Ag Crime Unit Steps Up Citations For Off-Road Users In Areas Of State Forests Thursday, March 11, 2021
Prentice Cooper State Forest hiking trail damaged by off-highway vehicle use in unauthorized area.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) Agricultural Crime Unit (ACU) is teaming up with the Division of Forestry (TDF) to elevate enforcement of state forest regulations.
The increased law enforcement activity centers around misuse by off-highway vehicle (OHV) and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) users in the state forests. A particular area of concern is land in and around Prentice Cooper State Forest in Chattanooga where destruction of roads and trails has been discovered by visitors, foresters, and ACU agents.
March 5th is Arbor Day in Tennessee
March 5, 2021
Gov. Bill Lee has proclaimed March 5 as Arbor Day in Tennessee to recognize the importance of planting and maintaining trees in our state. This year’s state celebration will be held in Winchester, which is celebrating its first year as Tree City USA.
“I admire all Tree City USA communities, but this year’s distinction holds a special place in my heart since Winchester is my hometown,” State Forester David Arnold said. “Our state Arbor Celebration is a reminder of the value of trees in small communities and in large cities. Our partnerships with local governments, tree care advocates, and the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council help us strengthen urban environments through planting and management of trees.”