Community Forestry Training Program in Georgia

Georgia’s soil and water conservation district supervisors have been working for the past year to build their communities’ capacity to implement sustainable urban and community forestry programs. To help them do that, the Georgia Association of Conservation District Supervisors (GACDS) obtained a grant in 2009 from the Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program administered by the Georgia Forestry Commission. By increasing their awareness of urban forestry issues through their participation in the GACDS Community Forestry Training Program, supervisors are now better equipped to assist in the development of successful urban forestry programs in their districts.

The aesthetic value of a healthy urban forest is obvious, but many citizens are not knowledgeable about the environmental, economic, and social benefits provided by urban forests. In addition to absorbing carbon dioxide and giving oxygen, trees impact human health by removing pollutants from the air. The urban forest can greatly reduce soil erosion, slow storm water runoff, and improve water quality as runoff is filtered. Strategically placed trees conserve energy in homes and offices by providing summer shade and winter windbreaks. A healthy urban forest enhances wildlife habitat and prompts people to spend more time outdoors. Research reveals the economic benefits of maintaining shaded, tree-lined business districts.

Training sessions at the GACDS Annual Meeting and summer group meetings have emphasized the important role that trees play in the management of natural resources. Sustainable community foresters, University of Georgia and Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission personnel, Natural Resources Conservation Service staff, certified arborists, and district supervisors conveyed the value of community forestry and have been available to offer technical assistance as needed. Program participants continue to have access to a wealth of urban forestry information from UGA, the Georgia Urban Forest Council, and the Georgia Forestry Commission.

Several of Georgia’s districts support local community forestry programs by hosting workshops, giving away trees to celebrate Arbor Day, conducting poster contests, and leading planting efforts. With their technical knowledge, networking ability, and practical experience, supervisors are able to contribute a great deal to their local programs. GACDS will continue to educate supervisors about the value of urban forestry, with the goal of inspiring leadership in planting, maintaining, and promoting healthy community forests.