HR 824: The acute and ongoing threat to Georgia's forest posed by the southern pine beetle, and encouraging all Georgia landowners to follow guidance by the Georgia Forestry Commission to mitigate the spread of this destructive pest; commend

House Resolution 824

By: Representatives Smith of the 138th, Smith of the 70th, Cannon of the 172nd, Buckner of the 137th, and Huddleston of the 72nd

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing the acute and ongoing threat to Georgia's forests posed by the southern pine beetle, particularly in the western region of this state, and encouraging all Georgia landowners to follow guidance by the Georgia Forestry Commission to mitigate the spread of this destructive pest; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, forestry is a vital economic driver for the State of Georgia, contributing more than $41 billion annually to the state's economy and supporting thousands of jobs in rural communities; and

WHEREAS, Georgia's forests, particularly those that are properly managed, provide essential ecological, economic, and recreational benefits, including clean air and water, carbon sequestration, wildlife habitats, and raw materials for a variety of industries; and

WHEREAS, the southern pine beetle (dendroctonus frontalis) is a destructive native pest affecting pine forests in the southeastern United States, including Georgia; and

WHEREAS, southern pine beetle infestations can cause significant tree mortality, leading to economic losses for landowners, increased wildfire risk, and reduced forest health and productivity; and

WHEREAS, the western region of Georgia is currently experiencing a heightened outbreak of the southern pine beetle, resulting in extensive damage to pine stands and threatening the sustainability of the state's forest resources; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Forestry Commission has provided critical guidance and resources to landowners to implement sound forestry practices that reduce the risk of infestation by the southern pine beetle and improve overall forest resilience; and

WHEREAS, thinning overcrowded stands, removing infested trees, and adhering to best management practices are the most effective means of controlling and preventing further spread of the southern pine beetle.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body:

(1) Recognize the significant threat posed by the southern pine beetle to Georgia's forests;

(2) Recognize the acute and ongoing challenge of the southern pine beetle outbreak in the western region of this state; and

(3) Encourage Georgia landowners to take all steps necessary to mitigate the spread of this outbreak through proper forest management and adherence to best management practices outlined by the Georgia Forestry Commission.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the press.