Schedule of Events

Throughout the year we will continue our schedule of SGH presentations, training, service projects, and festivals for FY 2022 (December 1, 2021 - November 30, 2022). The dates that are known so far 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 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 or would like to schedule an additional educational event or service project, please call the Hemlock Help Line 706-429-8010.

Events Planned for FY 2022

Tues., Apr. 19 2 - 5 p.m.	Hemlock planting at Hurricane Creek -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH will partner 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 will provide the saplings and all the planting materials and hope to have a good turnout of energetic students. The purpose of this project is to enhance the vitality and diversity of the riparian zone now and possible prepare the site for future use as a field insectary in which to raise predator beetles to combat the hemlock woolly adelgid. The event will take place at 3990 Dawsonville Highway (Hwy 9), Dahlonega, Georgia 30597. If you'd like to help, please contact Donna at 706-429-8010 or donna@savegeorgiashemlocks.org.
Sat., Apr. 23 & Sun., Apr. 24	Bear on the Square -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH will have 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 will be available for adoption. The location will be Hancock Park and the historic square in downtown Dahlonega. To volunteer, please contact Betty Larsen at bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com or 706-633-0358 and provide your name, phone number, preferred email address, and your county. .
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 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.	Hemlock treatment project at Alex Cove -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH will be treating or retreating the hemlocks at Alex Cove (HCA 65) on the Blue Ridge Ranger District in Union County. Click here for Project Details Registration is required. To volunteer, please contact Jim Wentworth at wentwrth@windstream.net or 706-897-0645 and provide your name, phone number, preferred email address, and your county.
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 ADF 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 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.	Blue Ridge Trout & Outdoor Adventures Festival - BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH will have 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. In addition, we'll have healthy hemlock saplings available for adoption as well as special materials highlighting 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. Their web site says, "More than 3,500 visitors are expected at Trout Fest 2022 learning where, when and how to fish for trout while also booking their fishing guides; participating in free fly-fishing/trout-fishing instruction; buying their outdoor gear, art and clothing; snacking on great foods and enjoying the Trout Fest Beer Garden with cold beer, wine and ciders." Sounds like fun! The location is the park in downtown Blue Ridge. To volunteer, please contact Betty Larsen at bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com or 706-633-0358 and provide your name, phone number, preferred email address, and your county.
Sat., April 30 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.	SGH Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Habersham & Hall Counties: This class is designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks: * An overview of the importance of hemlocks, the invasive insect that's killing them, and options property owners have for saving their trees. * 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 no later than noon on FRIDAY, APRIL 29. Please contact Derrick Morris at 404-593-3173 or derrick1p1@gmail.com. The class will be taught via ZOOM, and the demo / hands-on practice segment will be scheduled separately as soon as possible.
Sun., May 15	Hemlock treatment project at Anna Ruby Falls -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: This will be 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. 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., May 28 & Sun., May 29	Blue Ridge Arts Festival -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH will have 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 will be available for adoption. The location is the park in downtown Blue Ridge. To volunteer, please contact Betty Larsen at bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com or 706-633-0358 and provide your name, phone number, preferred email address, and your county.
Sun., May 20	Lake Rabun Association Memorial Day Meeting in Lakemont: SGH will have 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 will be available for adoption. The location was the Lake Rabun Pavilion, 1757 Lake Rabun Road, Lakemont, GA 30552.
Sat., June 4	National Trails Day: A celebration of America's 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' 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' 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 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.	Hemlock Day at Anna Ruby Falls -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: In celebration of National Trails Day, SGH will have 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. Healthy saplings will be available for adoption. The location is the Anna Ruby Falls Visitors Center, 3455 Anna Ruby Falls Rd. near Helen. To volunteer, please contact Betty Larsen at bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com or 706-633-0358 and provide your name, phone number, preferred email address, and your county.
Sat., June 4 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.	SGH Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Pickens & Cherokee Counties: This class is designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks: * An overview of the importance of hemlocks, the invasive insect that's killing them, and options property owners have for saving their trees. * 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 no later than noon on FRIDAY, JUNE 3. Please contact Derrick Morris at 404-593-3173 or derrick1p1@gmail.com. The class will be taught via ZOOM, and the demo / hands-on practice segment will be scheduled separately as soon as possible.
Sun., June 12	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 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.	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: * An overview of the importance of hemlocks, the invasive insect that's killing them, and options property owners have for saving their trees. * 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 no later than noon on FRIDAY, JULY 8. Please contact Derrick Morris at 404-593-3173 or derrick1p1@gmail.com. The class will be taught via ZOOM, and the demo / hands-on practice segment will be scheduled separately as soon as possible.
Wed., July 13 7 - 9 p.m.	SGH Leadership Team summer meeting: This meeting will focus on a review of the second quarter accomplishments, activities scheduled for the third quarter, and plans for realigning the Leadership Team for greater efficiency and utilization of team members' talents. The meeting will be held via ZOOM, and the Meeting Agenda with sign-in instructions will be posted soon.
Sat., July 16	Hemlock treatment project at Waters Creek and Upper Waters Creek -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH will be treating or retreating the hemlocks at Waters and Upper Waters Creek (HCA 72A) on the Blue Ridge Ranger District in Lumpkin County. Project Details will be posted soon. Registration is required. To volunteer, please contact Jim Wentworth at wentwrth@windstream.net or 706-897-0645 and provide your name, phone number, preferred email address, and your county.
Sat., July 30 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.	SGH Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Murray & Whitfield Counties: This class is designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks: * An overview of the importance of hemlocks, the invasive insect that's killing them, and options property owners have for saving their trees. * 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 no later than noon on FRIDAY, JULY 29. Please contact Derrick Morris at 404-593-3173 or derrick1p1@gmail.com. The class will be taught via ZOOM, and the demo / hands-on practice segment will be scheduled separately as soon as possible.
Sun., Aug. 7	Hemlock treatment project at Dicks Creek -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH will be treating or retreating the hemlocks at Dicks Creek (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 Lower Dicks Creek & Miller Creek -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH will be treating or retreating the hemlocks at Lower Dicks Creek and Miller Creek (HCA 72B) on the Chattooga River Ranger District in Lumpkin County. Project Details will be posted soon. Registration is required. To volunteer, please contact Jim Wentworth at wentwrth@windstream.net or 706-897-0645 and provide your name, phone number, preferred email address, and your county.
Mon., Sept. 4	Lake Rabun Association Labor Day Meeting in Lakemont: SGH will have 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 will be available for adoption. The location is 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 do something fun outdoors and make some good memories.
Sat., Sept. 10 & Sun., Sept. 11	Trail Fest -- BOOTH VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH will have a booth at this important 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 is Hancock Park and the historic square in downtown Dahlonega. To volunteer, please contact Betty Larsen at 706-374-6435 or 706-633-0358 or bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com.
Sat., Sept. 10 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.	SGH Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Dade & Walker Counties: This class is designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks: * An overview of the importance of hemlocks, the invasive insect that's killing them, and options property owners have for saving their trees. * 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 no later than noon on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9. Please contact Derrick Morris at 404-593-3173 or derrick1p1@gmail.com. The class will be taught via ZOOM, and the demo / hands-on practice segment will be scheduled separately as soon as possible.
Sat., Sept. 17 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.	Appalachian Trail Day at Brasstown Bald Visitors Center & Recreation Area-- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH will have a booth at this celebration of the Appalachian Trail 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. 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 event will include information booths of several recreation and conservation organizations, interactive activities for the whole family, a hiking trail to the top of the mountain featuring educational signage about the AT as it passes through each state, interpretive talks by the rangers, and some interesting videos. The location is the lower parking lot and visitor center at Brasstown Bald, 2941 Hwy. 180 Spur, Hiawassee GA 30546. To volunteer, please contact Betty Larsen at 706-374-6435 or 706-633-0358 or bettyandjohnyoga@gmail.com.
Sun., Sept. 18	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., 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.
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.
Sat., Oct. 1 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.	SGH Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Dade & Walker Counties: This class is designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks: * An overview of the importance of hemlocks, the invasive insect that's killing them, and options property owners have for saving their trees. * 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 no later than noon on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30. Please contact Derrick Morris at 404-593-3173 or derrick1p1@gmail.com. The class will be taught via ZOOM, and the demo / hands-on practice segment will be scheduled separately as soon as possible.
Sun., Oct. 9	Hemlock treatment project at Tallulah River Campground -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH will be treating or retreating the hemlocks at Tallulah River Campground (HCA 37) 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.
Wed., Oct. 12 7 - 9 p.m.	SGH Leadership Team fall meeting: This meeting will focus 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. The meeting will be held via ZOOM, and the Meeting Agenda with sign-in instructions will be posted soon.
Sat., Oct. 15	Hemlock treatment project at Helton Creek -- VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: SGH will be treating or retreating the hemlocks at Helton Creek (HCA 64) on the Blue Ridge Ranger District in Union County. Project Details will be posted soon. Registration is required. To volunteer, please contact Jim Wentworth at wentwrth@windstream.net or 706-897-0645 and provide your name, phone number, preferred email address, and your county.
Sat., Oct. 15	Georgia Mountains Beer Fest at Gibbs Gardens -- 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.
Sat., Oct. 22	Dahlonega Community Service Fair -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: SGH will have a booth at this fair 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. Visitors can also learn about other kinds of community service opportunities. The location is St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church, 1188 Hamp Mill Rd., Dahlonega.
Sat., Oct. 22 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.	SGH Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for ALL Counties: This class is designed for people who want the practical knowledge and skills to actively participate in saving the hemlocks: * An overview of the importance of hemlocks, the invasive insect that's killing them, and options property owners have for saving their trees. * 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 no later than noon on FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21. Please contact Derrick Morris at 404-593-3173 or derrick1p1@gmail.com. The class will be taught via ZOOM, and the demo / hands-on practice segment will be scheduled separately as soon as possible.
Sun., Nov. 6	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 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., Nov. 12	Hornaday Conservation Weekend -- BOOTH HELPERS NEEDED: This annual event sponsored by the Boy Scouts of America is dedicated to Scouts' conservation and learning while working toward earning the William T. Hornaday Awards. SGH will have an education station to provide information about the hemlock problem, why it's so important to take timely action, and how Scouts can plan and execute several types of hemlock conservation projects leading to merit badges, Eagle Scout rank, and/or Hornaday Awards. The location is Camp Woodruff, 31 Woodruff Dr., Blairsville, GA 30512.
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Completed Events in FY 2022

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: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. 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. If you can come out and help, we'd love to have you join us. Thanks to FRAN MEEHAN, 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.
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 ! Meeting notes will be circulated soon. 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 10 a.m.	Presentation to the Georgia Native Plant Society. The event was held at Young Harris College, Maxwell Center, Room 107. Fifteen members and guests attended and asked a lot of great questions. 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, i f 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., 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.
Fri., 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
Fri., 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’s 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. 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.
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 Project Details.
Sat., Apr. 2	POSTPONED -- NEW DATE WILL BE ANNOUNCED Hemlock treatment on the Cartecay River: 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 total of 480 trees. GREAT JOB EVERYONE!
Wed., 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.