Partners at University of Georgia Cooperative Extension plant trees provided by the ReLeaf Program at the Decatur County Agriculture Center.
This spring, the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District lead a project for tree canopy restoration through the Southwest Georgia ReLeaf Program. The Georgia Tree Council administers the Southwest Georgia ReLeaf program in conjunction with the Georgia Forestry Commission to provide funding for tree-planting and tree giveaway projects in communities impacted by Hurricane Michael.
The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District (FRSWCD) partnered with Decatur County Extension to offer a three-part tree restoration program with tree giveaways, tree replenishment, and educational outreach in Decatur County.
“There was catastrophic tree loss in Decatur County following Hurricane Michael,” says Lindsey Hayes, Director of Operations for the FRSWCD, who led the project. “Particularly in the western part of the county, canopy loss was as high as 95 percent. This made Decatur County the perfect place for the District to work with local partners to contribute to reestablishment efforts.”
As part of the program, FRSWCD planted native trees at the Decatur County Agriculture Center. Different tree species planted provide an outdoor classroom as a learning platform for native tree identification and wildlife habitat management for the local Decatur County 4-H land judging, forestry judging, and wildlife judging teams.
University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Agent Brian Hayes distributes trees to Dr. Crycynthia Gardner of Hutto Middle School as part of the community tree giveaway for the ReLeaf Program.
“Like many places in the county, the Ag Center suffered from tree canopy loss where trees were also used for an educational classroom for local judging teams,” says Hayes. “Ensuring reestablishment results in a long-term impact for continued educational activities that are accessible to the entire community.”
Additionally, local students received hands-on educational instruction relating to tree species classification and conservation practices. A tree giveaway was also held for community members, education partners, and volunteers. Sixty 3-gallon native trees along with tree care instructions were distributed on a first come first served basis. Species given away included live oak, red maple, sycamore, yellow-popular, and redbud.
“The partnership between Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District and Decatur County Extension to offer tree canopy restoration opportunities in Decatur County where Hurricane Michael caused tremendous economic and infrastructure loss has been beneficial in rebuilding efforts,” stated Teresa Adkins, Decatur County Extension 4-H/Family and Consumer Science Agent. “Community citizens that were able to take home trees as a part of the tree giveaway were excited and appreciative of the opportunity to continue rebuilding following the abundant tree loss in 2018.”
The Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District is comprised of farmers, landowners, and community leaders that are dedicated to the conservation, wise use, and protection of natural resources in the Flint River Basin. Learn more about the District at flintriverswcd.org.
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