Adopt a Trail
In 2017, Lake Rabun Association responded to a request from the local office of the US Forest Service for help in maintaining one or more nearby hiking trails. In keeping with the Association’s mission of conserving and preserving Lake Rabun and the surrounding community, LRA agreed to Adopt the Minnehaha Falls Trail. Each year, volunteers participate in one or more workdays, alongside Forest Service personnel, to maintain and improve the trail, assisting with rebuilding steps to access the trail, working to clearly define the walking trail, and providing new signage.
The Minnehaha Falls Trail offers a short 0.4 mile hike that features a spectacular waterfall. It’s rated as an easy trail and is good for family outings. Dogs are allowed on the trail as well. The trail is located at 867 Bear Gap Road.
For more information about the LRA Adopt a Trail program, contact LRA Member Helen McSwain.
Hemlock Preservation
Various authorities, including the US Forest Service, the GA Forestry Commission, and the GA Department of Natural Resources are responsible for our areas trees, including the endangered hemlock. Infestation by the hemlock woolly adelgid is killing large numbers of trees. Without aggressive treatment, hemlocks could disappear, negatively impacting both the ecological footprint of local forests as well as the scenic beauty of Lake Rabun and the surrounding area.
Fortunately, a treatment is available to reverse this process. For many years, LRA has worked to increase awareness of the hemlock problem and availability of a low cost solution for area residents. LRA members volunteer to work with the non-profit Save Georgia’s Hemlocks organization and Forest Service personnel to treat large areas of public land.
There are several ways you can help preserve the area’s beautiful hemlocks and related ecosystem.
Take Care of Your Own Hemlocks
Contact LRA Member Buz Stone if you would like to treat diseased hemlocks on your property. Signs of infection include small white egg sacs most visible in spring and early summer or white cotton tuft-like masses on the underside of foliage at the base of hemlock needles.
Become a Trained Facilitator
Join other LRA members as a trained facilitator by taking a 4 hour course plus a hands-on exercise to qualify and then be available to assist with hemlock treatments. More information is available on the Save Georgia’s Hemlocks website.
Volunteer for a Hemlock Treatment Project
Projects are scheduled frequently. LRA Member Bob Pledger is very active in treatment programs in Rabun County and surrounding areas and can provide volunteer information.
Sponsor a Hemlock Presentation
Call the Hemlock Help Line 706-429-8010 for more information.
