Georgia forestry, Vol. 55, no. 4 (Winter 2002)

Georgia
FORESTRY

USPS No. 217120 Winter 2002

No. 4

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 Johnnie B. Hall, Dudley William M. Oettmeier, Jr., Fargo
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 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:
In 1982, former Georgia Forestry Commission Director, A. Ray Shirley, announced that "Forestry and its related economic activities comprise a $6.6 billion Georgia industry that employs an estimated 74 thousand Georgians". This revelation was a result of a study by Dr. Albert Montgomery and Robert Chaffin of Georgia State University. Additionally, it was the first in-depth study of the total impact of forestry on Georgia's economy.
A lot has changed in the twenty years since. The industry has undergone a major restructuring of mergers, acquisitions, plant openings and plant closings. There have been technological advances with a plethora of newly engineered wood products that were only theory in the early 1980's. In addition, the secondary forest products manufacturing sector has grown significantly. By 1999, the model estimated that the total annual impact of forestry on Georgia's economy was $19.7 billion.
Due to changes in the industry and other sectors of the economy over the last twenty years, we decided to take a critical look at updating the economic impact model. The Economic Development Institute (EDI) at Georgia Tech was recently ranked number one in the nation in economic development research. The Commission contracted with EDI's Dr. B. William Riall to develop a new economic impact model for forestry. Dr. Riall created an entirely new "definition of forest industry" that encompasses the significant economic and technological changes of the past twenty years. The input-output model used in the analysis is called IMPLAN. It is a nationally recognized model that uses local data to tailor its estimates to the Georgia economy.
In October, I received a copy of Georgia Tech's final report and am proud to announce that forestry has a $19.5 billion direct annual impact on the State's economy. Total economic activity supported by the forest industry in Georgia is almost $30.5 billion. This activity employs 204,065 people whose income is almost $7.7 billion. This represents five percent of Georgia's economy and seven percent of total income for the State. Despite changes in the State's economy, Forestry remains one of the most significant contributors. I congratulate and thank Georgia landowners, forest managers, and industry for their contribution to Georgia's economy.
Sincerely,

J. Frederick Allen Director

Jim L. Gillis, Jr. H. G. Thomas New

Chairman, Soperton

Louisville

J. G. Fendig Savannah

Larry S. Walker Oglethorpe

P. W. Bryan Thomasville

An Equal Opportunity Employer

Johnnie B. Hall Dudley

William M. Oettmeier, Jr. Fargo

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 31020-9699. 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.

ON THE COVER: Winter's stillness is captured here in this beautiful Crawford County forest which has been blanketed with snowfall.
Photo by William Godfrey

2

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

Page 4
Page 8 Page 12
Page 14
Winter 2002

/Winter 2002

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4 Genetically Engineered Trees
A New Frontier with New Issues
7 Stream Crossings
Planning Minimizes Problems
8 Propagating the Native Azaleas Growing on Your Property
Azaleas Have Adapted Well to Different Sections of the State
12 Living in the Wild
Firewise Workshops Stress Community Involvement to Lessen the Risk
14 Forestry Research Shows Lost Production Capacity
Study Reveals Complex and Evolving System
18 Announcements
GFC Firefighter Remembered Governor Thanks Firefighters Rabun First in Nation GFC Receives Reimbursement Master Wildlifer Program 2003 New GFC Board Members Georgia Rainfall Creates Good Tree Planting Conditions
21 Fun Page
Looking for Lunch
22 Fun Page
How to Make a Pine Cone Bird Feeder
23 50 Years Ago
Picture Story: Forest Fire Epic
24 Native Trees of Georgia
Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis L.)

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

3

4

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

Editor's Note: The following article is first in a series reviewing sections of the publication (Biotech Branches Out: A Look at the Opportunities and Impacts of Forest Biotechnology) sponsored by Pew Initiative on Food and Biotechnology, Society of American Foresters, and Ecological Society of America.

Advances in biotechnology have ushered in a new era of forestry with the beneficial potentials offered by genetically engineered (GE) trees. The creation of GE trees, however, also prompts a wide range of issues with different perspectives emerging from a variety of expert sources.

Forestry scientists are now developing methods to Industry officials expressed much interest, but they

genetically engineer trees for numerous purposes, such recognized that environmental consequences must be

as making trees insect and disease resistant, making carefully determined. Representatives of industry were

wood processing easier, restoring populations of also concerned about consumer reactions.

endangered species, and reducing environmental

impacts of forest products manufacturing. As the SLOW LANE AND FAST TRACK

technology advances, so does the need to assess Some experts believe it may be more than a decade before

potential environmental, economic, and social benefits GE trees become common in North America, while others

in comparison with risks associated with commercial point out that large plots of GE trees are already being

release of GE trees.

cultivated in China and other developing countries. It

was emphasized that these countries, motivated by internal

In December 2001, an Atlanta conference was held to and external demands, could begin commercial GE tree

delve into issues related to

use in a year or two.

introduction of GE trees into forest ecosystems. The conference was sponsored by Pew Initiative on

"I don't know if the world Gifford The fact is that globally GE trees Pinchot (U.S. Forest Service founder) could be a fast track commercial

Food and Biotechnology, Society and his peers created would have development; this situation creates

of American Foresters, and understood or known how to deal more issues. Some conference

Ecological Society of America. The high-tech gathering attracted scientists, environmentalists, foresters (representing public and private sectors), industry

with genetically engineered forests, but I don't think they would have been surprised by the intense response that has already emerged."

participants were concerned that, regarding commercial use of GE tree use, the burden of proof has shifted to opponents to prove why the technology could be a threat of

representatives,

lawyers,

government regulatory officials,

and members of non-governmental

- Char Miller Trinity University

any kind while (they claim) advocates are allowed to preside as judge and jury of the situation.

organizations (NGOs).

ESCAPE OF THE "SUPER PESTS"

The Biotech Branches Out conference was designed to One major ecological concern is that little data exists which

examine potential benefits and risks in addition to would enable scientists to predict how "escapes" of GE

reviewing current laws and regulatory policies.

trees might affect native forestlands. The issue is

compounded by the long life of trees, which could mean

Issues and debates continue to evolve with some of the negative consequences might not be known until it was

basic questions being: Are GE forests different from too late to reverse them.

crops? Are GE forests inevitable? How will consumers

react to GE forest products? Does forest biotechnology For instance, there is debate that some GE trees

pose unique regulatory issues?

especially the hardy, insect resistant varieties could

become "super pests" that could invade an area and

PLANTATIONS FIRST

damage natural ecosystems.

Scientists and industry analysts agreed that if there is to

be widespread use of GE trees, it will happen first on On the other side of the fence, some scientists are saying

intensively managed forest plantations. These will be any debate related to environmental impacts should

plantations already using current scientific methods to include GE tree potentials benefiting the environment.

improve timber quality and production. Research shows They cite the example of researchers using GE techniques

that GE trees grow faster, produce pulp easier, and provide in an effort to make the American chestnut immune to

better quality wood than "conventional trees."

the blight that almost made the species extinct.

Winter 2002

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

5

Genetically engineered tree seedlings look no different from other seedlings, but their creation through advances in biotechnology has prompted a wide range of issues involving potential benefits and risk factors.

Even more fascinating are early tests indicating "novel genes" can be inserted into trees and enable them to absorb and neutralize hazardous waste; it does not take a rocket scientist to realize the potential benefits of this GE scenario on a massive scale especially when considering the rapid escalation of wildland-urban interface.
MORATORIUM MANIA Nevertheless, fear of the unknown persists with many valid reasons to support it. Despite potential environmental and economic benefits, some advocate a moratorium on any GE tree field tests until more is known about possible negative aspects. This faction also advocates changes in the regulatory process, which would focus on what they consider to be unique issues related to GE trees.
There was, however, general agreement at the conference that issues surrounding GE trees will be addressed through a political dialogue that features the kind of giveand-take that existed at the Atlanta meeting.

Key points emerging from the conference included:
Evaluating genetically engineered trees may require additional methods of analyzing benefits and risks considering scientific uncertainties and cultural values related to national forests.
The new technology reflects promise for forestry and the forest products industry and potentially for certain environmental concerns.
GE trees could avoid some of the controversy associated with GE crops, if the first products marketed show clear value to the end consumer rather than mainly benefiting technology providers and growers.
Potential environmental risks and need for public participation in decisions may require a different regulatory process for genetically engineered trees.
The pros and cons continue...

6

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

Stream crossings on woodland roads are a highpriority interest to the landowner or manager of forestlands.

of a roadbed or as surface flow causing erosion. Consequently, special consideration must be given to road areas in contact with water, such as stream crossings.

Although stream crossings should be avoided, if possible, they are often necessary for timber harvest and access to certain forest sites. Sometimes controversial, stream crossings are also the most critical aspect of forest road systems when it is necessary to use them. The basic concern is that failure of a stream crossing, due to improper planning and construction, can cause erosion and negative effects on water quality.
The majority of forest road problems can be traced to water, either as moisture soaking up to the driving surface

Careful planning before timber harvesting can minimize or prevent most stream crossing problems. Pre-planning should involve road-type and road-use patterns, stream (channel) characteristics, and identification of aquatic organisms in the stream. Both permanent and temporary stream crossings should be based on expected storm flow return intervals and watershed acreage above crossings.
COMMON CROSSINGS The three most common stream crossings for forest management operations are: culverts, bridges, and fords.
(continued on pg. 16)

Culverts are the most common type of stream crossing and can be either temporary or permanent. Keeping culverts clear of debris is an important part of maintenance.

Winter 2002

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

7

Propagating the Native Azaleas Growing on Your Property
by Dr. Lonnie E. Varnedoe, Jr.

Some homeowners have huge banks of azaleas in their yards.

The spring of the year is a special time for many southern homeowners, especially those in Georgia, when their azaleas are in bloom. These are the flowering shrubs for which the South is known. These blooming shrubs are so dispersed throughout the state that several of the hundreds of available varieties will grow in any location. Some homeowners have huge banks of azaleas in their yards. Other homeowners around the state may have fewer numbers of azalea plants in their yard, but most have a couple if only to liven up their property after a long and dull winter.
As a member of the Rhododendron family, azaleas have adapted well to different sections of the state. Azaleas

have blooms that have from five to more than 30 petals with flowers as small as a half-inch to 4-5 inches wide, and depending on the variety. Once they are in bloom, most azaleas hold their blooms for as long as two to four weeks. The adaption of several varieties to one location may extend the beauty of these flowers for quite some time.
Cold hardiness is a major factor in determining which variety will grow at a certain location, since azaleas vary considerably in their ability to withstand cold injury to both the plants and their flowers. Other factors that determine where different azalea varieties will grow are the planting sites (wet or dry), the soil types.

8

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

the Flame azalea (R. calendulaceum), pictured on the next page, is found farther north throughout the mountainous areas of the state.

A large number of native azaleas, which produce white to pink flowers, can also be found in Georgia. These include the Sweet azalea (R. arborescents), Pinxeterbloom azalea (R. nudillorum), Swamp azalea (R. viscosum) and the Florida Pinxter azalea (R. canescens). These are among the most beautiful of the native American shrubs.

Considering the beauty of these native

azaleas, many forest landowners would like

to increase their numbers on their property.

These native Georgia azaleas, often called bush honeysuckle, rival many introduced varieties in the beauty of their flowers.

Unfortunately, this sounds easier than it is. Propagating native azaleas can be a challenge for most nurserymen and may be especially

difficult for forest landowners.

These limiting factors should be a consideration when

choosing azaleas for your yard.

The quick way to obtain native azaleas is to dig them

up from one section of your woods and transplant them

Strangely enough, most of these flowering shrubs, which to another. However, native azaleas gathered from the

we consider so much a part of our springtime, are not woods are often more difficult to transplant than the

native to our state. Instead, most of the varieties potted varieties available from the nursery. The best

available in today's garden shops are from Japan, way to move these native azaleas is to dig the plants

Belgium and Korea. Of course, they have been around when they are dormant and cut the tops back to about

for so long that most homeowners think of them as six inches above the ground level. This severe pruning

native. Some of these hybrids entered our country as will give them a much better chance of survival. In

early as 1915 when the Kurume variety was introduced addition, they will produce more vigorous growth as a

from Japan. Other varieties of azaleas have been result of the pruning. The trick, here, is to identify and

developed here since that time.

mark the plants with flagging while they are blooming

so they can be found during the winter.

Many forestland owners in Georgia, however, are

fortunate to have native azaleas growing on their It should also be remembered that the native azaleas

property. These native Georgia azaleas, pictured above, are growing at their present location because that

often called bush honeysuckle, rival many introduced particular location meets most of its growing

varieties in the beauty of their flowers. The factor that requirements. The new location, either in your yard or

makes these native shrubs different is the fact that they in the woods, should meet as many of the plant's

are all deciduous. Deciduous means that they shed requirements as possible. Azaleas are shallow-rooted

their leaves in the fall. Many native azaleas have yellow plants and are easily damaged by excessive soil

to orange and red-orange flowers, such as the Florida moisture. Good drainage is essential for success with

azalea, (R. austrinum), which is found along rivers and azaleas. A raised bed eight to 12 inches high is

stream banks in South Georgia. This early-flowering recommended if one is trying to introduce the plants

azalea produces flowers with colors varying from light into an area that is too moist. Be sure however, to use

cream through shades of yellow and orange to red- some well-drained topsoil when constructing the raised

orange.

beds.

The Oconee azalea (R. speciosum), one of the most beautiful native azaleas, can be found in a wide band, extending across Georgia from Alabama through the Atlanta area to Augusta. This variety produces flowers in shades of orange and red. A similar flowering azalea,

The final step, and the most important, in transplanting azaleas, is to apply 3-5 inches of mulch to the soil surface. Mulches help conserve moisture, moderate soil temperature and prevent weeds. Pine straw and pine bark are the most commonly used mulches in Georgia.

Winter 2002

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

9

A flowering azalea, the Flame azalea (R. calendulaceum), is found in North Georgia throughout the mountainous areas of the state.

A large number of native
azaleas, which produce white to pink flowers, can
be found in Georgia.

However, fall leaves also make an excellent mulch. The mulch should extend well beyond the outer foliage mass of the azaleas and should be approximately two to three inches deep after settling.
Allow azaleas to become established before fertilizing them. If they are planted during the spring, wait four to six weeks before lightly fertilizing them. If planted during the fall, don't fertilize until early spring.
Another, and perhaps, more difficult method of obtaining native azaleas, is to propagate them from the wild either by using seeds or cuttings. While some species are easier to propagate than others, all deciduous azaleas are propagated in the same way. Seeds to be used in propagation should be harvested when mature, and before they are lost back to Mother Nature. Most native azalea seeds are mature enough to be harvested around October. Small seeds such as those of native azaleas may be blown away as soon as the seed capsule

splits open, so care should be taken to collect the capsules unopened. If the seed capsules are collected and stored in a paper bag, they will not be lost when the seed capsules split open. Once the capsules are dry, shaking them in the paper bag will help the naked seeds fall out. Dr. Richard E. Bir, in his book, Growing & Propagating Showy Native Woody Plants (1992), suggests that although native azalea seeds are tiny, all one needs to do to induce germination is provide the right temperature (75oF), light, and damp peat. Within two or three weeks, if the seeds are alive, tiny green hairs will appear which will develop into beautiful flowering plants.
A plant grown from seeds will look similar, but will not be exactly the same as the parent plant; however, propagation by stem cuttings (asexual propagation) results in an exact copy of the parent plant. Sometimes, an azalea does not produce viable seeds and asexual propagation is the only means of reproduction available.

10

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

When propagating native azaleas from stem

cuttings, the tip of the leafy branch of the

desired plant is removed and conditions are

provided that will keep it alive until roots

develop. Since the cuttings will continue to

lose moisture after they have been cut, one

must balance temperature, moisture and light

so the young cuttings stay alive long enough

to develop roots. Large growers use fog-

generating machines to accomplish this.

However, Dr. Bir (1992) suggests that the

same thing can be done by covering the

above ground portions of a stem cutting with

a plastic food storage bag, provided it is

protected from direct sun so that the bag does

not become a solar oven and cook the

cuttings.

With proper germination, tiny green hairs will appear within two or

Dr. Bir (1992) further suggests that most native azaleas will root in a mixture of

three weeks, which will develop into beautiful flowering native azalea plants.

sphagnum peat and perlite. Sanitation is very

important when rooting cuttings. The growing medium A polyethylene sheet is stretched over the top and the

as well as the growing containers should be as clean as whole propagation chamber is placed in a partially

possible to prevent disease.

shaded location until the cuttings are rooted. When the

temperatures inside the cooler rise above 100oF,

Successful growers apply synthetic rooting hormones ventilate to release trapped heat. If the media starts to

to the cuttings to increase the speed of rooting and the dry out, irrigate and then close the tent again. The idea

number of roots formed. The most easily obtained is to keep high humidity around the leaves to prevent

rooting hormones contain IBA (indolebutyric acid) water loss from the cutting while keeping the right

mixed with talc. Dr. Bir (1992) suggests using .8 balance of air and moisture in the rooting media to

percent IBA, such as Hormodin No. 3. If you want to encourage root development.

use a liquid formulation of IBA (Dip & Grow), dip the

cutting into a .25 percent IBA solution and remove it Don't touch the cuttings for at least three weeks after

immediately. Make a fresh cut on the stem immediately sticking. When there is some resistance to a gentle tug

before treating the stem with the hormone. If the cut on the top of a cutting, it is almost certain that roots are

surface is allowed to dry before hormone treatment, starting to anchor the cutting into the media. Once it

effectiveness of the hormone will be greatly reduced. has been determined that roots are there, wait about a

Depending on the size of the cutting, treat the bottom week or so and then start to reduce the humidity by

1/4 inch of the stem base with the hormone. If a liquid poking holes in the plastic cover. The cuttings will begin

hormone is used, let the hormone solution dry before to harden off and become less frail. Once root growth

sticking the cutting into the rooting media. If a powder starts, the plants can be handled normally. Let the

formulation of the hormone is used, open a hole in the cuttings grow and next spring, when new leaf growth

media with a pencil or knife and then stick the cutting. starts, the cuttings can be transplanted to containers,

Gently firm the rooting media around the base of the fertilized and watered like other plants.

cutting and water so that the media comes in intimate

contact with the base of the cutting and no air pockets Additional information about propagating native azaleas

exist.

and other woody plants may be obtained from the book

Growing & Propagating Showy Native Woody Plants

Once the cuttings have been stuck in the rooting media, by Dr. Richard E. Bir which was printed by The

they must be kept under a plastic tent so they do not University of North Carolina Press in 1992.

dry out. A simple and inexpensive way to accomplish

this is to employ a small styrofoam cooler. Drainage Acknowledgment: Grateful appreciation is given to Dr.

holes are punched in the bottom of a cooler with James T. Midcap, Extension Horticulturist, University

a screwdriver, moist media is poured into a depth of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and Dr.

of a few inches, and then the cuttings are stuck. Richard E. Bir for their contributions to this article.

Winter 2002

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

11

Homes Built Among Nature's Beauty Are Susceptible to Wildfire

FireWise Workshops Stress Community Involvement to Lessen the Risk

O ver the past century, America's population has nearly tripled, with much of the growth flowing into traditionally natural environments. These areas where urban dwellings are being built in or near wildlands are known as the Wildland/Urban Interface. Georgia has seen its share of people flocking to "interface" areas in White and Camden counties. (see the article: "The Wildland/ Urban Interface" in Georgia Forestry magazine, Fall 2002)

There's an obvious aesthetic appeal to living close to nature, but there are also challenges which are not so obvious. Encroaching development into forests, grasslands, and farms has resulted in numerous infrastructure problems, including catastrophic wildfires which increasingly threaten lives, homes, and businesses. The cost for suppressing wildfires is also increasing, along with the cost of property loss.

To help alleviate the risk of wildfire, the National Wildland/Urban Interface Fire Program has developed a series of workshops based on their FIREWISE Communities program. As part of a new initiative of the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC), these workshops are being held around the state of Georgia.

The overall objective of the FIREWISE Communities workshop is for individuals and groups to learn how to use a collaborative planning process, and then effectively transfer the knowledge and techniques to their own communities. The workshop series provides an excellent forum for demonstrating how effective partnerships can be in resolving community growth problems in hazardous wildland-interface areas.

White County's first FIREWISE Community Workshop was held at Smithgall Woods Lodge in August and featured speakers such as Annie Hermansen of the USDA Forest Service and Dr. Kim Coder, with the UGA Cooperative Extension Service. Norma Rainwater of the Georgia Forestry Commission helps participants identify the fire problems of a community during an exercise session.

12

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

At a FIREWISE Community Workshop held in March of 2002 at Callaway Garden's Discovery Center in Pine Mountain, Georgia, Vicky Edge of the Georgia Forestry Commission leads a group exercise that teaches the methodology used to assess the wildland fire risks and hazards.
When tackling issues associated with wildland/urban interface fire problems, the entire community is encouraged to take joint responsibility in the cause (community officials and developers, architects, bankers, fire marshals, insurance representatives, realtors, emergency management experts, property owners, and more).
The workshop's state-of-the-art interactive approach teaches participants to plan and implement basic fire resistant community development practices. Through dynamic presentations and workshop tools such as state-of-the-art mapping and wildfire simulations, community leaders and professionals learn first hand about the planning, financing, building, and protection that is involved in the creation of safer communities, subdivisions, and homes. Participants are presented with several scenarios that interface communities experience and tasked with modifying existing and planned developments to make them more wise about fire for better wildfire protection.

Smaller Tractor Is More Effective in Fighting Urban
Interface Fires
The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) has introduced a new bulldozer to its arsenal of tractors that will help firefighters protect homes that are threatened by wildfire.

The D 7000, manufactured by Dig-It, is a small bulldozer that can be easily maneuvered, much like that of the more widely-recognized Bobcat equipment. Its unique design will give firefighters more options when protecting wildland/urban interface areas.

At about half the size of a regular

tractor, the D 7000 offers many

advantages. It is easier to maneuver in urban interface situations, around homes and landscaping. Instead of

The D 7000 is used to make a firebreak during a demonstration in Paulding County.

requiring a separate vehicle for transportation to a fire scene, the

compact tractor can be easily towed by a rural fire engine truck,

simultaneously sending two pieces of firefighting equipment with crews

to the fire scene, which quickens response time.

The tractor was recently demonstrated in Paulding County, where area fire fighting personnel and others got a chance to see the D 7000 in action.

To find out more about the FIREWISE Communities Program, visit: http:// www.firewise.org/communities or call your local Georgia Forestry Commission office.

This water pump unit accompanies the D 7000 during operations, making the two pieces of equipment an effective firefighting team.

Winter 2002

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

13

FORESTRY RESEARCH SHOWS LOST PRODUCTION CAPACITY

Study Reveals Complex and Evolving System

Anew research project, recently completed through combined efforts of three major universities, shows the Southern forest products industry loses an estimated $430 million a year by operating timber harvesting systems at only 2/3 of full production capacity.
Forest scientists at the University of Georgia (UGA), University of Maine, and Louisiana State University surveyed logging operations and mills in Georgia and Maine to determine full wood production capacity and causes for lost production.
Funded by the Wood Supply Research Institute, the indepth study, Causes and Costs of Unused Wood Capacity, is the first large scale effort to obtain production information from both loggers and mills. Researchers say the study is an important first step in defining problems in a system subject to constant change and competing interests.
The study determined that, from an overall perspective, market factors were the biggest obstacle followed by inclement weather and lack of planning. "Of course, not all this inefficiency could be removed, even under ideal circumstances," said Dr. Dale Greene, professor of forest engineering at UGA's Warnell School of Forest Resources and principal author of the research study. "Conservative estimates project potential profits from increased efficiency at between $135 and $300 million per year and that's a lot of money saved."
Dr. Mike Clutter, UGA professor of forest finance, who was also involved in the research project, said there are conflicting objectives in the area of wood procurement and supply chain management. "Mills want a consistent supply of wood at a low cost," Clutter said. "Loggers

want available markets for their services and decent contract rates. But when prices are low, mills operate at a lower capacity, which means loggers work less. Data from this study shows how to better balance the needs of loggers and mills."
OVERLAPPING PROBLEMS Southern loggers cited mill-imposed quotas, weather, and mill handling or closures as major problems, followed by mechanical failure and other issues with land tracts and stands. Maine loggers listed weather as a major cause of lost production, followed by road conditions, equipment, and millimposed quotas.
Researchers also found that logging crews identifying themselves as "preferred suppliers" were more efficient. These companies reported the lowest cost per ton and the least variable costs; their median costs were 18 percent lower than other contractors.
"The preferred supplier system is well established and works well," Greene said. "Over half the logging companies responding to the Southern survey and forty-eight percent of all study participants reported having a preferred supplier relationship with a mill." The study says lack of planning, cited third in the survey, accounts for at least some weather-related loss as well. Since planning is typically a shared responsibility, the research scientists say that communications among loggers, wood dealers, and mills could improve efficiency through shared decision making.

14

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

A research project by three major universities shows the Southern forest products industry loses millions of dollars annually due to
not operating timber harvesting systems at full capacity.

CONCLUSION The research suggests that relationships between loggers, dealers, and mills are complex and evolving. Because characteristics of these involved factions vary by location, researchers believe system improvements will have to be specific and local to be effective.
"Significant savings will result only from real system improvements," Greene said. "Simply lowering the rates paid to loggers, and expecting the market to adjust, is probably counterproductive. All parties in the wood supply system will have to work together to bring about real structural changes to see an increase in system efficiency.

Winter 2002

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

15

and minimizing negative repercussions. Many stream channels can be misleading due to the small volume (or absence) of water flowing through them at a given time. This deceptive appearance prompts installation of crossings that are unsuitable during high-water stages and flood conditions. At this initial stage of stream crossing evaluation, a little time and investigation can go a long way toward establishing a successful crossing.

Watershed size is the first phase of information

that must be determined. Topographic maps

can be used to locate where roads should cross

streams. Drain areas should also be identified

and types of groundcover can be evaluated

Bridges, the most expensive of stream crossing methods, generally cause the least disruption to stream flow. They are most often used over large

for calculating design discharge for the stream crossing.

crossings with extensive traffic.

Regional rainfall data is important in

(continued from pg. 7)

determining the amount of water flow a stream crossing should be designed to channel. Designers

Each type has definite benefits that can be best used use the term "return period" for storm event

in relation to watershed acreage and traffic.

calculations. For instance, if a pipe is sized for a

ten-year return period storm event, it will (based on

Culverts are the most common type of stream crossing statistics) overflow once every ten years or there is

and can be temporary or permanent. As watershed a ten percent chance it will overflow once during any

size increases, culverts can become economically given year.

limiting due to the expense of larger pipes required

for construction; the amount of material necessary to GFC BMPs

fill the road elevation also becomes a financial The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) publication

concern.

Georgia's Best Management Practices (BMPs) For

Fords of various types are usually more expensive than culverts, but can be economically used on larger watersheds if certain conditions exist. The ford crossing can be used for haul-roads only where the streambed is firm, banks are low and stable, and stream depth shallow.

Bridges are the most expensive type of stream crossing. However, whether temporary or permanent, bridges usually cause the least disruption to stream flow and have less influence on fisheries than other crossings. Bridges are generally used for large crossings over expansive watersheds, and in locations with extensive traffic.

CROSSING EXAMINATION Accurate evaluation of a stream crossing area is vital to success of crossing projects

Fords are typically more expensive than culverts, but can be economically used on larger watersheds under certain conditions.

16

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

GFC Deputy Director Bob Lazenby established this permanent ford with a Geoweb on his Jones County farm. During installation on the stream bottom, the Geoweb is filled with rocks to support vehicles.

Forestry details general and specific BMPs related to stream crossings. General BMPs on this topic include the recommendation that approaches to all permanent or temporary stream crossings should be made on "gentle grades of slope" (three percent or less wherever possible). Also, approaches should have control structures, such as "water turnouts" or "broad-based dips" on both sides of a crossing to prevent runoff from entering the stream.
For temporary access roads, temporary bridges or spans are preferable to culverts or fords. (Pole bridges can be used for crossings under certain conditions).
FORD BMPs Ford crossings should be used only for haul-roads (not skid trails). Installation of ford crossings should be located where stream banks are low and stream bottoms are relatively hard and level. When necessary, a low water crossing with a smooth, hard surface should be established.
For a permanent ford, rock-filled Geoweb or concrete pads should be used. Temporary fords need dragline mats or logs to protect the stream bottom. Material used in ford construction should not significantly impound stream flow, obstruct the passage of fish, or cause erosive currents.
If a temporary ford is used, the crossing should be removed from the channel when operations are completed.

CULVERT BMPs In locations where fords are not available or recommended, culverts are suitable for small stream crossings (300 acres or less watershed, depending on region). It is recommended that a qualified professional be consulted when crossing streams with a watershed exceeding 300 acres.
Culverts less than 15 inches in diameter are not recommended and multiple culverts should be spaced at a distance of at least one-half the culvert's diameter. Culvert bottoms should be placed at the same elevation as the stream bottom.
An important phase of culvert maintenance is to keep the culvert opening clear by periodic inspection and removal of all debris.
PLANNING IS THE ANSWER Stream crossing problems are obviously variable and can be expensive; the range of possible difficulties include environmental and economic considerations. However, with proper planning and execution of reliable stream crossing techniques, viable solutions are available that minimize long-term costs of stream crossings and maximize use as an environmentallyfriendly economic aid to forestry management.
Complete BMP guidelines on stream crossings can be obtained accessing the Georgia Forestry Commission website www.gfc.state.ga.us. The GFC publication Georgia's Best Management Practices For Forestry is available at GFC local offices.

Winter 2002

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

17

GFC Firefighter Remembered
Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) firefighter Bobby Gene Crowe was memorialized recently at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth along with 2 other firefighters. A Ranger 1 with the GFC Newton-Rockdale Unit, Crowe suffered a heart attack while responding to a wildfire in March of 1995, just three months shy of retiring with 34 years of service. Crowe's wife and daughters were present at the ceremony as his name was added to a wall honoring public service employees who have died serving the state.

Crowe's family shown from left: daughter, Susan Morgan; wife, Sylvia Crowe; daughter, Bettina Hersh; and granddaughter, Cynthia Morgan.
////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
Governor Thanks Firefighters
Fargo tree farmer Bill Oettmeier hosted a cookout honoring Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) firefighters to show his appreciation for their quick suppression of a wildfire that threatened his property in Charlton County. Georgia Governor Roy Barnes attended the casual affair and thanked the GFC for their year-round hard work, noting that the reason that Georgia doesn't experience more wildfires is because the Georgia Forestry Commission does an outstanding job managing and protecting the state's forests and wildland areas.

Governor Barnes congratulates firefighters.

Georgia Rainfall Creates Good Tree Planting Conditions

Increasing Georgia rains and a statewide forecast for more than average rainfall during the next six months creates good conditions for this year's tree planting season, according to the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC).

Order Your Seedlings NOW!
Order Georgia Forestry

Russ Pohl, GFC Chief of Reforestation, said the GFC is now accepting applications for pine and hardwood seedlings. "Based on current conditions and future forecasts for rain, we expect this to be a successful tree planting season," Pohl said. "Georgia's rainfall deficit during the past few years has affected rivers and water reserves, but successful tree planting depends on soil moisture in the treerooting zone."

Commission pine and hardwood seedlings now
for the 2002-2003 planting season.
To obtain the current planting year's price list or

for more information,

Pohl emphasized, that due to advanced research, GFC has some of the highest quality tree seedlings to be found anywhere in the world. "Even the most genetically improved species will not grow if seedling quality is low," he said. "GFC seedlings are genetically improved and high quality."

contact your local GFC county office, call 1-800-GA-TREES
(1-800-428-7337) or visit

Depending on soil moisture and availability of seedlings, planting season for slash and loblolly pine can begin as early as mid-November; hardwoods should be planted in January and February. Pohl said

the GFC website: www.gfc.state.ga.us.

current market conditions should not influence planting, since trees planted now will not be marketable for 10 to 20 years. "It's critical

to have adequate soil moisture before and after planting," Pohl said, "and this looks like it could possibly be one of the best seasons in years."

18

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

Rabun First in Nation to Receive Land Grant
R abun County became the first school system in the nation to receive a land transfer from the National Forest System through the newly proposed Education Land Grant Act.
The Education Land Grant Act was passed to help communities acquire National Forest land to construct new schools in areas of the country where most of the land was held by public agencies.
In a special ceremony in August, a deed of 45-acres of the Chattahoochee National Forest was transferred from the Under Secretary of Agriculture, Mark Rey, to Matt Arthur, Rabun County School Superintendent, and the Rabun County Board of Education. The tract is located south of Clayton, Georgia near Boggs Mountain Road, and will be used to build a new elementary school for Rabun County.
Special guests at the historic event included: Governor Roy Barnes; Congressmen Nathan Deal and Charlie Norwood; Bob Short, Special Assistant to Senator Miller; and Tammy Massengale, North Georgia Representative for Senator Cleland.
In his opening statement as Master of Ceremonies, U.S. Forest Service District Ranger Dave Jensen stated that while many issues tend to create conflict and divide communities, "...this land conveyance united the community."

The New School
A rapid growth of population in Rabun County (2% each year) has caused its elementary school to become overcrowded.
Built in 1954, the Clayton Elementary School site is located in a flood plain, and therefore, the building cannot be expanded.
The Education Land Grant Act has made it possible for the school to be reconstructed on land acquired from the National Forest System.
Without this grant, the school would have been faced with the task of finding affordable land in a market where only 27% is privately owned, and is very expensive (due to being surrounded by the beautiful Chattahoochee National Forest).

GFC Receives Reimbursement for Fighting Southeast Georgia Wildfire
Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) representative Bill Blackwell presented the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) with a reimbursement check in August for expenses associated with fighting a wildfire in McIntosh County (referred to as the Blount's Pasture fire) during May 2001.
GFC Director J. Frederick Allen
Acting on behalf of (shownleft)receivesreimbursement Governor Roy E. check from GEMA representative Barnes and GEMA Bill Blackwell at a recent GFC Director Gary W. Board of Commissioners meeting. McDonnell, Blackwell presented a $442,310.56 check to GFC Director J. Frederick Allen. According to McConnell, the state's request for federal fire suppression aid was approved when it was determined that the southeast Georgia wildfire threatened hundreds of homes and businesses in the area.

Master Wildlifer Program 2003
A Master Wildlifer short course will be broadcast live over satellite and delivered to downlink sites across the Southeast from Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina in seven 3-hour sessions airing 7:00pm-10:00pm EST. Landowners, farmers, hunters, extension agents, forest owners, and others interested in Southern wildlife biology and management are encouraged to participate.
February 4 - Introduction to Wildlife Management
February 11 - Biology & Management of Bobwhite Quail, Cottontail Rabbit & Mourning Dove
February 18 - Biology & Management of Eastern Wild Turkey
February 25 - Biology & Management of Whitetailed Deer
March 4 - Managing Waterfowl, Wetlands and Other Aquatic Resources
March 11 - Managing for Wildlife Diversity
March 18 - Developing Wildlife Recreational Opportunities on Your Property
For more info, visit: www.masterwildlifer.net or contact: Bill Hubbard @ (706) 542-7813, George Kessler @ (864) 656-4838, or Greg Yarrow @ (865) 656-7370.

Winter 2002

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

19

Introducing the New GFC Board Members.....

Johnnie B. Hall, who retired this year from the Department of Public Safety after 30 years service, is a 1965 graduate of Millville High School. He also served the Dublin Police Department for five years.

Hall was recently

elected to his fourth

Hall

term of service on Laurens County Farm

Service Agency

Board. He is currently a deacon on the financial board of

the Byrd Hill Baptist Church.

Oettmeier

William M. Oettmeier, Jr. is president and general manager of Superior Pine Products Company in Fargo. A native of Valdosta, Oettmeier is a 1960 graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in forestry. An SAF member since 1960, he also served as president of the Georgia Forestry Association from 1987-88.

Oettmeier received the Wise Owl Award in 2001 and was inducted into the Georgia Foresters Hall of Fame in 1992. In 1996, he received the University of Georgia Warnell School of Forestry Distinguished Alumni Award.

Georgia Forestry Commission Outstanding District and Units of 2002
GFC DISTRICT OF THE YEAR - A leader in the Urban and Community Forestry Program, Information and Education Program, and Forest Stewardship the Athens District also coordinates a number of highly active training programs. Skillful management of personnel and equipment at all levels have resulted in a well-rounded agenda that is active in all areas of forestry.

NORTHERN UNIT OF THE YEAR Always ready to volunteer for projects and assignments, the Jasper/Jones Unit is a state leader in providing prescribed burning assistance and in their pre-suppression firebreak program. Fighting more than 100 wildfires per year, the unit has excelled by keeping fire size less than the state average. This year, the unit provided tremendous assistance by plumbing tanks and engines for rural fire departments and building eight GFC type 6 engines.

SOUTHERN UNIT OF THE YEAR - Excelling in teamwork and quick to volunteer for out-of-county incident assignments, the Harris/Talbot/Muscogee Unit serviced landowners by providing over one thousand miles of presuppression firebreaks one of the highest averages in the state. Unit personnel have established an impressive Information and Education Program providing 145 programs to a wide variety of groups in their area.

20

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

Many animals live where the trees are tall. But they often find the best food in open spaces.
Help the deer find its way to the clearing.

Winter 2002

Courtesy of Weyerhaeuser Co. in cooperation with the Georgia Forestry Commission

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

21

In the winter, birds often need extra food for fuel and warmth. These easy bird feeders can help keep the birds healthy and happy. Decorate your trees with them, and have fun watching the birds eat! You will need: Pine Cone (a large one with scales that
are spread open) String (or yarn, or ribbon, or wire) Scissors Peanut Butter, 2 Tablespoons
(either smooth or chunky) Margarine, 2 Tablespoons Paper plate Bowl Bird Seed
Here's how to do it: 1. Cut a long length of string (about 3-4 feet) and tie it around the top of the pine cone
(about 3 sections down) for the hanger. 2. On a paper plate, mix 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with 2 tablespoons of margarine. 3. Spread this mixture into the crevices and all over the pine cone. 4. In a bowl, pour some bird seed and roll the pine cone around in it, coating the cone. 5. Place the seed-covered pine cones in the freezer for about an hour or until it is firm. 6. Hang it outside in a tree and enjoy watching the birds eat their treat!

22

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

Winter 2002

Excerpt from an article of the December 1952 issue of the Georgia Forestry Magazine

Winter 2002

Georgia Forestry/www.gfc.state.ga.us

23

2000 - Bruce Lyndon Cunningham Nacogdoches, TX - USA

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis L.)
J. Frederick Allen Director

DESCRIPTION: Leaves deciduous in autumn, 3 to 5 inches long and about as broad; heartshaped, with smooth margins; green and smooth above, smooth or slightly hairy below. Fruit a small pod 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches long, pink or rose color, maturing the latter part of May, but not falling until early winter. Bark red-brown, smooth. A tree 25 to 50 feet high with a trunk having a diameter of 6 to 12 inches terminating in a wide, flat head; often little more than a shrub.
KEY CHARACTERISTICS: Leaves heart-shaped; flowers bright purplish red, pea-shaped and appear before leaves; fruit a small reddish pod.
WOOD: Heavy, hard, not strong, close-grained, rich dark brown tinged with red.
USES: Wood of no commercial value. The tree is widely planted as an ornamental.
DISTRIBUTION: Found on fertile well drained soils on hillsides and in valleys throughout the state in the Piedmont, less so in the mountains and rare in the coastal plain.
An Equal Opportunity Employer and Service Provider

Periodical postage paid at Dry Branch, Georgia and additional mailing offices

Approximate cost of press time and paper only

COST: $

QTY: 13M