Heather Haines, 4-H Agent, UGA Extension Forsyth County
Georgia’s forests are not just a vital part of the state’s economy—they are also providing a hands-on classroom for local youth. With 24.5 million acres of forestland, Georgia is one of the most forested states in the United States, contributing over $41 billion annually and supporting more than 140,000 jobs. Through programs like Georgia 4-H’s annual Forestry Judging Contest, students from grades 4 through 12 are gaining a deeper understanding of the diverse forest ecosystem and the skills needed to manage it.
Every year, 4-H participants dive into intensive study sessions starting in July to prepare for the competition. The contest is divided into Junior and Senior divisions, with younger students learning to identify 44 tree species, 17 timber pest insects, and 14 common diseases. They also develop skills like pacing to estimate distance and calculating sawtimber volume. Senior participants are challenged to identify and correctly spell the names of 70 trees, 30 insects, and 23 tree diseases, as well as mastering techniques in compassing.
The contest helps students connect with the real-world challenges of forestry. Knowing how to identify trees, insects, and diseases is crucial, as it directly impacts the timber industry and the health of Georgia’s forests. For instance, insect infestations and diseases can cause serious economic losses, while the value and use of trees vary greatly between species.
This year, seven Forsyth County 4-H’ers proudly represented their community at the District Forestry Judging Competition on September 4 at Sandy Creek Nature Center in Athens, Georgia. The Junior Team, made up of Elise Cureton, Brian Kidd, Mohammed Yunus Mohammed Musa, and Toby Wilcox, earned 2nd place overall. Elise Cureton also secured the title of second-highest individual, with Brian Kidd placing third. Mohammed Yunus Mohammed Musa achieved a perfect score in the pacing section.
In the Senior Division, Tallulah Bates, Clara Cureton, and Mohammed Yusuf Mohammed Musa Jaffer Sait formed the Senior Team. Mohammed Yusuf Mohammed Musa Jaffer Sait received a perfect score in the compassing section of the contest.
The team’s success was guided by Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator Shannon Henderson, Master Naturalist Extension Volunteer Winston Davis, and 4-H Educator MaKenzie Leatherwood.
Missed the Forestry Judging season? No problem! The Forsyth County 4-H Conservation Club is a great way for youth to learn about ecosystems and environmental stewardship. Meeting once a month, the club is open to current 4th through 12th graders, providing hands-on opportunities to explore local environments.
To learn more about 4-H programs in Forsyth County or how to get involved, visit our website or contact the Forsyth County Extension / 4-H Office at 770-887-2418. Georgia 4-H is proudly supported by The University of Georgia, Forsyth County Board of Commissioners, Forsyth County Board of Education, United Way of Forsyth County, and community donors.