Understory Arboretum

Located in White County, this project will teach approximately 500 middle school students forest succession and tree identification. In addition, adults will learn similar concepts in a UGA sponsored Master Naturalist program(s) and park visitors of all ages will directly benefit from this native tree identification tour.

This grant funded the installation of new trees in the park. Students on field trips will see the new trees and learn more about dendrology and the role native trees play in the landscape and water conservation. They will also hear more about the diversity of understory Appalachian trees as they observe the project and learn more about the upcoming plans to install other species.

Smithgall Woods is an angler’s paradise. One of north Georgia’s premier trout streams, Dukes Creek, runs through this spectacular mountain property and is a favorite for catch and release fishing. To ensure a quality experience, the number of anglers is limited and fishing is offered only on certain days. As a result, anglers should call ahead for reservations. Five miles of trails and 18 miles of roads allow hikers and bicyclists to explore hardwoods, streams and wildlife.

Smithgall Woods is also an elegant mountain retreat, perfect for romantic getaways, small weddings or outings with friends. Six beautifully decorated cottages — Creekside Cottage, Smithgall Cottage, Dover Cottage, Parkside Cottage, Garden Cottage and Laurel Cottage — provide 17 bedrooms with telephones and television. Some cottages have porches along the stream, while others have private hot tubs. A 1 mile trail leads from the cottages to Dukes Creek Falls.

Smithgall Woods was acquired by the state in 1994 as a gift-purchase from Charles A. Smithgall, Jr., a noted conservationist and businessman.

The Lewis F. Rogers Institute for Environmental and Spatial Analysis (IESA) promotes environmental and geospatial interdisciplinary education with advanced technology and collaborative learning. By choosing the B.S. degree with focus area, a minor, an associate degree pathway, or certificate program, students find the flexibility to follow their passions, while earning valuable, work-ready training through internships, community service, and research projects.

IESA is honored to be the recipient of the 2018-2020 Region 4 Environmental Education Grant from the EPA to promote responsible, sustainable actions in the care and conservation of native forest ecosystems in North Georgia. To learn more about the program visit the IESA homepage at:  https://ung.edu/institute-environmental-spatial-analysis/index.php  or Email iesa@ung.edu or Call 678-717-3883 or visit our social media pages on  Facebook  and  Twitter 

 Principal Investigators:

Dr. Allison J. Bailey   allison.bailey@ung.edu    678-717-2276

Dr. Jamie Mitchem   jamie.mitchem@ung.edu   678-717-3927

Support IESA Today

The UNG Foundation has established a scholarship fund (#8062) specifically for students enrolled in IESA academic programs. Please consider giving the gift of educational excellence to a bright and talented future GIS expert. 1) Visit the  UNG donation page  2) Select a donation amount 3) For Designation, select "Other" 4) In the box that appears, type "IESA" or "#8062". Thank you for your support!