Your complete news, information and recreation guide to Lake Lanier
As North Georgia emerges from winter’s grip this month, area trails beckon hikers into the woods to explore spring’s arrival. Page 22
The rules are simple: a female sailor must be on the helm at all times in the Joan Holcomb Memorial Women Skippers Regatta. Set for March 14, the annual regatta does welcome male crew members, but the purpose of the race is to give skilled female sailors a chance to compete and take the helm. Page 27
Birding on the Georgia coast
Thousands of miles of winding estuaries and nearly a third of the undeveloped intertidal marshland along the Atlantic seashore allows Georgia’s barrier islands to support hundreds of species of resident and migratory birds year-round. Page 25
Page 18
Classifieds
Fishing news
Lake levels
Marinas information
Outdoor activity calendar
Page 31
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Page 23 Columns:
The Careful Captain
Curb Appeal
Design & Remodel
Glenn Burns
One Man’s Opinion
Vanderford’s Travel
Page 14
Page 28
Page 29
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Page 25
is published by
Lanier Publishing, Inc.,
3292 Thompson Bridge Rd. #250, Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 287-1444
Publisher/Editor
Alan Hope
Production
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Susan Daniel Creative, Inc.
Senior Writer
Pamela A. Keene
Contributing Writers
Jane Harrison, Vicki Hope
Columnists
Glenn Burns, Bill Crane, Natalie Burke, Frank Taylor
Travel Editor
Bill Vanderford
Lakeside is published monthly by Lanier Publishing, Inc. based in Gainesville, GA, with distribution in some 300 locations around Lake Lanier and other areas. Opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of Lakeside, its staff or its advertisers. Manuscripts and photographs submitted will be considered for publication. Lakeside cannot be held responsible for such materials in case of damage or loss.
City using sound waves to battle water taste issues
By Alan Hope
The City of Gainesville is hoping to use a different kind of wave on Lake Lanier to combat taste and odor issues with its treated water.
For months residents across metro Atlanta including Gainesville have complained about an “earthy” or “dirt” taste to their water. Water officials have conducted “extensive” and recurring testing showing the water is safe for drinking and the issue is one of aesthetics.
“As the 2025 taste and odor event continued, DWR staff continuously searched for additional remedies,” said Gainesville Water Resources Director Linda MacGregor via the city’s Facebook page.
The city settled on Netherlandsbased LG Sonic, which she described as “pioneers in ultrasonic algae control.”
“We sought the input of national experts who identified (LG Sonic) as an option worth testing.”
The city said the science behind LG Sonic’s ultrasonic technology has the potential to reduce algae by 95 percent without chemicals, stopping algae growth long-term without harming people, pets, other aquatic life or the lake itself.
In December 2025 Gainesville partnered with the company to place three “MPC’ buoys near its Riverside Water Treatment Plant on north Lake Lanier. MPC stands for monitor, predict and control.
The city says the buoys emit low-power ultrasound waves in the top water layer that block algae’s access to sunlight and nutrients, causing the algae to sink and die off, decomposing naturally. This is made possible by generating a constant pressure cycle around the algal cells, which interferes with the algae’s buoyancy, or its ability to reach the surface for sunlight and the bottom for nutrients. Instead, algae remains suspended between the two – deprived of the optimal environment needed to thrive and multiply.
“By emitting sound waves that disrupt the buoyancy of algae, you’re preventing them from releasing the compounds that cause the musty taste and odor issues,” MacGregor said.
She said the buoys are equipped with real-time water quality monitoring. “They provide an overview of our water quality by collecting the following parameters every 10
minutes: chlorophyll α (green algae), phycocyanin (blue-green algae), pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen and temperature. Data is key when it comes to understanding this complex natural phenomenon.”
Gainesville is the first in the state of Georgia to use this technology, but not the first to report taste and odor challenges caused by algae blooms.
“All utilities withdrawing water from both Lake Lanier and the Chattahoochee River are expressing these issues to varying degrees,” MacGregor said. “Also, other lakes have experienced identical issues this year, more so than other years.”
According to its website, LG Sonic serves 12 industries and has a presence in over 55 countries –clients who wish to control algae sustainably and maintain aquatic environments devoid of chemicals or other contaminants.
The following entities have turned to LG Sonic following similar complaints of foul taste and odor issues: Town of Johnstown, Colo.; American Water New Jersey, in Short Hills, N.J.; Missouri and Minnesota. Other MPC-Buoy deployments around the world help
address algae concerns beyond drinking water, like recreation, hydropower, irrigation and more.
Gainesville’s MPC-Buoys, secured under a six-month rent-toown contract, were deployed in the immediate vicinity of the water intake at Riverside Water Treatment Plant.
“The sound waves (active component) extend out about 800 meters, or 2,600 feet,” MacGregor See Sound Waves, page 14
PHOTO BY ALAN HOPE
One of three installed MPC buoys is shown near the intake of Gainesville’s Riverside Water Treatment Plant.
5488 Price Road, Gainesville
Watermark on Lake Lanier, Gainesville
6386 Tuggle Drive, Buford
$899,000 (Hall) 518 Overlook Drive, Dawsonville Land, lake, barn,
Azurite St. Cumming
“Pineapple Willy’s, P.C. Beach” - 16x20 - Oil on Canvas
Anne Brodie Hill, ASMA, GWS www.annebrodiehill.com • 770-718-7586
Lake Sidney Lanier & Gainesville prints, Postcards, Notecards
Original Oil, Acrylic, and Watercolor Paintings
Gallery on the Square, 118 Main Street, Gainesville, GA
Other Fine Artists at Gallery (www.gallerysq.com)
Ann Alexander, Pam Kohler-Camp, Patricia Fabian, Lydia Ferguson, Ann Goble, Jane Hemmer, Paula Hoffman, Shannon Hughs, Joyce Hornor, Leigh-Anne O’Brien, Connie Lynn Reilly and Shirley Seguin
Prints, postcards, notecards also available at:
Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green Street, Gainesville, GA
Frame-Tastic, 565-B Shallowford Road, Gainesville, GA NE GA History Center, 322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville, GA
Lanier Fishing Report
Lake level: Down 5.3 feet
Temperature: 40s
Clarity: Main lake clear, creeks somewhat stained
Bass fishing
Bass fishing on Lake Lanier is fair. The bass are in the early stages of pre spawn and it has been day-to-day on catching them. Over the last few days the bite has picked up as the bass have moved shallower.
Right now the bass are scattered from 50 feet deep all the way to the bank so you still have options on how you try to catch them. The better bite of late has been the bite in less than 30 feet of water on a quarter ounce Spot Choker with a two eight Keitech, a three eights Picasso jig in crawfish color or a green pumpkin Dimiki rig.
Work the Spot Choker starting in the 30foot range and work all the way up to the 10-foot range concentrating on the rocky points and docks.
The jig and the Dimiki rig will work in the same depth range but be sure to use a slow presentation.
There are still fish deep and you can catch them with either a half ounce spoon
or a three eights Spot Choker worked slowly along the bottom in the 30- to 50foot range. The key is to locate these with your electronics and target them with your baits either by dropping directly on them or bringing you Spot Choker slowly through them to draw strikes.
Its transition time for the bass and as the water temperature continues to rise with the warm weather, look for the shallow bite to be the key to a successful day. The weather is warming and so are the bass so Go Catch 'Em.
This bass report is from Phil Johnson; Pjohnson15@hotmail.com, 770 366-8845.
Crappie fishing
Crappie fishing on Lake Lanier is good. The crappie are suspended in open water at five to eight feet deep near main creek and channels and on deep water docks.
Minnows are no help and the jig color of choice is d2d or a white and chartreuse by ATX lures. For your best fishing experience consider using the following equipment: a one piece ACC Crappie Stix rod and reel paired with 4 or 6 pound test K9 line with a Atx lure company jig. Further optimizing your efforts with a Garmin Li-
veScope.
This Lake Lanier Crappie Report is by Captain Josh Thornton, 770 530-6493.
News
The Blue Ridge Trout Festival is April 25, 2026 in downtown Blue Ridge. For
information visit www.blueridgetroutfest.com.
This fishing report was compiled by Ken Sturdivant’s Southern Fishing, www.southernfishing.com. Keep Safe When Fishing - Wear a Life Jacket!
Ah, the uncertainty of March weather
As winter loosens its grip on North Georgia, we will have to brace ourselves for the kitchen sink, which is usually what Mother Nature throws us. We all know temperatures can swing dramatically and spring storms can, and do, wreak havoc.
March arrives in North Georgia like an indecisive guest, bringing equal parts promise and unpredictability to the foothills and mountains that define this scenic corner of the state. While the month signals the official arrival of spring, veteran residents know better than to pack away their winter coats just yet. One example was the Blizzard of the Century, the biggest winter storm of modern times. It was an incredible thing to forecast. No one believed me when I was forecasting 20-30 inches of snow. The transitional nature of March weather creates a unique atmospheric battleground across North Georgia. Cold air masses from the north collide with warm,
moisture-laden systems pushing up from the Gulf of Mexico, producing a weather pattern that meteorologists describe as volatile and difficult to predict more than a few days in advance. They are basically “weather wars.” The worst March tornado outbreak in Georgia history was the March 2007 outbreak, with 2008 being the second worst.
March 2007 outbreak
In March 2007, 21 tornadoes touched down in eastern, middle and southern Georgia, leaving nine people dead, nearly 100 injured, and hundreds of millions of dollars in damage. The most devastating tornado was a violent EF-3 tornado with winds of up to 165 mph that was a mile wide and cut a 38-mile path through Webster, Sumter and Macon counties, directly striking the 143-bed Sumter Regional Hospital in Americus.
March 2008 Atlanta outbreak
The second major March outbreak was in March 2008, which struck metro Atlanta on March 14-15. In total, 45 tornadoes were confirmed over the 24-hour period from eastern Alabama to the Carolina coast, causing half a billion dollars in dam-
See Burns, page 30 March weather can be … unpredictable.
PHOTO BY NOAA
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Is diesel safer to use than gas while on the water?
People will argue over just about anything. I once overheard a conversation between two guys debating which type of boat was better: diesel-powered or gasoline-powered. In my opinion, each has its advantages, and I’m not here to argue which one is superior. However, one of the men made a claim to support his argument that caught my attention –he said diesel fuel is safer than gasoline. That’s what I want to discuss here.
During the debate, he stated that “it is impossible for a diesel boat to explode, while gas-powered boats explode all the time.” I can’t say I agree with that statement as written, but is there any truth to his claim? The answer is yes – and no. It is true that diesel fuel is far less volatile than gasoline.
Most of us know what would happen if you lit a match and tossed it into a pan of gasoline. Now try the same thing with diesel fuel: the match would simply go out. No burst of flame, no small explosion. Nothing. This is
Frank Taylor
The
Careful Captain
also why diesel engines do not use spark plugs. They rely on compression ignition rather than spark ignition. But why?
Let’s look at some numbers. Specifically, let’s compare the flashpoints of the two fuels. Flashpoint is the temperature at which a fuel produces flammable vapors.
Gasoline has a flashpoint of around minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that even in very cold temperatures, gasoline can burn – or potentially explode –quite easily. Diesel fuel, on the other hand, has a flashpoint above 125 degrees Fahrenheit. At normal ambient temperatures, it tends to remain stable and is far
less volatile.
Because of this higher flashpoint, diesel fuel can technically be stored more safely than gasoline. There is a lower risk of explosion due to fumes. However, this does not mean we can be lax in how we handle it. Most fuels still pose health risks, such as skin or eye irritation from contact. Inhaling fumes can also lead to respiratory problems.
We also shouldn’t forget that diesel fuel becomes more dangerous when exposed to heat. If its temperature rises closer to its flashpoint, the risk increases. An overheating engine in a boat can easily raise the temperature in the bilge – where fuel tanks are often located. This can create a chain reaction that ends in disaster.
So should you take the same precautions with diesel-powered boats as you do with gasolinepowered boats? Absolutely. Store fuel properly. Keep the bilge clean. Avoid fuel spills. Perform regular engine checks. Many people believe that because diesel fuel is less volatile than gasoline,
there’s no need to run a blower before starting the engine. In fact, some diesel boats don’t even have blowers.
In my opinion, if a boat does have a blower, use it. Even if the risk of fumes is lower, a blower helps keep the bilge area cooler, which is better for both fuel stor-
age and engine health.
Besides, it’s just the flip of a switch. Isn’t that worth a little peace of mind?
Frank is past commander of America’s Boating Club Atlanta and is currently a content creator at the YouTube channel “The Ships Logg.”
• Sound Waves
Continued from Page 2
said. “We are pilot testing whether this technology effectively impacts the water that Gainesville withdraws. For now, our pilot test will not impact all of Lake Lanier, just the area surrounding the Riverside WTP.”
The city will evaluate the MPC-Buoys’ impact before deciding whether to deploy additional units to other parts of Lake Lanier that would benefit Gainesville’s drinking water system. Until then, minimal maintenance is required (roughly every six months), which is covered by LG Sonic for one year per the
City's contract.
“We want to remedy the issue just as badly as residents want us to remedy the issue,” MacGregor said. “DWR staff have been working around the clock to address taste and odor concerns with every known solution, but unprecedented algae levels in Lake Lanier are proving more difficult to treat than in years past.”
For additional information regarding taste and odor, visit www.gainesville.org.
To learn more about LG Sonic, visit www.lgsonic.com.
Lake Lanier Association Lake Lanier Association Spring into Stewardship!
With warmer days on the horizon, Lake Lanier is buzzing with ac tivity – and opportunity to preserve it. Spring on Lake Lanier means boats on the water, families on the shore, and a renewed call to safeguard our lake. Behind the scenes, the Lake Lanier Associat ion is working year round to keep the lake Clean, Full, and Safe.
Spring is the perfect time to get more involved! Did you know? LLA members enjoy exclusive events like our Annual Member Celebration held each spring and educati onal “Lunch and Learn” gatherings, as well as a chance to be entered into monthly member giveaways ! Members also receive the Lanier Outloo k, our exclusive publication that features program updates, upc oming events, and feature articles from the LLA Board of Directors.
Beyond these benefits, membership directly supports these vital programs:
YOUR MEMBERSHIP IN ACTION
Removing over 128 tons of trash at Shore Sweep 2025
Lighting up 300+ hazard markers with solar lights
Stocking and maintaining 12 life jacket loaner stations
Project Armor - 3 miles and counting of shoreline protected with rip rap
Monthly water quality testing , all 12 months of the year
Removing Abandoned and Derelict Docks & Vessels (ADDV) from the waters of Lanier
THIS SPRING DON’T JUST ENJOY LAKE LANIER, HELP PROTECT IT.
Lazy Days is the legendary, full-service marina located just a short drive north of Atlanta off I-985, offering a centralized, easy-to-access location on Lake Lanier. The marina can dry stack boats up to 36 feet and offers wet slips up to 125 feet. Guests enjoy the convenience of new, upgraded fuel pumps and an on-site service department operated by Singleton Marine. With more than 690 miles of shoreline, Lake Lanier is known for its aqua-blue water, spectacular scenery, and endless recreational opportunities.
GAINESVILLE/HALL COUNTY
The Hall at Bourbon Brothers – 213 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, Gainesville – 678-434-0475 Shows at 7:30 pm unless otherwise noted.
o Mar 1 – The Seven Wonders: Fleetwood Mac tribute.
o Mar 6 – Diamond Rio.
o Mar 7 – Gregorian “Pure Chants World Tour.”
o Mar 13 – Taj Farrant.
o Mar 14 – Genesis Retouched – The Essence of Phil Collins.
o Mar 20 – Boot Stompin’ 90s Country Show: The Honky Tonk Circus.
o Mar 21 – Taylor Swift Dance Party, 8:30 pm.
o Mar 26 – Mighty Joe Young: Stone Temple Pilots tribute.
o Mar 27 – Don’t Be Cruel: Elvis Tribute.
o Mar 28 – To the Limit, Eagles Tribute. Brenau University Events - 500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville - 770-538-4764
o Mar 14 – Dempsey Dash 5K – 9 am-11 am, meet at the amphitheater, 770-534-6299.
o Mar 20 – Women’s Leadership Colloquium, 1:30 pm-4:30 pm.
o Mar 20 – Cinderella – Gainesville Ballet Co.
– Pearce Auditorium, 7:30 pm, Sun 2 pm. Don Carter State Park - 5000 N. Browning Bridge Rd., Gainesville - 678-450-7726
o Mar 1-30 – Monumental Moments Scavenger Hunt – $5 parking.
o Mar 13-22 – Equestrian St. Patrick’s Day Scavenger Hunt – 8 am-5 pm, $10, + parking.
o Mar 13 – Nocturnal Night Hike – 7:45 pm8:45 pm, $3, plus parking fee.
Lakeside Calendar March 2026
o Mar 14 – Meet our Mosses Hike – 11 am11:45 am, parking fee.
o Mar 14, 28 – Pet a Pelt – noon-12:45 pm, $1, plus parking fee.
o Mar 14 – Safe and Found Hike – 1 pm-2 pm, parking fee.
o Mar 21 – 16th Annual Sweep the Hooch – 9 am-noon, parking fee.
o Mar 28 – Become a Natural at iNaturalist! –1 pm-2 pm, $1, plus parking fee.
Elachee Nature Science Center - 2125 Elachee Dr. Gainesville - 770-535-1976
o Mar 6-May 1 – Women of the Woods Club –(1st Fri each month) – 3-5 pm, free, ages 16+.
o Thru May 28 – Young Explorers Club –(weekly T/Th, 9 am-11 am) indoor/outdoor handson discovery for ages 3-12, $9.60-$12.
o Thru Apr 15 – Wild Wisdom – free, twice weekly series for adults, register online.
o Mar 14, May 9 – Sci-Art Saturdays – natural science illustration, 10 am-12:30 pm, $12/$10 members, pre-registration required.
Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden -1911 Sweetbay Dr, Gainesville - 404888-4760
o Mar 7 – Crepe Paper Flower Wreath Workshop – 10 am-noon.
o Mar 14 – Greenhouse and Nursery Tour – 10 am-noon.
o Mar 28 – Girl Scout Badge Day – 10 am-2 pm. Gainesville Theatre Alliance – 678-717-3624
o Apr 10-18 – Into the Woods – Ed Cabell Theatre, Oakwood, $19.50-$31.50. Hall County Library - 770-532-3311, X4011, hallcountylibrary.org
Blackshear Place – 770-532-3311, ext. 151
o Mar 2 – Murder Mystery Night – 6-7 pm
o Mar 12 – Teen Hour - 4:30-5:30 pm, 14-18.
o Mar 31 – Stretch with Me Storytime – 10:15 am-11 am, family, all ages
Gainesville Branch - 770-532-3311, ext. 3000
o Mar 4 – NE GA Writer’s Group – author Mark Beaver – 1-3:30 pm, adults.
o Mar 11 – Homeschool Crafternoon – 1:30 pm-2:30 pm, elementary school.
o Mar 30 – Manga, Movies and More Mondays – 6-7 pm – middle/high school.
Murrayville Branch - 770-532-3311, ext. 171
o Mar 2 – Sourdough Bread Making Class – 67 pm, adults.
o Mar 12 – Growing Readers Storytime – 10:15 am-10:45 am, baby/preschool.
o Mar 20 – Butterfly STEM – 2-3 pm, elementary school.
North Hall Tech Center - 770-532-3311, ext. 181
o Mar 2 – Chair Yoga – 1-2 pm, adults.
o Mar 17 – Leprechaun’s Treasure Hunt – allday drop-in, elementary.
o Mar 28 – Video Game Club for TEENS –3:30-4:30 pm, middle/high school.
Spout Springs Branch – 770-532-3311, ext 191
o Mar 4 – Special Needs – March Madness –10:3-11:30 am, adult.
o Mar 12 – Dogs with Jobs – 5-6:30 pm, elementary school.
o Mar 26 – Mah-Jongg – 1-3 pm, adults.
Historic Downtown Gainesville - 112 Main St.,
o Mar 28 – Mutts on Main – 10 am-4 pm
Lake Lanier Olympic Park - 3105 Clarks Bridge Rd., Gainesville - 855-536-1996
Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club (LCKC):
o Mar 9 – Lanier Canoe/Kayak Club – Beginner Racing League Open House
o Mar 16 – LCKC Beginner Racing League begins
Lake Lanier Rowing Club (LLRC) – Adult Learn to Row classes, ages 18+, www.lakelanierrowing.sportngin.com/
o Mar 21 – 5th Annual John Ferriss Regatta
o SURVIVErg – indoor rowing program for cancer survivors, see website for details
o Service to Strokes – a 12-week indoor rowing program for veterans.
Northeast Georgia History Center - 322 Academy St NE, Gainesville - 770-297-5900
Permanent Exhibit – Threads of Sacrifice: Stories from Northeast WWI, WWII, and Korean War
o Mar 10 – Forum: Women of the Revolutionary War, 7 pm.
Quinlan Arts Center - 514 Green St NE, Gainesville - 770-536-2575
o Mar 5 – GALA Preview Night, open to public, 5:30 p.m
o Mar 7 – 48th GALA-Fine Art Auction, 6:30 pm, black-tie, tickets required.
o Mar 10 – Ekphrasis for the Masses – 2nd Tue Monthly – vivid, poetic descriptions of art –noon-1 pm, open to public.
o Mar 17-20 – Four Day Portrait Painting in Oils – paint from live model, 9:30 am-4:30 pm, $260 plus $35.
– compiled by Vicki Hope For more calendar items, visit lakesidenews.com/calendars.
Time for legislators to earn their keep on tax decisions
Live long enough and the world will bring you the two things we have each been guaranteed: Death and Taxes. This loathsome pair is nearly equally unpopular. The latter is a necessary evil to fund the many faces and services the government provides that people need or desire. This of course means that during election years we will often witness conservatives announce or embark on quests to remove or reduce taxes, while their liberal counterparts detail the damage those tax and revenue reductions will inflict.
The Georgia General Assembly faces two major choices for reducing the tax burden onGeorgians. The State Senate and the Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones are championing the reduction and eventual elimination of the state’s personal income tax.
State House Speaker Jon Burns and State House leadership, as well as Governor Brian Kemp’s proposed budgets would phase in relief for property taxes paid on homesteads, single-family homes,
Bill Crane
One Man’s Opinion
n SHARE WITH BILL: bill.csicrane@gmail.com
over six years. Property and other ad valorem taxes are the primary funding source for county governments and public school systems, along with sales taxes. The income tax is the state’s largest single source of revenue, accounting for roughly 40 percent of the state’s income.
Almost 60 percent of Georgia’s budget is dedicated to public education. County and municipal school systems primarily use property taxes to fund public education. State income taxes are paid on net income, not gross income. For lower-income households, several million already pay
virtually no state income tax because their income falls below the minimum required for taxation.
To pay for the revenue loss, the State Senate bill would eliminate job creation tax credits which lured mega-projects, such as the Kia Automotive plant to LaGrange, the Hyundai plant to Bryan County and Ellabell, Ga., and Rivian to Stanton Springs in Morgan County, roughly an hour east of Atlanta. The pharmaceutical and technology industries have also followed those tax credits to Georgia, creating thousands of higher paying jobs, particularly in areas where job growth had otherwise long since disappeared.
The State House proposal, the Georgia HOME Act would double the existing state homestead tax exemptions (currently 40 percent of single-family home’s owner occupied property value) every other year through 2032, moving toward their eventual elimination. Local governments would have the ability to adjust sales taxes by up to five additional cents, as well
as make fee adjustments to make up the funding difference. Budget forecasters estimate the state’s reduced revenue to local governments and school districts at roughly $5 billion per year.
Georgia’s income taxes generate over $16 billion annually, and the wealthy pay a disproportionate share of total income tax revenues. Noting that 60 percent of that would pass through to local school systems at current spending levels, those cuts would be in the range of $8-9 billion at the local level.
Our General Assembly has only one duty which is a Constitutional requirement. They must produce a balanced budget. Prudent stewardship has earned Geor-
$1,650,000
gia among the highest bond debt ratings in the nation. These revenue topics are real, serious and potentially taxing matters. I have my preferences, but hope our legislature collectively get the state’s revenue mix right without tanking our public school systems, Georgia’s robust economy, or ongoing job growth. We may not pay our legislators all that well, but this is an instance where they potentially more than earn their keep.
Bill Crane is a writer and true son of the South. A longtime columnist and political analyst, he is now spending a good part of his time living the lake life and loving North Georgia. He will share his thoughts and travels here.
Be ready to hit the trail this month; Tips on hiker safety and etiquette
By Jane Harrison
As North Georgia emerges from winter’s grip this month, area trails beckon hikers into the woods to explore spring’s arrival. Folks who curled up under throw blankets on icy January weekends and dreamed of striding through north Georgia’s verdant forests hit the trails as trilliums blossom and leaf buds open. March, traditionally known as a prime month for prospective Appalachian Trail thru-hikers to begin their northbound journey, also brings out thousands of day-hikers on shorter paths. Whether planning a 2,000+ mile epic trek from Georgia to Maine or a half-mile jaunt to a waterfall, practicing certain safety measures and hiking principles can help trail users have fun, meaningful outdoor ventures.
Lakeside News spoke to officials from three area hiking organizations to get their advice on hiking safety and etiquette. The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club (GATC), Benton MacKaye Trail Association (BMTA), and Northeast Georgia Hiking (NEGH) all preach Leave No Trace (LNT) standards that promote safety and courtesy on the trails. The principles apply not just to hiking clubs, but to solo hikers and unaffiliated groups as well.
“Safety is a big component in the mountains,” said Bob Cow-
drick, BMTA president. Rough hilly terrain, slick rocks and roots and changing weather conditions challenge unprepared or unaware hikers. A hiker’s realistic selfevaluation of their skill and fitness to tread a certain trail is inherent to the first LNT principle: plan ahead and be prepared.
“Choose hikes you feel comfortable doing,” said Cowdrick, whose organization leads hikes and performs trail maintenance on the 288-mile path through north Georgia into Tennessee and North Carolina.
Prior to putting boots on the ground in club hikes, leaders research trails through internet reviews and first-hand descriptions. They may pre-hike to find out about downed trees, rutted treadways, or re-routes. They inform club members about what to expect so they can decide if they are up to it. They frequently check weather forecasts and will cancel hikes due to risky conditions.
“Before we hike, we brief everyone on where we’re going,” said Mike Bell, NEGH leader. He emails descriptions of the group’s Tuesday hikes in advance and reiterates the day’s course when hikers meet at the trailhead. “I take a look at everybody,” he said, to make sure they have supplies they need, are dressed appropriately and appear physically fit for the day’s journey.
Bell added that most members of the closeknit club based in Habersham and Stephens counties have hiked together for “quite a number of years” and are aware of each other’s abilities. “We keep an eye on each other.” The same can be said of GATC and BMTA hike leaders who also regard participants’ readiness for the path ahead. All take extra water, first aid kits, and other essentials, just in case a hiker is in need.
CJ Bradbury, GATC Outreach Director, said a list of 10 essentials forms the “seatbelt of hiking.” A day pack
stocked with water, food, first aid kit (including flexible bandages), navigational aids (such as map APP or download on a cell phone or another navigational piece plus a paper map), a headlamp or flashlight, sun protection, rain jacket and/or other clothing layer, and a whistle can provide item(s) that can save an outing from becoming uncomfortable or even catastrophic.
Hike leaders ask participants to provide an emergency phone contact, usually a family member or close friend. They advise solo hikers to inform someone about where they are going and what time they expect to return. They recommend lone hikers and unaffiliated woods walkers research trail routes and conditions and check weather forecasts. “Not knowing about the situation is where people get off trail,” said Cowdrick. Such meanderings not only run the risk of hikers getting lost, they also cause erosion and damage to vegetation.
Although cell phone reception may be poor to nil on area trails, a phone call can summon help if calls can be completed. A navigation APP or downloaded map may keep a hiker on trail. Having a fully charged cell phone and portable charger can be lifesavers or at least help point the right direction.
“Politeness and common courtesy” foot the basics of trail etiquette, Bell said, adding that most folks enjoying a hike are friendly to others doing the same thing. “I’ve never encountered anybody who was ugly or aggressive on the trail. Most speak and say hello.” Cowdrick concurs. “Be courteous. Say hello. You can meet some good friends.”
Bradbury stated there are no “hard, fast, black and white written rules” of trail etiquette. Some of the basics are situational, based on the specific experience and common sense. For instance, when meeting other hikers on a hill, downhill facing walkers generally yield to those heading uphill. However, that can vary. It makes more sense for a single hiker heading downhill to step aside to let a group of 10 or so uphill hikers pass. “It causes more disruption to the trail area for 10
people to step off than one person,” Bradbury said.
Hikers report encountering a growing number of trail runners,
especially on the Benton MacKaye Trail. “We step off and yield to them,” Cowdrick said. On mul-
See Trail, page 23
LNT standards form basics of trail safety, etiquette Trail clubs follow and promote Leave No Trace Standards that stress safety and respect for other trail users and the natural environment. The framework of LNT centers on seven principles:
1) Plan ahead and prepare
2) Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3) Dispose of waste properly
4) Leave what you find
5) Minimize campfire impact
6) Respect wildlife
7) Be considerate of others
Source: https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/ If you get lost
Sometimes the unexpected happens, even to prepared, experienced hikers. The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest website offers advice if a hiker cannot find their way:
• Pay close attention to your surroundings and landmarks and relate this to your location on a map.
• Stay calm. Panic is your greatest enemy. Try to remember how you got to your current location.
• Trust your map. Do not walk aimlessly. If you are on a trail, don’t leave it.
• Stay put if it is nightfall, if you are injured, or if you are near exhaustion.
As a last resort, follow a drainage or stream downhill. This can be hard going but will often lead to a trail or road.
Source: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/chattahoochee-oconee Find Trail Partners in Area Trail Clubs
The three hiking organizations cited by Lakeside News offer regular hikes with leaders who plan ahead for each event. They form a valuable resource to meet new hiking friends, enjoy the outdoors, and get exercise on the trails:
Northeast Georgia Hikers break for lunch on Lookoff Mountain. The group's Tuesday hikes range from Hall County into South Carolina.
PHOTO BY BMTA
Benton MacKaye Trail Association members embark on two or more hikes a month. The BMT spans almost 300 miles in north Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina and is known as a sister trail to the Appalachian Trail. The southern terminus of both are on Springer Mountain, near the Dawson/Gilmer county line.
o Cows Come Home Celebration, Sautee Nacoochee. Tour 100+ year old barn & mansion, learn about dairy activities from a century ago, see butter churned, take a hayride, listen to live music, meet local artists, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. March 7, Hardman Farm Historic Site, 143 Hwy. 17. $8. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-1077.
o Trillium Trek, Gainesville. Half marathon/10K/5K on Chicopee Woods Trails, 8/8/8:30 a.m. March 7, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $35-$65. www.runnersfit.com.
o Crepe Paper Flower Wreath Workshop, Gainesville. Make a cheerful spring wreath, materials provided, 10 a.m.-noon March 7, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $55, members $50. www.atlantabg.org, 404-888-4760.
o Cumming Wine Fest. Wines, vendors, live music, 1-4 p.m. March 7, Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Rd. $40-$50, $100 VIP. www.cummingcitycenter.com.
o St. Patrick’s Day Market, Flowery Branch. Live music, Irish dancers, train rides, bounce houses, craft vendors & more, 3:30-6:30 p.m. March 12, Flowery Branch Farmers Market, 5210 Railroad Ave. www.flowerybranchga.org.
o Hike to the Headwaters, Helen. 5-mile round trip hike with Chattahoochee Riverkeeper to Chattahoochee Gap to see tiny spring where Chattahoochee River originates, 11 a.m. March 13, Jacks Gap on Ga-180 near Brasstown Bald. Register in advance. www.chattahoochee.org, brisser@chattahoochee.org.
o St. Patrick’s Block Party, Gainesville. Dancing in the streets to Irish music, plus green drinks, 5
• Trail
Continued from Page 22 tipurpose trails, where foot travelers, mountain bikers, and pack animals might share the path, hikers generally move over. Although mountain bikers are instructed that hikers have the rightof-way, many situations make it easier for those on foot to yield. “Pedestrians usually get out of the way,” Bradbury said.
Trail manners also apply to hikers with dogs. “Ninety-nine point nine percent of dogs are on a leash,” Cowdrick said, which makes trail encounters more comfortable for other hikers, with or
Outdoor Calendar March 2026
p.m. March 14, Downtown Drafts, Gainesville Square, 115 Bradford St. www.exploregainesville.com.
o Edible Plant Hike, Helen. Short guided hike with forager and herbalist to learn about wild foods, 10 a.m.-noon March 14, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087.
o NorthBeast Cycling Classic, Mt. Airy/Cornelia. Bicycle road races, time trial, & criterium for various categories, March 14-15. $25-$45 per event. www.bikereg.com.
o Dempsy Dash 5K/1K, Gainesville. 9 a.m. March 14, Brenau University Amphitheater, 102 Prior St. $10-$30. www.runnersfit.com.
o Greenhouse & Nursery Tour, Gainesville. Behind the scenes look at 3-acre greenhouse and nursery, 10 a.m.-noon March 14, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $25, members $20. www.atlantabg.org, 404-888-4760.
o Chamber Chase 5K/2-Mile Walk, Gainesville. 6 p.m. March 14, Riverside Preparatory Academy, 2001 Riverside Dr. $30-$35. www.runnersfit.com.
o Sweet & Sour 5K/10K/15K, Sugar Hill. 11 a.m. March 15, Eagle Theater, 5029 W. Broad St. NE. $35-$50. www.fivestarntp.com.
o Sweep the Hooch, Various locations. Annual Chattahoochee River watershed clean-up by land and water at 64 various parks and access points, March 21. Registration required. www.chattahoochee.org, tbates@chattahoochee.org.
o International Day of Forests Guided Hike, Gainesville. 3-mile Bridge loop hike through Chicopee Woods observing seasonal changes and forests’ role in ecosystems, 10 a.m.-noon March 21, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Free. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.
o Shane Clark Memorial 5K, Gainesville. 8:30 a.m. March 21, Midland Greenway, 682 Grove St. $35-$40. www.runnersfit.com.
o Run Dahlonega 5K. 8:30 a.m. March 21, University of North Georgia, 82 College Circle. $15$30. www.runnersfit.com.
o Championship Rough Stock Rodeo, Cumming. Bull riding, barrel racing, bronc riding and more, 8 p.m. March 27 & 28, Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Rd. $20 ages 11+, free to age 10 & younger. https://cummingfair.squarespace.com/.
Falls. Mile-and- a-half night hike down 310 stairs to suspension bridge over falls, 8-9:30 p.m. Apr. 1, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $10, plus $5 parking. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.
o Sunset Easter Hunt, Tallulah Falls. Fun Easter activities & hunt, 6-7:30 p.m. April 3, Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-754-7981.
o Easter Egg Hunt, Gainesville. Egg hunts, games, music & more, 1-3 p.m. Apr. 4, hunts begin at 2 p.m., Midland Greenway, 682 Grove St. www.exploregainesville.org.
o Community Egg Hunt, Dawsonville. Children search for more than 40,000 eggs, plus bounce houses, face painting, & more, activities begin 11 a.m., hunt 1 p.m. April 4, Rock Creek Park, 445 Martin Rd. www.kareforkids.org/easter-egg-hunt.
o Spring Bob Ross Paint & Sip, Gainesville. Complete a landscape painting inspired by works of Bob Ross in one sitting, sip a beverage of choice, supplies & beverage provided, for ages 13+, 1-4 p.m. Apr. 4, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $110, members $100. Register in advance. www.atlantabg.org, 404-888-4760.
On-Going
o Cumming Farmers Market. Fresh produce, locally raised eggs, meat and honey, baked goods, 811 a.m. Saturdays, Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Rd. www.cummingcitycenter.com.
o Monumental Scavenger Hunt, Gainesville. Celebrate a Georgia history event every month with a scavenger hunt on the Overlook Trail; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, Don Carter State Park, 5000 N. Browning Bridge Rd. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 678-450-7726.
without dogs.
Hikers who enjoy stepping to their own beats should be aware not everyone on the trail wants to hear their music. “Put earbuds in if you’ve got tunes going,” Cowdrick said.
Courtesy extends to leaving no trace of your passage on the trail. Litter—including snack wrappers, banana peels, and water bottles—mars the path for others and upsets natural ecosystems.
Education is key to safely enjoying the activity that will bring more than 2,000 hikers to the near 80-miles of the AT in Georgia this month and multitudes to other area paths. GATC Trail Ambassadors and Ridgerunners will be out spreading the word and setting examples on safety and courtesy as hopeful thru-hikers begin their adventure. BMTA members expect to greet hundreds of hikers on National Trails Day June 6 with “Leave No Trace” tips. Hikers meeting NEGH will get a friendly hello and a maybe a trailside chat.
o Become a Naturalist: iNaturalist, Gainesville. Learn to use app to identify plants, insects, animals and fungi, 1-2 p.m. March 28, visitor center, Don Carter State Park, 5000 Browning Bridge Rd. Register in advance. www.gastateparks.org, 678-4507726.
o Mutts on Main, Gainesville. Pet expo with costume and trick contests, Disc Dog shows, live music, pet adoptions and more, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 28, downtown Square, 112 Main St. SW. www.exploregainesville.org.
o Glow in the Dark Easter Egg Hunt, Gainesville. Kids search for glowing eggs on trail, plus bounce houses, food vendors, 5-9 p.m. March 28, Laurel Park, 3100 Old Cleveland Hwy. $25 per car. www.hallcounty.org.
o Edible & Medicinal Plants, Helen. Introduction to foraging, learn about local plants, take a short hike, 10 a.m.-noon March 28, Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trl. $5, plus $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-3087.
o Girl Scout Badge Day, Gainesville. Celebrate Girl Scout Day with tour and activities to earn badge, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 28, Gainesville Garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1911 Sweet Bay Dr. $35, members $30. Two adults admitted free with scout. www.atlantabg.org, 404-888-4760.
o Dog Days of Spring, Cumming. Dog-friendly vendors, live music, interactive activities, tasty treats, noon-4 p.m. March 28, Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Rd. www.cummingcitycenter.com.
o Touch A Truck, Gainesville. Get up close to big service trucks – firetrucks, dump trucks, road construction rigs – plus music & food, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. March 28, City Park, 830 Green St. www.exploregainesville.com.
o Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike, Tallulah
o Weekend Amphitheater Concerts, Cumming. Live tribute bands Friday and Saturday nights, Lou Sobh Amphitheater, Cumming City Center, 423 Canton Rd. Free. www.cummingcitycenter.org.
o Wildlife of Unicoi, Helen. Learn about variety of wildlife, meet critters up close, 2nd/4th Sat., Visitor Center, Unicoi State Park, 1788 Hwy. 356. $5 parking. www.gastateparks.org, 706-878-2201.
o Young Explorers Club, Gainesville. Ages 3-12 engage in indoor/outdoor activities to explore the natural world, 9-11 a.m. Tues. & Thurs. through May 28, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.
o Women of the Woods Club, Gainesville. Monthly gathering to empower women to explore outdoors and learning new skills, 3-5 p.m. first Frid, thru May, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.
o Behind the Scenes Animal Care, Gainesville. See what it takes to care for nature center’s animal ambassadors and assist with real animal care tasks, noon-1 p.m. Thursdays thru May 28, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10, free to non-members. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.
o Wild Wisdom, Gainesville. Experts in natural science speak on topics from birding to geology to climatology, 9-11 a.m. 1st & 3rd Wednesdays thru April 15, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. Free. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.
o Sprouts, Gainesville. Monthly programs for ages 18 months-3 years to learn about animals, plants and insects, 2nd Thursdays through May 14, with guided programs 9:30-10 a.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Dr. $10, free to members. www.elachee.org, 770-535-1976.
– compiled by Jane Harrison For more calendar items, visit lakesidenews.com/calendars.
PHOTO COURTESY GATC
Members of the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club hike several times a month on Georgia trails. The club sets an example with Leave No Trace principles.
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Early spring birding on the Georgia coast is magical
Thousands of miles of winding estuaries and nearly a third of the undeveloped intertidal marshland along the Atlantic seashore allows Georgia’s barrier islands to support hundreds of species of resident and migratory birds year-round. However, early spring warming is without a doubt, one of the best times to visit this unforgettable area of the eastern seaboard!
Coastal Georgia has an abundance of human and natural history that has been recorded since the first settlers colonized the coast. Just a visit to any of the 17 sites along the Colonial Coast Birding Trail (georgiabirdingtrails.com) will provide you with the opportunity to see and enjoy the beauty of a kaleidoscope of birds and glimpse at the fascinating history of this land and its residents.
Even the native Americans knew that this coast was a cornucopia of enchanting forests, live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, open waterways for exploring, fresh-from-the-sea food and adventures waiting around every corner. During modern times, coastal Georgia has activities for every pace in life. So, if a stroll through the woods or relaxing on the open water is more your style, this slice of paradise will never be a regret!
More than 300 species of birds
Bill Vanderford Travel Editor
n MORE INFO: JFish51@aol.com www.georgiafishing.com
(75 percent of the total species of birds seen in Georgia) have been spotted at the 17 sites along the birding trail. Don’t expect to see most of these birds on a single visit. The birds you see will depend greatly on when and where you visit. Some birds can be seen throughout the year. Others are migratory and travel long distances from their breeding grounds to wintering areas.
If you want to see migrants, you need look for them during those times of the year when they visit Georgia. You will also find a wide variety of habitats along the trail. Shorelines, salt marshes, old rice fields, woodlands, tidal rivers, freshwater wetlands and other habitats host their own fascinating bird communities.
Many sites on the Colonial Coast Birding Trail offer visitors
the opportunity to watch birds and visit 18th and 19th Century historic places. Other sites are located on lands and waters that were once part of early plantations dedicated to growing rice, indigo and cotton. So whether you want to see an osprey soaring over a coastal river, an endangered wood stork feeding its young, pelicans skimming the waves along a sandy beach, or a great blue heron standing motionless in a placid pond, the Colonial Coast Birding Trail has something for you.
The numbers of birds found along the trail change with the rising and falling of the tides and with the passage of the seasons. Consequently, each visit offers the chance to experience a new wildlife adventure. Spend some time along the Colonial Coast Birding Trail and learn why the Indians called the Georgia coast The Enchanted Land.
Bill Vanderford has won numerous awards for his writing and photography, and has been inducted into the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame as a Legendary Guide.
PHOTOS BY BILL VANDERFORD
Rosate Spoonbill.
Flamingo. Hawk. Wild Turkey.
Wood Stork.
Kingfisher. Night Heron. Snowy Egrets.
Baby Heron.
Piliated Woodpecker.
Hummingbird.
Great Horned Owl.
Wood Duck.
A pair of White Ibis.
Barred Owl.
Great Blue Heron along a tidal creek.
15th annual Joan Holcomb Women Skipper Race puts females on the helm
By Pamela A. Keene
The rules are simple: a female sailor must be on the helm at all times in the Joan Holcomb Memorial Women Skippers Regatta.
Set for March 14, the annual regatta does welcome male crew
members, but the purpose of the race is to give skilled female sailors a chance to compete and take the helm.
Named in memory of Joan Holcolm in 2011, the year after she died, 2026 celebrates the 15th anniversary of the regatta.
“Joan was a major presence in the sailing community,” said Susan
Reddaway, former commodore of Lake Lanier Sailing Club and director of the University Yacht Club Maritime Foundations’ Junior Sailing Program. “An accomplished sailor, she was respected for her leadership, sportsmanship and sailing excellence. She served as a role model not only for female sailors, but also for all of us who sail and boat. And she would give the whole fleet a run for their money when she was on the
water.”
Holcomb stepped up to leadership roles, serving as commodore of Barefoot Sailing Club in 1994 and as commodore of Lake Lanier Sailing Club in 2002. She always took time with novice sailors to share her experience.
“Our club decided to honor Joan for her accomplishments and what she meant to Lake Lanier,” said Laura Clarke, commodore of Barefoot Sailing Club. “It has
meant a great deal to women sailors on Lanier to race in her honor.”
The regatta’s sponsors are Barefoot Sailing Club and Lake Lanier Sailing Club. The event will be headquartered at Lake Lanier Sailing Club. Plans are to conduct two to three races, depending on the weather and the wind.
For more information visit barefootsailingclub.org.
LLA member survey for Shoreline Management Plan input completed
By Pamela A. Keene
Over the summer, the Lake Lanier Association surveyed its members regarding the Shoreline Management Plan. Members submitted more than 2,800 individual comments.
“This is the first time we have ever polled our members for comments on
changes they want to see in the Shoreline Management Plan,” said Clyde Morris, vice president and secretary of the association. The responses covered a variety of issues and topics, listed by priority: Dock boxes, trees/trimming and removal, timing and communications.
“The themes emerging from the survey likely come as no surprise,” said Todd Baxter, president of the LLA. “Members expressed significant frustrations with Corps responsiveness, timeliness, inconsistency, and overall communication, with most feedback centered on concerns related to safety and convenience.”
An email reporting the results was sent to members in early February. A more complete summary will be distributed as part of the organization’s spring newsletter, emailed to members only.
For more information, visit lakelanier.org.
Basics of Safe Boating - America's Boating Course
• Online: Wed, March 4, 11, 7 – 9 pm; Sat, March 14, 8:30 am – 12 pm:
• Information/registration: americasboatingclubatlanta.org/ or EmailABC@usps-atlanta.org
Boating Safely & Personal Watercraft Certification - USCGA
• When: 9 am - 5 pm: March 21
Information/registration: Michael Goetschl, mandc0614@charter.net http://wow.uscgaux.info/peclass.php?unit=070-02-09
Action during last year’s regatta.
PHOTO BY LAURA CLARKE
Last chance to safely plant trees and shrubs for backyard privacy
As spring nears, consider planting trees and shrubs before the end of March. Once the weather starts to warm and move into the heat of summer, you’re putting more stress on landscape plants you intend to install.
Whatever you plant you MUST water regularly. Because the weather is still cool, plants still need plenty of water to thrive and prepare for summer’s heat.
Change your privacy ‘settings’ Leyland cypress were all the rage 15 or 20 years ago for residential privacy screens. They replaced the 1980s look created by the Red Tip Photinia that homeowners and builders frequently planted around HVAC units or between houses to give a natural look to a visual barrier. But when disease wiped out many of Red Tip Photinias in the late 1980s and early 1990s, people turned to Leylands. Here’s the problem with fast-growing Leylands. They’re disease prone, can grow as much as 25 to 30 feet in less than a dozen years, and they develop multiple trunks that can easily break off in heavy winds.
Arborvitae, like Green Thuja Giant and Emerald Green, look similar to Leylands, do much better at delivering the goods. Plant them at least 8 to 12 feet off centers – measuring from trunk to trunk – and use a zig-zag pattern for interest and better airflow.
Consider seeking out a new arborvitae cultivar, American Pillar, that’s extremely fast-growing with a tall, narrow growth habit that can be planted around four feet apart. It was developed in Cherokee County in the last 1990s and has become very popular across the country.
Walter Reeves’ suggestions Here are a few of Walter’s sug-
gestions for privacy screens:
Various species of holly – consider Emily Brunner, Nellie Stevens, Foster or Savannah varieties. These are hard reliable evergreens that require little maintenance or pruning.
Hybrid magnolias – Little Gem Dwarf Magnolia or D.D. Blanchard Magnolia are excellent. With their glossy dark-green leaves and fragrant white blossoms in the summer, you really can’t go wrong. Check the specifications and give them enough room to gracefully spread, plus room to grow up to 20 or 25 feet, even the dwarfs.
Arborvitae – similar to Leylands, these evergreens are sturdier and come in several varieties, including Green Giant and Emerald Green. One of the newest is American Pillar, developed in Woodstock in Northwest Georgia. They have a very upright growth habit, achieving heights of 20 to 25 feet with widths of only four or five feet. They should be planted about 3 feet off centers and are resistant to high wind damage.
Reeves’ website is filled with a
plethora of gardening and plant information. Although he’s no longer on the radio, his website is still active. I check it regularly for reminders and tips. His month-bymonth gardening calendar is indispensable and his lawn care calendar for both warm- and coolseason grasses can be a lifesaver.
Pamela A. Keene is senior writer for Lakeside News and a Hall County Master Gardener. She writes for more than a dozen publications across the country, covering features, travel and gardening.
The Hall County Master Gardener’s Spring Expo comes up next month.
Get your spring plants here!
What: Hall County Master Gardener’s Spring Expo
When: Friday, April 3, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, April 4, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center, 855 Calgary Church Rd., Gainesville
Cost: $2 for per person for anyone age 12 and over. Please no pets. Plenty of available handicapped parking
The covered open-air arena at Chicopee Woods Ag Center is filled with more than 60 gardening vendors offering, plants, shrubs, trees, annuals and perennials, plus tools, art and hand-crafted gifts from the garden. Bring your plant questions to the Ask-A-Master-Gardener booth for answers to your gardening questions for free. Plus gardening workshops and door prizes. For info: hallmastergardeners.com or 770 535-8293.
PHOTO BY DON LINKE
Some 2026 home remodeling trends in North Georgia
As homeowners across North Georgia are rethinking how their homes support their health, comfort, and lifestyle, remodeling trends are moving beyond aesthetics and focusing on wellnesscentered design, improved indoor environments and spaces that promote relaxation and movement.
Below are the top 2026 home remodeling trends in North Georgia that blend design with health and wellness benefits.
1. Natural Light as a Structural Priority –Many North Georgia homes are surrounded by beautiful landscapes, and homeowners are looking for ways to bring that natural light indoors. Popular upgrades: Enlarged windows and sliding glass doors; Skylights and solar tubes; Vaulted ceilings; Open-concept living spaces to share light
Wellness benefit: Natural light improves mood, energy levels, and sleep patterns while reducing the need for artificial lighting.
2. Indoor Air Quality Upgrades – With Georgia’s humidity and seasonal allergens, indoor air
quality is a top concern for many homeowners. Trending upgrades: Whole-home air purification systems; advanced HVAC filtration; dehumidification systems; lowVOC paints and finishes; moldresistant drywall and materials.
Wellness benefit: Cleaner indoor air helps allergy symptoms, respiratory irritation, and moisture-related issues.
3. Spa-Inspired Bathrooms with Therapeutic Features –Bathroom remodeling continues to be one of the most popular projects in Hall, Forsyth, and Dawson counties, especially when
it includes wellness-focused features. 2026 Bathroom Trends: Curbless, walk-in showers; steam showers and saunas; soaking tubs; heated floors; natural stone and warm wood tones.
4. Kitchens Designed for Healthy Living – In North Georgia homes, the kitchen is the heart of the family. Kitchens are being designed to support healthier cooking and healthier eating. Key Kitchen Design trends: large islands for meal prep, gathering; walk-in pantries; improved task lighting; dedicated beverage or smoothie stations; touchless faucets and easy-to-clean antimicrobial surfaces.
Wellness benefit: A functional, organized kitchen encourages home-cooked meals.
5. Flexible Spaces for Movement and Mindfulness – More homeowners are asking for dedicated spaces for areas that support physical activity, relaxation,
and hobbies.
Popular remodeling ideas: Home gyms; multi-purpose wellness/activity rooms; Yoga or meditation nooks; convertible guest rooms with fitness storage; indoor-outdoor exercise areas.
Wellness benefit: Having dedicated spaces for movement and mindfulness makes it easier to maintain healthy routines.
6. Aging-in-Place and Universal Design – Many North Georgia homeowners are choosing to remodel with long-term comfort and accessibility in mind. Universal Design features: Wider doorways and hallways; zerothreshold showers; lever-style door handles; main-level primary suites; non-slip flooring.
Wellness benefit: Universal design reduces fall risks, allowing homeowners to stay in their
homes longer.
7. Biophilic Design and Natural Materials – Nature-inspired design fits perfectly with the scenic surroundings of North Georgia. Material trends: Natural wood cabinetry and beams; stone countertops and accents; Earth-tone color palettes; indoor plants and living walls; organic textures inspired by nature.
Wellness benefit: Natural materials and colors help reduce stress and create a calming environment.
Price of fuel: (as of 2/18/26) $5.39 non-ethanol; $5.79 diesel On-site eatery: Various restaurants.
• Burns
Continued from Page 12
age. An EF2 tornado struck downtown Atlanta, damaging the CNN Center, Georgia Dome, and Georgia World Congress Center. I remember that night like it was yesterday.
Average temperatures during March typically range from the mid-30s during nighttime hours to the upper 50s and low 60s during the day. However, these averages mask the true character of the month. It’s not uncommon for us to experience a 70-degree afternoon followed by a freeze warning just 48 hours later.
Precipitation becomes a dominant feature of the March landscape. The month typically delivers between five and six inches of rainfall across most of the region, with higher elevations in the Blue Ridge Mountains occasionally seeing more. This moisture is critical for replenishing reservoirs like Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona, which serve millions of residents in the greater Atlanta metropolitan area.
The rainfall pattern in March tends to shift from the steady, soaking rains of winter to more dynamic spring systems. Thunderstorms become increasingly com-
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mon as the month progresses, and while severe weather is less frequent than in April or May, March can still produce damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes, particularly in the lower elevations of north Georgia. For those living in the highest elevations, snow remains a possibility throughout March.
The warming trend becomes more pronounced as March draws to a close. By the final week of the month, high temperatures regularly push into the 60s and occasionally touch 70 degrees, while overnight lows moderate into the 40s. This warming triggers one of North Georgia’s most celebrated natural phenomena: the spring bloom. Yet this beauty comes with caution. The temperature fluctuations can devastate early bloomers if a hard freeze follows a warm spell.
As climate patterns continue to evolve, meteorologists note subtle shifts in March weather trends. Recent years have shown a tendency toward greater temperature extremes and more intense precipitation events, though whether this represents a
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Types of fuel: 90 non-ethanol
Price of fuel: (as of 2/18/26) $5.39 regular (Dock/Ship Store open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily) (Pay at the pump closes same time as restaurant.)
On-site eatery: Pelican Pete's Bar and Grill
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Types of fuel: Non-ethanol, 90 octane
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On-site eatery: Pig Tales
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long-term pattern or natural variability remains under study.
For North Georgians, March remains a month of anticipation and adaptation. It’s a time when the promise of spring hangs tantalizingly close, yet winter occasionally reasserts itself with unexpected vigor. Residents have learned to dress in layers,
• Design
keep umbrellas handy, and maintain a healthy respect for the region’s atmospheric mood swings. As the old mountain saying goes: “If you don’t like March weather in north Georgia, wait 15 minutes – it’ll change.”
Glenn Burns is chief meteorologist emeritus for WSB-TV in Atlanta.
Continued from Page 29 model?
8. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living –
With North Georgia’s mild seasons, mountain and lake views, outdoor living is no longer an afterthought. Homeowners want direct access to fresh air, sunlight, and nature. Top remodeling features: Covered porches and patios; retractable glass doors; screened-in decks; outdoor fireplaces and gathering areas; garden-to-table spaces.
Wellness benefit: Spending more time outdoors supports relaxation, physical activity, and family connection.
Thinking About a Wellness-Focused Re-
If you are considering a kitchen, bathroom, or whole-home remodel, working with an experienced local design-build team ensures your home improvements are both beautiful and beneficial to your long-term health and comfort. Visit our website for ideas or to schedule a free consultation at www.tracytesmerremodeling.com.
Natalie Burke is the Marketing Coordinator for Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodeling in Gainesville.
Driveways, walkways
To submit a
, visit www.lakesidenews.com/classifieds or call 770287-1444.
