GFC Report on Forest Damage

The Georgia Forestry Commission has issued a report about forest damage resulting from Hurricane Idalia’s August trek through southeast Georgia. An estimated total of just over 11,000 acres of timber was damaged, valued at $9.3 million. Idalia’s winds ranged from 20-70 mph, with up to eight inches of rain. Most of the damage is located around the Valdosta area. Landowners impacted by the storm can reach out to their local GFC forester for assistance in evaluating timber damage on their property. The Farm Service Agency (FSA) has the Emergency Forest Restoration cost-share program that can assist with forest debris removal, site preparation, and planting costs. See the full Idalia Timber Damage Assessment here. 

 

Additionaly, the annual summer burn ban in 54 Georgia counties, mostly in the northern part of the state, has been lifted. Landowners there can again burn hand-piled vegetative debris outdoors without a permit, but must follow specific safety guidelines. There also may be local city or county ordinances which must be followed. Separate notification procedures are required of practitioners conducting prescribed and agricultural/land clearing burns. All the details can be found here.