Issues

Hemlocks - The eastern and Carolina hemlock trees are dying due to a spreading infestation of the hemlock woolly adelgid, an aphid-like insect native to Asia. Hemlock stands are among the only old growth forests in the east and are of great importance to wildlife, water quality, economy, and basic quality of life.

Information about this year's Beetle Battle Paddle!

Read the HemlockFest 2007 Press Release

Hemlockfest 2007: Hemlockfest is a benefit music festival to raise awareness and funds to help save the eastern and Carolina hemlock trees. Funds raised will be used to support adelgid devouring beetle rearing labs. Two labs in Georgia are currently in need of support: one at UGA, and the other at Young Harris. Our efforts last year largely contributed to the establishment of a beetle rearing laboratory at the University of Georgia. The UGA lab is currently under renovation and is about $36,000 short of first year operational costs. The Young Harris lab has done a fantastic job from a small facility and is looking to expand its operation. All donations in support of this cause are 100% tax deductible.

Roadless Rule Act - The decision of whether or not to keep our last remaining roadless areas that are within our national forests roadless is now up to the governor of each state. The burden is put on keeping them roadless. Through a complicated application process each governor must request the protection of these areas that were once protected by law. The good news is that some applicants have been granted the protection sought. The bad news is that Georgia's Gov. Perdue is not applying.

I-3 - IMPORTANT: Read the new action alert from Georgia Forest Watch - An interstate has been proposed to connect Savannah, Ga. to Knoxville, Tenn. via Valdosta, Ga. and our Magnificent Appalachian Mountains (including through Great Smoky Mountain National Park). The devastation this would cause our watersheds, rivers and streams, our wildlife, our air quality, our small towns and businesses, and our overall quality of life is immeasurable but assured. Please join the effort to stop this or any new interstate from being constructed through our Piedmont or Appalachian regions.

River Monitoring and Clean-up - The Lumpkin Coalition is proposing to start a committee to address water issues. Activities may include the monitoring (health) of streams and rivers as well as assisting in the organization of/and participation in river clean-ups among other projects.