










Next Leadership
Team Meeting
Sun., Nov. 5
starting at 1 p.m.
| |
Schedule of Events
Throughout the year we
participate in a variety of hemlock-related activities, such as
awareness
presentations, training, treatment and saplings projects projects, and festivals. The dates that are known so
far for 2023 are shown below, and more will be added as the opportunities arise.
■
Training and Presentations:
Throughout the year, we offer Hemlock Help Clinics for a wide variety of
audiences, Facilitator training for volunteers,
Hemlock Lessons for
elementary through high school classes, and special presentations for garden
clubs, property owner
associations, churches, civic organizations, and community groups.
■
Service Projects: We continue our partnership with the U. S. Forest Service and the Georgia
Department of Natural Resources to treat hemlocks on public lands, and we
will undertake additional hemlock treatment projects for other nonprofits, public
land managers, and private property owners as our time and resources permit.
Other service projects include rescuing hemlock saplings and seedlings, restoring hemlocks
along trout streams, and creating new hemlock field insectaries or augmenting
existing ones.
If you'd like to participate in a class or event that's on our calendar, please
contact the person named in the listing. Or
would like to schedule an additional educational event or service project, call the Hemlock Help Line 706-429-8010.
And just
so you know:
* Our classes are open to anyone from anywhere. It doesn't matter
whether you take a class before or after you've participated in a service event.
*
Our
service events are always fun and a great way for new volunteers to learn from
more experienced ones and to gain the satisfaction of doing meaningful work with long-term benefits.
* Reminder to our Facilitators: We count on EVERY SGH Facilitator to
participate in AT LEAST ONE educational or service event each year. We and
the hemlocks NEED you!

August 19,
10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. |
SGH
Hemlock Help Clinic: SGH will conduct 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 are Lumpkin, White, and Hall, but anyone
from anywhere is welcome to sign up. Click
here for the
Clinic description and outline.
The class will be taught via ZOOM and is a prerequisite for the Facilitator Training Workshop.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. To register, please contact
Derrick Morris by email derrick1p1@gmail.com
or text 404-593-3173. |
Tues., Aug. 29,
Time TBA |
Elachee Science Night: SGH will give a presentation
during this event at the Tapit! 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 is open to the
public, and healthy hemlock saplings will be
available for adoption.
The location will be
the Tapit! Brewery, 110 Maple St, Gainesville. |
Sun., Sept. 3 |
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.
|
Sat., Sept. 9
10 a.m. - Noon |
Elachee Wildlife Festival: SGH will have 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. Healthy hemlock saplings will be
available for adoption.
Join us for family-friendly fun, including
live animal encounters, tree climbing, food trucks and much more!
The location will be Elachee
Nature Science Center 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. |
Sat., Sept. 16,
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
Trail
Fest -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH will have 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 will be
available for adoption.
The location will
be Hancock
Park in downtown Dahlonega.
To volunteer,
contact Betty Larsen at 706-633-0358,
bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com.
|
Sat., Sept. 23,
10 a.m. - 1 p.m. |
SGH
Facilitator Training Workshop: SGH will conduct a class 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
Lumpkin, White, and Hall,
but anyone who has completed our Hemlock Help Clinic is welcome to sign
up. Click here for the
Facilitator Training description and outline.
Note that it will include a demo / and hands-on practice.
The class will be taught in person,
location tbd. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. To
register, please contact Derrick Morris by email
derrick1p1@gmail.com or text
404-593-3173. Grady Tuell will be the instructor. |
Sat., Sept. 30,
9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. |
Hemlock treatment project -- VOLUNTEERS
NEEDED: SGH will partner 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. We値l be working in small teams
including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat
approximately 150 trees, applying Imidacloprid by
soil injection.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. To
volunteer, please contact Jim Wentworth at 706-897-0645,
wentwrth@windstream.net. |
Late Sept / early Oct. |
Customized hemlock treatment 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:
SGH will partner with the staff of Lula Lake Lake Trust and SGH
volunteers from the northwest Georgia area to treat a large number of
hemlocks on that property.
|
Sat., Oct. 7.
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
Foxfire
Mountaineer Festival -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH will have a booth at this
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 is 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. 7,
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
&
Sun., Oct. 8,
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. |
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. |
Sun., Oct. 8,
9:00 a.m. - 3 p.m. |
Hemlock treatment project -- VOLUNTEERS
NEEDED: 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値l be working in small
teams including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat
approximately 150 trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection.
The exact location near Warwoman and Project Details will be posted soon.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. To
volunteer, please contact Jon Jones at 910-987-0306 or
jdjones611@gmail.com. |
Sat., Oct. 14 &
Sun., Oct 15,
9 a.m. - 6 p.m. |
Blue
Ridge 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,
contact Betty Larsen at 706-633-0358,
bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com.
|
Sat., Oct. 21,
10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. |
SGH
Hemlock Help Clinic: SGH will conduct 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 are Dade, Walker, Murray, and Whitfield,
but anyone from anywhere is welcome to sign up. Click
here for the
Clinic description and outline.
The class will be taught via ZOOM and is a prerequisite for the Facilitator Training Workshop.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. To register, please contact
Derrick Morris by email derrick1p1@gmail.com
or text 404-593-3173. |
Sat., Oct. 21,
9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. |
Hemlock treatment project -- VOLUNTEERS
NEEDED: SGH will partner with the U. S. Forest Service to
treat or retreat the hemlocks on the Fidder Creek / Hog Creek Hemlock Conservation Area
of the Chattooga River Ranger District. We値l be working in small
teams including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat
approximately 150 trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil
injection. Project Details will be posted soon.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. To
volunteer, please contact Jim Wentworth by text
706-897-0645 or email wentwrth@windstream.net |
Sun., Oct. 29,
1 - 5 p.m. |
SGH Leadership Team
fall meeting:
At this meeting we will review the accomplishments of the third
quarter and finalize plans for the end of the year. All Board Members,
Officers, Program Managers, and Lead Facilitators are encouraged to attend.
The meeting agenda will be posted here in advance.
The location will be the
Dahlonega Chamber of Commerce, 243 Hill Street, Dahlonega. |
Sun., Oct. 29,
9:00 a.m. - 3 p.m. |
Hemlock treatment project -- VOLUNTEERS
NEEDED: 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値l be working in small
teams including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat
approximately 150 trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection.
The exact location near Warwoman and Project Details will be posted soon.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. To
volunteer, please contact Jon Jones at 910-987-0306 or
jdjones611@gmail.com. |
Sat., Nov. 11,
10 a.m. - 1 p.m. |
SGH
Facilitator Training Workshop: SGH will conduct a class 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 Dade, Walker, and Whitfield, but anyone who has
completed our Hemlock Help Clinic is welcome to sign up. Click
here for the
Facilitator Training description and outline.
Note that it will include a demo / and hands-on practice.
The class will be taught in person,
location tbd. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. To
register, please contact Derrick Morris by email
derrick1p1@gmail.com or text
404-593-3173. Grady Tuell will be the instructor. |
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 will be held from Nov. 10-12 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. To volunteer,
please contact Elliott Segall at 678-860-6586,
elliottsegall@gmail.com.
Hemlock treatment project -- VOLUNTEERS
NEEDED: SGH will partner with the Boy
Scouts and Leaders to treat an important stand of hemlocks on
their campus. To volunteer, please contact Jim Wentworth at
706-897-0645,
wentwrth@windstream.net.
The location will be
Camp Woodruff, 31 Woodruff Dr., Blairsville, GA 30512. |
Sat., Nov. 18,
10 a.m. - 3 p.m. |
Hemlock treatment project -- VOLUNTEERS
NEEDED: for a second day, SGH will partner with the U. S. Forest Service to
finish treating or retreating approximately 200 hemlocks on moderate terrain at Bear Creek Campground, a Hemlock
Conservation Area of the Conasauga Ranger District in Gilmer County.
We値l be working in small teams including at least one experienced
Facilitator to treat approximately 200 trees, applying Imidacloprid by
soil injection on moderate terrain.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. To
volunteer, please contact Holly
Cochran at
holly@savegeorgiashemlocks.org
or text 706-455-6375.
DIRECTIONS:
From downtown Ellijay, take Hwy 52 W for 4.9 mi. Turn
right onto Gates Chapel Rd. and continue 5 mi.
Turn right onto Bear Creek Camp Road for 1.1 mi to the campground.
Depending on the number of
volunteers, we will likely meet at Gates Chapel United Methodist Church
and then carpool to the site. |
|
|

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! |
Tues., 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. Approximately 24
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! |
Sat., Mar. 4
|
Sapling
Rescue Project: 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 Native Plant Society dug
50 to 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.
|
Thurs., 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, GA 30513. |
Wed., Mar. 15 |
SGH
Hemlock Lesson: SGH presented our Hemlock Lesson to 222 6th grade
Exploratory Science students 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. |
Thurs., 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 about 2 dozen 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! |
Fri., Mar. 24 |
Meeting & Presentation 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 |
SGH
Hemlock Lesson: SGH gave a presentation to a dozen 4th level
Environmental Science 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. The location
was
Young Harris College, Maxwell room 106. |
Sun., Mar. 26 |
Hemlock treatment project:
Fourteen SGH 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! |
Thurs., 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 50 visitors to
our table and had some very promising discussions with interested
students.
|
Sat., April
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 is welcome to sign up. One new student was
trained. Click
here for the
Clinic description and outline.
The class was taught via ZOOM and is 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. To volunteer, please
contact Betty Larsen at 706-633-0358,
bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com.
|
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. |
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 there. Two SGH
volunteers and 7 scouts and scouting adults treated 120 trees.
The location was
31 Woodruff Dr., Blairsville, GA 30523.
|
Sun., Apr. 23 |
SGH Leadership Team spring meeting:
At this meeting we reviewed the accomplishments of the first
quarter and finalize plans for the second. All Board Members,
Officers, Program Managers, and Lead Facilitators are encouraged to attend.
Click here for the
meeting agenda
and meeting notes.
The location was the
Dahlonega Chamber of Commerce, 243 Hill Street, Dahlonega. |
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 approximately 350 visitors to our booth, and 9 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 50 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 implemention 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 Woodruff native plant nature path. The trees are
now located in a site where they will 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!
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. Healthy hemlock saplings were
available for adoption. |
June 3 & 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. We had
an estimated 200 visitors 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. We worked in small teams
including at least one experienced Facilitator to treat
approximately 150 trees, applying Imidacloprid by soil injection.
The project was led by Jim Wentworth --
THANKS, JIM!!! |
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. Click
here for the
Clinic description and outline.
The class was taught via ZOOM and is 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.
THANKS EVERYONE FOR A JOB WELL DONE! |
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.
It included a demo / and hands-on practice.
Three new Facilitators were trained in
this in-person class taught by Holly Cochran. WELCOME TO THE TEAM! |
Sun., July 16 |
SGH Leadership Team spring meeting:
At this meeting we reviewed the accomplishments of the second
quarter and made plans for the remainder of the summer and fall.
Click here for the
meeting agenda.
Meeting notes will be posted here shortly.
The location was the
Dahlonega Chamber of Commerce, 243 Hill Street, Dahlonega. |
|
|

Thurs., Dec. 9 |
Hemlock treatment project in Sky Valley:
Under the leadership of Buz Stone for SGH and Debbie Dalhouse for Sky
Valley, nineteen volunteers from SGH, Sky Valley, and the
community treated 50 large hemlocks and 400 - 500 small ones along the
Mud Creek Falls hiking trail. Several of the biggest
ones needed Safari, which was a challenge to apply in the cold weather,
but we got it done.
THANKS BUZ, DEBBIE, AND EVERYONE FOR A JOB
WELL DONE! |
Sat., Dec.
25, 2021 |
Christmas
Day: Our warmest greetings go out to all our members,
volunteers, friends, and supporters.
We hope it is filled with the warmth,
joy, and peace of this special season. |
Sat., Jan.
1, 2022 |
New Year's
Day: Here's to your health and happiness throughout the coming
year! And if you make some resolutions for the New Year, we hope
one of them is to be an active volunteer to help save the hemlocks. |
Fri., Jan. 7
|
Sapling
planting at Smithgall Woods: Fran
Meehan, the Naturalist at Smithgall Woods, asked our help to plant
some hemlock saplings along one of their hiking trails where a large
hemlock died due to storm damage.
Thanks to FRAN, CHUCK BLAINE,
CURTIS HIXON, AND WILL WAGNER for a good, short project to plant three
new trees under the shadow of the old one on the Laurel Ridge Trail.
Plan to take a hike on that trail some time soon and see the new little
ones. They're marked with planting stakes and orange flagging
tape. |
Sun, Jan. 9 |
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
2022. While we were hoping to do this kickoff meeting in
person, the Covid problem is still out there and making a number of people
uncomfortable about that idea, so convened Board Members, Officers,
and Program Managers by ZOOM instead. Separate ZOOM meetings will
be scheduled for Lead Facilitators (Wednesday, January 12, 7 p.m.),
Instructors, and Scout Liaisons.
Click here for the
agenda and
ZOOM sign-in instructions. Click here for the
meeting notes. |
Wed, Jan. 12
|
SGH
Lead Facilitator meeting: This meeting served as the
kick-off for an enhanced Facilitator Program and your very important
role in it. For our new Lead Facilitators this was a good
introduction, and for our current Leads most of the
roles and responsibilities described in the revised Lead Facilitator Job
Description below are things you've already been doing. And as
always your input was greatly appreciated!
Click here for the updated
Lead Facilitator Job Description and
ZOOM sign-in instructions. |
Mon., Jan. 17
|
Martin
Luther King Day of Service.
Hope you went out and did a good thing
in your community today! The MLK web site has lots of good ideas
and even lesson plans for kids' activities. |
Sat., Feb. 12 |
Presentation
to the Georgia Native Plant Society. The event
was held at
Young Harris College,
Maxwell
Center, Room 107. Fifteen members and guests attended.
In the U. S. the eastern hemlock is a keystone native
species ranging from northeastern Alabama to Maine and parts of the
upper midwest. The group was very interested to learn about the
multiple unique roles these trees play, the pest that's threatening them
with near extinction, and what steps they can take as private property
owners and volunteers to help save them. |
Fri., Feb. 18 |
Arbor Day in Georgia:
This holiday is a day set aside for schools, civic clubs, and other
organizations, as well as individuals, to reflect on the importance of
trees in our state and across our nation. Every tree planted on
Arbor Day helps clean the air and water, beautify neighborhoods, provide
homes for wildlife, conserve energy, and prevent soil erosion, among
many other benefits.
Arbor Day, which is sponsored by the Georgia Forestry Commission, gives everyone an opportunity to learn
about the benefits trees provide to communities.
Note that while most of the country
celebrates Arbor Day in April, Georgia celebrates it in February because
that's early spring is the very best time to plant trees in our
hardiness zones. You can adopt HEMLOCK saplings from SGH (call the Hemlock Help Line at
706-429-8010) or
order OTHER tree seedlings from the Georgia Forestry Commission.
BTW, if you've seen hemlocks that aren't looking healthy and
you're wondering why,
please read this reprinted article and then contact us for an update
on what's happening. |
Sun., Feb. 20 |
Sapling
planting project: In celebration of Arbor Day in Georgia, five
volunteers from SGH participated in a special hemlock planting at Tammen
Park, Blue Ridge. Hope you'll come out and see these beautiful
trees; they're right next to the parking lot.
SGH also has healthy, pre-treated saplings
for adoption for a modest donation. If you'd like to learn
what's available, please call the Hemlock Help Line 706-429-8010. |
Fri., Feb. 25 |
Sapling
rescue in Rabun County: Nine volunteers came out on a misty
spring morning to do maintenance and some sapling thinning along a well
used trail in Rabun County. Approximately 130 small saplings were
thinned from overcrowded stands, leaving room for the bigger ones to
grow up full and healthy.
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., Feb. 26 |
Sapling potting in Rabun County: Four volunteers met at Buz
Stone's house to help pot some of the saplings that were rescued during
yesterday's trail maintenance project. Thanks everyone for a job
well done. As soon as the little trees are stabilized in the pots,
they'll be ready to be donated or offered for adoption.
If you're interested in adopting one or
more saplings, please call the Hemlock Help Line 706-429-8010 for contact
information for our three sapling nurseries. |
Sat., Feb. 26 |
Customized
Facilitator Training Workshop for Cartecay volunteers: Nine
new Facilitators were trained in this class that was specially
customized for individuals planning to serve as either team leaders or
volunteers on the March 12 hemlock treatment project on the Cartecay
River in Ellijay. The scope was limited to the basic
processes for applying Imidacloprid 2F by Kioritz soil injection for the
land-based volunteers and applying CoreTect tablets by soil insertion
for the paddlers.
The class was taught in person at the
Gilmer County Library with a demo
/ hands-on practice segment immediately following the classroom portion. |
Sat., Mar. 12 |
Hemlock
treatment at Foxfire Museum & Heritage Center: SGH partnered with a local Boy
Scout troop to
continue protection of the hemlocks at Foxfire in Rabun County.
Seven SGH volunteers and ten Boy Scouts and Scouting adults braved
the cold and wind to treat or retreat a total of 426 trees and then
enjoyed some good pizza. Super job, everyone! The hemlocks
lift their branches to you.
The location was
98
Foxfire Lane, Mountain City, GA 30562. Click here
for the
Project Details. |
Wed., Mar. 17 |
Hemlock
Treatment at UGA Experiment Station, Blairsville:
SGH partnered with the UGA Experiment Station staff and Preservation
Committee volunteers to treat or retreat the hemlocks around this
facility. Working in small teams to apply Imidacloprid liquid by
Kioritz soil injectors, 16 volunteers treated 136 large trees and 81
small ones in about 2 hours. Great job, everyone!
The Experiment Station痴 formal name is Georgia Mountain Research and
Education Center, located at 195 Mountain Experiment Station Road,
Blairsville, GA 30512. Click here to read the
Project Details. |
Sat., Mar. 19 |
SGH
Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Fannin & Gilmer
Counties: Two new Facilitators were trained in this class
designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to
actively participate in saving the hemlocks.
The class was taught via
ZOOM, and the demo
/ hands-on practice segment will be scheduled separately as soon as
possible. |
Mon., Mar. 21 |
International Day of Forests:
This global celebration of forests provides a platform to raise
awareness of the importance of all types of forests and of trees outside
forests.
If you've seen hemlocks that aren't looking healthy and
you're wondering why,
please read this reprinted article and then contact us for an update
on what's happening. |
Fri., Mar. 25 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Smithgall Woods, Helen:
SGH
partnered with the DNR and Friends of the Park to retreat the hemlocks
in a section of the park. Working in small teams to apply Imidacloprid
liquid by Kioritz soil injectors, 9 volunteers treated 111 trees in
about 3 hours. Click here for the
Project Details.
|
Sat., Mar. 26 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Copper Ridge, Dahlonega:
SGH
partnered with members of this neighborhood to retreat a section of the
hemlocks on their common area. Working in small teams to apply
Imidacloprid liquid by Kioritz soil injectors, 10 volunteers treated 159
trees on some super steep terrain. Click here for the
Project Details.
|
Sat., Apr. 2
|
POSTPONED
-- NEW DATE WILL BE ANNOUNCED.
Hemlock
treatment on the Cartecay River -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
SGH will partner with paddlers, fishermen, and other
volunteers to treat
the hemlocks in the DNR Wildlife Management Area along the Cartecay River in
Ellijay, Gilmer County. Project Details will be posted when a new
date is set.
|
Sat., April 9 |
SGH
Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for White & Union
Counties: One new Facilitator was trained in this 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 via
ZOOM,
and the demo / hands-on practice segment will be scheduled separately as
soon as possible. |
Sun., Apr. 10 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Anna Ruby Falls:
SGH began a multi-day project in support of the U. S. Forest
Service to retreat approximately 1,200 hemlocks at this beautiful
recreation area on the Chattooga River Ranger District in White County.
Click here for
Project Details.
Under the leadership of Jon Jones, 16 SGH
volunteers and USFS staff treated or retreated 205 tagged trees
and an estimated 275 small ones, for a grand total of 480 trees.
GREAT JOB EVERYONE! |
Tues., Apr. 12 |
Hemlock
treatment project at
Black Rock Mountain State Park:
SGH partnered with the DNR to treat or retreat 62 hemlocks in this
park.
An amazing group of 16 SGH volunteers and park staff got together under
the leadership of Buz Stone and Jessica James got the whole job done is
just a couple of hours. THE
TREES THANK YOU! |
Wed., Apr. 13 |
SGH
Leadership Team spring meeting: This meeting focused on a
review of the first quarter accomplishments, activities scheduled for
the second quarter, and plans for realigning the Leadership Team for
greater effectiveness and utilization of team members' talents.
The meeting was held via ZOOM. Click
here for the
Meeting Agenda.
Meeting Notes will be posted shortly. |
Tues., Apr. 19 |
Hemlock
planting at Hurricane Creek:
SGH
partnered with Stacie James of the University of North Georgia Ecological
Protection Lab and the UNG Sustainability
Club to plant 20 hemlock saplings along the creek near the
Hurricane Creek Field Research Station in Dahlonega. We provided the
saplings and all the planting materials.
The purpose of this project was to enhance the vitality and diversity of
the riparian zone now and possibly prepare the site for future use as a
field insectary in which to raise predator beetles to combat the hemlock
woolly adelgid.
The event
took place at
3990 Dawsonville Highway (Hwy 9), Dahlonega, Georgia 30597
with
approximately 12 participants .
|
Fri., Apr. 22 |
Earth Day:
Celebrated on April 22 annually, Earth Day is globally coordinated by
the Earth Day Network, whose year-round mission is to broaden, diversify
and activate the environmental movement worldwide, through a combination
of education, public policy, and consumer campaigns. It's a great
time to go out and do something good for our planet -- plant a tree or a
garden, clean up a public space or waterway, start a compost pile or
start recycling. Click here for
tons of great ideas!
If you have hemlocks that haven't
been protected,
please read this reprinted article and then contact us for an update
on what you can do. |
Sat., Apr. 23 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Alex Cove:
Under the
leadership of Jim Wentworth, 4 SGH volunteers and 2 USFS staff members
treated or retreated 179 hemlocks at Alex Cove (HCA 65) on the Blue
Ridge Ranger District in Union County. Click here for Project
Details |
Sat., Apr. 23 &
Sun., Apr. 24 |
Bear
on the Square:
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.
Fifteen SGH
volunteers helped with this event, had an estimated 264 visitors, and
got 31 healthy hemlock saplings adopted. The location was Hancock
Park in downtown Dahlonega |
Fri., Apr. 29 |
National Arbor Day: In the last 50 years, the Arbor Day
Foundation has planted and distributed nearly 500 million trees in more
than 50 countries around the world to fight global issues facing
humankind. The Arbor Day Foundation web
site says, "We plant trees because people need trees. And when
planted in the right place, they have great impact. Trees help slow
climate change, filter our air and water, foster biodiversity, and
strengthen our communities. They create the kind of
transformational change the world needs now." Please see their web
site for lots of good ideas for celebrating this special day and keeping
it going all year.
SGH wants to follow their example.
With your help, we can plant trees today for a better tomorrow. If
you'd like to adopt some healthy, pre-treated hemlock saplings, please
call the Hemlock Help Line 706-429-8010 to learn what's available. |
Sat., Apr. 30 |
Blue
Ridge Trout & Outdoor Adventures Festival:
SGH had a
booth at this 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. Special
materials highlighted the importance
of hemlocks to the health of local trout populations, our
partnership with Trout Unlimited, and opportunities to work together on
behalf of the forests and waterways we share.
Five SGH
volunteers helped in our booth, had an estimated 162 visitors, and got
19 healthy hemlock saplings adopted. The location was the park
in downtown Blue Ridge. |
Sun., May 15 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Anna Ruby Falls:
This
was the second day of a multi-day project in support of the U. S. Forest
Service to retreat approximately 1,200 hemlocks at this beautiful
recreation area on the Chattooga River Ranger District in White County.
Click here for
Project Details.
Under the
leadership of Jon Jones, 16 SGH volunteers and USFS staff members
treated or retreated 707 trees. GREAT JOB, EVERYONE! |
Sat., May 28 &
Sun., May 29 |
Blue
Ridge Arts 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.
Seventeen
SGH volunteers helped staff our booth, had an estimated 312 visitors,
and got 37 healthy hemlock saplings adopted. The location was the park
in downtown Blue Ridge. |
Sat., June 4 |
National Trails
Day: A
celebration of America痴 magnificent Trail System, NTD occurs annually
on the first Saturday in June and features a series of outdoor
activities, designed to promote and celebrate the importance of trails
in the United States. Individuals, clubs and organizations from
around the country host National Trails Dayョ events to share their love
of trails with friends, family, and their communities. NTD
introduces thousands of Americans to a wide array of trail activities:
hiking, biking, paddling, horseback riding, trail running, and bird
watching and more. For public and private land managers alike,
National Trails Dayョ is a great time to showcase beautiful landscapes
and special or threatened locales as thousands of people will be outside
looking to participate in NTD events. |
Sat., June 4
|
Hemlock
Day at Anna Ruby Falls: In celebration of National Trails Day, SGH
had an education station to provide information about the importance of
hemlocks in our communities, the threat presented by the invasive insect
that's killing them, how property owners can identify and manage the
problem, why timely action is vital, and opportunities for volunteers to
help save the trees on public lands, and how volunteers can help save
trees on our public lands.
Three SGH
volunteers helped staff our booth, had an estimated 40 visitors, and got
1 healthy hemlock sapling adopted. The location is the Anna
Ruby Falls Visitors Center, 3455 Anna Ruby Falls Rd. near
Helen. |
Sun., June
12 |
Postponed
-- being rescheduled for later this year.
Hemlock treatment project at Anna Ruby Falls -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
This will be the third (and hopefully final) day of a multi-day project
in support of the U. S. Forest Service to retreat approximately 1,200
hemlocks at this beautiful recreation area on the Chattooga River Ranger
District in White County. Project Details will be posted soon.
Registration is required. To volunteer, please contact Jon Jones at jdjones611@gmail.com or
910-987-0306 and provide your name, phone number, preferred email
address, and your county. |
Sun., July 4
|
Independence
Day: This is a good day to enjoy with your family and friends
by doing something good for your community and celebrating all the
wonderful blessings we have.
|
Sat., July 9 |
Postponed
-- being rescheduled for in-person class.
SGH
Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Dawson & Lumpkin
Counties: This class is designed for people who want the
practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the
hemlocks:
* Complete how-to instruction covering the trees, the insects, assessing infestations,
cultural practices, chemical treatments, biological controls, cost
considerations, personal and environmental safety.
* Volunteer training to advise and assist other property owners and to
work with the U. S. Forest Service and Georgia DNR to save hemlocks on
our public lands. Click here for the
Facilitator Training description and outline.
Registration is required. Please
text Derrick Morris at
404-593-3173 or email
derrick1p1@gmail.com. Note that the SGH Hemlock
Help Clinic is a prerequisite for this workshop. |
Sat., July 16 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Lower
Dicks Creek & Miller Branch: Under the leadership of Jim
Wentworth, ten SGH volunteers
treated / retreated approximately 200 hemlocks at Lower Dicks Creek &
Miller Branch (HCA 72B) on the Blue Ridge Ranger District in Lumpkin
County. Click here for
Project Details.
EXCELLENT WORK, EVERYONE! |
Sun., July 17 |
SGH
Leadership Team summer meeting: Board Members, Officers, Program Managers,
Instructors, Lead Facilitators, and Scout Liaisons gathered for our
first in-person meeting since 2020. This well attended meeting focused
on a review of second quarter accomplishments, remaining third and
fourth quarter activities, and plans for realigning the Leadership Team
for greater efficiency and utilization of team members' talents.
Restructure of our Clinic / Facilitator training was a key topic. Thanks
to all who participated for your insight and contributions.
The meeting
was held at the new
Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce, 342 Hill Street,
Dahlonega. Click here for the
Meeting Agenda
and Meeting
Notes. |
Sat., July 30 |
SGH
Hemlock Help Clinic for Fannin & Gilmer
Counties: Three people attended this introductory class
designed for people who want an understanding of the hemlock problem,
some starter instruction to treat their own trees, and information about
the opportunities to learn more and do more. Click
here for the
Clinic description and outline.
The class was taught via ZOOM and is a prerequisite for the Facilitator Training Workshop. |
Sun., Aug. 7 |
Postponed
-- being rescheduled for later this year.
Hemlock
treatment project at Dicks Creek South -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
SGH will be treating or retreating the hemlocks at Dicks Creek South (HCA 300)
on the Chattooga River Ranger District in Lumpkin County. Project Details will be posted soon.
Registration is required.
To volunteer, please contact Jon Jones at
jdjones611@gmail.com or 910-987-0306 and provide your name, phone
number, preferred email address, and your county. |
Sat., Aug. 13 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Waters
Creek & Upper Waters Creek in Lumpkin County:
Under the leadership of Jim Wentworth, 8 volunteers treated / retreated
approximately 130 hemlocks at (HCA 72 / 72A) on the Blue Ridge Ranger
District in Lumpkin County. Click here for
Project Details.
EXCELLENT WORK, EVERYONE! |
Sat., Aug. 20 |
SGH
Hemlock Help Clinic for Habersham, Hall, Pickens & Cherokee Counties:
One person attended this introductory class
designed for people who want an understanding of the hemlock problem,
some starter instruction to treat their own trees, and information about
the opportunities to learn more and do more. Click
here for the
Clinic description and outline.
The class was taught via ZOOM and is a prerequisite for the Facilitator Training Workshop. |
Mon., Sept. 4 |
Lake Rabun Association
Labor Day Meeting
in Lakemont:
SGH had an educational exhibit and volunteers on hand to
provide information about the hemlocks and their importance to the Lake
Rabun community, the threat presented by the invasive insect that's
killing them, how property owners can identify and manage the problem, why timely
action is vital, and opportunities for volunteers to help save the trees on public
lands. Healthy hemlock saplings were available for adoption.
We estimate we had approximately 40
visitors to our information station. The location was the Lake Rabun Pavilion,
1757 Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, GA 30552. |
Mon., Sept. 5
|
Labor Day: In the United States this is a public holiday
celebrated on the first Monday in September. It honors the
American labor movement
and the contributions that workers have made to the strength,
prosperity, laws and well-being of the country. So as you and your
family enjoy the last "official" weekend of summer, we hope you
did
something fun outdoors and make some good memories.
|
Sat., Sept. 10 |
SGH
Hemlock Help Clinic for Towns & Rabun
Counties:
Four students participated in this
introductory class designed for people who want an understanding of
the hemlock problem,
some
starter instruction to treat their own trees, and information about the
options to learn more and do more.
Click here for the
Clinic description & outline.
The class was taught via ZOOM and is a prerequisite for the
Facilitator Training Workshop. |
Sat., Sept. 17 |
Trail
Fest:
SGH hosted a
booth at this important festival in Dahlonega. Eight volunteers
contributed 45 service hours 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. Sixteen healthy hemlock saplings were
adopted.
The location was Hancock
Park and
the historic
square in
downtown Dahlonega.
|
Sun., Sept. 18 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Anna Ruby Falls:
On this
third and final day of a multi-day project, seven SGH volunteers
supported the U. S. Forest Service to treat or retreat 327 hemlocks at
this at this beautiful recreation area (HCA 65) near Helen on the
Chattooga River Ranger District in White County. Click here for the Project
Details.
THANKS TO ALL VOLUNTEERS FOR A JOB WELL DONE! |
Sun., Sept. 18 |
Postponed
-- being reschedule for later this fall.
Hemlock
treatment project at Gold Mine Branch -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
SGH will be
treating or retreating the hemlocks at Gold Mine Branch (HCA 10) on the
Chattooga River Ranger District in Rabun County. Project Details will
be posted soon.
Registration is required.
To volunteer, please contact Jon Jones at
jdjones611@gmail.com or 910-987-0306 and provide your name, phone
number, preferred email address, and your county. |
Sat., Sept. 24
|
National
Public Lands Day: National Public Lands Day (NPLD) is the
nation's largest, single-day volunteer effort for public lands.
Its purposes are:
* educating Americans about the
environment and natural resources, and the need for shared stewardship
of these valued, irreplaceable lands;
* building partnerships between the public sector and the local
community based upon mutual interests in the enhancement and restoration
of America's public lands; and;
* improving public lands for outdoor recreation, with volunteers
assisting land managers in hands-on work. |
Sat., Sept. 24 |
Appalachian
Trail Day at
Brasstown Bald Visitors Center & Recreation Area:
SGH hosted a booth at this celebration of the Appalachian Trail. Five
volunteers contributed 23 service hours 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. Five healthy hemlock saplings were
adopted.
From their web site: "The Brasstown Bald Visitors Center sits
atop Georgia's highest mountain at 4,784 feet above sea level.
Surrounded by the Chattahoochee - Oconee National Forest, its cloud
level observation deck offers stunning 360-degree views of the Southern
Appalachian Mountains and valleys. On a clear day, one can see four
states. The unique circular building is home to an 8,000 sq. ft. museum
featuring interactive cultural and natural history exhibits."
The location was
the lower parking lot and
visitor
center at Brasstown Bald, 2941 Hwy. 180 Spur, Hiawassee GA 30546. |
Sat., Oct. 1
|
Foxfire
Mountaineer Festival
-- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH will have a booth at this festival 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
also be available for adoption.
The location is 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. 1 &
Sun., Oct. 2
|
Georgia
Marble Festival
-- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH
will have a booth at this 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
also be available for adoption.
The location is
Lee Newton Park, 500 Stegall Drive, Jasper. To volunteer,
please contact Jim Heilman at 404-405-7553 or
jim.heilman@hotmail.com. |
Sat., Oct. 1 |
SGH
Hemlock Help Clinic for Dade & Walker
Counties:
One student participated in this
introductory class designed for people who want an understanding of
the hemlock problem,
some
starter instruction to treat their own trees, and information about the
options to learn more and do more.
Click here for the
Clinic description and outline.
The class was taught via
ZOOM and is a prerequisite for the Facilitator Training Workshop. |
Sat., Oct. 8 |
SGH
Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for ALL
Counties: One new Facilitator was trained in this class designed for
individuals who have attended a SGH Hemlock Help Clinic and now want the
practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the
hemlocks:
* Complete how-to instruction covering the trees, the insects, assessing infestations,
cultural practices, chemical treatments, biological controls, cost
considerations, personal and environmental safety.
* Volunteer training to advise and assist other property owners and to
work with the U. S. Forest Service and Georgia DNR to save hemlocks on
our public lands. Click here for the
Facilitator Training description and outline.
The class was taught in person in Gilmer
County. |
Sat., Oct. 15 |
Canceled
by Gibbs Gardens
Georgia
Mountains Beer Fest -- BOOTH
HELPERS NEEDED:
SGH will have an education station at this festival in Ball Ground to provide information about
the importance of hemlocks in our communities, the threat presented by
the invasive insect that's killing them, how property owners can
identify and manage the problem, why timely
action is vital, and opportunities for volunteers to help save the trees
on public lands. Healthy hemlock saplings will be available for
adoption.
Gibbs Gardens is located at
1987 Gibbs Dr. off Yellow Creek Rd. in Ball Ground, GA 30107. |
Sun., Oct.16 |
SGH
Leadership Team fall meeting: This meeting focused on a
review of the third quarter accomplishments, activities scheduled for
the fourth quarter, and plans for realigning the Leadership Team for
greater efficiency and utilization of team members' talents.
Click here for the
Meeting Agenda
and Meeting
Notes.
The meeting was held in person at the
Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce, 342 Hill St., Dahlonega.
|
Sat., Oct. 22 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Helton Creek: On a gorgeous fall day, a
dozen SGH volunteers supported the U. S. Forest Service to treat or
retreat approximately 200 hemlocks at Helton Creek (HCA 64) on the Blue Ridge Ranger District in
Union County. Click here for the
Project Details.
THANKS EVERYONE FOR A JOB WELL DONE!
|
Fri., Nov. 4 |
Hemlock
planting project at UNG's Hurricane Creek: Seven volunteers
from SGH and UNG planted 30 lovely little saplings in an area that has
recently been renovated. The plan is to grow them for a few years
and then allow adelgids to come in so the trees can be used as a field
insectary for growing predator beetles.
The location was
3990 Dawsonville Highway (Hwy 9), Dahlonega. |
Sun., Nov. 6 |
Postponed
-- may be rescheduled.
Hemlock
treatment project at Upper Cliff Creek -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:
SGH will be treating or retreating the hemlocks at Upper Cliff Creek (HCA
20) on the Chattooga River Ranger District in Rabun County. Project Details will be posted
when available. |
Sun., Nov. 6 |
Hemlock
treatment project at Tallulah River Campground:
Under
the leadership of Jon Jones, nine SGH volunteers and USFS staff treated
or retreated 215 hemlocks at the Tallulah River Campground
(HCA 37) on the Chattooga River Ranger District in Rabun County. Click
here for the Project
Details.
THANKS EVERYONE FOR A JOB WELL DONE!
|
Fri., Nov. 10 |
Hemlock planting on UNG Campus and
grant award: At the invitation of Staces James, Program
Coordinator for the UNG Environmental Leadership Center, SGH
donated and planted a big beautiful hemlock on the University of North
Georgia campus near the main entrance. With an educational sign marking the spot, it stands on
the hill overlooking the University's stone sign at the corner of Thomas
Circle Rd. and South Chestatee St. Participants in the planting
included Stacie James, Karrie Ann Fadroski Ashley McCaskill, Steve
Shepherd, Clark Leonard, Daniel Jackson, John Leyba and several UNG
students plus Donna Shearer and Holly Cockran of SGH.
At the conclusion of the planting
event, SGH presented a grant check for $2,000 to the Environmental
Leadership Center to support the Environmental Protection
Lab. We believe that the partnership between UNG and SGH and the
parallel biological and chemical approaches it represents for
controlling the hemlock woolly adelgid are important and will have a
lasting impact on the health, beauty, and economic vitality of our
community and beyond. |
Sat., Nov. 12 |
Boy
Scout
Conservation Weekend --
This annual event sponsored by the Boy
Scouts of America is dedicated to Scouts' conservation and learning.
The 2022 Conservation Weekend will be held from Nov. 11 - 13 at Camp
Woodruff. Eighteen Merit Badges will be offered, and Scouts will
have the opportunity to enroll in up to three merit badges. This event
includes 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.
Thanks to Elliott Segall for staffing our booth and sharing the hemlock
message with several dozen scouts and leaders.
Hemlock treatment project at Camp
Woodruff: SGH partnered with the Boy
Scouts to treat an important stand of hemlocks on their campus.
Three SGH volunteers and nine scouts and scouting adults treated 68
trees, and we plan to go back for more next spring. Thanks to Jim
Wentworth and Holly Cochran for the leadership on this project.
The location was
Camp Woodruff, 31 Woodruff Dr., Blairsville, GA 30512. |
Sun., Nov. 20 |
Hemlock
Treatment Project at Dick's Creek: Eleven volunteers treated
101 trees at this very scenic part of the National Forest in Stephens
County. Click here for the
Project Details.
Thanks to Jon Jones for his leadership and to all the
volunteers who helped. |
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