While it may not feel like it, fall is finally here. After this summer’s drought, cooler (and hopefully wetter) weather will be a welcome site to all northeast Georgians. The drought has taken its toll on our community in many ways, including low lake levels, water restrictions, and damage to crops.

One additional resource which has been damaged by the drought is our forests. Unfortunately, many homeowners do not think of tree damage from drought as it is not as obvious as a dead lawn or dead flowers. However, trees which have experienced drought stress for an extended period of time are permanently damaged, but the damage is not apparent until the next spring or even later.

Trees provide many benefits – not the least of which is oxygen. Trees produce and release oxygen in the process of photosynthesis. A mature leafy tree produces as much oxygen in a season as 10 people inhale in a year.

Trees also help reduce noise pollution. Trees muffle urban noise almost as effectively as stone walls. Trees, planted at strategic points in a neighborhood or around your house, can abate major noises from source such as freeways and airports.

In rapidly growing communities, trees provide a tremendous benefit by reducing runoff and erosion, and by providing wildlife habitat. Tree roots bind the soil and their leaves break the force of wind and rain on soil. Trees fight soil erosion, conserve rainwater and reduce water runoff and sediment deposit after storms. Trees create habitat for plants and animals, promoting environmental diversity in our communities.

Believe or not - trees help bolster the economy. Real estate values increase when trees beautify a property or neighborhood. Trees can increase the property value of homes by 15% or more. Trees also attract shoppers, visitors and businesses.

Trees can also provide social benefits. Trees soften the community landscape, enhancing beauty and quality of life for residents and visitors. Trees have a relaxing effect and reduce stress, making people happier and more productive at work and home. They create a sense of space and create desirable places in which to live, work and play.

These are just a few of the many ways trees improve our environment and enhance the quality of our lives. In an effort to preserve Gainesville & Hall County’s trees, the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and the Georgia Forestry Commission are continuing the annual Hall County Champion Tree Search.

The Hall County Champion Tree Contest will recognize the winning trees of each species, the nominators, and owners. This recognition will take place during the Arbor Day Celebration on February 15, 2008. Entries are due by December 15, 2007. For more information, contact the Georgia Forestry Commission at 770-869-3641.