Forest Info Available to Georgians from Georgia Forestry Commission

The latest comprehensive report detailing Georgia’s forest resource is now available in a convenient booklet and online at GaTrees.org. The information is a compilation and summary of the condition of forests in the state, collected from samples gathered between 1998 and 2004 from around Georgia.

“Forest Inventory Analysis plots are randomly located points across the state that are visited and remeasured every five years by Georgia Forestry Commission Foresters,” (GFC) said David Dickinson, Forest Inventory Analysis (FI) Coordinator for GFC. “Landowners can find important information about the state of our forests in the new booklet, ‘Georgia Forests 2004.’”

According to Dickinson, data on many forest variables are collected at FIA plots, including forest type, forest age, individual tree species, diameters, heights and other detailing wood quality. The latest data shows Georgia’s timberland acreage is remaining stable, with slight gains of the acreage recorded in 1997. Timberland acreage gains in the south and central parts of the state more than offset losses in the north central region, which includes the Atlanta Metro Area. Tree volume has increased for both softwood and hardwood, and average annual tree growth has exceeded annual removals. Average annual acreage of tree planting has continued to decline.

“Georgia’s Forests, 2004” can be obtained in hard copy by visiting your local Georgia Forestry Commission District Office, or by clicking on the link at GaTrees.org under the “Forest Management/Forest Inventory” tab.
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Georgia Aquaculture Farmers May Apply for Disaster Relief Funds to Recoup ‘08 Feed Cost

Agriculture Commissioner Tommy Irvin alerts Georgia aquaculture farmers that they may be eligible to receive disaster relief funds to partially off-set escalating feed costs associated with the 2008 calendar year.

The state has received $205,200 in assistance funds to help aquafarmers. The money comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 through the Commodity Credit Corporation.

“This is a small grant but we are happy to receive it,” says Irvin. “Anytime we are able to help Georgia farmers we are going to do it. This money is good news that will help to off-set the higher-than-expected feed costs associated with doing business in 2008.”

Aquaculture, the farming of freshwater and saltwater organisms, such as fish and shrimp, is a growing industry in Georgia with nearly 300 small, family-owned fish farms. Trout, carp and catfish are the most popular species of fish grown in the state.

To be eligible to submit an application for feed cost reimbursement, aquaculture farmers must have: raised an aquaculture species in a
controlled environment that is still in operation today; experienced a financial risk; not have an adjusted income in excess of $2.5 million and had feed cost that was at least 25 percent of the producer’s total input cost.

The application, which can be found on-line at www.agr.georgia.gov, is due Friday, August 14, 2009. Hour-long telephone conference calls -- to answer specific questions of aquaculture farmers -- are scheduled for July 31 and August 7. Details relating to the conference calls and the program can be found at www.agr.georgia.gov.

For additional information contact Ms. Moreblessing Dzivakwe, Georgia Department of Agriculture 2008 Aquaculture Grant Program at (404) 463-8875 or e-mail her at mdzivak@agr.state.ga.us
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Cooper Hawk in Fayette County?

As I walked by the back door a few minutes ago I caught something out of the corner of my eye on the back porch that just didn't look right. I peeked through the blinds and saw what I first thought was an animal of some sort, like a gopher, except I knew we didn't have gophers around here and they really didn't look like that .

I went to the door and pulled back the curtain, only to realize it was a hawk perched on the porch.

Wow.

I ran to the car, got my camera bag, went through all you go through getting one turned on and ready to go thinking the entire time that the hawk would be gone by the time I got back.

Not so.

I carefully pulled the curtain back and tried to get a shot. Realized I was getting part of the curtain, so zipped around to the other curtain-less door on the other side of the porch. Surely I'd scare it away, but had to try!

Nope, it stayed for the shots. My hummingbird feeder was in the way though so headed back to the other side. Obviously the hummingbirds knew they weren't big enough to temp the hawk... or they simply didn't notice him sitting there.

More photos on the other side, still through the glass door.

Finally, not because it reacted to me at all, the hawk moved up to the roof for a better view.

As I type I noticed a winged shadow go by the windows... maybe it found something to eat!

I made a quick slide show which I'll be adding to the Fayette Front Page later. I'll pop back over here and add a link just in case you want to see more shots.

I looked the hawk up in my bird book, couldn't decide if it was a Cooper Hawk or not. That's the closest I found, but the one in my book shows a darker breast and more red than "my" hawk had. Any ideas? Any bird folks out there who'll know right off the bat?

Terrance B. Gratton Receives the 2009 Walter F. Snyder Award

Award Recognizes Outstanding Achievement in Advancing Environmental Health

NSF International and the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) announced recently that Terrance B. Gratton, Dr.P.H., D.A.A.S., R.S. was the recipient of the 2009 Walter F. Snyder Award. Dr. Gratton was presented with the award at NEHA’s 73rd Annual Educational Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, June 21, 2009.

This prestigious award, given in honor of NSF's co-founder and first Executive Director, is presented annually to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the advancement of environment health. Dr. Gratton was recognized for his 40-year career within the San Antonio, Texas, Metropolitan Health Department, the U.S. Public Health Service and the University of North Texas School of Public Health.

“Dr. Gratton’s contributions to the environmental health profession have left a lasting positive impact in areas such as education, training and sanitation,” said Kevan P. Lawlor, NSF President and CEO. “It is his outstanding leadership and dedication to environmental health that resonate with the principles of Walter F. Snyder, and what make him an ideal recipient of the 2009 Walter F. Snyder Award.”

Early in his career, Dr. Gratton was employed as a sanitarian with the San Antonio Metropolitan Health Department (SAMHD), where he worked to improve and implement food establishment inspections in the lower income areas of the city. He was then promoted to the engineering section of SAMHD, where his primary responsibility was the inspection of daycare facilities, institutions and nursing homes. He later became the chief trainer of new sanitarians, where he taught food codes and San Antonio Metropolitan Health ordinances, improving the overall education and quality of sanitarians’ work with environmental health issues.

He joined the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service in 1977. During his career with the U.S. Public Health Service, Dr. Gratton spent 18 years with the Indian Health Service in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Arizona, and five years with the Bureau of Prisons in Fort Worth, Texas. Throughout his tenure with the Indian Health Service, Dr. Gratton’s leadership and determination led him to organize and implement several environmental improvement projects, which provided quality of life improvements to tribes in his jurisdiction.

“Dr. Gratton has long been involved in environmental health activities at the local, state, and national levels and always with great devotion to the people whose lives were being affected by poor environmental quality,” said Nelson Fabian, NEHA Executive Director. “His dedication to IHS over the last 18 years improved the lives of thousands of families living on the reservations. It is because of contributions like this and his outstanding leadership that Dr. Gratton is receiving the 2009 Walter F. Snyder Award.”

Many of Dr. Gratton’s contributions to environmental health have been demonstrated through his dedication to education and research. After retiring from the U.S. Public Health Service in 2000, Dr. Gratton turned his attention to educating the next generation of public health service leaders. As a full-time faculty member at the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health at the University of North Texas Health and Science Center School of Public Health, Dr. Gratton teaches the environmental health core courses for the Master of Public Health program and the environmental determinants core courses for the Ph.D. program.

“Terry is a strong leader, a talented educator and a role model for young sanitarians in Texas and across the U.S. Terry is generous with praise and never lacking for words of support,” said Steve Claybrook R.E.H.S., R.S., Past President of Texas Environmental Health Association.

Dr. Gratton serves on several institutional and academic committees, including Chair of the Health Science Center Safety Committee. He is a founding member of the Alpha Sigma Chapter of Delta Omega Public Health Honor Society and has received the Public Health Student Association Award for outstanding contributions for service and events. He has also received an Outstanding Teaching Award from the University of North Texas School of Public Health.
For more information about the Walter F. Snyder Award and previous winners, visit NSF's Web site.

About NEHA: The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) is a national professional society that represents the profession and practice of environmental health (www.neha.org).

About NSF International: NSF International, an independent, not-for-profit organization, helps protect you by certifying products and writing standards for food, water and consumer goods (www.nsf.org). Founded in 1944, NSF is committed to protecting public health and safety worldwide. NSF is a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Food and Water Safety and Indoor Environment. Additional services include safety audits for the food and water industries, management systems registrations delivered through NSF International Strategic Registrations, organic certification provided by Quality Assurance International and education through the NSF Center for Public Health Education.
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Workshops Offered for Arthritic Gardeners

Gardeners who suffer from arthritis can learn to plant and tend vegetables and weed flowerbeds with less pain at a new workshop offered by the University of Georgia’s AgrAbility program and the Arthritis Foundation.

The workshop, “Gardening and Farming with Arthritis,” will be offered in Athens Aug. 5, Gainesville Aug. 12, Tifton Nov. 5 and Macon Dec. 9.

Participants will learn how to manage arthritis pain through planting modifications, tool adaptations and other strategies. A tai chi class will follow each workshop. The tai chi portion will focus on slow, meditative, physical exercise designed for relaxation, balance and health.
Georgia’s AgrAbility program promotes independence for those disabled in the agricultural community. Presented by UGA Cooperative Extension, it is part of a national program administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

To register, visit www.farmagain.com/register, or call 706-542-0304 (toll free at 877-524-6264). The cost is $15. The workshops will be offered two times a day, at 9 a.m. (9:30 a.m. in Athens) and again at 2 p.m. Space is limited to 25 people per class.
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Georgia Conservancy, DNR Announce Species of the Week in Photo Contest

Georgia Residents Encouraged to Submit Photos of the Greenfly Orchid

WHAT: The Georgia Conservancy and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources announce the Greenfly orchid as the species of the week as part of a new statewide photo contest to encourage citizens to learn more about high-priority species and habitats listed in the State Wildlife Action Plan. The plan, commonly called SWAP, is a comprehensive strategy that guides DNR efforts to conserve biological diversity.

SPECIES OF THE WEEK: The Greenfly orchid, or Epidendrum conopseum, is the only orchid found on trees in Georgia. A small perennial herb that grows on trees or rocks from May through the end of July, its leafy stems attach to the orchid's substrate by a mass of roots. Marked by glossy evergreen leaves, the orchid can be found on shaded limbs of southern magnolia and live oaks, as well as other hardwoods in swamps and on bluffs. It is frequently hidden among the fronds of resurrection fern. The fruiting period runs from September to January, when its small, drooping capsules harden and then burst open, dispersing thousands of tiny seeds.

STATUS: The Greenfly orchid is state-listed as unusual in Georgia, where it has been recorded in 20 counties in the state's southeastern Coastal Plain. It is not federally listed, but is considered a high-priority species in Georgia's State Wildlife Action Plan. Timber harvest is the major threat to this species, which grows only in intact old-growth oak forests. The species' frost-tolerant characteristic also make it a target in the wild of irresponsible collectors.

HABITAT: This species lives in maritime evergreen oak forests and in Georgia's outer Coastal Plain. It is found across the Southeast's Coastal Plain from North Carolina to Louisiana; Eastern Mexico has a separate population.

SWAP PHOTO CONTEST: The Great Georgia Photo SWAP contest, a new project sponsored by the Georgia Conservancy and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), highlights nearly 30 high-priority species in all eco-regions of the state as listed in Georgia's State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP).

Unaltered and original photos submitted by citizens to swap@gaconservancy.org will be posted on the Georgia Conservancy's Web site, and participants will be awarded prizes each month as well as a digital camera grand prize for the person who submits the most photos over the course of the one-year project. The Species of the Week schedule includes animals such as the painted bunting, gopher tortoise and bottle-nosed dolphin.

Online:
** State Wildlife Action Plan: www.georgiawildlife.com/statewildlifeactionplan_conservation.aspx
** Georgia Conservancy: www.georgiaconservancy.org
** Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division: www.georgiawildlife.com
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Conservation Landscaping Comes Home

/PRNewswire/ -- As homeowners seek more sustainable, energy-efficient homes, developers are recognizing the role that effective landscape architecture combined with shade can play.

In recent years, the demand for "green" has focused primarily on the residential structure. Now, builders and developers are turning their attention to the landscape surrounding each dwelling, to help create greater energy efficiency inside homes.

Shade trees, hedges and vines

Landscaping professionals have long promoted the benefits of trees, hedges, and vines to provide cooling summer shade. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, trees placed strategically around buildings can save up to 56% on annual air-conditioning costs; trees also reduce storm-water runoff, and remove carbon dioxide and other harmful air pollutants. (For more, visit Trees Pay Us Back.)

Pragmatically, not every dwelling can be surrounded on all sides by shading greenery. And in new developments, it can take up to 15 years before the benefits of newly planted trees and shrubs are fully realized.

Awnings and canopies

Where location, climate or existing hardscape prevent the planting of trees, shrubs and vines, or around newer buildings with less mature plants, fabric awnings and canopies are an energy-saving addition to sustainable landscape design.

When added above windows and doors, awnings can significantly reduce home cooling energy use. "Energy efficiency is really the number one concern with green or sustainable buildings, and awnings can directly affect energy use by simply blocking the sun," according to John Carmody, Director of the Center for Sustainable Building Research at the University of Minnesota. "Heat gain through the windows is one of the main reasons why buildings need air conditioners. . . We found that awnings make quite a difference in the cooling energy equation. In some climates you can save 20 to 25 percent of your cooling energy just by using awnings."

Awnings and canopies add style, functionality and sustainability to hardscapes, and are more economical to build and maintain than comparable masonry and wood structures. From a conservation landscaping perspective, awnings placed on or near a home can significantly reduce energy consumption for cooling.

To promote the benefits of adding fabric structures to landscape designs, the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA) launched www.DesignWithAwnings.com. The site provides landscape architects and designers with ideas and information about incorporating awnings and canopies into their designs.

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Food preservation doesn’t save money for everyone

There are many reasons for preserving food at home. Some have to do with satisfaction, creativity or family tradition. Another may be economical. The practice may save money for some, but doesn’t for everyone.

If you are going to try and save money by freezing or canning produce at home, find low-cost sources for the raw food. To determine if you can save money this way, compare the cost of similar foods purchased at the grocery store.

Food and equipment costs

Food costs -- whether home grown or purchased -- can be a variable expense, depending on your situation. The cost of additional ingredients can also vary widely. You may just need sugar or fruit juice for packing fruits in containers, or your recipe may include herbs, spices, vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic or other ingredients.

The cost of equipment, such as a freezer or canner, can be significant if you are just starting out. Supplies such as packaging, funnels, jars and lids factor into the equation, too, as well as the energy of running stoves and freezers.

If you assign a monetary value for your time, the expense of producing preserved items at home can suddenly become significant.

Canning

The two most common forms of food preservation are canning and freezing. Many foods can also be dehydrated for longer-term storage.

Canning can be less expensive than freezing, but more time and energy are spent to prepare and process the foods. There are risks associated with canning foods. Specific preserving methods must be used to keep the food safe when stored at room temperatures. Food can spoil and make you sick if canning directions are not followed exactly.

One cost to consider when canning is jars, which cost $8 to $14 a dozen. Jars can be used for many years if handled carefully. If taken care of properly, ring bands should last for years also. The flat lids, however, need to be purchased every year.

Freezing

Freezing is a faster way to prepare food for long-term storage than canning or drying. Frozen produce, if carefully preserved, tastes fresher than food preserved using other methods.

It costs between 38 cents and 50 cents a year to maintain a freezer for one pound of food. In general, chest freezers are less expensive to run, but upright freezers can be more convenient. Better insulated freezers can cost more, but cost less to operate.

A well-managed freezer can save time, energy and gas from fewer trips to the store. To get the most out of your freezer, freeze only foods that the family likes to eat, and in amounts that can be served at one time.

When freezing foods, be sure to use proper packaging to protect flavor, color, moisture content and nutritional value from the dry conditions of the freezer.

Freezer containers should be moisture-vapor resistant, durable, leak proof, flexible, crack resistant and easy to seal and mark. Rigid plastic containers can be used for liquids. Freezer bags and wraps are more suitable for dry-pack products that contain little or no liquid.

Vacuum packaging is a great choice for maintaining food quality and is fairly easy to do. Just be sure to read the instructions on how to package wet and dry foods. Vacuum packaging removes the air that can lead to drying, oxidation and off-flavors, even at freezer temperatures.

Vacuum packaging does add additional expenses to home food preservation. The packaging is more expensive than other flexible bags and wraps, and of course, there is the initial cost for the appliance.

There are different preservation methods for many foods. Choose one that works for your family and produces the form of food you like.

Saving money may not be the major goal in preserving food at home. You might find the effort and expense worth the value of creating your own food supply, supporting local farmers in your community or passing along family traditions.

By Elizabeth Andress
University of Georgia

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Choosing The Right Mulch

(NAPSI)-If you're looking for a simple way to add new life to a garden, boost curb appeal or spruce up your landscaping, it could be time to start mulching.

Mulch can improve the health of soil and plants by minimizing weed growth and retaining water and nutrients. Plus, a thick layer of mulch helps protect roots from cold weather and extreme heat-all while helping to define flower beds and "edge out" bushes and trees.

All mulch, however, is not created equal. Yard experts say using the right type can save you work and money in the long run.

For instance, mulch made from wood, gravel or straw often needs to be replaced a few times throughout the year. But mulch made from recycled rubber requires little to no maintenance and lasts years without fading, decomposing, compacting or losing its original beauty. International Mulch Company even manufactures recycled rubber mulches that look just like their natural counterparts. In addition to being used in gardens and beds, the mulches can be spread under playground equipment to keep children safe.

An added bonus: The mulch keeps tires out of landfills. In fact, by the end of the year, the company will have recycled more than 200 million pounds of rubber into a full suite of landscaping and playground products-from mulch to mats, and timbers to tree rings. Try these additional mulching tips:

Pre-Mulching

Thoroughly rake and weed the area you plan to mulch before adding any ground cover. You might also consider using landscape paper to prevent the growth of unwanted grass or plants in a mulched garden.

How Much Mulch?

About 2.5 cubic yards of wood mulch will provide 4-inch deep coverage to 200 square feet of garden. But with rubber mulch you only need 11/2 inches as it doesn't compact. You can find a number of mulch coverage charts and calculators online to help you get a more precise understanding of your needs.

Spreading Mulch

Generally, you'll only need a rake and shovel to spread mulch. Start with a pile in the middle of the area to be mulched and spread the ground cover toward the garden's edges. After the mulch has been spread, fill in bare or thin spots by hand and water thoroughly.

For more information, visit www.internationalmulch.com or call (866) 936-8524.

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Lengthen the life of your cut flowers

(ARA) - In the mood to bring the bounty of the outdoors inside? The amazing colors, fragrances and textures of your flower garden can easily be brought indoors, arranged and appreciated throughout the summer and fall months.

Here are a few simple steps from FTD.com you can use to ensure that your flowers last longer:

* Pick flowers in early morning or in the evening, when stems are fully hydrated and not stressed from midday heat.

* Take a tall bucket with lukewarm water with you and immerse the stems as you gather.

* Cut the stems on an angle with a sharp, clean knife or pruners, to allow greater uptake of water through the stem.

* Once all the flowers are gathered, re-cut the stems underwater and strip away any foliage that will fall below the waterline once stems are placed in a vase.

* Arrange the flowers in a clean vase filled with room-temperature water and floral food.

* Place arrangements out of direct sunlight and away from any drafty areas.

Here are some other tips from FTD.com that will make creating a bouquet from your flower garden an easy and rewarding task:

* Use a mixture of focal flowers like lilies, roses and peonies; filler flowers like gypsophila, lady's mantle and Queen Anne's Lace and line flowers like liatrus, larkspur and delphinium. Using these three types of flowers will make your arrangement a dynamic piece of art you will be proud to display.

* A beautiful trend in flower arrangements is to include ornamental grasses, such as wheat, zebra grasses and millet grasses to add texture and interest to your garden and bouquets.

* Some of the foliage that you are stripping from the stems of your flowers may be used as an ornamental green in your bouquet, adding another level of texture into your arrangement.

* Choose interesting containers and vases with a touch of color and texture to bring out the beauty of your arrangement.

* Be aware that certain flowers will not re-bloom for up to two years after being cut. This is mostly true for bulb plants, such as daffodils and tulips.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Thwart thistle take-over on “Gardening in Georgia”

Thistle flowers are beautiful. But the damage the invasive plant can do in a pasture or landscape is not. Find out how to thwart its takeover on “Gardening in Georgia with Walter Reeves” July 11 and 15.

"Gardening in Georgia” airs on Georgia Public Broadcasting stations across the state each Saturday at 12:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., and repeats Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Many architects say to plant vines to hide mistakes. Show host Walter Reeves doesn’t agree, nor does his guest Hank Bruno. The pair will showcase several favorite vines that decorate a large building and talk about how vines can enhance the beauty of a building.

It’s heartbreaking to harvest the first few squash and then have the vine collapse, it seems, overnight. The squash vine borer is hurting plants throughout Georgia right now. Watch to find out how to stop it.

Beautiful but deadly might describe a pitcher plant bog. Jenny Cruse-Sanders takes Reeves to a bog and opens up a pitcher plant to see what it had for breakfast.

“Gardening in Georgia” is produced by the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, and is supported by a gift from McCorkle Nurseries.

Learn more about the show and download useful publications at the Web site www.gardeningingeorgia.com.

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Tips to prevent fire ants

(ARA) - Fire ants are very serious and territorial insects. They are not only a nuisance to your property; they can harm you, your children and your pets. Being able to identify fire ants, where they live, treatments for prevention, working with your neighbors for season-long control, and what to do if you are stung are all very important elements to educate yourself and family on in order to be fire ant-free.

Identifying fire ants and their mounds
Fire ants are small insects. They range in size from 1/16 to 1/5 of an inch long and are dark red and brown. A fire ant mound can be identified by its dome-shaped, soil-based structure that forms the upper most part of a fire ant colony. Their mounds can reach up to 12 inches or more in diameter and height and are usually found where water is nearby and the soil is damp.

Fire ants are hard workers and compile loose soil and other contents in the surrounding area to build their mounds. Mounds are typically visible in yards as soil granules form a "mound" shape, but are small and often hidden in grasses, weeds, under rocks and other landscaping. Mounds can pop up almost anywhere, but common places to watch for them include: Lawns and ornamental planting areas, patios, sidewalks, curbs, flower beds, compost piles, under trees and around electrical equipment. Be sure to keep an eye for fire ant mounds when you are enjoying parks, on golf courses, sports fields and any other places you, your kids or pets may walk through or play in.

Two-Step Method
There are two common approaches for effectively controlling fire ants -- broadcast treatments and mound treatments. For large yards and early season prevention, use a broadcast treatment, such as Over 'n Out Fire Ant Killer or AMDRO FireStrike to treat the entire yard. For smaller areas when visible mounds are present, use a mound treatment such as AMDRO Fire Ant Bait directly around individual mounds.

For the most comprehensive control, especially in the case of severe infestation, experts recommend a Two-Step Method using both broadcast and mound treatment. First use a broadcast spreader to treat your entire lawn. Then, treat particularly stubborn mounds you see with AMDRO Fire Ant Bait to eliminate fire ant activity in as little as one week.

It is an ant's nature to pick up food and bring it into the colony to feed to the queen and other ants. Ants believe that bait and AMDRO Fire Ant Bait are food. You feed the worker ants and they in turn, feed the queens. As the bait works, it destroys the colony.

Quite the opposite, but with the same results, fire ants unknowingly pick up Over 'n Out Fire Ant Killer on their bodies, carry it back to the mound, and distribute it to other colony members including the queen. Fire ants ingest it or absorb it through the cuticle, killing them and destroying the colony.

By using both a mound treatment and a broadcast treatment together, you achieve season-long control.

Neighborhood programs
The best way for homeowners to prevent fire ant infestations is to coordinate treatment with neighbors. A coordinated effort among neighbors maximizes the treated area, making it harder for fire ants to find a place to re-colonize. A neighborhood Two-Step Method is the most effective way to control and prevent fire ants for season-long control.

Studies show that areas with diligent neighborhood fire ant control programs, where multiple homeowners treat their lawns at the same time with the same fire ant control product, can reduce the number of active mounds by as much as 96 percent.

Treating fire ant stings
Fire ants bite and then inflict painful stings, which cause small blisters or pustules on the skin, typically up to 24 to 48 hours later. If you, your child, or your pet is stung by fire ants, it is important to follow first aid guidelines and to seek medical attention immediately if there is any suspicion of an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions include severe swelling, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, headaches and sweating.

If blisters occur, make sure they are clean and avoid any action that might further irritate the area, such as scratching or rubbing. Rinse the sting area with cold water and gentle soap to avoid infection and elevate the affected area of the body. You can use a cool compress or ice to reduce swelling and alleviate pain and itching.

Summer is the season to enjoy the outdoors. Now is the time to educate yourself and family on fire ants. Being able to identify fire ants and their mounds, proper treatments and handling stings are all extremely important to avoid fire ant infestation. Take time to educate yourself and family and enjoy a fire ant-free season.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Miracle gardening products most likely aren’t

From diet pills to wrinkle cream, if a product sounds too good to be true, chances are it is. Cable television and the Internet are filled with advertisements for wonder products. With gardening being a favorite outdoor activity, many of these so-called miracle products are designed with gardeners in mind.

One example is foolproof pesticides that are supposed to eradicate everything from Japanese beetles to millipedes. And herbicides that will supposedly last for months and eradicate almost any weed.

I recently heard a radio advertisement for a product that claims to kill Japanese beetles 'year-round. Being a Master Gardener, trained by the University of Georgia, I didn’t believe this claim for a minute. Unfortunately, the average homeowner or novice gardener may.

To avoid being burned by the latest revolutionary product, gardeners should read product labels thoroughly.

And it doesn’t hurt to know a little chemistry. Become familiar with potential active ingredients such as glyphosate, bifenthrin, triclopyr, cyfluthrin, imidacloprid, trifluralin and spinosad.

When using a new gardening product, ask yourself a few questions: Are there any potential hazards? Will the product harm pets, wildlife or bees? Can it be safely applied in or near vegetable gardens or near a water source?

Before you purchase a product based on a flashy TV advertisement, do some personal homework. One good resource is the Web site www.GeorgiaTurf.com. Here consumers can find unbiased research-based recommendations.

The Environmental Protection Agency's Web site at www.epa.gov/agriculture/pesticide.html lists the different types of pesticides and their requirements.

For in-depth information on managing pests, see the UGA Pest Management Handbook online at www.ent.uga.edu/pmh/ or contact your local UGA Cooperative Extension Office at 1-800-ASK-UGA1.

Know the facts before getting drawn in by advertising claims that are likely too good to be true.

By Charlie Christian
Georgia Master Gardener

Charlie Christian is a Morgan County Master Gardener and an avid gardener.
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Prime Planting Options For Tough-To-Grow Areas

(NAPSI)-No matter how green their thumbs, many homeowners have areas in their landscapes that are beyond frustrating. In those dark, rocky or high-traffic areas, nothing will grow.

A key solution for filling in these unfriendly terrains are plants known as ground covers. This type of greenery typically sprawls, spreads, runs or colonizes by reseeding. Some ground covers will only grow in full shade, others thrive in full sun and still others will survive no matter where you grow them.

Ground covers come in a wide range of sizes, colors and textures, adding interest, beauty and uniformity to the garden. And once established, these plants usually require little or no maintenance other than a yearly feeding with a good all-purpose fertilizer.

For example, the new line of Forever & Ever GroundCovers can be an excellent solution to a homeowner's gardening headaches. Available in over 25 unique varieties, these plants can be a great way to give your landscape a boost.

Shady areas under trees or overhangs from the house often get neglected because they don't get enough sunlight for any plant to thrive. Ground covers solve that problem with several options that will grow green and dense in these areas. For instance, vinca minor varieties are short evergreen ground covers that flower throughout the early spring.

There are also several ground covers in this program that offer tough resistance in high-traffic areas where plants would normally get damaged. The Platt's Black Brass Buttons is a smart choice along walkways or in between stepping-stones. Ground covers like these offer a visually interesting way to decorate an entrance to your home other than turfgrass.

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the Forever & Ever GroundCover line is that all the distinctive plants in the collection are perennials. This means that home gardeners will be able to enjoy their plantings year after year, without worrying about these tough areas the following spring.

This new ground cover collection offers numerous alternatives to traditional gardening and landscaping. These creeping perennials can help keep home gardeners happy for years to come. Forever & Ever GroundCovers are available at fine home centers and independent garden centers.

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Just In Time: A New Mosquito "Killing Machine"

(NAPSI)-Mosquito season is here-and so is the need to protect ourselves from West Nile and other potentially dangerous mosquito-borne diseases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the West Nile virus alone resulted in more than 1,300 human cases and 44 fatalities across the United States in 2008. Additionally, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is warning of a heightened "potential for mosquito infestations," particularly near foreclosed properties with backyard pools.

While that doesn't mean families can't enjoy the great outdoors, it does point to the need to control and prevent mosquitoes in your yard. But before you break out sprays, citronella products and other sometimes inconvenient or ineffective methods, you might want to try something completely new: the Mosquito 86 Pest Eradication System, which works as a simple attachment for your ordinary handheld yard or leaf blower to turn it into an extraordinarily effective "mosquito-killing machine."

Mosquito 86 disperses a proven mosquito-killing solution formulated as Agent E. The mist kills mosquitoes on contact and also creates a protective barrier for longer-term protection when applied to lawns, trees, bushes and gardens. Agent E is EPA-registered in all 50 states.

It takes about 15 minutes to apply the solution to the average yard and it keeps properties mosquito-free for up to three weeks, depending on rainfall. According to the manufacturer's instructions, homeowners should use it right at dusk, when mosquitoes take flight, for maximum effect.

You can also help control the mosquito population by ridding your yard of stagnant water and keeping your grass mowed.

"Keep your home's gutters clean and cut back long brush and overgrown shrubs, too," says Dean Hill, a landscape designer and host of DIY Network's "Grounds for Improvement." "That way, the mosquitoes have no place to hide."

For more information, visit www.mosquito86.com.

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Expert tips for creating a backyard habitat for colorful summer birds

NF Note: Fayette County is blessed to have so much green space and citizens who are environmentally conscious. Spend some time enticing more wildlife to your backyard. It's a great way to spend the end of the day- just watching the birds and hearing their songs.

(ARA) - Whether city or country, bird watching is fun and you can create an environment for it in your own backyard in less time than you think. Summer is a great time to get started because the most colorful birds with beautiful songs are around to enhance your outdoor environment.

"Late May, June and July are great times to bird watch because lots of birds are nesting," says John Robinson, chief ornithologist and manager of Scotts Birding Center of Excellence. He goes on to explain that the colorful males are displaying their plumage to attract the females so you can see plenty of beautiful species. In addition, once the baby birds are old enough to leave the nest, the mother will show them where food is, making your backyard feeder a much-appreciated resource.

Robinson says there are three components to making your backyard an oasis for feathered friends:

1. Vegetation provides shelter
Having a variety of shrubs and trees in your yard makes it bird friendly. Birds use trees, shrubs and plants to hide from both the elements and their natural predators, as well as to roost or nest in. Additionally, the right types of vegetation also provide fruit or seeds for the birds to eat.

White pine, arborvitae, spruce, juniper, cedar, holly and other broadleaf and needle evergreens provide essential protection all year as well as food. Hedges of serviceberry or viburnum provide food, shelter and nesting spots. Flowers like columbine and trumpet vine attract hummingbirds with their sweet nectar.

2. Quality food nourishes
Not all bird food is created equal. Look for blends that were researched in the field and created to attract the types of birds you want to see in your backyard. Avoid filler material like milo, wheat or cracked corn.

To attract colorful birds, Robinson recommends Scotts Songbird Selections Colorful Bird Blend, which was developed by ornithologists. This mix is made from 10 high-quality ingredients that are blended in a specific ratio designed to attract more colorful birds. Results may vary by region and/or season, but Colorful Bird Blend has been proven to attract up to twice as many than with ordinary wild bird food. The mix is also less attractive to blackbirds, grackles and cowbirds, which are often considered a nuisance.

Another good option is Scotts Songbird Selections Wild Finch & Small Songbird Blend, which was scientifically mixed to attract goldfinches. Field research done across the country by Robinson, his team, and university partners, shows that while results may vary by region and/or season, this mix can attract up to two times the amount of finches as other types of ordinary wild bird food. Additionally, it also attracts other interesting small birds such as nuthatches, chickadees and native sparrows.

3. Water quenches thirst
Putting out a birdbath, especially one with a trickle or fountain, makes your garden a very popular spot. Whether you put a decorative birdbath in your backyard or simply place a large clay saucer on the ground or on top of a tree stump, make sure it has a rough surface and a shallow bowl. If you have a pond or stream, place flat rocks in them for bird perches.

Birds require fresh water, so clean birdbaths often and replace water every couple of days.

For more information and additional ideas on how to create a bird habitat in your own backyard, visit www.scottswildbirdfood.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Squirrel-Slip: A Real "Downer" for Squirrels

Note: I have a number of bird feeders in the yard. I've tried every trick imaginable to keep pesky squirrels from stealing the bird feed. I don't mind if they take what falls on the ground, but I hate it when they empty the feeder and keep the birds away. The only thing I haven't tried yet is one of those bird feeders that is pressure sensitive --- when a squirrel puts its weight on the bar it swirls around and tosses them off. They're not cheap, and with my luck it'd throw the silly squirrel right through one of my windows ;-) The following product looks interesting and is probably worth a try if you have a certain type of feeder. Most of my feeders hang from trees and are easily assessable to squirrels (yep, I know, why am I complaining if I'm tempting them?). One thing I have used which seems to do fairly well is a prepared pepper mix that I stir into the seeds. Problem is that it washes away with the first rain, then the squirrels are back. OK, 'nuff about MY squirrels, here's a solution for some of you who hang their feeders properly :

From backyards across the country, the one steady complaint of bird lovers is that no matter what they try, they can’t keep squirrels away from feeders; even feeders purported to be “squirrel-proof.”

So, what’s a bird lover to do when the pesky, bushy tailed creature comes looking for food? One company heard the call and took action. Kama Global, LLC, a specialty ingredients company for the cosmetics industry, developed Squirrel-Slip™—an eco-friendly, natural, safe, biodegradable product made from a blend of vegetable-based ingredients. Squirrel-Slip is not harmful to birds, squirrels, or the environment and is effective in all types of weather and temperature.

Anthony Savastano, president of Kama Global, said that Squirrel-Slip is the perfect solution to a frustrating situation. “After applying Squirrel-Slip to a feeder pole,” says Savastano, “squirrels get the surprise of their life. When they jump onto the pole, they immediately lose their grip, slide down, and slip off. After a few attempts, they simply give up and feed off the ground.”

Belinda Cook of Johns Creek, Georgia, whose property is registered with the Audubon Society as a wildlife sanctuary, says she is opposed to applying any type of petroleum-based products on her feeder poles because of the harmful effects to wildlife.

“The squirrels on my property,” says Cook, “were insatiable, diligent, and annoyingly persistent. They consumed every bit of bird food from all my feeders. With Squirrel-Slip, I now have a win-win situation all around. The birds feed peacefully, the squirrels feed off the seeds that fall to the ground, and the environment is protected.”

Craig Lampani of Chicopee, MA, had all but given up with bird feeders on his property. “Since using Squirrel-Slip, I now get to enjoy the birds and watch the squirrels slide down the poles. It’s entertainment at all levels! Squirrel-Slip works like a charm!” he says.

Squirrel-Slip can be found at Wild Bird Centers, Wild Birds Unlimited, and other retail stores where birdseed and feeders are sold.
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Snakes of Summer Cause for Awareness, Not Fear

NF Note: As Peachtree City citizens start spending more time on the golf cart paths this summer, occasional cries of "snake" echo in the distance. Take time and learn about the snakes in Fayette County. Of course, my first advice is to "stay away from the snake."

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What to do when you see a snake in your yard:

1. Never attempt to handle any kind of snake. If you are unsure of the snake’s identification, keep your distance

2. A venomous snake will most often have a triangular-shaped head as well as elliptical pupils similar to cats’ eyes, rather than round ones.

3. Snakes are important predators that feed on rodents, insects and even other snakes. There is no need to fear a snake in your yard. Simply give them the space they need.

4. Despite the relatively low level of danger posed by venomous snakes many people consider their fear justification for killing snakes. In Georgia it is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and a year in jail to possess or kill many of nongame wildlife species, including non-venomous snakes (O.C.G.A. §27-1-28).


As temperatures rise don’t be surprised if you see more late-afternoon activity on your sidewalks and driveways, particularly of the slithering variety. Not to worry, though: Snakes can be a homeowner’s best friends, as long as you remember a few important tips.

First, snakes are best left alone. Most snake bites occur when a person tries to handle or corner a snake, prompting the animal to defend itself.

Second, of the 41 snake species known in Georgia, only six are venomous. Although telling some species apart can be difficult, becoming familiar with the colors and patterns of venomous species can enable even novices to determine whether a snake is venomous or not, providing peace of mind.

The Georgia Wildlife Resources Division will soon release “Venomous Snakes of Georgia,” a new publication intended to help the public identify venomous snakes and understand their natural roles. Other resources include the brochure “Is it a Water Moccasin?” (go to www.georgiawildlife.com; click “Conservation” and look under “Georgia Animals & Plants”) and a guide to Georgia and South Carolina snakes at www.uga.edu/srelherp/snakes/index.htm . There is also the excellent reference “Amphibians and Reptiles of Georgia” released last year by the University of Georgia Press (www.ugapress.uga.edu/).

Non-venomous snakes such as the scarlet kingsnake and eastern hognose are sometimes confused with their venomous counterparts. Venomous snakes are often identified by their triangular-shaped head. However, many snake species flatten their head when threatened. Use caution when approaching any snake, and snakes in the wild should only be handled by an experienced person and after proper identification.

As reptiles, snakes are cold-blooded and rely on external sources to heat their bodies. In the fall and winter, you are more likely to see them warming themselves on rocks, sidewalks and paved roads. During summer, many snakes avoid open areas during the hottest part of the day and may become much more active during the evening.

About half of Georgia’s snake species give live birth. The young of all others are born from eggs, hatching within 40-80 days, depending on the species.

Newborn snakes can be seen from mid-summer to fall. Also, as the days grow hotter, many snakes will leave their usual hiding spots looking for prey that may be found close to dwindling water sources.

Adults of many of Georgia’s smaller snake species are often mistakenly assumed to be newborns. Although snakes in the state range from the eastern indigo, with recorded lengths up to 8 feet, 4 inches, to the crowned snake, which grows only 13 inches long, several non-venomous species commonly found in residential areas are small. These include worm, ringneck and brown snakes, which each average about 12 inches in length as adults.

All snakes are an essential part of Georgia’s wildlife resources. Fear or negative attitudes about snakes often stem from a lack of knowledge of their habits and role in the ecosystem. The majority of snakes found throughout the state are non-venomous, harmless and usually beneficial to man. A greater understanding of their importance as predator and prey often brings a greater appreciation for these admittedly not so “warm and fuzzy” animals with which we share our yards, gardens and forests.

If you spot a venomous snake in an area where it represents a danger to children or pets, you can contact Wildlife Resources for a list of private wildlife removal specialists.

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Reflecting Your Personality with Outdoor Lighting

Tips for highlighting spring in bloom

Liz Bowen loves to garden in the back yard of her Fayetteville home. Her cobblestone circular path is lined with seasonal flowers and decorative shrubbery. The pièce de résistance is the two handsome arbors that provide protective archways adorned with creeping vines.

Enjoying the season of spring in bloom from her back window at night allows Bowen to relax and meditate upon the beauty of her yard. Glowing flowers and reflective lighting on the 8 foot high arbors expands her living space into the evening hours and safety lights guide her down the circular path without breaking the atmosphere of serene beauty.

In order to create an outdoor evening living space that reflects your garden’s beauty here are some tips you can apply that can enhance the mood and attractiveness of your flora.

• Create a low and even glow on flowers and shrubbery that is dim but light enough to identify the color, shape and fullness of the variety of seasonal foliage that accents the property
  
• Keep lighted pathways soft enough to blend into and augment the entire lighting portrait but spaced evenly enough to provide an invitation to take a leisurely stroll through the garden
  
• Up lighting from the base of a tree or tall architectural feature such as a pergola can add a sense of sky and height making a smaller yard appear larger
  
• Create a focal point in the yard by accenting a key feature or floral area with higher intensity lighting to draw the eye and direct it to that feature

Author Jason Paulk, owner of Nite Time Decor by Paulk Outdoors located in Locust Grove, has provided landscaping, outdoor lighting and outdoor holiday decorating services to the community since 2002. For more information visit www.nitetimedecor.com or call 678-583-4455.

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The Springer Dog Exerciser Helps You and Your Dog Stay Fit

NF Note: Dogs are our constant companions when either running or using the golf cart on the paths of Peachtree City. This sounds like it could make life easier as some of the larger dogs are trained to run with their owners.

(BUSINESS WIRE)--If you want a safe way to take your dog with you on bike rides, the Springer dog exerciser might be the perfect answer.

Available through Springer America (http://www.springeramerica.com), the Springer is a fun, inexpensive way to stay active with your best friend beside you. Springer America President Kjell Ottesen says, “Thanks to recent improvements, the Springer fits most regular, touring and mountain bikes and works with more dogs than ever -- and is still fast and easy to install.”

“My dogs especially love riding with me through greenways and parks. Just like people, they get bored following the same routes, so I take them to new places around town to let them smell different scents,” says Catherine “Jake” Jacobson, owner of Team Happy Dog, a professional dog walker in Raleigh, NC. She bikes daily to keep her high-energy charges fit, from rat terriers to Rhodesian Ridgebacks to labs, golden retrievers and Boston terriers.

To help with the initial adjustment, walk beside your bike with the dog attached to the Springer arm for a few minutes. According to Jacobson, “90% of my dogs love the Springer right from the beginning.”

Used by over 600,000 bicyclists, mushers and K9 corps worldwide, the Springer features a low-mounted, heavy-duty steel spring to absorb up to 90% of the force of a dog’s unexpected tugs, allowing bike riders to keep their balance, while protecting their pets from traffic, pedals and wheels. The patented safety release frees the dog instantly if he gets caught around a tree or hydrant.

Professional Norwegian musher Frode Dahl has relied on the Springer for 17 years to keep his Pointer and Vorster breeds in peak shape. Dahl says, “Even my retired world champion sled dogs are still quite powerful. Without the Springer, it would be hard to keep them conditioned. Just walking these dogs is not adequate.”

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UGA licenses new Bermuda grass that thrives in sun

An internationally recognized turfgrass researcher from the University of Georgia has developed a new Bermuda grass that thrives in sun and produces healthy turf in areas with less than half the light normally required for other Bermuda grass.

The new grass, licensed by the University of Georgia Research Foundation, Inc., to New Concept Turf, will soon be available to homeowners for planting lawns; to developers for recreational facilities, sports complexes and golf courses; and to urban area landscapers.

TifGrand was developed by Wayne Hanna, professor of plant breeding and genetics in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences at University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

“Although TifGrand produces a beautiful turf in full sun, its major contribution will be the production of nice turf in areas with reduced light -- up to 60 percent less light than is normally required for healthy Bermuda grass growth,” Hanna said.

Hanna is a world-renowned plant breeder. During his 37-year career, Hanna has developed winter-hardy, pest-resistant Bermuda grasses able to handle high traffic. These grasses now grow on golf courses around the world and in major sports stadiums.

Hanna has spearheaded the screening of Bermuda grass for hybrids that naturally deter mole crickets, the No. 1 lawn and turf pest in the Southeast. He and his research team have been awarded seven patents.

New Concept Turf, a Georgia-based company specializing in marketing new turfgrasses, has contracted The Turfgrass Group of Ft. Valley, Ga., to exclusively handle licensing of TifGrand for sod production. TifGrand will be licensed to a selected number of growers beginning in summer 2009. It is expected to be available in the general market in 2010.

For more information on TifGrand and licensing opportunities, contact Bill Carraway, vice president of marketing for The Turfgrass Group, 770/207-1500, or visit www.theturfgrassgroup.com.

By Terry Hastings
University of Georgia

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Vanishing Habitat Walk at Sprewell Bluff State Park

Join a guided tour with a park ranger on a trail that transverses a globally imperiled habitat – the Montane Longleaf Pine Woodland. Participants will meet at the main parking area near the river at 10:00 am, June 6, 2009. This hike is part of National Trails Day, an event sponsored by the American Hiking Society. There is a $3.00 charge for the hike, and a $5.00 daily park pass fee. The hike will cover about two miles, and lead participants through a variety of habitats, from the river bottomlands, to the unique upland Longleaf community. All wildlife, from birds to dragonflies to butterflies will be discussed on this interpretive walk.

Why is this habitat so important?

The Montane Longleaf Community found at Sprewell Bluff, and the Natural areas across the river, are a rocky slope, ridge top community that is composed of Longleaf Pine, Shortleaf Pine, Sand Hickory, Post Oak, Chestnut Oak, Sparkleberry, and a variety of native grasses and wildflowers. Before European Settlement, natural fires, and fires set by Native Americans, maintained this community. But, with settlement, the old Longleaf Pine was turpentined, logged, or began to disappear as the land was farmed and used as grazing area for cattle. Fire was suppressed, and without fire, other trees like Loblolly Pine, less fire resistant oaks, and sweetgum moved in, and eventually, changed the habitat. Now, only puzzle pieces, little remnants of what used to be, survive as clues about what the forest looked like long ago.

The Department of Natural Resources Non-Game Wildlife Program has begun an ambitious effort to restore what is left. By prescribe Burning, thinning Loblolly Pine, and replanting Longleaf Pine, the native grasses and wildflowers are coming back in under the opening canopy, and young Longleaf Pine are waiting to reclaim their spot back in the forest. To see our efforts, and learn more about this rare ecosystem, join us on this hike and many others to come at Sprewell Bluff State Park.

To find out more information about these programs, or about Sprewell Bluff State Park, please call the park office at 706-746-6026 or talk to a park ranger at the park. For information on these or other programs happening at other parks, please visit www.gastateparks.org.
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Dwarf crape myrtles offer new uses for old plant

Crape myrtles have long graced Southern landscapes as trees. Now gardeners can enjoy their hardy qualities in their smaller cousins. Miniature myrtles can be grown as shrubs, groundcovers or even hanging basket plants.

Following are a few of the most well-known dwarf crape myrtles. Some you may find locally, while others you may have to shop for at specialty nurseries or on the Internet.

The Razzle Dazzle crape myrtle series are some of the most popular of the new dwarf plants. These varieties were introduced by the Center for Applied Nursery Research in Dearing, Ga. Cherry Dazzle bears deep pink flowers and grows as a compact mound 3 feet to 4 feet in height. Other selections include Dazzle Me Pink with bright pink flowers and mature height of 3 feet to 4 feet, Ruby Dazzle with lavender flowers and mature height of 2 feet to 3 feet and Snow Dazzle with white flowers topping out at 2 feet to 3 feet.

Crape Myrtlettes originate from breeding programs in Louisiana. Most grow 3 feet to 4 feet in height and can be used along foundations, in perennial borders or in large containers. They are available in a wide range of colors including dark red, rose red, pink, rose pink, white, lilac lavender and lavender.

Rosey Carpet is a groundcover cultivar introduced by Hambuchen Nursery in Conway, Ark., in 1997. It grows just a foot high and trails 4 feet in all directions. Other selections for use as groundcovers, in containers, or in large hanging baskets include Delta Blush with pink blooms (1 feet to 3 feet), Bourbon Street with watermelon red flowers (2 feet to 3 feet), Mardi Gras with purple flowers (2 feet to 3 feet), and Sacramento with deep red flowers (1 feet to 3 feet).

There are many other great dwarf selections of crape myrtles on the market.

When selecting dwarf crape myrtles, there are two important things to remember. First, like all crape myrtles, they require full sun for best flowering. Second, they are deciduous, so it’s best to plant them adjacent to evergreens so they can fade into the background in winter.

Gardeners have long appreciated the tough-as-nails qualities of crape myrtle. There is hardly a Southern landscape without at least one of these summer flowering beauties. Some cities and towns use them as street trees, while others hold summer festivals in their honor.

In the 1960s, crape myrtle breeding work by Donald Egolf at the U.S. National Arboretum gave us many superior selections with beautiful bark characteristics and improved disease resistance. His selections were given Indian names, like Natchez, Seminole, Catawba, Cherokee, Potomac, Yuma and Hopi. Most of these selections grow 15 feet to 30 feet tall.

For more information on growing crape myrtles, visit pubs.caes.uga.edu/caespubs/pubcd/C944/C944.htm.

By Gary Wade
University of Georgia

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Encore Azalea® Spotlights Container Gardening in Latest Online Magazine

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Encore Azalea® has released the 2nd edition of their digital magazine that focuses on container gardening throughout the year. Garden Professionals and consumers can also find insight into all things related to Encore Azaleas: from regional care to spacing suggestions. Novice and master gardeners alike will enjoy the photos and articles while taking advantage of the simple planting instructions and easy care tips found in “Flourish with Encore Azalea®.”

This edition illustrates how to start with Encore Azalea® as a base plant and create versatile, sustainable containers for home spaces in every season of the year. The magazine also offers a wealth of valuable information for avid gardeners including first–time planting and care tips, best time to plant, variety and space recommendations, and specific regional care. There is a feature on Robert E. "Buddy" Lee, the inventor of Encore Azaleas and a well-known plant breeder. Lee offers his tips and techniques on soil amendment, planting, mulching, watering, and pruning. The digital magazine can be viewed and downloaded at www.EncoreAzalea.com/magazine. The magazine features resources including the newly released video, “Care Instructions with Buddy Lee” which is available for free download in Windows Media, QuickTime and a free iTunes podcast.

Encore Azalea® is the only patented brand of azaleas to bloom in spring, summer, and fall. Today, the 23 varieties of Encore Azalea offer a growth habit and bloom color palette for every landscape. The evergreen shrubs enjoy more sun than traditional azaleas, but offer the same easy care.

Encore Azaleas begin blooming each spring like a traditional azalea. Once this initial blooming concludes, new shoots begin to grow and set buds. Then blooms emerge again in mid-summer and continue in many areas until first frost. No other azalea performs like that.

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Georgia Becomes National Leader in Statewide Beautification

100% of Georgia Counties Participate in the 2009 Great American Cleanup

Each March through May, people nationwide volunteer their time to collect trash and beautify their communities’ thoroughfares, parks and waterways during the Great American Cleanup. This year, Georgia has joined an elite group of states that can boast 100 percent participation from their counties. In 2008, only Tennessee achieved the perfect participation status.

More than 300 organizations are participating in the Great American Cleanup throughout Georgia’s 159 counties. Organized statewide through the Keep Georgia Beautiful program and implemented locally through area Keep America Beautiful Affiliates, civic organizations and local governments, this demonstration of citizen involvement highlights the pride and commitment that Georgians have for their state.

Fifty-eight thousand Georgians volunteered to pick up 2,450,298 pounds of trash in 2008, and organizers are on track for a similar result in 2009. That’s the equivalent of picking up seven-hundred 3,500-pound automobiles or more than thirty 80,000-pound tractor trailers in just 90 days.
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Recycling in Georgia Continues to Grow

Georgia counties are playing an active role in providing recycling services throughout the state. Nearly two-thirds (74%) of the counties either provide or arrange for recycling services in their communities, according to information reported to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. Diverting recyclable materials from local landfills not only conserves natural resources, but also fuels Georgia’s economy. Georgia has the second largest end-use market in the country for recycled materials, which are used in the production of everything from carpet to corrugated cardboard. The Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) recognizes the role that county government plays in facilitating recycling efforts and “Greening Our Future” during National County Government Week, May 3 – 9, 2009.

“Georgians want to do their part to protect the environment and recycling is an easy way for us to be green,” said Randy Hartmann, Environmental Program Manager for the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. “Our research shows that people are more likely to participate in recycling programs if they have curbside services available, so we are actively working with local government to consider the benefits of increased recycling as one of their waste management options.”

County governments have participated in several grant programs to enhance their recycling efforts. For example:

· Bulloch County received one of four grants funded through Georgia’s Solid Waste Trust Fund to develop regional recycling collection infrastructure in the state. Bulloch County is in the process of establishing a regional recycling hub for southeast Georgia, which will make recycling in the surrounding counties of Candler, Evans, Effingham, Jenkins, Screven, Tattnall and Bryan much easier. The hub will be a single stream recycling center, meaning that it will accept recyclable materials mixed together, and then sort and market them for reuse. As part of this initiative, Bulloch County recently purchased recycling containers to provide single stream recycling collection to the residents in the City of Statesboro.

· Counties are also actively involved in the “Away From Home” Recycling Program which was launched in April 2008 to promote recycling at special events. In the first nine months alone, these counties and their municipal counterparts, collected 53,684 pounds of recyclable materials at 308 special events throughout the state. Twenty-nine communities across the state have received one of these grants, including the following counties: Albany-Dougherty, Athens-Clarke, Bartow, Bulloch, Columbia, Dalton-Whitfield, Decatur, DeKalb, Forsyth, Glynn, Hall, Liberty, Newton and the North Georgia Resource Management Authority (Banks, Lumpkin, Towns and Union). This program is administered through the Department of Community of Affairs and funded through Georgia’s Solid Waste Trust Fund.

Other counties are taking similar steps to increase recycling efforts in their communities. Dawson County implemented a single stream recycling program in February in partnership with Community Waste Services to make recycling more convenient for their county residents.

“We just kicked off our new recycling program earlier this year, and it is a great addition for our county,” said Dawson County Chairman Mike Berg. “We are making recycling easier by not requiring recyclable materials to be sorted, which we hope will result in more participation.

According to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Georgians throw away millions of tons of recyclable materials each year, including paper (1.9 million tons), plastic (1 million tons), metal (360,000 tons) and glass (240,000 tons). Recycling these materials can help offset energy use. For example, recycling one glass bottle could light a 100-watt light bulb for four hours or recycling an aluminum can could run a computer for up to three hours.

“Developing recycling programs is just another way that county governments are promoting responsible environmental management,” said ACCG Deputy Director Ross King. “We are proud to partner with DCA and the Keep Georgia Beautiful affiliates to help encourage recycling efforts throughout the state.”

First celebrated in 1991, National County Government Week (NCGW) was created by the National Association of Counties (NACo) to raise public awareness and understanding about the roles and responsibilities of the nation’s 3,068 counties.
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New From SYNLawn(R) - The First Synthetic Landscape Grass Featuring Temperature Controlled Yarn

/PRNewswire/ -- SYNLawn, the company that first introduced synthetic landscape grass to the marketplace, today announces the launch of HeatBlock Technology(TM) featuring Bonar's Coolgrass(R), a major technological advancement that will help keep children, people of all ages and pets almost 20% cooler during the hottest days of the year.

"As summer approaches, SYNLawn is excited to offer a product to help keep grass surface temperatures noticeably cooler with our HeatBlock Technology(TM)," said George Neagle, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the company. "This innovation is combined with SYNLawn's renowned thatch technology utilizing resilient nylon yarn and designed to perform without infill."

SYNLawn has traditionally manufactured the coolest products available on the market by offering a durable yarn cushioning system that eliminates the need for infill. HeatBlock Technology(TM) enhances that effect by lowering surface temperatures by almost 20% compared to ordinary turf products, as verified in recent comprehensive scientific tests. This breakthrough is introduced in two new collections - SYNAugustine and SYNBermuda. Available in four styles, this exciting collection provides kids and pets with a noticeably cooler synthetic lawn.

"Our testing has found that HeatBlock Technology(TM) with Bonar's Coolgrass(R) significantly lowers temperatures by altering the emissivity levels of the grass surface," explained Davis Lee, Ph.D. of the InnovaNet Technology Group, a certified lab that tested the product performance in both indoor and outdoor conditions. "SYNLawn synthetic grass products now have the unique ability to reflect infrared radiation from the sun and reduce the build up of heat at the contact surface."

SYNLawn's sister company, AstroTurf, the world's most recognized brand in synthetic turf, is simultaneously incorporating Bonar's Coolgrass(R) throughout its premium AstroTurf, PureGrass and GameDay Grass athletic field product lines. Bonar's Coolgrass(R) is available exclusively through SYNLawn and AstroTurf in North America.

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Simple Tips For Starting Your Own Kitchen Garden

(NAPSI)-Edible gardening is growing in popularity; the National Gardening Association expects a 19 percent jump in the number of Americans growing their own grub this year. The Obama family has even joined the trend by planting the first White House kitchen garden since World War II.

There are a number of reasons growing your own fruits, vegetables and herbs is so attractive. Organically grown fruits and vegetables are more healthful, with significantly more nutrients including vitamin C, magnesium and iron. Gardening is a fun activity for the whole family, giving kids an outdoor project. It can even save you money on groceries.

Many people know these benefits but are hesitant to start an edible garden because they're worried about taking the wrong approach. The fact is, by following just a few simple steps, just about everyone can set themselves up for a successful harvest.

• Take the high ground. Gardens do best in the elevated parts of your yard. Lower, indented areas can trap cold air and stifle growth.

• Break out the compass. Edible gardens in the Northern Hemisphere should place the tallest plants on the northernmost plot. Sunlight shines from a southern angle, so smaller plants won't be left in the shade.

• Box it up. Use planting boxes or raised beds whenever possible, because they create soil control for drainage and maximize nutrients. Boxes also protect your roots from critters.

• Keep a close watch. Try not to plant your garden out of sight. If you can see the garden from your windows, it will be easier to identify when the plants are at their ripest or might need extra care.

• Don't be a Luddite. There's great technology out there to help beginning gardeners. For example, after 24 hours in your garden, the EasyBloom Plant Sensor reveals all the plants and vegetables that will thrive there and tells you how to care for existing plants. This handy tool takes detailed readings of sunlight, temperature, humidity and soil drainage to make expert recommendations.

Edible gardening doesn't have to be an intimidating project. With the right planning and support, millions of families will be adding fresh ingredients to their meals this year and you can, too.

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Timing is everything on ‘Gardening in Georgia’

The most often asked questions from gardeners begin with “Is it time to…?” On “Gardening in Georgia with Walter Reeves” May 9 and 13, show host Walter Reeves and his guests will answer a variety of questions on what to do in the garden and landscape.

Reeves, a retired University of Georgia Cooperative Extension agent and gardening expert, and UGA Extension horticulturist Bob Westerfield will show how to determine if the soil is ready to plant a vegetable garden.

Reeves will visit Hank Bruno at Callaway Gardens to show how to divide and move irises. He will also solve a “who-done-it” mystery that’s happening in the cabbage patch.

"Gardening in Georgia” airs on Georgia Public Broadcasting stations across the state each Saturday at 12:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., and repeats Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

The show is produced by the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and is supported by a gift from McCorkle Nurseries. Learn more about the show and download useful publications at the Web site www.gardeningingeorgia.com.

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Georgia Citizens Create Legacies by Planting Trees in The Grove

Georgia Forestry Agencies Create Virtual Community to Educate and Engage Citizens to Protect Urban Forests

In an effort to educate, engage and encourage Georgians to plant trees and protect Georgia’s urban tree canopy, the Georgia Urban Forest Council (GUFC) and the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) have joined forces to create a new Web site and online community called The Grove, GeorgiaGrove.org. The Grove allows families and friends to share the experience of planting trees and commemorating special life moments. The Grove members can share their memories by uploading pictures and stories of their tree planting experiences for others to see and discuss. The Grove members can also create groups, or “groves,” to connect, share and interact with other members within the virtual community.

“This is a great tool that allows families to create a legacy and leave a positive mark on the world for their children and grandchildren to enjoy,” said Mary Lynne Beckley, director of the Georgia Urban Forest Council. “By planting trees, we renew our commitment to protecting Georgia’s green legacy, ensuring future generations will share in the life events we celebrated, while enjoying the benefits of living in healthy communities.”

To be a part of The Grove, Georgia residents can log onto GeorgiaGrove.org. There they can create a free account, plant a tree with family and friends, take pictures of the occasion, then upload their photos and post their stories to share the experience with other Grove members. In addition, The Grove offers an interactive Tree Match Tool that provides guidance on choosing the right tree to commemorate a special event, as well as information on tree planting, tree care tips and the benefits of maintaining a healthy urban forest.

According to GFC, Georgia’s urban forests have been diminishing, due to the rapid growth in development. To counteract the negative impact of tree loss, Georgia residents must be informed, educated and activated to help plant trees and preserve urban forest health.

“Strategically planted trees improve energy efficiency in homes, encourage people to linger and shop longer in business districts, provide shade to keep our cities cool and make communities healthier and safer places to live,” said Larry Morris, associate chief of sustainable forestry with Georgia Forestry Commission. “

It is important to encourage Georgia residents to plant trees and help develop vital green infrastructures, which offset the impact of grey infrastructures such as roads and utilities, and help sustain Georgia’s green legacy.”

The Grove is part of GUFC and GFC’s Create Your Legacy initiative, which aims to educate citizens about the ways tree loss impacts the economy, the environment, our health and our social interactions. For more information or to share a legacy, log onto GeorgiaGrove.org today and share a tree planting experience.
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County Governments Actively Involved in Land Conservation

Celebrate County Government Week, May 3 – 9, 2009
“Greening Our Future”

From small parks of just a few acres that provide an outdoors escape for local residents to large tracts that are nationally recognized for their natural resource and recreational value, county governments are actively involved in funding land conservation projects throughout the state. The Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) celebrates these efforts as part of County Government Week, May 3 – 9, 2009 which focuses this year on “Greening our Future.”

“Just a decade ago, we did not have many requests for technical assistance on land conservation issues,” said ACCG Deputy Director Ross King. “As Georgia’s population grew, people started making the connection between land conservation, water stewardship and protecting their quality of life. County officials responded by proposing Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) and bond projects that included funding for green space that have been widely supported by local voters.”

In the metro Atlanta area, Cobb, Cherokee and Forsyth counties all passed bonds in 2008 to support a variety of land conservation projects representing an investment of $150 million. Other counties have actively participated in the Georgia Land Conservation Program which provides grants and low-interest loans for land conservation projects. Some of the counties that have protected conservation lands from funds provided through this program include Bulloch, Wilkinson, Harris, Glynn, Bibb, Bartow and Dougherty.

A common theme in today’s approach to land conservation is partnerships, especially when it comes to funding large acquisitions. County governments are working with the State of Georgia, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Forest Service as well as private foundations and conservation organizations including The Conservation Fund, The Nature Conservancy, the Trust for Public Land and others to piece together funds and apply for grants to protect conservation lands of statewide significance. Many of these lands have been identified by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as priorities for protection through the State Wildlife Action Plan.

Projects of statewide significance that have involved financial support from Georgia counties include the protection of McLemore Cove in Walker County, Silver Lake Wildlife Management Area in Decatur County, Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area in Rockdale County, and Paulding Forest Wildlife Management Area in Paulding and Polk counties.

“County government is really stepping up and playing a critical role when it comes to land conservation in Georgia. They are anxious to work with us to ensure these lands are conserved for future generations – even in today’s challenging economic times,” said Rex Boner, Southeastern Regional Director of The Conservation Fund. “The Association County Commissioners of Georgia is providing an important link between county government and the land conservation community, and we appreciate the statewide network that they represent.”

ACCG is committed to assisting counties with land conservation efforts throughout the state. In 2008, ACCG launched its Land Conservation Initiative and dedicated a full-time director to assist counties with land conservation efforts including project identification and funding. ACCG also is partnering with DNR and the Georgia Conservancy on the Coastal Georgia Land Conservation Initiative thanks to a grant provided through the Woodruff Foundation. This project involves mapping species and their habitats in 11 counties along and near the Georgia coast and working with those counties to incorporate this information into future land use decisions.

In addition, ACCG is working with the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) on the Green Infrastructure Project through the Sustainable Community Forestry Program. Through this effort, ACCG and GFC are working with counties to protect tree canopies and promote connectivity.

“Land conservation is important to Georgia’s counties, and we want to help facilitate their efforts with state and federal agencies, conservation organizations, private foundations and others to give them the resources that they need,” said ACCG Land Initiative Director Beth Bradley. “We’re excited to see county government taking such a leading role in land conservation and look forward to even more success stories in the years to come.”

First celebrated in 1991, National County Government Week (NCGW) was created by the National Association of Counties (NACo) to raise public awareness and understanding about the roles and responsibilities of the nation’s 3,068 counties.
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Choosing Ground Cover For Eco-Friendly Beauty

(NAPSI)-Turfgrass, the nation's traditional ground cover, may be losing ground to the more eco-friendly creeping perennials.

Turfgrass is popular because it covers the soil nicely, but it requires high maintenance and uses a tremendous amount of water, fertilizer and chemicals to maintain its beauty.

Low-maintenance, eco-friendly creeping perennial ground cover is a great substitute for traditional turfgrass. For example, the Forever & Ever GroundCovers line of round covers provides options that grow in sun or shade, come in many colors and textures, and grow in areas where grass will not. They come back every season and look better each year.

Once the eco-friendly plants are established, they require very little water as compared to turf that requires constant watering. The need for fertilizer is also minimal. Most varieties only need one feeding of slow-release fertilizer each year as compared to three to four feedings for traditional turf. Many varieties provide a thick mat of foliage that helps prevent weeds, eliminating the need for chemical control.

Ground covers grow where grass won't and in small areas where it is difficult to maintain, such as on slopes, under trees or in confined landscapes. Many of the varieties will withstand some foot traffic. Varieties such as Platt's Black Brass Buttons, with its wonderfully textured purple-gray leaves, and County Park Pratia, with its showy blue blooms above a dense mat of foliage, are perfect varieties to use between stepping-stones or along walkways.

The collection also features several varieties of sedum that will work well in sunny, dry areas. Sedums work well on slopes and are a classic rock garden plant filling in between rocks, eliminating a haven for weeds. John Creech Sedum, with it purple-pink flowers and dense foliage, and Angelina Sedum, with its uniquely textured golden-yellow foliage, are star performers in sunny, arid areas.

Some ground covers, such as the Yellow Ripple Ivy, also do very well in patio containers. Ivy and other creeping perennials make great fillers for container gardens, drooping or cascading over the edges of the pots.

This line of creeping perennials brings colorful blooms, great foliage colors and unique textures to the garden, all with little care and maintenance. They are available at home centers and independent garden centers.

Ground covers grow where grass won't and in small areas where it is difficult to maintain, such as on slopes, under trees or in confined landscapes.

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