Georgia Forestry Commission Reminders

Southern pine beetles (SPB) can be one of the most destructive forest pests in the Southeast, capable of destroying tens of thousands of acres of trees in a single swarm. Annually, the Georgia Forestry Commission participates in a prediction survey that indicates how SPB will behave in the coming year. Using traps baited with special lures and data from the previous year, GFC foresters determine the likelihood of outbreaks by county, throughout the state. In 2022, the average number of beetles per trap, per day, was 15.2. That number is considered “low,” overall. Carroll County has the highest probability for SPB, followed by Oglethorpe and Oconee. The remaining counties and the full report can be found here. SPB infestations occur most often in stands that are over-stocked, over-mature, or stressed. To reduce the likelihood of outbreaks, landowners are advised to utilize management practices including thinning, prescribed burning and invasive species control.

 

More Georgia counties have signed on to the state’s Timber Harvest Notification system. Since last month, 10 counties have joined, bringing the total to 62 counties in which timber harvesters and counties are processing notifications through the simple, time-saving tool. Per Georgia law, counties requiring THNs have until July 1, 2023, to begin using the website. To enroll, go to https://gatrees.org/forest-management-conservation/timber-harvest-notifications/, and for assistance, email timberharvest@gfc.state.ga.us.