, much reliance has been placed on a universal planting detail that supposedly can be applied to all trees. This universal intention is a warranty-based detail designed so a tree will survive the warranty period. If the tree dies even one day after the warranty expires, it is apparently SELECTING TREE SPECIES Numerous factors should be considered when selecting tree species to be planted in the Model Urban Forest; these include desired size and characteristics, adaptability, availability, planting season, and site conditions. It is, however, a rare situation when all criteria can be met, so compromises must be made for best results. Species availability is a major consideration in the selection. Larger canopy trees should make up the majority of planting, while smaller trees and ornamentals should be used only as accents and understory plantings or in locations where crown development space is inadequate. Diversity and use of native species is important, but varying conditions and urban sites can lead planting non-native species and less diversity. The final step in selection is buying the trees. Many possible problems ranging from bad grafts to poorly developed root systems do not usually become apparent until after the guarantee expires. 12 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 Savannah, with its excellent urban forestry coverage of more than 50 percent, is nationally known for scenic, tree-lined streets. The city serves as a prime example and role model for the Model Urban Forest. Pre-planning can generally eliminate disappointments. The American Nursery and Landscape Association publishes standards for nursery stock. For best results, every tree should be inspected by a professional tree expert before purchase. PLANTING AND SPACING Trees should always be planted in soil best suited for their health and growth (locations competing with pavement and utilities should be avoided). Benefits of trees can also be emphasized by properly selected locations. For instance, trees shading a building or pavement will provide significant energy savings and heat island temperature reductions, while the same trees planted elsewhere will not have these positive influences. Proper tree spacing is a compromise between short-term and long-term goals. In a natural forest, tree spacing constantly changes as trees die and others replace their demised relatives through forest succession. In this situation, there is constant competition for crown space and trees eventually die at slower rates due to resulting spaces between trees. In an urban forest, however, there is a low tolerance for such competition. Urban trees need to develop healthy, stable crowns with few tree losses consequently providing canopy coverage in a reasonable length of time. A stable landscape plan is 35 to 45 feet on center, and approaching 50 to 60 feet on center in the second 50-year period after planting. Thinning can play a definite role in this environment which is easier when initial planning has established a less formal arrangement. MANAGEMENT THE KEY TO SUCCESS Even the most skillful urban forestry planning can be doomed to failure if proper management is not sustained. Keeping an urban forest healthy requires some individual, group, or agency to take responsibility for management. In the worst case scenario, urban forest management is simply ignored, and so-called maintenance is reduced to tree planting and removal. Services of trained professionals are needed to avoid this urban forestry deterioration process. A number of excellent references on organization of urban forestry management programs are included in the appendix of the Georgia Model Urban Forest Book. In the final analysis, there must be an adequate urban forestry management budget. While some sources recommend a $2-3 per capita budget as a minimum, communities with good urban forest resources require a much larger budget. Savannah, for example, with its excellent forest coverage of over 50 percent, spent more than $10 per capita on maintenance in FY 2000. Funding sources, in addition to local taxes, can include grants and should take into account volunteer hours spent supporting urban forestry needs. One community's urban forestry negligence can negatively impact many adjacent communities. By the same token, one community's sustaining Model Urban Forest program can positively influence the establishment of many other Model Urban Forests for many generations to come. Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry 13 14 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 Autumn leaves may bring more than scenic color change to the environment, according to recent research that indicates fall leaves dropping into stagnant waterways could release toxic mercury into the water. Although the research project was done in Minnesota, findings could apply to Georgia (or any other locale) where the change of seasons cause leaves to drop from trees. It is well known that mercury-tainted fish pose a health risk to people; but before the metal can enter the aquatic food chain, it must be converted from its inorganic form to the organic compound methylmercury. Promoted by bacteria, this process occurs in wetlands that are rich in organic matter but deprived of oxygen. This process also occurs in landfills. According to the study (reported on in the March 9, 2002 issue of Science News), leaf-littered waterways are another source of methylmercury. For nine months during 2000, Steven J. Balogh and his colleagues at Metropolitan Services in St. Paul, Minnesota, monitored mercury and methylmercury in two of the state's waterways, the Little Cobb River and County Ditch 86. Both waterways feed into a tributary of the Minnesota River and join the Mississippi. HIGHEST CONCENTRATIONS Overall Mercury concentrations were highest in May and June, when rain and spring melts washed sediment into the rising waters. However, methylmercury concentrations remained low indicating that most of the mercury entering the water during this time was the inorganic form. The largest increase in the Little Cobb River's methylmercury content was in late fall, during a dry period when the river was usually stagnant; researchers found as much as 4.9 nanograms of methylmercury per liter of river water. They did not, however, find more than one tenth that much methylmercury in the stagnant water of County Ditch 86. Earlier during that same year, researchers recorded that methylmercury concentrations in both waterways was typically below 0.5 ng/l. Balogh suggests the autumn differences in concentrations are due to falling leaves since the river banks were thick with deciduous trees that dropped fall leaves into the water, while the county ditch banks were virtually devoid of trees. STAGNATION Researchers pointed out that stagnant conditions reduce the amount of oxygen present in accumulations of dead leaves -- the result is thriving bacteria. They conclude that these bacteria could have methylated the mercury that leaves (when the leaves were alive) absorbed from the atmosphere. In research experiments, concentrations of methylmercury rose more in water collected from the river (with decaying leaf litter) than in distilled water used in lab tests. This suggests that methylmercury production occurs in the waters of the stagnant river. Drew Boday, of Fisheries and Oceans Canada in Winnipeg, Manitoba, said that judging from this "very original study," substantial amounts of methylmercury could be accumulating in fish living downstream from leafy areas like those along the Little Cobb River. He points out that concentrations of methylmercury found in the river during November were as high as those in rivers near industrial pollution sources. GEORGIA PERSPECTIVE Dr. Scott Merkle, a professor with the University of Georgia (UGA) Warnell School of Forest Resources, said that UGA work with trees-- to make them resistant to ionic mercury and methylmercury--shows that control trees apparently "do take up mercury from the atmosphere" as suggested by the Minnesota research study. Merkle pointed out that UGA is currently developing trees, such as eastern cottonwood, engineered with a modified bacterial gene (merB) that will actually break down methylmercury. He said that deploying merB trees along waterways contaminated with methylmercury could actually help lower methylmercury levels. Another UGA factor related to the mercury research is the work of Dr. Richard Meagher, a professor in the UGA Genetics Department. Meagher has started a company (APGEN), which is in the process of licensing the merB gene from the UGA Research Foundation for its phytoremediation projects. Plants engineered with this gene may soon be tested for their ability to clean up methylmercury. Shown left: Research experiments revealed that methylmercury concentrations increased more in collected river water (with decaying leaves) than in distilled water used in laboratory tests. Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry 15 IWF 2002 Scheduled for Georgia World Congress Center Last year's IWF was big - this year's will be bigger. IWF 2002 is expected to have every major machinery manufacturer in the world represented. Biggest Event In Center's 36-Year History T he International Woodworking Machinery & Furniture Supply Fair--USA (IWF) is scheduled for August 22-25 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta with nine technical conference sessions featured. The cost to attend each session is $30 if pre-registered by July 19, 2002-- or $40 if registering onsite. Pre-registration and more information about IWF is available online at www.iwf2002.com, by e-mailing info@iwfatlanta, or calling 770-246-0608. With completion of Phase IV construction of the Georgia World Congress Center, IWF 2002 will be the biggest event ever held during the center's 36-year history. The 16 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 massive show is expected to attract visitors to Atlanta will learn the latest developments in woodworking from all over the world. More than 1,200 companies standards and safety for the workplace including ANSI have already contracted to fill over 800,000 net square standards. feet to exhibit the latest technology in machinery, raw materials, supplies, hardware, and services for large Ergonomics is a review of an effective ergonomics manufacturers and small professional shops in program that can reduce medical risks and improve woodworking, furniture, cabinetry, solid surface, quality and productivity in the workplace. The session architectural woodwork, store fixtures, and plastic will also include information on increased profit margins. fabricating industries. Attaining Targeted Profitability will examine pricing, Buyers at IWF 2002 will see the most comprehensive buying, unit sales, fixed costs, inventory, and accounts display of international and US-made woodworking receivable. This valuable conference will teach machinery, supplies, and services of any other trade show participants how to create a realistic profit target for their being held this year. "Every major machinery companies and include a program to attain this goal. manufacturer in the world will have a presence at IWF 2002. No other industry event this year can say that. Equipment Cost Justification emphasizes critical cost This is just one more validation that IWF is a key player issues related to evaluating major equipment purchases. in the worldwide market," said John D. Bassett, III, Participants will learn to prepare a payback analysis for chairman of IWF 2002. their boss, owner, or banker and examine actual case studies on making such The largest trade show of its decisions. kind in the Western Hemisphere, IWF 2002 expects WHAT: International Woodworking Machinery & Furniture Supply Fair 2002 Lean Manufacturing Reduce to host buying teams from more than 10,000 companies from 90 WHERE: Georgia World Congress Center Atlanta, Georgia Waste, Increase Productivity, and Profitability examines countries. In addition to the Technical Conference Program, IWF will feature the Challenger Distinguished Achievement WHEN: Thursday, August 22, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday, August 23, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, August 24, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday, August 25, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. exactly what lean manufacturing is the concepts involved in producing more with less. Participants will hear Awards, New Products Showcase, and the Design Emphasis student furniture competition. WHO: IWF is not open to public. It is open only to industry trade, professionals, and serious woodworking enthusiasts. real-life experiences from a variety of manufacturers using these techniques. Innovative Strategies for TECHNICAL CONFERENCES Attracting, Training, and Retaining Today's Woodworker The Technical Conference Program is a major feature of reveals exactly what creates impacts on a company's IWF 2002. These special sessions will cover a wide range recruiting, training, and retention of employees. The study of topics. Facing the Challenges of Moisture, Surface also shows how to motivate a workforce for maximum Preparation and Proper Application of Adhesives will productivity. focus on methods of controlling moisture problems, and surface preparation for adhesives application. Dr. Gene Successful Integration of Software and Automation for Wengert, a contributing editor of FDM magazine will the Small Shop will bring together owners of smaller- translate 40 years of experience into easy-to-understand sized woodworking shops to discuss how they techniques. successfully brought CNC equipment onto their shop floors The discussion will range from learning curve E-commerce: Getting Started will illustrate how to aspects for related software to time requirements. successfully design, improve, and manage an e-commerce website. Those attending will learn about successes (and In essence, IWF 2002 seems to have something for mistakes) from experts who excel in the field. everybody in the wood-related varieties of interests. IWF is owned and sponsored by the American Furniture Woodworking Industry Standards and Safety is an encore Manufacturing Association (AFMA), the Wood Machinery presentation from the 2000 session that includes Manufacturers of America (WMMA), and Woodworking numerous updates. Presented in two parts, participants Machinery Industry Association (WMIA). Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry 17 The Brantley County FFA team poses with Chuck Leavell after taking top honors at this years CDE finals. Wheeler County Takes Second Place The Brantley County FFA High School Chapter was declared First Place Winner in the 2002 Georgia FFA Forestry Career Development Event (CDE) State Finals held May 8 at Chuck and Rose Lane Leavell's Charlane Plantation in Dry Branch. Second Place honors went to the Wheeler County High School FFA Chapter following the intense annual competition at the historic 2,000-acre plantation (the American Tree Farm System named Chuck and his wife Rose Lane the 1999 National Outstanding Tree Farmers of the Year for their activities on Charlane). More than 200 students from 18 Georgia high schools, accompanied by advisors, competed in a series of events testing forestry skills. Each school was a first or second place winner in the statewide regional CDEs held prior to the finals. The First Place winning team will participate in national competition. Richard Gill serves as advisor for the number one Brantley County FFA team. Schools competing in the FFA/CDE State Finals (sponsored by The Langdale Company, International Paper, Sun Trust Bank of Middle Georgia, and the Georgia Forestry Commission) included: Bainbridge, Brantley County, Colquitt County, Gilmer County, Jackson County, Jefferson County, Mitchell-Baker, Oconee County, Oglethorpe County, Perry, Pickens County, Putnam County, Towns County, Upson-Lee County, Ware County, West Laurens, Wheeler County, and Wilcox County. First Place winners in the various events were: Scott Register of Putnam County, Reforestation; Jason Pollard of Jackson County, Timber Cruising/Cord Volume; 18 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 Neil Boss of Oconee County, Timber Cruising/Board Foot Volume; Amanda Hansley of Perry, Tree Identification; Marc Herrin of Brantley County, Ocular Estimation; Drew Davis of Mitchell-Baker, Land Measurement; Dusty Denton of Perry, Hand Compass Practicum; Joey Montford of Wheeler County, Tree/ Forest Disorders; Wes Morgan and Craig Jersey of Jefferson County, Forest Management; and Derek Johnson, Timber Stand Improvement. FFA/CDE competition offers students an opportunity to display forestry skills acquired in Agricultural Education. Chuck Leavell signs autographs for students competing in CDE finals at Charlane Plantation. FIRE EQUIPMENT SHOW ATTRACTS BIG CROWD Helicopter Demonstration and Tanker Among Highlights More than 600 visitors attended the GFC sponsored 14th Biennial Fire Equipment Show held April 24 at the State National Fairgrounds in Perry where highlights of the show included the Lowndes County 5,000- Gallon Tanker, Helicopter Demo, Type 6 on the latest firefighting technology including demonstrations of advanced equipment, accessories, and static displays. "Also, over the years, this show has evolved into an enjoyable experience for all ages the whole family," Browning said. GFC Director Fred Allen spoke to the attending group after lunch and expressed appreciation of the Georgia Forestry Commission for continued support and cooperative partnerships. A special highlight of the all-day show was the Lee County Fire Department winning a 200-gallon tank/pump "slip-on" firefighting unit in a popular drawing the unit was donated by W.S. Harley Company and valued at more than $6,000. The GFC demonstrates the U-H O designed 2 to help fight swamp fires. Engines, GFC Track Demo, and a variety of door prizes. A large attendance by the general public was complemented by hundreds of Georgia firemen from statewide locations. Roger Browning, GFC Rural Fire Defense Coordinator, said the basic objective of the fire equipment show is to brief city and county firemen, as well as numerous county commissioners attending, Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry 19 Irwin Named National Project Learning Tree Educator of the Year Kris Irwin, public service assistant in the University of Georgia (UGA) Warnell School of Forest Resources, has been named 2002 National Project Learning Tree (PLT) Educator of the Year for his contributions to environmental education. graduate students in agricultural education. He also designed a series of student outreach programs so forestry students completing the training can assist elementary students in learning more about natural resources. One of only five recipients nationwide, Irwin's Irwin was instrumental in correlating Project responsibility is to develop, coordinate and Learning Tree educational materials with the implement forest resource outreach programs state's Quality Core curriculum, which for Georgia K-12 teachers. He developed the makes Georgia PLT more available and Georgia Network in Education Institute appealing to teachers. He was awarded the (GENIE), a series of week-long workshops for Georgia teachers that include statewide Irwin Dedicated Service to the Curriculum Renewal Program recognition by the classroom and outdoor activities. Georgia Department of Education for his work in revising the state forestry and agricultural Irwin incorporated the "School Award" program into his curriculum. Irwin was also the Georgia PLT Educator of GENIE Institute, a budget providing teacher competition the Year for 2001. for grant money to establish school conservation projects. This funding has resulted in development of nature trails Before coming to UGA in 1996, Irwin worked as a and outdoor education centers, which encourage learning community forester with the Nebraska Forest Service for more about natural resources. two years. After graduating from college in 1985, he spent two years in the Peace Corps teaching natural The UGA educator teaches a three-hour course, resource conservation practices to field foresters and Principles of Forest Management, for undergraduate and farmers in the Philippines. SESAF ANNUAL MEETING Southeastern Society of American Foresters Annual Meeting Macon, GA November 3-5, 2002 For more info, call SESAF @ (706) 845-9085 GEORGIA URBAN FOREST COUNCIL 2002 ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND AWARDS LUNCHEON "Bridging the Divide: Creating Green Partnerships In Our Communities" A Conference for Developers, Regulators and Citizens November 13, 14 and 15, 2002 Holiday Inn Select Decatur - Decatur, GA For more info visit: www.gufc.org or contact: Kacey Ratterree (800)-994-4832 Workshops by eminent professionals in urban forestry and urban planning, policy and development Tours of sites that demonstrate excellent planning and development PRESCRIBED BURN CERTIFICATION SESSIONS July 18, 2002: Athens Technical College, Greene County Campus Greensboro, GA September 19, 2002: South Georgia Technical College Americus, GA For more information, contact: Neal Edmondson with the Georgia Forestry Commission @ (478) 751-3332 20 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 CLEAN WATER Trees that grow close to streams hold the streambanks in place and keep the soil from washing into the water. Trees also help shade and protect streams and provide homes for wildlife. Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry Courtesy of Weyerhaeuser Company 21 FORESTSARE FUN While the trees are growing, a managed forest can be a fun place to visit. Unscramble the words to complete the story. Last summer, my family went for a (ekhi) _______ in a managed forest. We packed a (iccnpi) ________ and had lunch by a stream. After we ate, my dad went (hsfgini) _________. My mom found a clearcut and picked some (rirbese) _______. My brother collected (korsc) _______ by the stream. My sister took pictures of birds with her new (racmae) ________. I rode my (kbie) ______ on an old logging road. It was a (ufn) ___ day! Answers: hike, picnic, fishing, berries, rocks, camera, bike, fun Courtesy of Weyerhaeuser Company 22 Georgia Forestry Summer 2002 Although photographic images are now available in digitized formats (so that users can take advantage of today's technology with computers, GIS, and GPS), black & white aerial photography is still the most popular type used today. Summer 2002 Georgia Forestry From the June 1952 issue of the Georgia Forestry Magazine 23 1989 - Bruce Lyndon Cunningham Nacogdoches, TX - USA NATIVE TREES OF GEORGIA Slash Pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) DESCRIPTION: Leaves or needles 8 to 12 inches long, in clusters of 2, or more often, 3 to the sheath; dark green and thickly set on the branch. Fruit or cone 3 to 6 inches long, brown at maturity and glossy. Scales armed with minute prickles. Bark rough and dark reddish brown on young trees and becoming orange-brown and broken into broad, flat scales on old trees. A tree often 80 to 100 feet in height with a tall tapering trunk 2 to 3 feet in diameter, terminating in a handsome, roundtopped head. KEY CHARACTERISTICS: Leaves or needles 8 to 12 inches long in clusters of 2 to 3 to the sheath; cones 3 to 6 inches long, brown, glossy. WOOD: Heavy, hard, strong, coarsegrained, rich, dark orange-colored heartwood and white sapwood, durable heartwood. USES: Railroad ties, general construction, poles and piling, boats, railroad cars, pulp, and many other uses. Also, one of the two species which produce gum turpentine and rosin. DISTRIBUTION: Confined principally to the lower coastal plain, the chief habitat being low, moist, sandy sites, however, often thriving on the drier ridges common to its range. Common in plantations. J. Frederick Allen Director An Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider Periodical postage paid at Dry Branch, Georgia and additional mailing offices Approximate cost of press time and paper only COST: $ QTY: 13M