University of Georgia Launched Grow Back Project
The initiative helps Augusta residents replant their tree canopy after the devastation of Hurricane Helene.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Safety
Live Poll
Should local residents take personal responsibility for replanting tree canopies after major natural disasters?
The University of Georgia has launched the Grow Back Project to assist Augusta residents in restoring tree cover damaged during Hurricane Helene. The new platform provides expert-curated guidance to ensure homeowners plant the right trees for their specific locations.
Why it matters
Hurricane Helene devastated the urban and residential tree canopy across the Augusta region as a Category 4 storm. This project aims to facilitate recovery by offering professional horticultural advice to homeowners working to rebuild their local environment.
The Grow Back Project launched following the Category 4 Hurricane Helene that struck the region in September 2024. Forestry and horticultural experts from the University of Georgia and Clemson University developed the guidance materials.
The players
University of Georgia
This public research university provided the horticultural and forestry expertise necessary to develop tree planting guidance.
Community Foundation for the Central Savannah River Area
This local organization partnered with academic institutions to address the loss of the urban tree canopy.
Georgia Power
This electric utility company provided corporate support for the initiative to assist with local replanting efforts.
Clemson University
This South Carolina public research university contributed specialized expertise to help establish best practices for tree replacement.
The details
Residents can visit the project website and enter their zip code to receive specific tree recommendations curated by experts. The site also features an augmented reality tool that allows homeowners to use their phone cameras to visualize how virtual trees would appear in their yards.
Timeline
Hurricane Helene struck the region as a Category 4 storm in September 2024.
The Community Foundation sought resource assistance from the University of Georgia in Summer 2025.
The Grow Back Project website officially launched on September 30, 2026.
Seasonal Patterns
This project functions as an extension of the University of Georgia's Cooperative Extension services by applying academic research to community-scale restoration. The effort reflects a broader trend of leveraging institutional expertise to manage post-disaster recovery in urban environments.
Augusta residents can visit the project website to receive tailored tree recommendations for their specific zip code. Homeowners should utilize the augmented reality tool to visualize the impact of new plantings on their property before beginning any physical work.
The takeaway
Replanting your local canopy requires selecting the right species to ensure long-term environmental success. Utilizing expert-led digital tools allows homeowners to plan their landscaping effectively while recovering from storm damage.
Further reading
For more information on preparing for regional disasters, visit the Safety section.
More information
To get personalized tree recommendations, visit the Grow Back Project website.
Live Poll
Should local residents take personal responsibility for replanting tree canopies after major natural disasters?
