The Georgia Forestry Forum

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today's episode, Ryan Phillips with the Georgia Forestry Commission and Christopher Luettgen with Georgia Tech's Renewable Bioproducts Institute discuss the challenges facing Georgia's timber industry and how the Georgia Forestry Innovation Initiative (GFII) emerged from the Governor Kemp's Forestry Task Force. GFII is a collaborative effort to develop new markets for Georgia-grown wood by taking innovative technologies already proven in the laboratory and demonstrating their potential for commercial production. From transforming sawmill wood chips into materials that could be used to make refrigerants, solvents and other everyday products to developing a pilot facility in partnership with The Langdale Company, we'll explore how this initiative could create new opportunities for forest landowners, strengthen rural economies and help shape the future of Georgia's forest products industry.

Find GFC online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Find Georgia Tech Online:

• Georgia Tech Website: https://www.gatech.edu/
• Renewable Bioproducts Institute (RBI): https://renewable-bioproducts.gatech.edu/
• Christopher Luettgen's Faculty Profile: https://research.gatech.edu/rbi/luettgen
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/georgia-tech-renewable-bioproducts-institute/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgiatech/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgiatech/
• Twitter/X: https://x.com/GeorgiaTech

Ryan Phillips
Associate Chief, Markets and Innovation
Georgia Forestry Commission
rphillips@gfc.state.ga.us

Christopher Luettgen, Ph.D.
Interim Executive Director, Renewable Bioproducts Institute
Professor, School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Director, Undergraduate Pulp & Paper Certificate and Endowment
Georgia Institute of Technology

CEO and Executive Director
The Alliance for Pulp and Paper Technology Innovation

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Night Drive by JHS Pedals
• Under the Wire by The Mini Vandals
• Bottle of Something by Unicorn Heads

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Train by foxen10

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, GFC’s Paul McDaniel, RT Lumpkin, Thomas Barrett, and Matthew Mrizek explore the high-tech side of forestry and the tools changing the way we manage and protect Georgia’s forests. From drones used for wildfire response and prescribed burning to satellite imagery and 3D models, they break down how technology is being put to work in the field every day. Along the way, they share real-world examples of how these tools are helping GFC respond faster, make better decisions, identify forest health threats, and tackle challenges on the ground, proving there’s a lot more technology in the woods than you might think.

Find us online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Thomas Barrett
Forest Protection Chief
Georgia Forestry Commission
tbarrett@gfc.state.ga.us

Paul McDaniel
Forest Health Coordinator
Georgia Forestry Commission
pmcdaniel@gfc.state.ga.us

RT Lumpkin
Prescribed Fire Center Coordinator
Georgia Forestry Commission
rlumpkin@gfc.state.ga.us

Matthew Mrizek
Staff Forester, Dixon Memorial State Forest
Georgia Forestry Commission
mmrizek@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Lazy Boy Blues by Unicorn Heads
• A Trip Around the Moon by Unicorn Heads
• Modern Situations by Unicorn Heads
• Sweet Release by Dan Lebowitz

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Deep Cinematic Impact by MeijstroAudio
• Digital Wildfire by vekoN
• Keyboard by MattRuthSound
• Medium Sized Propellor Plane by soundslikewillem
• Radio Click 4 by ERH

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, GFC's Chelsea York, GADNR's Kim Morris-Zarneke, and educator Ann Marie Brezina explore what happens when teachers trade the classroom for a week in the field at the Georgia Teacher Conservation Workshop.

From forest management and prescribed fire to wildlife, water, and conservation, you’ll hear how immersive, hands-on experiences help educators better understand Georgia’s natural resources and give them the tools to bring those lessons back to their students. Plus, we look back at this summer’s first-ever Advanced Teacher Conservation Workshop and how more than 20 years of TCW is helping build a more informed generation of Georgia’s future decision-makers.

Learn more about the Teacher Conservation Workshop:

• Georgia Teacher Conservation Workshop
• TCW Facebook Page

Resources and programs discussed:

• Georgia Project Learning Tree
• LEARNING IS IN OUR NATURE - Project Learning Tree (National)
• Project WILD | Department Of Natural Resources Division
• Project WILD (National)
• Georgia Project WET
• Project Wet (National)
• Lancaster Camp
• Outdoor Wildlife Leadership School(OWLS) | Georgia Natural Resources Foundation
• NRCW (Natural Resources Conservation Workshop)
• Georgia Science Teachers Association - Conference

Find Georgia Forestry Commission online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Find Georgia Department of Natural Resources online:

• Website: https://gadnr.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gadnr
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgiawildlife/
• Twitter/X: https://x.com/GeorgiaWild

Chelsea York
Educator Coordinator, Georgia Forestry Commission
State Co-Coordinator, Project Learning Tree
cyork@gfc.state.ga.us

Kim Morris-Zarneke
Program Manager, Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center
State Coordinator, Project WILD
kim.morris-zarneke@dnr.ga.gov

Ann Marie Brezina
Sustainability and Ag. Sciences Director
High School Environmental Science Teacher

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Under the Sun by Everet Almond
• Come Along by Dan Lebowitz
• Top of the Morning by TrackTribe

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Digital Wildfire by vekoN
• Foresters Tractor and Sawing Trees by dibko
• Keyboard by MattRuthSound

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, GFC Forest Management Chief Troy Clymer and Management Forester Jeff Kastle, recipient of the 2025 U.S. Forest Service Forester Award, share the most common (and often most costly) mistakes they see landowners make across Georgia’s forests. From selling timber without multiple bids and skipping a forest management plan to overlooking early warning signs of insects and invasive species, they offer practical advice, real-world stories, and simple steps that can help landowners protect their investment and become better stewards of their land.

Find us online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Troy Clymer
Chief of Forest Management
Georgia Forestry Commission
tclymer@gfc.state.ga.us

Jeff Kastle
Management Forester, Region II
Georgia Forestry Commission
jkastle@gfc.state,ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Birdseye Blues by Chris Haugen
• Sunrise From a Moonbeam by Dan Lebowitz
• Country Sky by Telecasted

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Birds at Bells Bend by food4sparrows
• Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman
• Cha Ching by Lucish_
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Deep Cinematic Impact by MeijstroAudio
• Digital Wildfire by vekoN
• Dog Triple Bark by crazymonke9
• Keyboard by MattRuthSound
• Magic Fireball by JoelAudio
• Medium Sized Propellor Plane by soundslikewillem
• Phone Ringing by AUDACITIER
• Quail Call by dobroide
• The Sound of Ice During Melting by dibko

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, GFC's Response Center Managers Ashlee Booth and Rebecca Waller give an inside look at the work of a GFC Dispatcher. Fielding more than 120,000 calls and coordinating over 3,000 dispatches each year, these professionals are the vital link between the public and wildland firefighters in the field. You’ll hear how dispatchers balance customer service with emergency response, along with some of their most memorable calls and moments that define one of the most fast-paced, high-stakes roles in the entire agency.

Find Georgia Forestry Commission online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Ashlee Booth
Central Response Center Manager
Georgia Forestry Commission
abooth@gfc.state.ga.us

Rebecca Waller
Southern Response Center Manager
Georgia Forestry Commission
rwaller@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• The Painted Night by National Sweetheart
• Rollin' by Lauren Duski
• You Are The Only by Tracktribe

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Blackbird Fly By by acclivity
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Deep Cinematic Impact by MeijstroAudio
• Dial by CGEffex
• Dialing on an iPhone by pfranzen
• Digital Wildfire by vekoN
• Medium Sized Propellor Plane by soundslikewillem
• Radio Click 4 by ERH
• Tractor Plowing by Jukar

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

NOTE: This episode was recorded and scheduled for release prior to the South Georgia wildfires. All updates regarding the South Georgia wildfires can be found here.

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, GFC Forest Health Specialists Paul McDaniel and Mark McClure give you the lowdown on cogongrass in Georgia. You’ll learn how to identify this aggressive invasive species, how to report it, and why early detection is key to stopping the spread - along with a breakdown of the treatment options GFC offers to landowners at no cost.

Report cogongrass sightings here:

• Cogongrass In Georgia – Report It | Georgia Forestry Commission
• Learn more about cogongrass.

Find Georgia Forestry Commission online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Paul McDaniel
Forest Health Coordinator
Georgia Forestry Commission
pmcdaniel@gfc.state.ga.us

Mark McClure
Forest Health Specialist
Georgia Forestry Commission
mmcclure@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Mood Ring by National Sweetheart
• Swampland by Chris Haugen
• Where I Stand (Ft. Anahita Skye) by Blue Deer

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Birds at Bells Bend_01 by food4sparrows
• Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Dialing on an iPhone by pfranzen
• Digital Wildfire by vekoN
• Dramatic Organ, A by InspectorJ
• Jar of Nails by PaulPauwels
• Keyboard by MattRuthSound
• Sleigh Bells Sound Effect by GowlerMusic
• Sword Slice 23 by Black Snow

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, GFC’s Rural Fire Defense Program Coordinator Justin Brown and Fire Chief Charles Wasdin take you inside Georgia’s Rural Fire Defense program to explore how GFC equips and supports rural fire departments with the tools they need to assist with wildfires across the state. From grant opportunities that help departments secure essential firefighting equipment to specialized wildfire training for local crews, you’ll hear how this program strengthens response capabilities and the critical partnership between wildland firefighters and structure firefighters that helps protect communities across Georgia.

Resources discussed:

• Rural Fire Defense Program | Georgia Forestry Commission
• Georgia Forestry Commission Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant Program (VFA)

Find Georgia Forestry Commission online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Justin Brown
Rural Fire Defense Coordinator
Georgia Forestry Commission
djbrown@gfc.state.ga.us

Charles Wasdin
Fire Chief
Hazlehurst-Jeff Davis Fire and Rescue
(912) 375-6699

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Come On Out by Dan Lebowitz
• Running It Down by Everet Almond
• Too Late Now by Go By Ocean

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Cha Ching by Lucish_
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Digital Wildfire by vekoN
• Keyboard by MattRuthSound
• Radio Click by ERH

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, special guest Eli Dickerson and GFC's David Long take you inside Georgia’s Champion Tree Program to explore how the state’s largest trees are identified, measured, and verified. From the nomination process to the stories behind some of Georgia’s most impressive champions, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how these towering trees are discovered, and what makes them stand out.

Resources discussed:

• Champion Trees | Georgia Forestry Commission
• Atlanta’s Champion Trees | Trees Atlanta
• National Champion Tree Program | National Champion Tree Program
• Home - Park Pride
• The Wild Trees – Richard Preston
• Big Trees and Primeval Forests: A Guide to the Largest Trees and Finest Surviving Old-Growth in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains: Shaw, Clifford

Find Georgia Forestry Commission online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

David Long
Urban and Community Forestry Specialist
Champion Tree Program Coordinator
Georgia Forestry Commission
ISA Certified Arborist
dlong@gfc.state.ga.us

Eli Dickerson
Director of Education, Park Pride
Volunteer, Trees Atlanta
eli@parkpride.org

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Hustle Econo by National Sweetheart
• Seasons by Telecasted

Freesound.org Attributions -

• January Sleet by pcaeldries
• Keyboard by MattRuthSound
• Tire Puncture by WaveAdventurer
• Wolf by maljwilliams

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, GFC's Director and State Forester Johnny Sabo and Public Relations Director Wendy Burnett unveil the Georgia Forestry Commission’s new branding shift and tagline which spotlights GFC employees as emergency responders, working every day to protect lives, property, and Georgia’s natural resources. From wildland firefighters to forest health professionals and the utilization and marketing team, they highlight how every role supports the agency’s mission. Fighting Fire, Protecting Forests, Serving Georgia.

Find us online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

John Sabo
Director and State Forester
Georgia Forestry Commission
jsabo@gfc.state.ga.us

Wendy Burnett
Director of Public Relations
Georgia Forestry Commission
wburnett@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• All the Fixings by Zachariah Hickman
• Taking in the Changes by Everet Almond
• Bring it Together by Telecasted

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Dialing on an iPhone by pfranzen
• Digital Wildfire by vekoN
• Keyboard by MattRuthSound
• Lightning Strike by nissse
• Medium Sized Propellor Plane by soundslikewillem
• Open Can by MakoFox
• Radio Click by ERH

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, we’re saluting service as GFC Media Relations Specialist Stasia Kelly sits down with our recently announced 2025 Firefighter and Forester of the Year, Will Dale and Matt O'Connor. These two outstanding team members share their career journeys, the lessons they’ve learned in the field, and what drives their commitment to protecting Georgia’s forests and communities. From leadership and teamwork to service and dedication, this conversation highlights the heart of GFC’s mission.

Find us online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Stasia Kelly
Media Relations Specialist
Georgia Forestry Commission
skelly@gfc.state.ga.us

Will Dale
Ranger III, Habersham County
Georgia Forestry Commission
wdale@gfc.state.ga.us

Matthew O'Connor
Lead Forester, Region 4
Georgia Forestry Commission
moconnor@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Land of a Loss by Dan Lebowitz
• Pure Magic by Chris Haugen
• The Painted Night by National Sweetheart

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Ambulance by bmoreno
• Chainsaw by ItsTheGoodstuff
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Digital Wildfire by vekoN
• Dun Dun Dun by Simon_Lacelle
• Gravel Climbing by jorickhoofd
• Helicopter Spraying Herbicide by Benboncan
• Rock Tumble by AGC66
• Sleigh Bells Sound Effect by GowlerMusic
• Water Splash by Yin_Yang_Jake007

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

It’s National Forest Products Week! In today’s episode, join GFC’s Devon Dartnell and Druid Preston as they break down how a tiny seedling grows into the many forest products we use every day. They unpack the challenges facing the industry, explore emerging opportunities that could shape its future, such as mass timber and biofuels, and highlight why forest products are essential to Georgia’s economy, environment, and everyday life.

Find us online:

-Website: https://gatrees.org/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
-Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Devon Dartnell
Director of Forest Services, Utilization, & Marketing
Georgia Forestry Commission
ddartnell@gfc.state.ga.us

Druid Preston
Forest Services, Utilization, & Marketing Department
Georgia Forestry Commission
dpreston@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Clouds Lifting by Telecasted
• Headlands by National Sweetheart
• Rollin' by Lauren Duski

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Keyboard by MattRuthSound
• Pickaxe Mining Clank OWI by WolfOWI

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, GFC’s Thomas Barrett and Chris Henderson break down what to expect this fall fire season and why wildfire risk is on the rise. From permits to precautions, they share how landowners can burn responsibly and build defensible space around their homes to help reduce the threat of wildfires.

Find us online:

-Website: https://gatrees.org/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
-Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Safe Burning Resources:
Take Five: How to Comply with Georgia’s New Outdoor Burning Laws
Take Five: Overview
Frequently Asked Questions – English Version
Preguntas Frecuentes – Español Versión
GFC Public Viewer
GFC Public Viewer Video Walkthrough

Thomas Barrett
Fire Protection Chief
Georgia Forestry Commission
tbarrett@gfc.state.ga.us

Chris Henderson
Chief Ranger, Walker County
Georgia Forestry Commission
chenderson@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Cattle by Telecasted
• Too Late Now - Go By Ocean
• Sweet Release by Dan Lebowitz

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Chainsaw by ItsTheGoodstuff
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Grill Sizzle by b0bd0bbs
• Helicopter Spraying Herbicide by Benboncan
• Hose Water by KodyTron
• Keyboard by MattRuthSound
• Medium Sized Propellor Plane by soundslikewillem
• Turkey Gobble by klankbeeld
• Water Splash by lwdickens

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today's episode, GFC Media Relations Specialist Stasia Kelly interviews members of GFC's Type 3 Incident Management Team who recently returned from Alaska, where they managed several wildfires. The team discusses the unique challenges posed by Alaska's terrain, the importance of protecting life and property, and reflect on their personal and professional growth through the assignment.

Find us online:

• Website: https://gatrees.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

GFC Incident Management Team Members Featured:
Danny Gore, Incident Commander
Jason Squires, Operations
Stephen Spradley, Liaison Officer

Stasia Kelly
Media Relations Specialist
Georgia Forestry Commission
skelly@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Bring it Together by Telecasted
• Lazy Boy Blues by Unicorn Heads
• Swimming in a Fish Bowl by Mark Karan, Scott Guberman, Angeline Saris, and Jeremy Hoenig

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Bear Growl 1 by tbsounddesigns
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Helicopter Spraying Herbicide by Benboncan
• Lightning Strike by nissse
• Medium Sized Propellor Plane by soundslikewillem
• Radio Click 4 by ERH
• Zip Up by PrimeJunt
• Sleigh Bells Sound Effect by GowlerMusic

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today’s episode, join Water Quality Specialists Scott Thackston and Bert Earley as they dive into the connection between forests and clean water. From the importance of contiguous forest land to the behind-the-scenes work of monitoring for water quality risks, you’ll get an inside look at how GFC’s Water Quality Program helps protect Georgia’s water, one forest at a time.

Find us online:

-Website: https://gatrees.org/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
-Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Bert Earley
Water Quality Specialist
Georgia Forestry Commission
bearley@gfc.state.ga.us

Scott Thackston
Water Quality Program Coordinator
Georgia Forestry Commission
sthackston@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Duck in the Alley by Tracktribe
• Freedom by Dan Lebowitz
• Sugarbee by Chris Haugen
• Twilight Train by Dan Lebowitz

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Cha Ching by Lucish_
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today's episode, join GFC Foresters Aurora Geoghagan and Brandon Merz as they dish out the scoop on the best locations to recreate in Georgia this summer. They also provide a peek behind the curtain at how good forest management practices, such as invasive insect monitoring and prescribed burning, help keep these places in great shape to be enjoyed all year long!

Resources Mentioned:

• For more information on state parks, visit: https://gastateparks.org/
• For more information on national parks, visit: https://www.nps.gov/
• Merlin Bird ID App: https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/

Find us online:

-Website: https://gatrees.org/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
-Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Aurora Geoghagan
Management Forester
Georgia Forestry Commission
ageoghagan@gfc.state.ga.us

Brandon Merz
Forest Health Specialist
Georgia Forestry Commission
bmerz@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• For Our Friends by Telecasted
• Fun in the Sun by Chris Haugen
• You are The Only by TrackTribe
• Duck in the Alley by TrackTribe

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Birds at Bells Bend by food4sparrows
• Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman
• Foresters Tractor and Sawing Trees by dibko
• Hit FX Winding Down by Motion_S
• Lightning Strike by nissse
• River Summer by Klankbeeld
• Snake by Julian_Eftei
• Water Splash 1 by lwdickens

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today's episode, join GFC's Johnny Sabo and Kris Butler as they reflect on their first months in new leadership roles. From years of field experience to guiding the agency from the top, they share how their roots in forestry shape the way they lead today, as well as provide a recap from the recent legislative session, and what it means for the future of forestry in Georgia.

Find us online:

-Website: https://gatrees.org/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
-Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

John Sabo
Director and State Forester
Georgia Forestry Commission
jsabo@gfc.state.ga.us

Kris Butler
Deputy Director
Georgia Forestry Commission
kbutler@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Open and Closed by Dan "Lebo" Lebowitz & Tone Seeker
• Sunrise from a Moonbeam by Dan "Lebo" Lebowitz & Tone Seeker
• Arm Wrestler by National Sweetheart
• Duck in the Alley by TrackTribe

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Airplanes by kevp888
• Chainsaw by ItsTheGoodstuff
• Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield
• Dog Triple Bark by crazymonke9
• Door Slam 1 by bennstir
• Fireplace by inchadney
• Football Crowd by Quistard
• Gavel Double by zerolagtime
• Good Morning by barrigan
• Hammering by kentdavies959
• Helicopter Spraying Herbicide by Benboncan
• Keyboard by George Hopkins
• Open Can by MakoFo
• Quick, Bouncy, Happy, Bright Melody by AlmightyPsyche
• Radio Click 4 by ERH
• Shiny Object by sonically_sound
• Tabletop Clock Ticking by ycbcr
• Water Splash 1 by lwdickens

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today's episode, join GFC's Wendy Burnett and SCAD's Scott Linzey and Kent Knowles as they share all the details on our amazing Georgia Arbor Day tree portrait partnership and special event at the Georgia State Capitol!

Click here to watch the highlight video of the event!

Find us online:

-Website: https://gatrees.org/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
-Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Wendy Burnett
Director of Public Relations
Georgia Forestry Commission
wburnett@gfc.state.ga.us

Scott Linzey, Vice President of SCAD SERVE
Kent Knowles, Associate Chair of Fine Arts, SCAD Atlanta

For more information on the Savannah College of Art and Design and SCAD SERVE - please visit:

-The University for Creative Careers | SCAD
-SCAD SERVE - Initiatives | SCAD

Credits:

YouTube Audio Library -

• Come Along by Dan "Lebo" Lebowitz & Tone Seeker
• Sail on Stranger by Dan "Lebo" Lebowitz & Tone Seeker
• Duck in the Alley by TrackTribe

Freesound.org Attributions -

• Baseball Hit and Crowd Cheer by AmishRob
• Fireplace by inchadney
• Large Crown In building Walla by jimruss68
• Shiny Object by sonically_sound
• Windy Pine Forest (Soft) by jgrzinich

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!

Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today's episode, join GFC Fire Management Officers Chad Brackin and Jason Squires as they reflect on the six-month anniversary of Hurricane Helene, share their first-hand accounts of the storm and provide an update on how their communities are recovering.

For more information on Hurricane Helene - please visit:
Hurricane Helene Recovery Assistance | Georgia Forestry Commission

Find us online:

-Website: https://gatrees.org/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
-Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Chad Brackin
Fire Management Officer, Region 3
Georgia Forestry Commission
cbrackin@gfc.state.ga.us

Jason Squires
Fire Management Officer, Region 5
Georgia Forestry Commission
jsquires@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:
Freesound.org Attributions -

• Ambulance by Samdrup
• Chainsaw by ItsTheGoodstuff
• Clattering Metal File Against Metal Box by F.M.Audio
• Dialing on an iPhone by pfranzen
• Dog Triple Bark by crazymonke9
• Dog Running Up and Past, Panting by Trashcan_Studios
• Electric Wire by Glaneur de sons
• Fire Alarm Testing by jppi_Stu
• Fire In Woodburning Stove by Benboncan

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Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today's episode, join GFC's Seth Hawkins and David Long as we celebrate Georgia Arbor Day with a discussion on the benefits of planting native tree species, the dangers of planting invasive species, and how we can show love to Georgia's largest trees!

For more information on tree planting, species selection, or our Champion Tree Program - please visit:
https://gatrees.org/

Find us on socials:
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
-Twitter: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Seth Hawkins
Urban & Community Forestry Coordinator
Georgia Forestry Commission
ISA Certified Arborist
shawkins@gfc.state.ga.us

David Long
Urban and Community Forestry Specialist
Champion Tree Program Coordinator
Georgia Forestry Commission
ISA Certified Arborist
dlong@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:
YouTube Audio Library -
- Duck in the Alley by TrackTribe
- Fun in the Sun by Chris Haugen
- Trimmed and Taught by Dan Lebowitz

Freesound.org Attributions -
- Space Rocket Flyby by Robinhood76
- Keyboard by MattRuthSound
- Electric Wire by Glaneur de sons
- Gardening Sheers by ryanlouis
- Cha Ching by Lucish
- Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman
- Water Splash by lwdickens
- Gardening Sheers by ryanlouis
- Cha Ching by Lucish

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Welcome to the Georgia Forestry Forum!

In today's episode, join GFC's Troy Clymer and Ryan Phillips as they break down the findings of our Hurricane Helene Timber Impact Assessment, share advice for affected landowners, and detail cost-share opportunities provided by our partners as well as the state of Georgia.

For more information on the Hurricane Helene and any of the programs mentioned in today's episode - please visit:
Hurricane Helene Recovery Assistance | Georgia Forestry Commission

Find us on socials:
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaForestryCommission/
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatrees/
-Twitter: https://twitter.com/GaTrees

Troy Clymer
Forest Management Chief
Georgia Forestry Commission
tclymer@gfc.state.ga.us

Ryan Phillips
Associate Chief of Forest Management/Cost-Share Coordinator
Georgia Forestry Commission
rphillips@gfc.state.ga.us

Credits:
YouTube Audio Library -
- Duck in the Alley by TrackTribe
- Rainy Sundays by The 126ers
- Vault by TrackTribe
- Tupelo Train by Chris Haugen
- Twilight Train by Dan Lebowitz

Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!