Upcoming Events for 2025

SGH Leadership Meeting: 1:00PM, Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce

Sat, Aug 30

Hemlock Treatment Project -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH will partner with volunteers from the Benton McKaye Trail Association to treat hemlocks along Three Forks. We are treating an area on either side of about 1.5 miles of the BMT.  It runs northbound from the Three Forks trailhead on USFS 53, up Long Creek and includes a short side trail to Long Creek Falls.  Contact Heidi for more information at heidi@savegeorgiashemlocks.org

Sat, Oct 4

Foxfire Festival:  Foxfire Festival will be held at the Rabun County Civic Center Pavilion from 10 AM – 4 PM.  We will be here sharing with home owners how they can care for their trees and teaching people how valuable hemlocks are to our forests. Contact Heidi for more information at heidi@savegeorgiashemlocks.org

Sat, Feb 22

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop: SGH is offering a class designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  The target audience is the northeastern GA counties, but anyone from anywhere was welcome to attend.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.   The class will be taught in person and include a demo and hands-on practice.
The location will be in Ellijay at the Gilmer County Library, 268 Calvin Jackson Dr. To register, please contact Holly Cochran at holly@savegeorgiashemlocks.org.

Sat, Mar 15

Hemlock Treatment Project -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH volunteers and Facilitators treated approximately 55 trees along Scataway Creek in Towns County just east of Hiawassee.

Wed, Apr 9

UNG Earth Day: Students at the University of North Georgia visited the SGH booth and learn about hemlocks from 11:00 AM - 2:00PM on the UNG Gainesville Campus, 3820 Mundy Mill Rd, Oakwood, GA 30566.

Mountain Ivy Garden Club Symposium: 8am - 5pm - SGH will had a booth to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings will be available for adoption.
Location: Rabun County Civic Center, 201 W. Savannah St, Clayton, GA.

Sat, Apr 19

Autry Mill Nature Preserve in Johns Creek Earth Day: The event raised awareness and advocated for protection of the environment. Visitors received SGH for hemlock education and participated in fun children's activities.
Location: Autrey Mill Nature Preserve, 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., John's Creek, GA 30022.

Sat, Apr 26

Trout & Outdoor Adventures:  SGH had a booth at this important festival in Blue Ridge to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings were available for adoption.

Sat, May 28

Hemlock Treatment Project: SGH volunteers and Facilitators are need to treat approximately 55 trees along Scataway Creek in Towns County just east of Hiawassee. We’ll be working in small groups led by an experienced Facilitator applying imidacloprid by soil injection. This will be an easy project to get us warmed up for the rest of the year.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED - contact Jim Wentworth at 706-897-0645 or wentwrth@windstream.net Please provide your phone number and email so you can receive a confirmation message.

Sat, June 28

Hemlock Treatment Project: SGH volunteers will partner with the U. S. Forest Service to treat hemlocks at Lovinggood HCA.  Contact Jim Wentworth at wentwrth@windstream.net for more information.

Completed Events in 2024

Sat., Jan. 6

Georgia Arborist Association Awards Banquet:  Each year, the GAA awards and thanks people who have given extra time and energy to help their organization and the professionals and communities they serve.  This year SGH was honored with the White Oak Award in recognition of our work to save the hemlocks.  The award is "for demonstrated leadership, commitment, innovation, impact and sustainability in tree work."  Donna Shearer accepted the award on behalf of SGH.  Holly Cochran and Buz Stone were also present to represent us.  See article and photo on Home page.

The event was held at Amicalola Lodge, 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd,, Dawsonville.

Sun., Jan. 7

Sat., Jan. 27

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH offered a class designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  The target audience was the northwestern GA counties, but anyone from anywhere was welcome to attend.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.   The class was taught in person and included a demo / and hands-on practice.

The location was the Gilmer County Library in Ellijay.  Eleven new Facilitators were trained.  WELCOME TO THE TEAM!

Wed., Jan. 10

Tue., Feb. 6

SGH Hemlock Lesson:  SGH presented our Hemlock Lesson to 120 students in six classes of Fannin Middle School students.  Focusing on the hemlock vs. woolly adelgid crisis, the presentation incorporated learning about biodiversity, ecosystem interdependencies, problems caused by invasive species, protecting the environment in general, and what young people can do to help save the hemlocks.

The school is located at 4560 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge.

Sat., Feb. 10

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH conducted a special training class for the owner/ manager of the North Georgia Native Plant Nursery.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.   The class was taught in person and included a demo / and hands-on practice.  We hope to return later in the spring to offer the class to more people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.

The North Georgia Native Plant Nursery is located at 1095 Epperson Rd., Canton.

Sat., Feb. 17

Planning Meeting with Lead Facilitators for SGH western counties.  Meeting location was in LaFayette.

 Sat., Feb 24
10:30 a.m.

Sapling Rescue Project in Fannin County -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:  SGH will dig 40+ smallsaplings from a property in Morganton.  The little trees will be potted, treated, and maintained in a SGH nursery until they're ready to be used for restoration on trout streams, planting of field insectaries, donation to schools and nonprofits, or offered for adoption. 

No experience is necessary.  We'll teach you everything you need to know.  Project Details will be provided when you sign u

Sat., Mar. 9
1 p.m.

Hemlock Treatment Project at Smithgall Woods SGH partnered with the Friends of Smithgall Woods to continue treating the hemlocks in the park.  Following a brief introduction and safety reminder, small teams including at least one experienced SGH Facilitator treated or retreated the trees by soil injection of Imidacloprid for another five years of protection. 

 Sat., Mar. 16
 12:30 -3:00 p. m.

Customized Training Workshop with Carolina Hemlocks:  This training prepared volunteers from this Clemson-based organization for treatment projects on the Chattooga River. The meeting was held atLong Creek Community Club, 12351 Long Creek Highway, Long Creek, SC.

March TBD

Hemlock Treatment Project in Fannin County
SGH supported the U. S. Forest Service to treat or retreat the hemlocks in the Jacks River Hemlock Conservation Area (part of the Cohutta Wilderness) on the Conasauga Ranger District. 

March TBD

Sapling Rescue Project in Fannin County -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:  SGH dug 100+ small saplings from a property in Blue Ridge.  The little trees were potted, treated, and will be maintained in a SGH nursery until they're ready to be used for restoration on trout streams, planting of field insectaries, donation to schools and nonprofits, or offered for adoption.  

Spring TBD
(2 dates)

Hemlock treatment projects in Rabun County: SGH supported the US Forest Service to treat or retreat the hemlocks in the Raven Rock and Beaver Skull Hemlock Conservation Areas on the Chattooga River Ranger District.  

Tue, Apr. 9
11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.

SGH Presentation for GAA:  SGH shared the hemlock message with the Georgia Arborist Association during a Lunch n' Learn style webinar.  It provided an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and information about the opportunities to learn more and do more. 

Sat., Apr. 13

Hemlock Treatment Project in Towns County: SGH supported the US Forest Service to treat or retreat the hemlocks in the Hog Creek/Fodder Creek Hemlock Conservation Area on the Blue Ridge Ranger District.  Following a brief introduction and safety reminder, we worked in small teams including at least one experienced SGH Facilitator to treat the trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection. 

Wed., Apr. 17

UNG Earth Day SGH had a booth at this local celebration in Gainesville to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings were available for adoption. 

Sat, Apr 20 &
 Sun, Apr 21

Bear-on-the-Square Festival:  SGH had a booth at this extra fun festival in Dahlonega to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings were available for adoption.

Sat., Apr. 27

Trout & Outdoor Adventures :  SGH had a booth at this important festival in Blue Ridge to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.   Healthy hemlock saplings were available for adoption.

April TBD

SGH Presentation for Cherry Log POA:  SGH shared information about the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, what SGH is doing to save them, and opportunities for others to learn more and do more.  It also highlighedt our partnership with community, the importance of saving the hemlocks for neighborhood beauty and property values, and the urgency to initiate joint projects to save their trees .  Click here for a description of the presentation. The location was the Cherry Log Mountain community center in Ellijay.

Sat., May 4
 time tba

SGH Presentation in Canton:  SGH shared information about the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, what SGH is doing to save them, and opportunities for others to learn more and do more.  It also highlighted our partnership with community, the importance of saving the hemlocks for neighborhood beauty and property values, and the urgency to initiate joint projects to save their trees .

Sun., May 26

Lake Rabun Association Memorial Day Meeting:  SGH had an education station at this event to continue raising awareness of the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings were available for adoption.

Sat., June 1
9 30 a.m.

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH offered an in-depth class designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.   The class was taught in person and includes a demo / and hands-on practice. The location was Yonah Preserve, 1054 Albert Reid Rd., Cleveland. 

June TBD

Hemlock Treatment Project:  SGH worked with the Friends of Yonah Preserve in White County to treat or retreat the hemlocks along the trails.  Following a brief introduction and safety reminder, we worked in small teams including at least one experienced SGH Facilitator to treat the trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection. The location was Yonah Preserve, 1054 Albert Reid Rd., Cleveland. 

Tue., June 11
time tba

SGH Presentation for Georgia Women Fly Fishers:  SGH will share the hemlock message with the Georgia Women fly Fishers during a Lunch n' Learn style webinar.  It will provide an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and information about the opportunities to learn more and do more.  Click here for an outline of the presentation.

The presentation will be given virtually.  Members wishing to participate should contact GWFF for sign-in and other details.

Sat, June 22

Hemlock Treatment Project in Union County -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:  SGH will support the U. S. Forest Service to treat or retreat the hemlocks in the Bowers Cove Hemlock Conservation Area on the Blue Ridge Ranger District.  Following a brief introduction and safety reminder, we'll work in small teams including at least one experienced SGH Facilitator to treat the trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection.  Project Details will be posted as soon as they're available.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.  To volunteer, please contact Jim Wentworth at 706-897-0645 or wentwrth@windstream.net.

Sat, June 29

Union County Farmers Market -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED:  SGH will have a booth at this fun event in Blairsville to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings will be available for adoption.

The location will be 290 Farmers Market Way,  just off Old Smokey Rd. in Blairsville.  To volunteer, please contact Holly Cochran at 706-455-6375 or holly@savegeorgiashemlocks.org.

June / July TBD

SGH Education Station at Etowah Meadery -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED:  SGH will have an education station at the Etowah Meadery in Dahlonega to raise awareness of the hemlock problem and share information about why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings will be available for adoption.

The Etowah Meadery is located at 3003 Morrison Moore Pkwy E, Dahlonega.  To volunteer, please contact Holly Cochran at 706-455-6375 or holly@savegeorgiashemlocks.org.

Sat, July 27
10 a.m.

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic:  SGH's Derrick Morris conducted an introductory class designed for people who want an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and information about the opportunities to learn more and do more. Click here for the Clinic description and outline.

Sat, Aug 10

Hemlock Treatment Project at Beaver Skull (Chattooga River) SGH volunteers completed this treatment project that involved approximately 2 miles of hiking.

Sat, Aug. 21
9:30 a.m.

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH offered an in-depth class designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.   The class was taught in person and included a demo / and hands-on practice.

The location was the Gilmer County Library, Ellijay.  REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. 

Tues, Aug. 27

SGH Presentation for TU:  SGH will share the hemlock message with the Cohutta Chapter of Trout Unlimited.  The presentation will provide an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and information about the opportunities to learn more and do more.  Click here for an outline of the presentation.

The location will be Hudson Grille, 2500 Cobb Place Lane, Kennesaw.

Sat, Aug. 31

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH offered a class designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  The target audience was the northwestern GA counties, but anyone from anywhere was welcome to attend.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.   The class will be taught in person and include a demo and hands-on practice.
The location will be in Canton. To register, please contact Holly Cochran at 706-455-6375 or holly@savegeorgiashemlocks.org.

Sun, Sep. 1

Lake Rabun Association Labor Day Meeting:  SGH will have an education station at this event to continue raising awareness of the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings will be available for adoption.

Tue, Sept 10

SGH Online Presentation for Georgia Women Fly Fishers  SGH's Holly Cochran will give a presentation to members of the Georgia Women Fly Fishers highlighting SGH activities to save the hemlocks, especially those along trout streams.

Sat, Sep. 14

Elachee Wildlife Festival -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED:   SGH had a booth at this very interesting festival to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.   The event features family-friendly fun, including live animal encounters, tree climbing, food trucks and much more!  Healthy hemlock saplings will be available for adoption.

The location will be the Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville.  To volunteer, please contact Holly Cochran at 706-455-6375 or holly@savegeorgiashemlocks.org.

Sat, Sep. 21

Hemlock Treatment Project in Gilmer County -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:  SGH will partner with the property owners in the Laurel Ridge neighborhood of Ellijay to treat or retreat the hemlocks in their community.  Following a brief introduction and safety reminder, we'll work in small teams including at least one experienced SGH Facilitator to treat the trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection.  Project Details will be posted as soon as they're available.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.  To volunteer, please contact Derrick Morris at 404-593-3173 or derrick1p1@gmail.com.

Sun. Oct. 5

Hemlock Treatment Project in Union County -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:  SGH will support the US Forest Service to treat or retreat the hemlocks in the Lower Canada Creek Hemlock Conservation Area on the Blue Ridge Ranger District.  Following a brief introduction and safety reminder, we'll work in small teams including at least one experienced SGH Facilitator to treat the trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection.  Project Details will be posted as soon as they're available.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.  To volunteer, please contact Jim Wentworth at 706-897-0645 or wentwrth@windstream.net.  

Sat., Oct. 5

Foxfire Mountaineer Festival -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED:  SGH will have a booth at this very interesting event in Clayton to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings will be available for adoption.

The location will be the Rabun County Civic Center, 201 West Savannah Street, Clayton.   To volunteer, please contact Buz Stone at 404-626-1746 or buzstone@gmail.com.

Sat, Oct. 5 &
Sun, Oct. 6

Georgia Marble Festival -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED:  SGH will have a booth at this wonderful, well attended festival in Jasper to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings will be available for adoption. 

The location will be Lee Newton Park, 500 Stegall Drive, Jasper.  To volunteer, please contact Jim Heilman at 404-405-7553  or jim.heilman@hotmail.com.

Sat, Oct. 12 &
Sun, Oct. 13

Fall Arts in the Park -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH will have a booth at this wonderful, well attended festival in Blue Ridge to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Healthy hemlock saplings will be available for adoption. 

The location will be the park in downtown Blue Ridge.   To volunteer, please contact Betty Larsen at 706-633-0358 or bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com.

Sun, Nov. 9

Boy Scout Conservation Awards Weekend:  This annual event sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America is dedicated to Scouts' conservation and learning.  The 2023 Conservation Weekend will be held from Nov. 7 - 9 at Camp Woodruff.  Eighteen Merit Badges will be offered, and Scouts will have the opportunity to enroll in up to three merit badges. The event includes a conservation-themed workshop with games and information on how to create, execute and document a conservation project.

SGH Education Station -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED:  SGH will have an education station on Saturday to provide information to Scouts and Leaders about opportunities for hemlock-related education and service in support of Merit Badges and Eagle Scout rank.   

The location will be Camp Woodruff, 31 Woodruff Dr., Blairsville.  To volunteer, please contact Holly Cochran at 706-455-6375 or holly@savegeorgiashemlocks.org.

Fall TBD

 Sapling Rescue Project in Rabun County -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:  SGH will dig 50+ small saplings from a property in Lakemont.  The little trees will be potted, treated, and maintained in a SGH nursery until they're ready to be used for restoration on trout streams, planting of field insectaries, donation to schools and nonprofits, or offered for adoption.  Project Details will be posted as soon as they're available.

No experience is necessary.  We'll teach you everything you need to know.  Project Details will be provided when you sign up.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.  To volunteer, please contact Buz Stone at 404-626-1746 or buzstone@gmail.com.

Fall TBD

Hemlock Treatment Project on the Chattooga River:  SGH will partner with the U. S. Forest Service and volunteers from several paddling and hiking groups to continue treating the hemlocks on the Georgia and South Carolina sides of the Chattooga River corridor.  Small teams including at least one experienced Facilitator will approach the project from the land where there were trails and from rafts and kayaks where land access is not possible.  We'll be applying Imidacloprid by dry tablet insertion.  This method was chosen to protect the waterway from any potential spills of liquid treatment material.  Project Details will be posted as soon as they're available.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.  To volunteer, please contact Jonathan Micancin at 919-672-5736 or micancin@gmail.com.

Fall TBD

Customized Hemlock Training:  SGH will conduct a special Facilitator Training Workshop for the staff of Lula Lake Land Trust and other interested volunteers to support their efforts to maintain the health of the hemlock trees on that property.

Hemlock Treatment Project:  Immediately after the training session, the staff of Lula Lake Lake Trust and SGH volunteers from northwest Georgia will conduct a project under the leadership of Jimmy Stewart and Holly Cochran to treat a large number of hemlocks in that area. 

All activities are planned to take place in the general vicinity of Lookout Mountain, GA.  Project Details will be posted as soon as they're available.

Fall TBD

SGH Presentation at Amicalola Falls: 

The location will be the Amicalola Falls Visitors Center.

Completed Events in 2023

Sat., Jan. 1 - Mon., Jan. 9

Hemlock Treatment Project:  A group of energetic volunteers under the leadership of Ally Bartholomew treated 1,387 trees over a 9-day period in the Grandview area of Signal Mountain, TN.  This group is an affiliate of SGH and receives training and support from key SGH Facilitator Jimmy Stewart.

GREAT JOB, EVERYONE!

Sun., Jan. 8

SGH Leadership Team winter meeting:  This meeting served as the kick-off for what we expect will be a very busy and productive year in 2023.   Already this month we are grateful to have gained two new Lead Facilitators, Fran Meehan for White and Habersham Counties and Jonathan Micancin for Towns and Union Counties.  We are also thrilled to welcome Kat Carey of Lake Winfield Scott to our Board of Directors.  Stay tuned for more information about these wonderful individuals.  Click here for the meeting agenda and meeting notes.

The location was the Dahlonega Chamber of Commerce, 243 Hill Street, Dahlonega, and it was great to be able to meet in person again!

Tue., Feb. 7

SGH Presentation to Redbud Project:  SGH gave a 1-hour presentation entitled "Hemlock, Keystone of the Forest & Prize of the City" to the Redbud Project to raise awareness of the hemlocks and their importance, especially to air quality, the impact of the hemlock woolly adelgid, what organizations and individuals can do to save these valuable trees, and how they can be used to improve our community's quality of life.  Twenty-four people attended in person and via ZOOM.

The location was Linwood Ecology Center, 118 Springview Dr., Gainesville. 

Sat., Feb. 18

Hemlock Treatment Project:   Ten SGH and Boy Scout volunteers supported the U. S. Forest Service to treat 154 hemlocks at Lake Rabun Beach.  The boys worked really hard, and we greatly appreciate their civic spirit!  And thanks to Jim Wentworth for his leadership!

Sat., Feb 25

To be rescheduled

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic:  SGH offered an introductory class designed for people who want an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and information about the opportunities to learn more and do more. The target counties for this class were Fannin, Gilmer, and Union, but anyone from anywhere was welcome to sign up.  Click here for the Clinic description and outline.

Sat., Mar. 4
 

Sapling Rescue Project in Dawson County:   SGH was invited by a generous property owner to dig hemlock saplings prior to a construction project.  Three SGH volunteers and some helpers from the Georgia Native Plant Society dug 60 good fluffy saplings from the site.  The saplings were then  potted and will be offered for adoption at upcoming festivals, used for hemlock restoration on trout streams, or donated to schools and other nonprofits. 

The location was near Burt's Pumpkin Farm along Hwy 52 in Dawson County.      

Sun., Mar. 5
 

Hemlock Treatment Project:   Eight volunteers under the leadership of Jimmy Stewart treated 170 trees in the Rock Creek area of Walker County.  Working in small teams, they applied Imidacloprid by soil injection along some beautiful hiking trails.

Thu., Mar. 9

SGH Presentation to UNG PEAKS Program:  SGH presented a program entitled "The Plight of the Hemlocks" to participants in the PEAKS Program, which stands for Personal Enrichment, Action, and Knowledge Series, a University - community collaboration.  Approximately 30 people attended the presentation which focused on the invasive insect that's killing our hemlocks by the millions, what can be done to save them, and why it matters.  Click here for information about this and other presentations and registration details.  

The location was the UNG Blue Ridge Campus, 56 Nighthawk Drive, Blue Ridge.

Sat., Mar. 11

Hemlock Treatment Project:  A group of volunteers under the leadership of Dan Reynolds and Ally Bartholomew treated 612 trees in the Green Gorge area of Signal Mountain, TN.  This group is an affiliate of SGH and receives training and support from key SGH Facilitator Jimmy Stewart.

GREAT JOB, EVERYONE!

Wed., Mar. 15

SGH Hemlock Lesson:  SGH presented our Hemlock Lesson to 222 6th grade Exploratory Science students and 2 teachers at Fannin Middle School.  Focusing on the hemlock vs. woolly adelgid crisis, the presentation incorporated learning about biodiversity, ecosystem interdependencies, problems caused by invasive species, protecting the environment in general, and what young people can do to help save the hemlocks.

The location was 4560 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge.

Thu., Mar. 16

Hemlock Treatment Project:  SGH and TerraMedics conducted a special demonstration of the hemlock treatment process with 2 classes of 6th grade Exploratory Science students (about 60 kids and teachers) at Fannin Middle School.  Then the students participated in actually treating 25 hemlocks on their campus.  We hope to schedule another treatment project there to protect the rest of the hemlocks that didn't receive treatment today.   

The location was 4560 Old Highway 76, Blue Ridge.  Special thanks to J. T. Kieffer of TerraMedics and to SGH's Jim Wentworth, Buz Stone, and Holly Cochran!

Spring 2023

Hemlock Treatment Project:  During this 3-month period, a super dedicated group of volunteers under the leadership of SGH Facilitator Dan Reynolds treated 4,653 trees in the area of Signal Mountain, TN.  This group is an affiliate of SGH and receives training and support from key SGH Facilitator Jimmy Stewart.

GREAT JOB, EVERYONE!

Fri., Mar. 24

Meeting & Customized Training for Georgia-Alabama Land Trust:  SGH gave a presentation to the Georgia-Alabama Land Trust's staff retreat to share information about our efforts to save the hemlocks in Georgia and explore ideas for saving the trees in northern Alabama.  Eleven attendees were present for this meeting held at a member's home in Dahlonega. 

Fri., Mar. 24 &
 Fri., Mar. 31

SGH Hemlock Lesson:  On March 24th SGH gave a presentation to a dozen 4th level Ecology students at Young Harris College.  It covered  the threat of the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid to our hemlock trees, why it matters, what can be done to save the trees, and how young adults can get involved in the effort.

The lesson also included instruction for how to apply dry CoreTect tablets, and then the students headed out to do a treatment project.  On March 24 and 31, they treated 65 trees on their campus under the leadership of Jonathan Micancin and Holly Cochran.

The location was Young Harris College in Young Harris, GA.

Sat., Mar. 25

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH offered a class designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  The target counties for this class were Fannin, Gilmer, and Union, but anyone who has completed our Hemlock Help Clinic was welcome to sign up.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.   The class includes a demo / and hands-on practice.

Sun., Mar. 26

Hemlock Treatment Project:  Fourteen SGH volunteers partnered with the U. S. Forest Service to treat or retreat 308 hemlocks at the Tate Branch Campground and Sandy Bottom hemlock conservation areas in Towns County.  Click here for Project Details. 

Thanks to Jon Jones for his leadership and to all the volunteers for their good work!

Thu., Mar. 30

UNG Volunteer Fair:  SGH had an information table at this campus event to showcase the activities of SGH and the service opportunities available to students.  Two SGH volunteers welcomed 40 visitors to our table and had some very promising discussions with interested students.

The University of North Georgia is located at 82 College Cir., Dahlonega.

Sat., Apr. 15

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic:  SGH conducted an introductory class designed for people who want an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and information about the opportunities to learn more and do more. The target counties for this class were Towns, Rabun, and Habersham, but anyone from anywhere was welcome to sign up.  There was one attendee.  Click here for the Clinic description and outline.

The class was taught via ZOOM as a prerequisite for the Facilitator Training Workshop.  

Sat., Apr. 15 &
Sun., Apr. 16

Bear on the Square Festival:  SGH had a booth at this extra fun festival in Dahlonega to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.   Twelve SGH volunteers welcomed an estimated 480 visitors to our booth, and 25 hemlock saplings were adopted. 

The location was Hancock Park in downtown Dahlonega. 

Wed., Apr. 19

UNG Earth Day Celebration:    SGH had a booth at this local celebration in Gainesville to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Two volunteers welcomed 89 visitors to our booth. 

The location was  the UNG Gainesville Campus.  Click here for map of event site. 

Fri., Apr. 21

Sapling Rescue Project in Lumpkin County:  Two volunteers did a sapling rescue project to dig 65 hemlock saplings and seedling from the woods and along a roadside on a property in Dahlonega.

The little trees have been potted and will be used for reforestation on trout streams, planting of field insectaries, donation to schools and nonprofits, or offered for adoption.

Sat., Apr. 22

Hemlock Treatment Project at Camp Woodruff:  SGH partnered with the Boy Scouts to treat a grove of hemlocks on their campus.  This was our second treatment project there.  Under the leadership of SGH's Holly Cochran and Jim Wentworth, 7 scouts and scouting adults treated 120 trees.

The location was 31 Woodruff Dr., Blairsville

Sun., Apr. 23

Sat., Apr. 29

Blue Ridge Trout & Outdoor Adventures Festival:  SGH had a booth at this important festival in Blue Ridge to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.   Ten SGH volunteers welcomed 370 visitors to our booth, and 12 hemlock saplings were adopted.

The location was the park in downtown Blue Ridge.  

Sat., Apr. 29

Hemlock Sapling Planting:  SGH received permission from Georgia Power to plant hemlock saplings on Billy Goat Island on Lake Burton.  On this beautiful day, thirteen volunteers planted 48 hemlock saplings along the shoreline of 3 coves on the island where they'll be visible from the lake and accessible for care and maintenance. 

Huge thanks to BUZ STONE for his excellent planning, coordination, and implementation of this project and to all the volunteers for their good work!   Also a special thanks to Brett Sharp and Nolan Leake for the use of their pontoon boats and to Andrew Hunt for the use of his barge and help from his three workers to ferry the trees, planting materials, and volunteers to the island.

Sat., May 27

Sapling Planting Project:  SGH partnered with the Boy Scout Camp Woodruff staff to plant 5 large hemlock saplings along a native plant nature path. The trees are located in a site where they'll be visible and accessible for care and maintenance and will have educational signage placed nearby to raise the scouts awareness of the hemlock problem.   Thanks to Kent Watkins for his help in planning and carrying out this project!

The location was Camp Woodruff, 31 Woodruff Dr., Blairsville, GA  30512. 

Sun., May 28

Lake Rabun Association Memorial Day Meeting:   SGH had an education station at this event to continue raising awareness of the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  One SGH volunteer welcomed an estimated 100 visitors to our booth, and six hemlock saplings were adopted. 

Sat., June 3 &
Sat., July 1

Union County Farmers Market:  Four SGH volunteers shared a booth with the Native Plant Society at this event in Blairsville to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Four SGh volunteers welcomed 200 visitors to our booth over the two days and got 13 hemlock saplings adopted.    

The location was 290 Farmers Market Way,  just off Old Smokey Rd. in Blairsville. 

Sat., June 17

SGH Education Station at Etowah Meadery:  Two SGH volunteers staffed an education station at the Etowah Meadery in Dahlonega to raise awareness of the hemlock problem and share information about why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  We had an estimated 40 visitors and got 6 hemlock saplings adopted.

The Etowah Meadery is located at 3003 Morrison Moore Pkwy E, Dahlonega.

Sat., June 17

Hemlock Treatment Project:  SGH partnered with the U. S. Forest Service to treat or retreat the hemlocks on the Clements Branch Hemlock Conservation Area of the Blue Ridge Ranger District in Union County.  Twenty volunteers worked in small teams including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat 144 trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection.  Click here for the Project Details.

The project was led by Jim Wentworth -- THANKS, JIM W and all your volunteers!!!

Sat., June 17

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic:  SGH conducted an introductory class designed for people who want an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and information about the opportunities to learn more and do more. The target counties for this class were Pickens, Cherokee, and Dawson, but it was open to all.  There were four attendees. Click here for the Clinic description and outline.

The class was taught via ZOOM as a prerequisite for the Facilitator Training Workshop. 

Sat., June 24

Hemlock Treatment Project:  Nine SGH volunteers and U. S. Forest Service staff treated or retreated 311 hemlocks on moderate terrain at Bear Creek Campground, a Hemlock Conservation Area of the Conasauga Ranger District in Gilmer County.  Our volunteers worked in small teams including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat approximately 300 trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection on moderate terrain.  Under the leadership of Holly Cochran, they treated 311 trees on some challenging terrain.

THANKS EVERYONE FOR A JOB WELL DONE!

July 2023

SGH Presentation:  SGH's Dave Teffeteller gave a presentation to members of the Trout Unlimited - Gold Rush Chapter  highlighting our activities to save the hemlocks, especially those along trout streams, and our longstanding partnership with TU.  THANKS, DAVE.
The meeting was held in Ellijay.

Sat., July 15

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH conducted a class designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  The target counties for this class are Pickens, Cherokee, and Dawson, but anyone who has completed our Hemlock Help Clinic was welcome to sign up.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.   Three new Facilitators were trained.  WELCOME TO THE TEAM!

The class was taught in person, and included a demo / and hands-on practice. 

Sun., July 16

Tue., Aug. 15

SGH Presentation:  SGH's Buz Stone gave a presentation to members of the Mountain Ivy Garden Club  to share the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, what SGH is doing to save them, and opportunities for others to learn more and do more.  THANKS, BUZ!

The meeting was held in Tiger.

Sat., Aug. 19

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic:  SGH conducted an introductory class designed for people who want an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and information about the opportunities to learn more and do more.  The target counties for this class were Lumpkin, White, and Hall, but anyone from anywhere was welcome to sign up.  There were seven attendees.  Click here for the Clinic description and outline.

The class was taught via ZOOM as a prerequisite for the Facilitator Training Workshop. 

Tue., Aug. 29

Elachee Science Night:  SGH gave a presentation during this event at the Tap It Brewery in downtown Gainesville to raise awareness of the hemlock problem and share information about why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  The event was open to the public, and twelve people attended. 

The location was the Tap It Gainesville Pints & Growlers, 110 Maple St., Gainesville.

Sun., Sep. 3

Lake Rabun Association Labor Day Meeting:   SGH had an education station at this event to continue raising awareness of the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  One SGH volunteer welcomed 100 visitors to our booth and got three healthy hemlock saplings adopted. 

Tue., Sep. 5

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH conducted a class customized for Young Harris faculty and students who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  Thirteen new Facilitators were trained.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.

The class was taught in person at Young Harris College included a demo / and hands-on practice.

Sat., Sep. 9

Elachee Wildlife Festival:   SGH had a booth at this very interesting festival to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.   The event featured family-friendly fun, including live animal encounters, tree climbing, food trucks and much more!  One SGH volunteer welcomed an estimated 200 visitors to our booth.

The location was the Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville.

Tue., Sep. 12 &
Sun., Sep. 17

Hemlock treatment project:  On these two days a dozen student volunteers , under the leadership of Jonathan Micancin, treated 37 hemlocks on their campus.   Great job, everyone!

Young Harris College is located in Young Harris, GA. 

Sat., Sep. 16

Trail Fest:   SGH had a booth at this extra fun festival in Dahlonega to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Six SGH volunteers welcomed 150 visitors to our booth, and six hemlock saplings were adopted. 

The location was Hancock Park in downtown Dahlonega.  To volunteer, please contact Betty Larsen at 706-633-0358 or bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com.

Fri., Sep. 22

Hemlock treatment project:  SGH partnered with the U. S. Forest Service to treat or retreat the hemlocks at the Ivy Log Gap, a Hemlock Conservation Area of the Blue Ridge Ranger District in Towns County.  Under the leadership of Jim Wentworth and Jonathan Micancin, ten volunteers worked in small teams including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat 54 trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection. 

Sat., Sep. 23

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH conducted a class designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  The target counties for this class were Lumpkin, White, and Hall, but anyone who has completed our Hemlock Help Clinic was welcome to sign up.  One new Facilitator was trained.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.  

The class was taught in person, and included a demo / and hands-on practice.  WELCOME TO THE TEAM!

Sat., Sep. 30

Hemlock treatment project:  SGH partnered with the U. S. Forest Service to treat or retreat the hemlocks at the Dockery Lake Recreation Area, a Hemlock Conservation Area of the Blue Ridge Ranger District in Lumpkin County between Dahlonega and Suches.  Under the leadership of Jim Wentworth, 17 volunteers worked in small teams including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat or retreat 165 trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection.  Click here for the Project Details.

Sat., Oct. 7

Foxfire Mountaineer Festival:   SGH had a booth at this very interesting event in Clayton to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Four SGH volunteers welcomed 150 visitors to our booth and got several hemlock saplings adopted.

The location was the Rabun County Civic Center, 201 West Savannah Street, Clayton.  

Sat., Oct. 7 &
Sun., Oct. 8

Georgia Marble Festival:   SGH had a booth at this wonderful, well attended festival in Jasper to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Ten SGH volunteers welcomed an estimated 400 visitors to our booth over the two-day period, and 18 hemlock saplings were adopted. 

The location was Lee Newton Park, 500 Stegall Drive, Jasper. 

Sun., Oct. 8

To be rescheduled Hemlock treatment project:  SGH will partner with the U. S. Forest Service to treat or retreat the hemlocks on a designated Hemlock Conservation Area of the Chattooga River Ranger District.  We will work in small teams including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat approximately 150 trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection.  Project Details will be posted when available.

The location is near Warwoman in Rabun County.

Sat., Oct. 14 &
Sun., Oct 15

Blue Ridge Arts in the Park:   SGH had a booth at this wonderful, well attended festival in Blue Ridge to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, what property owners can do to save their own trees, and how volunteers can help save trees on our public lands.  Twelve SGH volunteers welcomed 250 visitors to our booth over the two-day period, and 16 hemlock saplings were adopted. 

The location was the park in downtown Blue Ridge. 

Sat., Oct. 21

To be rescheduled SGH Hemlock Help Clinic:  SGH offered an introductory class designed for people who want an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and information about the opportunities to learn more and do more.  The target counties for this class were Dade, Walker, Murray, and Whitfield, but anyone from anywhere was welcome to sign up.  Click here for the Clinic description and outline.

Sat., Oct. 21

Hemlock Treatment Project:  SGH partnered with the U. S. Forest Service and volunteers from several paddling groups to treat the hemlocks on the Georgia and South Carolina sides of the Chattooga River corridor.  Small teams including at least one experienced Facilitator approached the project from the land where there were trails and from rafts and kayaks on the whitewater river where land access was not possible.  In all, sixteen hardy volunteers worked a very long day in challenging conditions and treated 175 trees by applying Imidacloprid by dry tablet insertion.  This method was chosen to protect the waterway from any potential spills of liquid treatment material.

The gathering point for this project was the GA / SC Woodall Shoals.

Sun., Oct. 29

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic:  SGH conducted an introductory class designed for UGA Impact, a student service group.  The presentation provided an understanding of the hemlock problem, an overview of how to save the trees, one easy method for treating the trees, and opportunities for young people to learn more and do more.  There were 12 attendees.  Click here for the Clinic description and outline.

The class was taught in person at a member's home in Dahlonega.  The event included a hike to identify hemlocks, and the students treated 5 trees during the practice / demo segment of the class.

Sun., Nov. 5

Wed., Nov. 7

Sapling Planting Project:  SGH and local volunteers in Gilmer county planted 3 large hemlocks in memory of our dear friend Paul Berrey, who passed away in April 2023.  He was a dedicated member of SGH and helped on many treatment, sapling rescue, and planting projects for almost thirteen years!

This event took place on the Whitepath Golf Course in Ellijay.  Paul's daughter Michelle suggested that it be at one of his favorite (or least favorite!) holes.  As it turns out, the first hole, his least favorite, was chosen.

Sat., Nov. 11

To be rescheduled

SGH Facilitator Training Workshop:  SGH offered a class designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks.  The target counties for this class were Dade, Walker, and Whitfield, but anyone who has completed our Hemlock Help Clinic was welcome to sign up.  Click here for the Facilitator Training description and outline.  

The class is taught in person and includes a demo / and hands-on practice.

Sat., Nov. 11

Boy Scout Conservation Awards Weekend:  This annual event sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America is dedicated to Scouts' conservation and learning.  The 2023 Conservation Weekend was held from Nov. 10-12 at Camp Woodruff.  Eighteen Merit Badges were offered, and Scouts had the opportunity to enroll in up to three merit badges. The event included a conservation-themed workshop with games and information on how to create, execute and document a conservation project.

SGH Education Station:  SGH had an education station on Saturday to provide information to Scouts and Leaders about opportunities for hemlock-related education and service in support of Merit Badges and Eagle Scout rank.   Two volunteers welcomed 250 visitors to our booth.  Thanks to Elliott Segall for his leadership. 

Hemlock planting project:  SGH partnered with the Boy Scouts and Leaders to plant 5 large hemlocks along the Scout Camp Trail.  Thanks to project leaders Jim Wentworth and Holly Cochran and all the volunteers for their good work. 

The location was Camp Woodruff, 31 Woodruff Dr., Blairsville. 

Sat., Dec. 9

Hemlock Treatment Project:  SGH partnered with the Boy Scouts to treat or retreat approximately 82 hemlocks at Camp Creek, a Hemlock Conservation Area on the Chattooga River District.  We worked in small teams including at least one experienced SGH Facilitator to apply Imidacloprid by soil injection on moderate terrain.  Despite the rain which grew increasingly heavy as the day went on, the boys persisted and got the job finished.  WELL DONE, GUYS!!!

Camp Creek is a tributary of the Chattooga River in Rabun County.

Dec. 2023

To be rescheduled

Customized Hemlock Training:  SGH will conduct a special Facilitator Training Workshop for the staff of Lula Lake Land Trust and other interested volunteers to support their efforts to maintain the health of the hemlock trees on that property.

Hemlock Treatment Project:  Immediately after the training session, the staff of Lula Lake Lake Trust and SGH volunteers from northwest Georgia will conduct a project under the leadership of Jimmy Stewart and Holly Cochran to treat a large number of hemlocks in that area. 

All activities are planned to take place in the general vicinity of Lookout Mountain, GA.  Project Details will be posted as soon as they're available.