Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

The Chattahoochee–Oconee National Forests, spanning nearly 867,000 acres across northern Georgia, are a haven of natural beauty and ecological significance. These forests are composed of two distinct areas: the Chattahoochee National Forest and the Oconee National Forest. Despite their differences, they are collectively referred to as the Chattahoochee–Oconee National Forests and support diverse ecosystems, including rolling hills, rugged mountains, and important headwater streams that feed the Chattahoochee and Oconee River systems.

In recent years, these forests have faced significant environmental challenges. Wildfires, particularly in remote mountain areas, have grown more intense and frequent, leaving the land vulnerable to erosion and habitat loss. Prolonged drought conditions and climate-related stressors have further strained forest ecosystems, while invasive species and past land use impacts continue to disrupt the natural ecological balance. As a result, targeted restoration efforts are underway to rebuild forest resilience and support long-term ecosystem health.

This reforestation initiative focuses on restoring native vegetation in impacted areas to stabilize soils, reduce erosion, and enhance biodiversity. Native tree species such as longleaf pine, loblolly pine, red oak, and hickory are planted alongside berry-producing shrubs that provide food and habitat for wildlife. These restoration efforts benefit a wide range of species, including black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, the eastern box turtle, and the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.

Several major restoration efforts have contributed to this work in recent years. The Walden Hollow Reforestation Project restored approximately 573 acres of forest affected by insect and disease disturbance, helping rebuild native pine ecosystems and improve habitat conditions. Additional restoration activities associated with the Foothills Landscape Project and the Cooper Creek Watershed Project focus on improving forest health, strengthening watershed stability, and restoring native forest structure across priority areas of the Chattahoochee–Oconee National Forests.

By restoring native forest systems and improving watershed function, these efforts help strengthen ecosystem resilience while supporting wildlife habitat, water quality, and long-term forest sustainability. Together, these projects contribute to the continued recovery and stewardship of one of Georgia’s most important public forest landscapes.