With summer officially underway, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) is issuing a warning to landowners about a potential surge in Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) activity. Peak SPB season has arrived, posing a significant threat to Georgia’s valuable pine forests. The GFC is actively assisting landowners in confronting this invasive pest, offering resources and expertise to help identify, manage, and mitigate potential outbreaks. Southern pine beetles are native to Georgia and are considered the most destructive type of pine beetle. They can kill large numbers of healthy trees over many acres in a short period of time. The Southern Pine Beetle can cause widespread damage to pine trees, ultimately leading to their death. Early detection and swift action are crucial to limiting the spread of the beetle and protecting Georgia’s forest resources. “Georgia’s west-central region had a lot of activity last year, and it hasn’t slowed since,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Forest Health Coordinator Paul McDaniel. “The highest numbers of southern beetles trapped this spring were in Polk and Paulding Counties; Carroll and Dawson were close behind.”Landowners are encouraged to visit the Georgia Forestry Commission website or contact their local GFC office for more information on identifying SPB infestations and implementing preventative measures. You can find more information from the GFC HERE