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Volunteer Helps Combat Chinese Tallow

Ben Berger
Ben Berger
© Christine Griffiths/TNC

Ben Berger
Savannah native Ben Berger braved high temperatures and swarms of mosquitoes to locate infestations of the non-native invasive Chinese tallow tree in coastal Georgia.

Chinese tallow is among more than 4,500 foreign species that have taken a foothold in the United States, costing approximately $137 billion annually in losses to agriculture, forestry and fisheries.

As a Nature Conservancy volunteer, Ben conducted a crucial study to determine the extent of Chinese tallow invasions on public lands in the lower Altamaha River watershed. His field work consisted of hiking through the forests and swamps along the Altamaha River looking for the telltale aspen-like leaves of the Chinese tallow.

“Once we know where the plant occurs along the Altamaha River, we can take the necessary steps to eliminate it,” said Alison McGee, southeast Georgia conservation manager for The Nature Conservancy.

Chinese tallow disrupts the natural balance of an ecosystem by shading our native vegetation and releasing toxins into the soil, making it difficult for native plants to grow.

Volunteer Opportunities
Learn more about volunteer opportunities in Georgia.