SC Forestry Commission Selling Tree Seedlings for Timber, Energy

The South Carolina Forestry Commission is again offering tree seedlings in preparation for the winter planting season.

The Commission's Taylor Nursery grows more than 35 varieties of trees for sale, including 10 selections of pine and 18 different hardwood species. Also available are baldcypress, red cedar, Atlantic white cedar, palmetto (the state tree) and several shrub and grass species. For the timber grower, we have a number of selections of high-value loblolly pines. Disease resistance and fast growth make these seedlings suitable for woodlots and landscaped yards alike.

Despite the recent downturn in home construction, state and federal forestry experts say demand for SC timber will remain strong in the long run. Also, in addition to traditional uses such as lumber, plywood and paper, wood can provide an energy source that will help South Carolinians become more energy independent in the years to come.

Orders are expected to be brisk, especially for longleaf pine seedlings, so put your order in early.

Orders may be scheduled for UPS shipping or for pick-up at the Commission's Taylor Nursery in Edgefield County beginning in December. More information and our catalog are available at www.trees.sc.gov or by calling the nursery at 803-275-3578.

2008 White House Christmas ornament

The 2008 White House Christmas ornament honoring the presidency of Benjamin Harrison (1889-1893), the twenty-third president of the United States was inspired by the Harrison family’s Victorian Christmas tree, the first recorded tree to decorate the White House. The ornament, the 28th in a series started by the White House Historical Association in 1981 presents the White House as a family home.

The cost of the ornament is $16.95 plus packing and delivery and can be ordered from the White House Historical Association, P.O. Box 96586, Washington, D.C. 20090-6586, or you can call toll free 1-800-555-2451, or visit online at www.whitehousehistory.org. Each of the 27 ornaments (from 1981-2007) is also available, along with educational brochures.

The White House Historical Association was established in 1961as a non-profit organization to enhance the understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of the White House. All proceeds from its trusts and sales of ornaments, publications and other association products are used to fund acquisitions of historic furnishings and art works for the permanent White House collection, assist in the preservation of the public rooms, and further its educational mission.