Conservation Partners Save GA Aster
Conservation Partners Save Georgia Aster from Endangered Status
Georgia aster (Symphyotrichum georgianum) is a wide-ranging, but rare, purple-flowering plant found in the upper Piedmont and lower mountain regions of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. The plant has been a candidate for the federal endangered species list since 1999. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently announced that Georgia aster does not require federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, a decision reflecting years of conservation work by myriad partners.
Georgia Aster is found on the Sumter National Forest on the Andrew Pickens Ranger District. Find wildflower viewing areas on the Sumter National Forest and others in the southeast.
To maintain and expand Georgia Aster habitats, the Forest Service and partners manage vegetation to control competition from woody species, treat invasive plants and plant Georgia Aster. Prescribed fire is one tool used to improve and maintain these habitats.
Managing for healthy forest benefits Georgia aster and many other species such as smooth coneflower (Federally listed), and wild turkey. A few other species that will benefit include Northern bobwhite, white-tailed deer and the rare Bachman’s sparrow.
Alerts & Warnings
- Francis Marion Ranger District is burning today
- Enoree Ranger District (Sumter National Forest) Recreation Site Openings
- Long Cane district office reopening in new location
- Check the Call Before You Haul hotline before riding our OHV trails
- FSR 374 (Hunting Fork Rd) closed
- America the Beautiful passes unavailable at Supervisor's & Long Cane offices
- Damaged bridges along the Enoree Passage of Palmetto Trail; exercise caution
- Please be aware of open well hazards on Sumter National Forest
- Enoree Ranger District Rifle Range Cleaning Schedule