Project: Chattooga River Road Sign Replacement
Location: White County, Georgia
Description: On January 14, 2026, U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Recreation Technicians Boyd Logan, Brett Grizzle, and Sara Michelson from the Chattooga River Ranger District of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest came together to replace previously stolen and damaged Tread Lightly! Principles and map signs along Chattahoochee River Road (Forest Service Road 44). This important corridor serves as a key access point within the district and is frequently visited by Jeep riders, overlanders, and other off-road recreationists.
The sign replacement required careful planning and installation. Each sign was precisely drilled and mounted to ensure secure placement without damaging the sign surfaces, making the process time-intensive but essential for long-term durability and effectiveness.
These signs play a critical role in educating visitors about responsible recreation, Forest Service rules and regulations, and the proper use of officially designated Forest Service roads in the Chattahoochee River area. As one of the closest and most popular stopping points for off-highway vehicle users visiting the district, Chattahoochee River Road is a prime location for reinforcing the Tread Lightly! message and promoting sustainable, respectful use of public lands.
By restoring these educational signs, the project helps improve compliance, reduce resource damage, and ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy this area while protecting it for future generations.
Thank you to the partners who made this project possible:
• USFS – Chattooga River Ranger District, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
• BFGoodrich Tires
“Thank you to BFGoodrich Tires Outstanding Trails and to Tread Lightly! for helping to replace the signs stolen from our forest road. We have a profound appreciation for the impact that Tread Lightly! is making on our district and we plan to continue educating visitors with the help of Tread Lightly!”-Sara Michelson, Forestry Technician, Chattooga River Ranger District, Chattahoochee-Oconee NF
“Tread Lightly! is so thankful for our partners who help us to fund projects with land managers all over the country with educational signage, and trail restoration and conservation efforts. Thank you BFGoodrich Tires and the Outstanding Trails Grant which helps us to Protect the Adventure for future generations!”-Lowell Eckart, Southeast Program Manager, Tread Lightly!
Want to get involved in your own Tread Lightly! project? Find upcoming activities, events, and grant opportunities at treadlightly.org.
