Scheduled Events for FY 2019

Sat., July 27
10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop in Hall County.  This class is designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline.  

Registration is required.  The class will be held at the Hall County board of Education, 711 Green Street in Gainesville.  For registration and full details, contact Kim Wood at 706-455-2313 or kimberlyraewood@gmail.com,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address. 

Sat., Aug. 3
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for SGH-USFS hemlock treatment project at Lake Winfield Scott.  When we did the treatment project in the cabins area on May 19, it turned out that there were WAY MORE trees than the original 813 listed on the log sheets from the previous project in 2014, so we didn't get quite finished.  We estimate there may be another 150 trees that still need to be treated, so we plan to finish on Aug. 3 and also treat the hemlocks around the lake.  Experienced hands and novices alike are welcome, so please come out for an enjoyable and worthwhile day in the woods!  Click here for the Project Details.

Registration is required.  For registration and full details, contact Donna Shearer at 706-429-8010 or donna@savegeorgiashemlocks.org,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address.

Sat., Aug. 24
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for SGH-USFS hemlock treatment project at Bob Creek & Lordamercy Cove.  We'll be treating or retreating approximately 180 hemlocks on these two sites near Blairsville in Union County.  Experienced hands and novices alike are welcome, so please come out for an enjoyable and worthwhile day in the woods!  Project Details will be posted soon.   

Registration is required.  For registration and full details, contact Donna Shearer at 706-429-8010 or donna@savegeorgiashemlocks.org,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address.

Sun., Sept. 1 
 

Lake Rabun Association Labor Day Meeting:   SGH will have an educational exhibit, give a brief presentation about the hemlocks and their importance to the Lake Rabun community, and provide printed hemlock information to property owners. 

The event will take place in Lakemont.

Mon., Sept. 2 
 

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'll do something fun outdoors and make some good memories.  

Sat., Sept. 7 &
Sun., Sept. 8 
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. both days
 

Trail Fest:  SGH will have a booth at this 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 the historic square and Hancock Park in downtown Dahlonega.

Sat., Sept. 14
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for SGH-USFS hemlock treatment project at High Shoals.  We'll be treating or retreating approximately 180 trees in this hemlock conservation area near Blairsville in Union County.  Experienced hands and novices alike are welcome, so please come out for an enjoyable and worthwhile day in the woods!  Project Details will be posted soon.   

Registration is required.  For registration and full details, contact Donna Shearer at 706-429-8010 or donna@savegeorgiashemlocks.org,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address.

Sat., Sept. 28 
 

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. 5
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Foxfire Mountaineer Festival:  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 be available for adoption.

The location will be the Rabun County Civic Center, 201 West Savannah St., Clayton, GA 30525.

Sat., Oct. 5 &
Sun., Oct. 6
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. both days 

Georgia Marble Festival:   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 be available for adoption.

The location will be Lee Newton Memorial Park, 500 Stegall Drive, Jasper, GA  30143. 

Wed., Oct. 9
9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for SGH hemlock project at Yonah Preserve.  We'll be doing two kinds of activities on this day:  treating the hemlocks around the waterfall that were not treated last year and planting about 3 dozen large hemlock saplings along the roads and trails.   Experienced hands and novices alike are welcome, so please come and enjoy a worthwhile day in the woods benefitting the community in White County!  Project Details will be posted soon.

Registration is required.  For registration and full details, contact Donna Shearer at 706-429-8010 or donna@savegeorgiashemlocks.org,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address.

Sat., Oct. 12
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for SGH-USFS hemlock treatment project.  Location and project details will be posted soon.  Experienced hands and novices alike are welcome, so please come out for a worthwhile day in the woods! 

Registration is required.  For registration and full details, contact Donna Shearer at 706-429-8010 or donna@savegeorgiashemlocks.org,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address.

Sat., Oct. 19
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 
 

Georgia Mountains Brew Fest at Gibbs Gardens:  SGH will have a booth at this 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.

The location will be Gibbs Gardens, 1987 Gibbs Dr. off Yellow Creek Rd. in Ball Ground, GA 30107.

Sat., Oct. 26
10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
(rescheduled from
June 8)
 

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Towns County:  This class is designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline.  

Registration is required.  The  class will be held in the Community Center in Bald Mountain Park, 569 Gander Gap  Hiawassee, GA 30546.  For registration and full details, contact Kim Wood at 706-455-2313 or kimberlyraewood@gmail.com,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address.  

Sun., Nov. 3
1 - 5 p.m. 
 

SGH Leadership Team fall meeting:  All Leadership Team members, Lead Facilitators, and other interested parties are encouraged to come to this meeting to discuss and plan upcoming activities.  An agenda will be posted here prior to the meeting.  

The location will be the home of Donna Shearer, 37 Woody Bend, Dahlonega, GA  30533. 

Sat., Nov. 16
9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
 

SGH-BMTA HIKE & HELP THE HEMLOCKS -- VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED:     Resuming a longstanding tradition, SGH and the Benton MacKaye Trail Association (BMTA) will partner for our annual Hike & Help the Hemlocks, an education and service event to save the hemlocks from the invasive Hemlock Woolly Adelgid.  This year's outing will be on the Benton MacKaye Trail on a section to be selected by the BMTA; we'll announce the exact location shortly.

Following a short orientation and safety briefing, volunteers will work together in small teams to treat (or retreat) approximately 180 trees along the trail.  Participants will not only be helping to save those trees but will also have the opportunity to learn how to treat their own hemlocks.

During the midday picnic lunch there will be several interesting lunch-and-learn presentations and a time to get to know other participants who share a love of the outdoors.  The weather should be good, the scenery lovely, the work rewarding, and the company great!  So dust off your boots, grab your hiking stick, and invite a friend to come too.

Registration is required.  For registration and full details, contact Donna Shearer at 706-429-8010 or donna@savegeorgiashemlocks.org,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address.

Sat., Nov. 23
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for SGH-USFS hemlock treatment project.  Location and project details will be posted soon.  Experienced hands and novices alike are welcome, so please come out for a worthwhile day in the woods! 

Registration is required.  For registration and full details, contact Donna Shearer at 706-429-8010 or donna@savegeorgiashemlocks.org,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address.

Thurs., Nov. 28 
 

Thanksgiving Day:  Gratitude is much on our minds during the Thanksgiving season as we reflect on our blessings – perhaps families, friends, homes, health, or jobs, – and our hearts go out to people who have suffered losses.  It’s also a time to think about broader kinds of blessings, not just those that we have but those that surround us – the beautiful part of the country where we live, the bountiful natural resources in our area, our freedom to enjoy them,  and yes, our responsibility and privilege to protect these treasures.

If you'd like to turn your gratitude into action, please read this reprinted article and then contact us for an update on how you can help save the hemlocks.  And Happy Thanksgiving!

Completed Events in FY 2019

Mon., Dec. 3

Trout Unlimited - Savannah River Chapter meeting:  John Shearouse attended this meeting at Lake Hartwell on behalf of SGH to discuss Facilitator training and hemlock-related service projects they want to undertake on their favorite trout streams.  Approximately 25 TU members were present.

Tues, Dec. 4

Sat., Dec. 15

SGH sapling rescue in Gilmer County:  Four volunteers rescued 117 saplings.  49 of them were taken to SGH Facilitator Mason Sheffield's nursery in Alpharetta and potted for future use; 11 were taken to the SGH nursery in Dahlonega and potted; and see below for the other 57.

Sun., Dec. 16

Initiation of new hemlock sapling nursery:  Fifty-seven recently rescued saplings were planted in a new section of Shearouse Nursery in Lavonia, owned by SGH Leadership Team Member John Shearouse.

Tues., Dec. 25

Christmas Day:  Our warmest greetings go out to all our members, volunteers, friends, and supporters. 
We hope it was filled with all the warmth, joy, and peace of this special season.

Tues., Jan. 1

New Year's Day:  Here's to your health and happiness throughout the coming year!  And if you made some resolutions for the New Year, we hope one of them is to be an active volunteer to help save the hemlocks.

SGH presentation to Trout Unlimited:  Chattahoochee-Nantahala Chapter meeting in Blairsville.  Approximately 30 members were present.  At the end of the meeting they presented SGH with a generous donation.  Thank you so much!

The location was Union County Community Center on Union County Rec Rd. off Murphy Hwy 129 in Blairsville.

SGH sapling rescue in Gilmer County: Two volunteers rescued 10 saplings, which were taken to the SGH nursery in Dahlonega and potted for future use.

Scouting trip in the Upper Chattahoochee River Campground :  Two members of the SGH Leadership Team did initial scouting to locate and scope some of the sites in preparation for SGH-USFS treatment projects starting this spring.

Mon., Jan. 21 
 

Martin Luther King Day of Service

Hope you went out and did a good thing in your community today!  The MLK web site had lots of good ideas and even lesson plans for kids' activities.  

Wed., Jan. 30
rescheduled for Feb. 27

Scouting trip to HCAs in western counties:  Two members of the SGH Leadership Team were scheduled to do  initial scouting with the USFS Silviculturist to locate and scope sites in preparation for SGH-USFS treatment projects this year.  This event was postponed due to the government shutdown and was rescheduled.

Sat., Feb. 9

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Facilitator Training Workshop in Cherokee County:  Three new Facilitators were trained in this class designed for people who want both understanding and practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline.

The class was held at the 1st United Methodist Church in Canton.

Fri., Feb. 15

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.  You can also order tree seedlings from the Georgia Forestry Commission.

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.

Sat., Feb. 16

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Facilitator Training Workshop for Pickens and Gordon Counties:  Two new Facilitators were trained in this class designed for people who want both understanding and practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline. 

The  class was held at The Cottage in Bent Tree, Jasper. 

Tues., Feb. 19 
 

Partnership Meeting:  SGH met with faculty and students at the Woody Gap School to explore a partnership for establishing a new hemlock sapling nursery at the school as part of their Mountain Heritage Program.   Planning and preparation will be done over the spring and summer with implementation targeted for this fall.

The school is located at 2331 State Hwy 60, Suches, GA 30572.

Sat., Feb. 23

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Facilitator Training Workshop in White County:  Three new Facilitator were trained and two current Facilitators were refreshed in this class is designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline. 

The  class was held in the Discover Room at the Smithgall Woods Visitors Center.

Wed., Feb. 27 
 

Scouting trip to HCAs in western counties:  Two members of the SGH Leadership Team were scheduled to do  initial scouting with the USFS silviculturist to locate and scope sites in preparation for SGH-USFS treatment projects this year.     Two members of the SGH Leadership Team did initial scouting with Griz McGaughey, USFS Silviculturist, to locate and scope some of the sites in preparation for SGH-USFS treatment projects starting this spring

Sat., Mar.  2

Hemlock restoration project:  Forty-one volunteers from SGH, Trout Unlimited, The Nature Conservancy, Dalton State College, the U. S. Forest Service, Georgia DNR, and the local community came together to plant 60 very large  hemlocks (6+ feet tall) along Mill Creek north of Chatsworth in Murray County to restore the shade canopy along the trout stream and in the campground.  Click here for Project Details. 

The trees and all planting materials were pre-staged the day before by John Shearouse, Jen Houts, Jim Reich, Bob Murrah, Bob Wetzsteon, Todd Baker, and Donna Shearer.  On project day, volunteers worked in teams to get the job done -- some pruning branches and roots, some mixing special soil amendments, some digging the planting holes, some treating the trees for HWA, and all participating in the planting.  Lunch was brought in by Jim Heilman.  Everyone had a wonderful time on this beautiful spring day, and by the end of the project the woods looked much more beautiful.  THANKS FOR A JOB WELL DONE, EVERYONE!!!

We met at the Triple C Market #2 / Sunoco Station, 6110 US-411, Chatsworth and then carpooled to the Mill Creek project site.

Mon., Mar. 11

SGH Hemlock Lesson for the general ecology class at Truett McConnell University.  Six students and their professor attended this presentation that focused on the hemlocks vs. the woolly adelgids to explore the concepts of ecosystem interdependencies, the importance of biodiversity, problems caused by invasive species, and protection of the environment.  At the end, it broadened to consider stewardship as not a function of ownership but of responsible membership in our planet community and related the concept to everyday issues such as energy, air and water quality, soil conservation, forests and natural habitats, and recycling.

The location was Truett McConnell University, 100 Alumni Dr, Cleveland, GA 30528.

Sat., Mar. 16

SGH-DNR hemlock project at Smithgall Woods:  Eighteen volunteers came out on this beautiful day to help find, measure, and flag hemlock trees in preparation for a treatment project next weekend.  Everyone worked energetically, had a good time, and finished tagging more than 300 trees by lunch time -- WELL DONE!!!

The location to meet was the Visitor Center.  See map. 

Mon., Mar. 18

SGH sapling planting project with students at Truett McConnell University.  Nine students and their professor planted eight healthy hemlock saplings along a woodland trail to enhance the beauty and environmental health of the campus and help raise awareness among the young people concerning the plight of the hemlocks.

The location was Truett McConnell University, 100 Alumni Dr, Cleveland, GA 30528.

Thurs., Mar. 21

International Day of Forests and the Tree:  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.

Thurs., Mar. 21 
rescheduled for Apr. 2

Meeting of SGH,  Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, and Georgia Forest Watch to plan possible treatment projects along the AppalachianTrail.

Sat., Mar. 23

SGH-DNR hemlock treatment project at Smithgall Woods:  Twenty-two volunteer from SGH, Friends of the Park, plus the community plus three members of the park staff come out today to treat 325 trees in the cabins area that were measured and flagged the previous weekend.  Following a project overview and safety briefing, the group divided into small teams and went to work.  By noon, all the trees had been treated, and the volunteers departed with our SINCERE THANKS and the satisfaction of having participated in a worthwhile project on a beautiful spring day.

The location was Smithgall Woods, 61 Tsalaki Trail in Helen.

Sun., Mar. 24

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Trout Unlimited Savannah River Chapter:  Six new Facilitators were trained in this class designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline. 

The  class was held at the Hart EMC, 1071 Elberton Hwy, Hartwell, GA 30643.

Sat., Mar. 30

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop in Rabun County:  Four new Facilitators were trained in this class designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline. 

The  class was held in "The Diner" on the lower level of the Rabun County Civic Center, 201 West Savannah, Clayton, GA  30525. 

Tues, Apr. 2

Partnership Meeting of SGH,  Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, and Georgia Forest Watch to explore the possibility of conducting hemlock treatment projects along the Appalachian Trail. 

Tues., Apr. 9 
 

Partnership Meeting with Project Chimps in Morganton to explore a partnership for treating the hemlocks on their campus, rescuing some small saplings, and planting/transplanting more hemlocks there.   Project Chimps' mission is to provide lifelong exemplary care to chimpanzees retired from research.  They also want to be good neighbors in the community and proactive stewards of their property.

The preserve is located at 2031 Lowery Rd, Morganton, GA 30560.

Sat., Apr. 13

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop in Union County:  Seven new Facilitators were trained in this class designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline. 

The  class was held in the Union County Extension Office conference room located in the Union County Civic Center, 169 Wellborn St., Blairsville, GA  30512.  

Sat., Apr. 13

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for SGH-USFS hemlock treatment project in the Corbin Creek hemlock conservation area of Towns County (see map and Project Details). 

Following a brief orientation and safety reminder, 14 volunteers divided into small teams including at least one experienced Facilitator and treated or retreated 170 hemlocks.  We too a break at midday for a group picnic and then resumed work, finishing by 2:30.  It was a wonderful day in a beautiful primitive camp site, and everyone had a great time.  Thanks to Bob Pledger and all you great volunteers!

Sun., Apr. 14

SGH Leadership Team spring meeting:  All Leadership Team members, Lead Facilitators, and other interested parties are encouraged to come to this meeting to discuss and plan upcoming activities.  Click here for the meeting notes.

The location was the home of Donna Shearer, 37 Woody Bend, Dahlonega, GA  30533.

Mon., 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.  Click to read announcement of the Global Climate Change Agreement, December 12, 2016.

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.

Wed., Apr. 24 -- to be rescheduled

Sapling rescue project in Gilmer County.  To volunteer, contact Chris Curtin at 404-630-0156 or christead@yahoo.com.

Fri., Apr. 26 -- to be rescheduled

Sapling rescue project on two properties in Fannin County.  To volunteer, contact Chris Curtin at 404-630-0156 or christead@yahoo.com.

Sat., Apr. 27

Trout Fest:  SGH has 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, there were special materials to highlight 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.   We were able to talk with an estimated 140 visitors and got 20 little saplings adopted.

The location was the downtown park in Blue Ridge.

Sat., Apr. 27 &
Sun., Apr. 28

Bear on the Square Mountain Festival:  SGH had a booth at this fun family-friendly 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.   We were able to talk with an estimated 300 visitors over the two days and got 61 little saplings adopted.

The location was the historic square and Hancock Park in Dahlonega.

Sat., May 4

SGH HEMLOCK CAMP MEETING & PICNIC
(Click here for the Recap with Photos.)

WHAT:  Save Georgia’s Hemlocks Annual Hemlock Camp Meeting and Picnic-- a "gathering of kindred spirits to celebrate and preserve the magnificent hemlock"

THIS YEAR'S THEME:  A day of appreciation and inspiration for our members, volunteers, and supporters.

TWO KEYNOTE SPEAKERS shared their inspiring stories of their resourceful work to save the hemlocks:  

* Thom Green with the Hemlock Restoration Initiative (HRI), whose mission is to restore eastern and Carolina hemlocks to their native habitats throughout North Carolina and to mitigate damage to hemlocks caused by infestation of the hemlock woolly adelgid. 

* Alex Harvey with the Paddlers Hemlock Health Action Taskforce (PHHAT), whose collaboration with HRI and other organizations utilizes expert paddlers to treat trees along the Green River in North Carolina following a custom protocol to ensure safety and protect water quality while chemically protecting many trees from the river that would likely not be otherwise treated due to the difficulty of accessing them by land.
 

OTHER FEATURES:  Music by the eclectic and versatile Bill Pound, barbecue from Poole's plus everyone's potluck covered dishes to share, educational materials and experts on hand, short movie "The HemlockWoolly Adelgid – A Film About the Loss of an Ecosystem” by Chris Foito, raffle of some very cool items, and an opportunity to visit with old and new friends who share your interest in protecting the beauty and health of the natural resources we all enjoy.

WHERE:  ETC Pavilion in Ellijay.

Sun., May 12 
 

Happy Mother's Day!  We hope you did something special today in celebration or memory of your own mother.  And if YOU are a mother or grandmother, we hope you were able to spend time with your family or plan a special activity to make the day meaningful.  In celebration of Mother Nature, why not take a walk, have a picnic, visit a waterfall, go bird watching, or plant a garden.  We'd love to hear YOUR ideas too! 

We have lots of healthy hemlock saplings on hand.  If you'd like one to plant or give as a gift, call the Hemlock Help Line 706-429-8010.

Fri., May 17

Endangered Species Day:  Each year the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service observes Endangered Species Day in order to recognize the national conservation effort to protect our nation's endangered species and their habitats.  Click here to learn about the Endangered Species Act and find interesting ways to engage kids, families, youth groups, and educators in this important effort.

Sat., May 18

Plant Conservation Day:  This global celebration is dedicated to preserving, protecting, and conserving plants for people and the planet.  Plants are the backbone of all life on Earth: they regulate our climate, purify our water, help create rich soils and protect those soils from erosion.

Plants, in their amazing diversity, are also an essential resource for human survival and well-being: they provide food, medicine, shelter, and clothing, and are a source of unending beauty.  Can you imagine what the world would be with without plants?  Click here to learn more about why plants are so important.

Unfortunately, the plants that are vital to people and the planet are facing serious threats in your backyard and around the world.   Click here to learn more about why plants need your help.

There are many ways you can help conserve plants for the planet.  Help raise awareness by celebrating your own Plant Conservation Day, or find out more about how you can make a difference.

Sat., May 18

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop in Habersham County:  Five new Facilitators were trained in this class designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline. 

The  class was held at the Cooperative Extension Office, 555 Monroe St. in Clarkesville. 

Sun., May 19
(rescheduled from May 11)

SGH-USFS hemlock treatment project in the cabins area of Lake Winfield Scott.  On this joint project of SGH, the U. S. Forest Service, and the cabin owners, 39 volunteers treated or retreated 954 trees in under 6 hours!!!  With Derrick Morris serving as SGH project leader and Cathy Strickland as LWS project leader, ten teams equipped with soil injectors tackled the job with great energy and a wonderful sense of camaraderie.   THANKS EVERYONE!!! Click here for Project Details and maps. 

It turned out that there were WAY MORE trees than the original 813 listed on the log sheets from the previous project in 2014, so we didn't get quite finished.  We estimate there may be another 150 trees that still need to be treated, so we plan to do those this summer when we come back to treat the hemlocks around the lake.

Sat., May 25 &
Sun., May 26

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.  Over the two days we had an estimated 422 visitors to our booth, got 50 healthy hemlock saplings adopted, and gained quite a few new members.   Thanks to all our volunteers who made this event a great success on behalf of the hemlocks.

The location was the downtown park in Blue Ridge.

Sun., May 26
 

Lake Rabun Association Memorial Day Meeting in Lakemont:  SGH had an educational exhibit, gave a brief presentation about the hemlocks and their importance to the Lake Rabun community, and provided printed hemlock information to an estimated 100 property owners.  Thanks to Bob Pledger and Buz Stone for their outreach at this event.

Mon., May 27
 

Memorial Day:    This holiday is observed on the last Monday in May each year to honor all those who have died serving in the United States military.  If you have someone who has served or is currently serving, why not honor them by planting a long-lived tree such as a hemlock.  You can contact the Hemlock Help Cline 706-429-8010 to get a tree as well as the special planting and care instructions.

Sat., June 1

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 1
 

Hemlock Day at Anna Ruby Falls:  In celebration of National Trails Day, SGH had an education station 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 75 visitors and got 9 healthy hemlock saplings adopted.   Thanks to Billy Johnson and Marc Neilsen for staffing this event!

The location will be the Anna Ruby Falls Visitors Center, 3455 Anna Ruby Falls Rd. near Helen.   

Thurs., June 13

Help for The Redbud Project: At the request of Margaret Rasmussen, president of The Redbud Project in Gainesville, SGH gave an outdoor presentation at the Linwood Nature Preserve about the hemlock problem and current solutions and then led a project to treat the hemlocks at the trailhead.  Five volunteers gave initial soil treatment to 19 large trees and will follow up soon with a foliar spray of the lower limbs of the largest and most heavily infested trees.  Next spring the 4 trees that are larger than 22" dbh will be retreated.

Linwood Forest Preserve, a public-private partnership of Gainesville Parks and Recreation and the Redbud Project, is located at 415 Linwood Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501.

Thurs., June 13

SGH presentation to Trout Unlimited Foothills Chapter:     In recognition of the importance hemlocks have for the health of our trout streams, SGH gave a presentation to 16 attendees at the June TU meeting covering:
* Multiple aspects of the value of the hemlocks,
* The invasive insect that killing them,
* How to recognize the problem and assess the level of infestation,
* What property owners can do to save their own trees,
* How property owners, volunteers, and organizations can help others in the community to save the hemlocks on our public lands,
* The consequences of not taking timely action, and
* The kinds of FREE help available through Save Georgia's Hemlocks.

The meeting was held in the Community Room of the United Community Bank on Hwy 441, 468 West Louise St. in Clarkesville.

Sun., June 16 
 

Happy Father's Day!  We hope you did something special today in celebration or memory of your own father.  And if YOU are a father or grandfather, we hope you were able to spend time with your family or plan a special activity to make the day meaningful -- maybe taking a walk, having a picnic, going fishing or biking or paddling, building a bird feeder, or planting a tree.  We'd love to hear YOUR ideas too! 

We have lots of healthy hemlock saplings on hand.  If you'd like one to plant or give as a gift, call the Hemlock Help Line 706-429-8010.

Sat., June 22

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Murray & Whitfield Counties:  Three new Facilitator were trained in this class designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline.  

 Registration is required.  The  class was held at the Murray County Agriculture Center, 1100 Green Rd. in Chatsworth. 

Sat., June 29
 

SGH-USFS hemlock treatment project at Wolf Creek.  Sixteen volunteers came out for this project  in a beautiful wooded area of Union County.  This was our second visit to this site and we treated or retreated approximately 187 trees.  the treatment project we did here in April 2012 was actually our first joint effort with the U. S. Forest Service.  Click here for Project Details, including driving directions.

Thanks everyone for a job well done!  And we were glad to have our long-time friend Jim Wentworth with us as well as several newbies who we hope will join us again soon!

Thurs., 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 6
 

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Lumpkin & Dawson Counties:  Five new Facilitators were trained in this class designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline.  

The  class was held at the Chamber of Commerce / Visitors Center, 13 South Park St.  in Dahlonega. 

Sat., July 13
 

SGH Hemlock Help Clinic & Volunteer Facilitator Training Workshop for Dade & Walker Counties.  Ten new Facilitator were trained and five were refreshed in this class designed for people who want practical knowledge and skills related to the hemlock problem:
* 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 combined  Clinic & Facilitator Training description and outline.  

SGH-DNR hemlock treatment project:  After class and a quick sack lunch, most of the new trainees and additional volunteers from Friends of the Park went out into Cloudland Canyon State Park for a few hours and treated 221 of their beautiful hemlocks.    Click here for Project Details.

Class was held at the Interpretive Center of Cloudland Canyon State Park, and the hemlock treatment site was along Daniel Creek.

Sun., July 14
 

SGH Leadership Team summer meeting:  All Leadership Team members, Lead Facilitators, and other interested parties are encouraged to come to this meeting to discuss and plan upcoming activities.  Click here for the agenda and the meeting notes.  

The location was the home of Donna Shearer, 37 Woody Bend, Dahlonega, GA  30533. 

Sat., July 20
postponed until fall
 

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for SGH-USFS hemlock treatment project.  We will be treating or retreating the hemlocks at Swallow Creek and Falls Branch in Towns County.  Experienced hands and novices alike are welcome, so please come out for a worthwhile day in the woods!   The project details will be posted as soon as this event is rescheduled. 

Registration is required.  For registration and full details, contact Donna Shearer at 706-429-8010 or donna@savegeorgiashemlocks.org,  and be sure to provide both your phone number and email address.