1.What is South Carolina's state tree?
2. I have a few acres of land that I'm interested in planting in trees. I understand that the
SC Forestry Commission sells trees. How do I order them and when is the best time to place an
order?
3.When is the planting season for containerized and bareroot
seedlings?
4.What is the recommended spacing for planting
seedlings?
5. How do you properly plant a tree?
6.Can you ship bareroot or containerized seedlings ordered in
state or out of state via
UPS?
7.Do you accept VISA or MasterCard for seedling orders? Do you
accept cash payments?
8. Can I purchase seedlings at Taylor
Nursery and pick them up then?
9.
How do should I submit my order if I am ordering
longleaf and other species too?
10. When is the earliest and latest
I can order tree seedlings?
11. When can I pick up seedlings
and plant them?
12. How do I get a burning permit?
13.If I notify before burning, can I still get in trouble
if my fire gets away?
14.What is the difference between a red flag alert and a
burning ban?
15.What does "fire season" mean and when is it?
16.I hear about brush fires, woods fires, and forest
fires; what's the difference?
17. What is the difference between the Forestry Commission
and the Forest Service?
18. I have some timber that I would like to sell. What
should I do in order to sell it?
19.Where can I get state hunting and fishing licenses, and
boat registrations?
20. How do I find out if I have Southern pine beetles in my
timber?
21. Can I purchase pine straw from the Forestry
Commission?
22. Who are the closest land clearing contractors, and
loggers?
23. When is Earth Day?
24. When is Arbor Day in South Carolina?
25. What is global warming?
26. What is acid rain?
27. Where can I get tax information on my woodland
property?
28. What is an old growth forest?
29. What is the Endangered Species Act and how does it
affect private landowners?
30.What is biodiversity?
31.Why are the tropical rainforests of South America being
depleted?
32.What is a multiple use forest?
33. What is a registered forester?
34.Is most forestry work out of doors?
35.What is the difference between a forest technician and
a forester?
36.What must I do to become a professional
forester?
37.What subjects should I take in high school to prepare
for a degree in forestry?
38.Will jobs in forestry be available when I
graduate?
39.Can I camp on the State Forests?
40. How many leaves do trees have?
1. What is South Carolina's state tree?
South Carolina's state tree is the Palmetto, commonly known as the
Cabbage Palmetto. It has been closely associated with the history of
South Carolina, being represented on the State Flag since 1777, as well
as the State Seal. It is symbolic of the defeat of the British fleet at
the fort on Sullivan's Island, built of Palmetto logs. The Palmetto is
an attractive feature of the coastal areas of South Carolina, and is
also found in Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina.
Top of Page
2. I have a few acres of land that I'm interested in planting to trees.
I understand that the S.C. Forestry Commission sells trees. How do I
order them and when is the best time to place an order?
To assist the state's woodland owners with reforestation, the Forestry
Commission sells forest tree
seedlings. Several native pine and hardwood species are available
after July 1st. (Orders placed before July 1 will be returned.) You can get a seedling order form by contacting your
local Forestry Commission office or Clemson
Extension office. The local project forester with the Forestry
Commission can help you with species selection and other information
relating to tree planting.
Top of Page
3. When is the planting season for containerized
and bareroot seedlings?
Containerized
seedling are available starting in (Fall) October through (Spring) May, except
for containerized Longleaf, they are available October through December. December
- Mid March is best for bareroot species.
Top of Page
4. What is the recommended spacing for planting seedlings?
Spacing will vary by species, site, and landowner objectives. A
professional forester can recommend spacing for your situation. Recommended Spacing
Top of Page
5. How do you properly plant a tree?
Dig a hole twice the size of the roots and deep enough to hold all of the roots. Place the tree in the planting hole as shown in the picture. Fill in the planting hole with soil around the roots. Water the tree well. Give your trees a good soaking with water once a week. Protect your trees from fire, lawnmowers, bicycles, cars, pets, weeds, and grass.
Check
How to Plant a Tree for more details.
Top of Page
6.Can you ship bareroot or containerized seedlings ordered in state
or out of
state via UPS?
Yes. Boxes
of 10 are shipped separately at $9.00 per box anywhere in NC, SC
and GA. All other boxes are shipped separately
at $14.00 per box anywhere in NC, SC and GA.
Top of Page
7.Do you accept VISA or MasterCard for seedling orders? Do you accept cash
payments?
We accept both Visa and MasterCard payments only on orders that are mailed
or faxed in. Signatures are required for payment acceptance. No telephone
orders can be done due to no signature being on file for the order. Sorry
we are unable to accept cash payments at this time.
Top of Page
8. Can I purchase seedlings at Taylor Nursery and pick them up then?
Starting in the 2005-2006 seedling year, all seedlings both bareroot and containerized seedlings can only be picked up at Taylor Nursery or at a cost to the customer can be UPS to their home address.
Due
to budget cuts, the distribution centers and Creech Greenhouse will no longer
be in operation for the pick-up of tree seedlings. We apologize for any inconvenience
this may cause, but due to the state budget cuts this was the only way we
could continue the seedling program. Over-the counter sales are most likely
not available due to the staff lifting only the orders we have placed in
advance. You may call our Seedling Sales office at (803)275-3578 for seedling
availability.
Top of Page
9.How do should I submit my order if I am ordering longleaf and other
species too?
You may order both longleaf and other species on the same order form. Due to the abundance of seedling available we have no limits on the number of seedling you can order on any specie.
Top of Page
10. When is the earliest and latest I can order tree seedlings?
Seedling orders are accepted starting July 1st each year. Any orders
received prior to this date must be returned and asked not to send until after
this date. Depending on weather conditions and availability seedlings are
usually accepted through the end of February or the first of March.
Top of Page
11. When can I pick up seedlings and plant them?
Containerized seedlings can be picked up for fall planting starting in
October through May. Bareroot seedlings
can be picked up starting in December through the end of February or the first
of March depending on weather conditions and availability.
Top of Page
12. How do I get a burning permit?
South Carolina doesn't issue burning permits, but if you plan to burn
outside town or city limits, the law
requires you to notify the Forestry Commission before starting the
fire. When you call and leave your information it confirms that your burn complies with the safety
precautions prescribed by state law.
Each county has a special number to call if you want to burn leaves or shrubbery trimmings in your yard, or construction, land clearing burns
. For all forestry, wildlife and agricultural burns call
1-800-777-FIRE.
Top of Page
13. If I notify before burning, can I still get in
trouble if my fire gets away?
Yes. It is against the law to allow a fire
to escape. If your escaped fire burns someone else's property, you may
also be held responsible for damages in civil court.
Top of Page
14.What is the difference between a red flag alert and
a burning ban?
A Red Flag Fire Alert is a wildfire danger warning issued by the SC Forestry Commission. The Red Flag cautions that wildfire danger is increasing, and that outdoor burning could become difficult to control.
A Red Flag Fire Alert does not prohibit outdoor burning as long as all other state and local regulations are followed. When a Red Flag is in effect, the Forestry Commission asks people to voluntarily postpone any outdoor burning.
A Burning Ban legally prohibits outdoor burning. Bans are emergency measures, declared only when outdoor burning is deemed significant threat to public safety.
Top of Page
15. What does "fire season" mean
and when is it?
Fire season is the time of year when high wildfire danger is most likely
to develop. This varies by geographic area, depending on climate,
weather patterns, and vegetation. In South Carolina, the normal fire
season is January through mid-April.
Top of Page
16. I hear about brush fires, woods fires, and forest
fires; what's the difference?
These terms are sometimes used interchangeably to describe any wildfire
burning in outdoor vegetation. The news media and fire departments tend
to use the term "brush fire" while forestry organizations prefer to say
"woods fire" or "forest fire".
Top of Page
17. What is the difference between the Forestry Commission
and the Forest Service?
The
South Carolina Forestry Commission is a state agency charged with the
protection, promotion, and development of South Carolina's forestland.
Some of the Commission's most important jobs are wildfire protection and
forest management services to private non-industrial landowners. The
U.S. Forest Service is a federal agency which has control over federal
land like the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests.
Top of Page
18. I have some timber that I would like to sell. What
should I do in order to sell it?
There are several ways this can be done. To ensure that you receive the
best service and a quality job, contact a professional. Your local Forestry Commission office can supply you
with the names of registered foresters in your area who can be of
assistance. It is important that you are treated fairly and that the
integrity of your land is respected during the harvest operation. A
professional forester can direct and advise you concerning the best
methods.
Top of Page
19. Where can I get state hunting and fishing
licenses, and boat registrations?
The Forestry Commission does not issue these, you need to contact the
Department of Natural Resources at (803)734-3888.
Top of Page
20. How do I find out if I have Southern pine beetles in my
timber?
Unfortunately, most people do not know they have beetle infestations in
their pine timber until the damage has already been done. Trees are
dying. Yellow to bright orange and dead needles on the trees is the
most obvious sign; small, white popcorn-shaped pitch tubes attached to
the bark is another sign. The Forestry Commission conducts periodic
aerial flights to detect infestations. If beetles are observed on your
property, you will be contacted by letter about the locations of the
spot or spots and recommendations given on action you should take. If
you think you might have Southern Pine Beetle infestation, contact your
local Forestry Commission office.
Top of Page
21. Can I purchase pine straw from the Forestry
Commission?
The Forestry Commission only grants permits for pine straw to
individuals on Sand Hills State Forest. Large
blocks of straw are sold by bid to commercial straw rakers on Sand
Hills and Manchester State Forests.
Please contact them for more information.
Top of Page
22. Who are the closest land clearing contractors, and loggers?
Contact your local Forestry Commission office
for a list.
Top of Page
23. When is Earth Day?
Earth Day is April 22.
Top of Page
24. When is Arbor Day in South Carolina?
Arbor Day marks the beginning of tree planting season. Climate
determines when this is in any given area. South Carolina's planting
season begins in December and ends in mid-March. According to South
Carolina law the first Friday in December of each year is observed as
Arbor Day. National Arbor Day is the last Friday in April.
Top of Page
25. What is global warming?
The greenhouse effect is a more recent problem which results in global
warming. Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels,
have combined with natural processes to generate gases including carbon
dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. These trap the sun's heat inside
the atmosphere and the result is global warming. It is not known but
many scientists predict that, unabated, the greenhouse effect will
significantly influence global weather patterns, causing rising sea
levels and change both the urban environment and natural ecosystems.
Top of Page
26. What is acid rain?
Acid deposition - commonly called acid rain - is caused by emissions of
sulfuric dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Once released into the atmosphere
they can be converted chemically into such secondary pollutants as
nitric acid and sulfuric acid, both of which easily dissolve in water.
The resulting acidic water droplets can be carried long distances by
prevailing winds, returning to earth as acid rain, snow, or fog.
Top of Page
27. Where can I get tax information on my woodland property?
Tax
tips for Forest Landowners
Call your local project forester or the Forest Management Section
in Columbia at (803)896-8860.
Top of Page
28. What is an old growth forest?
Old growth is the final stage in the forest cycle of growth and
renewal. It is characterized by large, old trees; a multi-layered
canopy (varying tree heights); and large standing or fallen dead.
Top of Page
29. What is the Endangered Species Act and how does it affect private
landowners?
The ESA is designed to conserve threatened or endangered
species until they are out of danger. An endangered species is one facing
extinction in a specific location. A threatened species is one likely
to become endangered. ESA lists include mammals, reptiles, fish, birds,
plants, spiders, and insects. It is illegal to "take" a listed species.
Taking is defined as "to harass, harm, pursue, shoot, wound, kill, trap,
capture, or collect." Taking applies equally to endangered species on
private and public land. There are civil and criminal penalties for
taking. If land provides habitat for a listed species, it will be
subject to strict federal regulations, such as limitations on tree
harvesting and etc.
Top of Page
30. What is biodiversity?
Biological diversity refers to the variety and variability among living
organisms and the ecological complexes in which they occur.
Top of Page
31. Why are the tropical rainforests
of South America being depleted?
The underlying causes of deforestation in the tropical forests are
poverty, inequitable land distribution, low agricultural productivity,
inappropriate development, weak political institutions and rapid
population expansion. Nearly half the rain forest area that is cleared
is done by landless farmers for shifting cultivation. Clearing land for
permanent agriculture and re-settlement programs is the second biggest
cause of deforestation. Wood for heating and cooking by the world's
rural poor is the third.
Top of Page
32. What is a multiple use forest?
Multiple use forests are used for several purposes like outdoor
recreation, timber, and wildlife. The management of the resources will
not necessarily give the greatest dollar return. Economic factors are
considered , but they do not necessarily control management decisions.
All resource values are weighed and trade-offs are made.
Top of Page
33. What is a registered forester?
A registered forester is a professional trained in the art and science
of managing forests. He or she has a bachelor's degree or higher degree
in an accredited forestry curriculum at a college or university. Before
one of these trained professionals can practice forestry they must be
licensed by the Board of Registration for Foresters. To become
licensed, they must pass a written or oral exam administered by the
Board. A listing of registered foresters can be obtained by contacting
the Foresters Registration Board at (803)896-4498.
Top
of Page
34. Is most forestry work out of doors?
Many foresters spend a lot of time outdoors during the first few years
of their career. Typical outdoor duties might include measuring and
grading trees, evaluating insect outbreaks, conducting land surveys,
fighting wildfires, managing prescribed fires, laying out road systems,
supervising construction of trails and planting of trees, supervising
timber harvesting, or conducting research studies. Foresters also plan
and direct recreational use of forestlands, manage watersheds to
maximize water quality, and plan forest practices that ensure an
abundance of wildlife. After a few years of on-the-ground experience
and crew supervision, foresters typically advance to administrative
positions and may spend less time outside.
Top
of Page
35. What is the difference between a forest technician
and a forester?
A professional forester holds a minimum of a four-year college degree,
while a technician normally has completed a two-year degree in forest
technology. Professional foresters make management decisions, conduct
policy analysis, and apply ecological principles to resource
management. Forest technicians often work under a forester's
supervision to collect data and information for the forester to make
decisions. Technicians salary levels are usually less than a
forester's, but technicians have more of an opportunity to work in the
field than behind a desk.
For information on educational opportunities, contact:
Dr. Tom Wooten
School of Forestry
Clemson University
P.O. Box 340306
Clemson, SC 29634-0306
Phone: (864)656-3215
Department Head Forestry Management Technology
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
4003 South Fraser Street
Georgetown, SC 29440
Phone: (843) 546-8406
Fax: (843) 546-1437
E-mail: Brian.Clark@hgtc.edu, Amy.Rushatz@hgtc.edu
Web-site: www.hgtc.edu
Top of Page
36. What must I do to become a professional
forester?
To be recognized as a professional forester, you must have a minimum of
a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in forestry or a related forest
resources curriculum. South Carolina requires foresters to be
registered in order to provide forestry services to individuals. This
requires at least two years of experience and completion of a written
exam.
Top of Page
37. What subjects should I take in high school to
prepare for a degree in forestry?
A college forestry program is quite rigorous and begins with basic
coursework in mathematics, computer science, chemistry, botany, zoology,
soils, ecology, and the social sciences. Take as much mathematics,
chemistry, biology, physics, earth sciences, and natural resources
coursework as your high school offers. Also, it is extremely important
to gain skills in writing and public speaking.
Top of Page
38. Will jobs in forestry be available when I
graduate?
As in many other professions, there is competition for entry-level
jobs. Over time, opportunity shifts between public and private
employers. Top students are finding jobs, though, and will continue to
do so. Summer job experience in forestry can also be helpful in future
employment.
Top of Page
39. Can I camp on the State Forests?
The State Forests are not a part of the State Parks, Recreation, and
Tourism system. However, camping is allowed on
Sand Hills State Forest by permit. You need to contact Sand Hills
for more information.
Top of Page
40. How many leaves do trees have?
An
average, large healthy tree could have about 2,000 leaves. During 60 years
of its life, such a tree could grow and shed approximately 3,600 pounds of
leaves. Those leaves return about 70 percent of the nutrients to the soil.
Top of Page
