Forest Service wants public opinion on eradication of beetles

GAINESVILLE - The U.S. Forest Service has asked for the public&#39;s opinion regarding plans to battle the Southern Pine Beetle in the Chattahoochee National Forest. <br> <br> The Forest Service said the beetle is the most destructive pest of pine forests in the southern U.S. <br> <br> ``We have a real epidemic on our hands in north Georgia,&#39;&#39; said forest supervisor Clara Johnson. ``We have to do something about it and that&#39;s why we are asking the public for their help.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> A variety of methods will be used to stop the beetles, including burning the infested trees. Anyone with comments or concerns is asked to send them to the USDA Forest Service, 1755 Cleveland Highway, Gainesville, 30501.