Community Corner
John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve Joins The Old-Growth Forest Network, Sandy Springs
John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve (Big Trees) is now a part of the Old-Growth Forest Network (OGFN), a national network.
02/16/2021 6:07 pm
John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve (Big Trees) is now a part of the Old-Growth Forest Network (OGFN), a national network of protected, native, publicly accessible mature forests. Big Trees is the first forest in Fulton County to receive the designation.
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“Big Trees is a natural wonder nestled within a bustling urban environment. Within steps of entering the park, the natural beauty of the trees surrounds you. We are proud of the national designation recognizing the big importance of this nature preserve,” said Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul.
Big Trees is a 30-acre forest preserve located about four miles north of I-285 in the northern area of Sandy Springs, Ga., adjacent to the North Fulton County Government Annex building. The Southeast Land Preservation Trust spearheaded efforts to preserve the woodlands in 1990, in partnership with Fulton County and the State of Georgia. Fulton County deeded the City of Sandy Springs 20 acres in 2006, following the City’s incorporation in 2005. The State of Georgia owns 10 acres.
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The preserve is named after John Ripley Forbes, recognized as the nation’s foremost authority on the development and organization of natural science centers and wildlife sanctuaries for youth. Forbes founded the Natural Science for Youth Foundation and in 1976, founded the nonprofit Southeast Land Preservation Trust.
The mission of the Old-Growth Forest Network is to connect people with nature by creating a national network of protected native forests. The program works to identify forests for the network, ensure protection from logging, and inform people of the forest locations. Today, there are 116 forests in the network throughout the U.S., with 24 states participating in the program. More information about the organization can be found at oldgrowthforest.net.
This press release was produced by the City of Sandy Springs. The views expressed are the author's own.