Save Georgia's Hemlocks

April 9th, 2024 

12pm-1pm
1 CEU

This presentation caters to both newcomers to the area who may not be familiar with the hemlock problem and those already aware of it but seeking further insights into the available options for preserving these trees.

During this hour long presentation you will be provided with an overview of the importance of the hemlocks, the invasive insect that's killing them, what property owners can do to save their own trees, opportunities for volunteers to help save the trees on public lands, and why timely action is vital.

About the Organization: 

Save Georgia's Hemlocks (SGH) is a rapidly growing grassroots organization of energetic individuals with diverse backgrounds, interests, ages, and origins, united by a common purpose to save the hemlocks. We began our efforts in July 2009 with a large goal -- to serve all of north Georgia where the woolly adelgid is a serious threat. With the help of many partners and volunteers, we have made steady progress since then, but there is still much to do.

SGH is a volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of concerned citizens dedicated to saving endangered hemlocks through education and charitable service. It is our vision that through our efforts of preservation, conservation, and restoration, there will be a healthy population of hemlocks in Georgia for future generations. To achieve this, our Hemlock Help Program focuses on three goals:

■ Educate -- Enhance public awareness of the hemlock woolly adelgid crisis, current practical options and emerging control technologies, and the aesthetic, economic and environmental reasons to take timely and effective action to save the hemlocks.

■ Enable -- Ensure easy access to sound hemlock-specific instruction, advice regarding economical solutions, and availability of necessary resources.

■ Engage -- Enlist our volunteers to provide direct assistance to property owners, nonprofits, and public land managers. 

About the Speaker, Donna Shearer -- Founder

Atlanta native Donna Shearer realized her childhood dream of living in a log cabin in the mountains when she and her husband Mark moved to Dahlonega in 2002. With their home situated in a dense hemlock grove along a trout stream, it was particularly troubling when in 2005 they discovered their evergreen sanctuary was threatened by an infestation of an invasive insect, the hemlock woolly adelgid.

Rather than give up, they began researching the hemlock problem and treating the trees on their own property that same year. The successful results motivated Donna to share the benefit of their knowledge and experience with others, and in 2009 she and a small group of volunteers founded Save Georgia's Hemlocks. She is now retiring as Executive Director but will remain active with the organization.