GFC eUpdate [Apr. 12, 2017]

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GFC eUpdate

Contents
Forest Management Acorns
Forest Protection Updates
Forest Utilization Updates
Reforestation Matters
Upcoming Events
Invasive Species and the Urban Forest 05/12/17 Valdosta, GA
Arborist Certification Review Course 05/16 - 05/17/17
Richmond Hill, GA
Natural Resources Conservation Workshop
06/11 - 06/15/17 Tifton, GA
GA Teacher Conservation
Workshop 06/19 - 06/23/17
Georgia Arbor Day 02/17/17
Billy Lancaster Forestry Youth Camp
07/09 - 07/13/17 Covington, GA
GFA Annual Conference 07/21 - 07/23/17 Jekyll Island, GA


Forest Management Acorns
Specially trained GFC arborists who are members of the Urban Forest Strike Team UFST) visited Albany, Ga. in March to assess thousands of trees damaged or destroyed in recent storms. At the city's request, team members canvassed affected neighborhoods and parks, many with historic significance, and evaluated tree health in regards to potential hazards. The USFT provided recommendations about pruning or removal of trees, with a primary focus on risk reduction and conservation of Albany's remaining iconic tree canopy. A videographer captured the team's work, along with interviews with civic leaders and citizens. One video will be used by the US Forest Service to document services of Urban Forest Strike Teams. A second video will be used by the Georgia Urban Forest Council to support its ReLeaf program, which will help fund new tree plantings in Albany and other storm-damaged communities in south Georgia.
Forest Protection Updates
Georgia saw a 38% increase in the number of wildfires in March. A higher than 40% increase in total acres burned was also recorded, compared to the five year average for March. Weather forecasts for April and May show higher than normal temperatures and reduced rainfall, which are ingredients for increased wildfire activity and severity. GFC encourages everyone to pay close attention to local weather conditions and to exercise caution when doing any type of open burning, including campfires and cookouts. Burn permits are required for hand piled natural vegetation and can be easily obtained online at GaTrees.org, or by calling 1-877-OK-2-BURN. The GFC makes decisions daily on whether burn permits can be issued, based on current and predicted weather forecasts. We understand the importance and benefits of prescribed burning and appreciate your patience and understanding when burning is prohibited.
Forest Markets and Utilization
A delegation of forestry stakeholders has returned from the second annual international Mass Timber Conference in Portland, Oregon. The group attended to gain more knowledge about the potential of mass timber marketing, including Cross Laminated Timber. Proponents of this emerging industry believe mass timber can create new demand for forest products that will help landowners keep their forests in forests. Georgia attendees included representatives from GFC Marketing & Utilization, GFA, USFS, UGA, Georgia Tech, The Conservation Fund, American Institute of Architects, Interfor and the Hines Group. Next-step actions are being documented and the group will share their insights with legislators, building code authorities, media and the general public.

Reforestation Matters
Another lifting, packing and shipping season has come and gone at the GFC Flint River Nursery! We thank our loyal customers for making it a success and we're looking forward to the next round of seedling sales, which will begin on June first. While prices have not been set for the 2017-2018 planting season, we do anticipate having the same popular varieties of both pine and hardwood seedlings available. If you're an established customer, we appreciate your loyalty. If you haven't tried us yet, please do! Check out the Reforestation page at GaTrees.org.
Copyright 2005 Georgia Forestry Commission, all rights reserved 1- 800- GA- TREES
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