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Date: January 6, 2005
Contact: Nancy Poe, Chief of Resource Education, 678-538-1241

Red Fern Tree Service of Roswell, was caught in the act of dumping woodchips in the parking lot at the Island Ford Unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. At 2:45 p.m. on January 6, park staff witnessed a large dump truck offloading fresh woodchips at the back of the first parking lot. A protection ranger responded quickly and the drivers were given a citation for mandatory court appearance.

The dumping of woodchips has been occurring for the past 6 months in this location of the park. There are other areas of the park, Gold Branch, Johnson Ferry, and Settles Bridge, where illegal dumping of woodchips and trash is a chronic problem. Park Superintendent Kevin Cheri stated, "Not only does it cost the park money to remove the woodchips, but we don't know the composite of the woodchips. They could be infested with pine beetles, be full of contaminants, or contain exotic plants and/or poison ivy. All of these would be invasive to the park resources."

The operator of Red Fern Tree Service faces up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine up to $5,000. Park neighbors are asked to call 770-952-0370 if you witness any future dumping of woodchips or trash in the park.