25 LC 60 0159
House Resolution 824
By: Representatives Smith of the 138
th
, Smith of the 70
th
, Cannon of the 172
nd
, Buckner of
the 137
th
, and Huddleston of the 72
nd
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing the acute and ongoing threat to Georgia's forests posed by the southern pine
1
beetle, particularly in the western region of this state, and encouraging all Georgia2
landowners to follow guidance by the Georgia Forestry Commission to mitigate the spread3
of this destructive pest; and for other purposes.4
WHEREAS, forestry is a vital economic driver for the State of Georgia, contributing more5
than $41 billion annually to the state's economy and supporting thousands of jobs in rural6
communities; and7
WHEREAS, Georgia's forests, particularly those that are properly managed, provide essential8
ecological, economic, and recreational benefits, including clean air and water, carbon9
sequestration, wildlife habitats, and raw materials for a variety of industries; and10
WHEREAS, the southern pine beetle (dendroctonus frontalis) is a destructive native pest11
affecting pine forests in the southeastern United States, including Georgia; and12
WHEREAS, southern pine beetle infestations can cause significant tree mortality, leading13
to economic losses for landowners, increased wildfire risk, and reduced forest health and14
productivity; and15
H. R. 824
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WHEREAS, the western region of Georgia is currently experiencing a heightened outbreak
16
of the southern pine beetle, resulting in extensive damage to pine stands and threatening the17
sustainability of the state's forest resources; and18
WHEREAS, the Georgia Forestry Commission has provided critical guidance and resources19
to landowners to implement sound forestry practices that reduce the risk of infestation by the20
southern pine beetle and improve overall forest resilience; and21
WHEREAS, thinning overcrowded stands, removing infested trees, and adhering to best22
management practices are the most effective means of controlling and preventing further23
spread of the southern pine beetle.24
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that25
the members of this body:26
(1) Recognize the significant threat posed by the southern pine beetle to Georgia's27
forests;28
(2) Recognize the acute and ongoing challenge of the southern pine beetle outbreak in29
the western region of this state; and30
(3) Encourage Georgia landowners to take all steps necessary to mitigate the spread of31
this outbreak through proper forest management and adherence to best management32
practices outlined by the Georgia Forestry Commission.33
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized34
and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the35
public and the press.36
H. R. 824
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