Georgia's Forests, 2019

Georgia's forests, particularly those within the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, exhibit significant biodiversity and ecological challenges. The study highlights the presence of both native species like longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) and bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus), as well as nonnative invasive plants such as chinaberry tree (Melia azedarach), sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata), and nepalese browntop (Microstegium vimineum). The research employs a combination of field surveys, photographic documentation, and collaborative efforts involving agencies like the Georgia Forestry Commission and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service. Key findings underscore the importance of managing invasive species to preserve native ecosystems while acknowledging the ecological value of managed forests, such as thinned longleaf pine stands.

Lambert, S., Gray, J., McCollum, J., Brandeis, T., & Brown, M. (2023). Georgia’s Forests, 2019 (, Ed.). U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. https://doi.org/10.2737/srs-rb-236