Page 22 - Georgia Forestry - Issue3 - Summer 2021

COURTESY OF EXPLORE GEORGIA
High Falls State Park in Jackson, GA
Now that you’ve been drawn into the subject, you’ll want to explore the site. Navigation is simple and intuitive, and content covers a sizable amount of information, broken down into three main categories and a myriad of subsections.
“See the Benefits” spells out the many proven health ben- efits associated with trees: physical, mental, healing and financial. “Inspiring Stories” chronicles ways people across the country have worked on behalf of these benefits, includ- ing the non-profit Baton Rouge Green, which opened access to green spaces to increase environmental awareness and stew- ardship. “Resources” lists the multitude of sources that have contributed to the burgeoning understanding of the relation- ship between trees and health.
An Idea Whose Time Is Right
“This body of research is growing every day,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Communications Manager and HTHL project co-leader Linda Moon. “There’s a lot more out there.”
“The site is a work in progress,” added Riley. “We want to reach everyone ‘where they’re at;’ Let’s see how we can pull ‘em in!”
Moon said HTHL is “in line with everything happening now,” and that includes the nation’s experience fighting the COVID pandemic. When lockdowns were issued, HTHL coordinators used social media to spread awareness about the health benefits of trees. Those who were in quarantine were likely encouraged by research revealing how simple views of trees and nature are linked to well-being. Exposure to forests has been shown to decrease mental fatigue by relaxing and restoring one’s mind as well as providing a sense of security.
“This connection between trees and people is intricate, yet powerful,” said Riley. “Being around trees and forests helps our minds find rest while encouraging physical engagement, all while subtly purifying the environment.”
The pandemic came at a time when the HTHL campaign was ramping up. The coincidence did not go unnoticed.
“I never thought of COVID benefiting anyone,” said Moon. “But being outside is one of the safest places to be. It gives us a place to relax and de-stress, to be a part of nature,” which were antidotes sought by many during 2020.
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Georgia
Tree Farm Program
We grow stewardship from the roots.
1132 Clairmont Place Macon, Georgia 31204 478.972.7899 cell
georgiatreefarm@gmail.com www.treefarmsystem.org/georgia
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