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It
has been a busy time for the Georgia Chapter of The American Chestnut
Foundation (GATACF). In our first full year as an official chapter,
we received our Charter from the national organization in October,
had our first meeting for the entire membership at the Pocket in May,
elected a new set of officers to direct this year’s labors and
pollinated three Georgia Mother Trees, two of which required a bucket
truck. As you read this newsletter, we should be harvesting the
pollinated chestnuts or have already completed the task. These seeds
will be planted in approved locations and we will keep careful track
of their genetic history.
Another exciting event occurred on September 21st
at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Center. Both GATACF officers and
members attended a special dedication of an American Chestnut
demonstration site on the Carter Center grounds. Prior to the
ceremony, Mr. Carter met with representatives from The American
Chestnut Foundation and me in a private meeting to discuss our work
in restoring The King of the Forest. This demonstration plot showing
the various stages of the back-cross breeding program is the third in
the State of Georgia. The other two are at The Blueberry Farm in
Lafayette and Prater’s Mill in Dalton.
We have a variety of projects being planned, and
will take full advantage of all publicity to expand our membership
and find more individuals interested in promoting both our Georgia
Chapter and the goals of the national organization. Please join us
on November 5 in Ellijay, Georgia, as we hold our fall meeting to
Celebrate the Harvest and bring lots of friends who share our
goals. |
