Expert: Jim Hyland - 10/17/2009

Question
My grandson has to do a leaf collection(20) using only Georgia native trees. He has to use taxonomic keys to identify each leaf and include both the scientific and common name of the tree. Also has to give a description of the tree, as well as the leaf. Also has to include a map of the U.S. highlighting the range of the tree. We live in Rome, Ga. Any suggestions as to sites to search on the internet?  Any help very much appreciated.  Thanks!

Answer
Here are several sites that have keys to ID trees.

http://www.oplin.org/tree/

http://forestry.about.com/od/thecompletetree/u/tree_anatomy.htm

I would also call the local office of the Ga. Forestry Commission and ask if thye have a key for Georgia. Their Foresters should be able to help.