Updates & Blog
A Year of Progress and Partnership – Reflections from Outgoing SGSF Chair Russell Bozeman
Dear SGSF Members, Partners and Friends:
As I get ready to step down as Chair of the Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF), I find myself reflecting on the past year. It’s been a time of progress, collaboration and challenges that have tested us all. The strength of SGSF comes from the way we work together, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished as a team. Now, as I pass the baton, I look forward to seeing how our work continues to grow with the leadership of our next Chair.
Leadership Changes
This year, we said goodbye to some long-serving state foresters who have left their mark on the forestry community. Tim Lowrimore of Georgia, Scott Bissette of North Carolina and David Arnold of Tennessee have all left our ranks, leaving behind legacies of excellence. At the same time, we welcomed some new leaders. Greg Hicks has been appointed Assistant Commissioner overseeing the N.C. Forest Service, Heather Slayton has been named Tennessee State Forester, Johnny Sabo has been named the Georgia State Forester and Louis Petersen the Commissioner of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture. I’m confident they’ll continue to move us forward with the same dedication and passion.
Responding to Increasing Wildfire Extremes
Over the past year, our work in forest management and wildfire response has made a significant impact. The South has faced some tough conditions, like the Smokehouse Creek Fire in Texas this February—the largest in the state’s history. But through the strength of our partnerships and the South Central Forest Fire Protection Compact, we’ve been able to respond quickly and effectively to an increasingly extreme wildfire environment to keep communities and our natural resources safer.
These efforts have showcased the resilience of our region. Through strategic wildfire readiness initiatives, we’ve been able to reduce risks and protect vulnerable communities. Furthermore, our sustainable forest management practices have led to significant improvements in forest health while supporting local economies. The ripple effect of our work is felt not only in the environment but also in the livelihoods of our communities who depend on healthy, thriving forests.
Strengthening Partnerships with the U.S. Forest Service Southern Region
A key highlight from the previous year has been the continued strengthening of our partnership with our long-standing partners at the U.S. Forest Service. Together, we’ve been able to align state and federal priorities to tackle key issues like forest health, urban forestry and reaching underserved landowners. This collaboration has helped streamline implementation of the investments we’ve received through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act.
Looking to the Future: Innovation and Growth
The future of SGSF is full of promise. Our focus on innovation and technology will be crucial in tackling the challenges of tomorrow. Among the exciting projects on the horizon are updates to the South Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal (SouthWRAP) and advancements in drone technology for forest health monitoring. Additionally, our partnership with Southern Regional Extension Forestry (SREF) on the Forest Products Locator application is set to revolutionize how we track and manage forest resources. This initiative will provide real-time data on mill locations and capacities across the South, ensuring that we have the most accurate information to guide our forest management strategies. These tools will enable us to make data-driven decisions and respond more effectively to emerging threats.
Access to forest markets for all our landowners and land managers is vital in keeping our forests as forests. Healthy markets create healthy forests, and healthy forests create healthy lives. Urban forestry is another area of continued growth, with SGSF’s Urban and Community Forestry Committee working diligently to promote urban wood utilization. This year’s economic impact study revealed that the urban forestry sector contributes $43.3 billion to the regional economy, employing nearly 350,000 people. These figures underscore the critical role urban forestry plays in both environmental stewardship and economic vitality.
A Legacy of Collaboration and Commitment
As I step out of my role as Chair, I want to express my deep gratitude to all the members and partners of SGSF. It has been an honor to work alongside you, and I’m inspired by your commitment to our mission. The future of southern forestry is bright, and I’m confident that the incoming Chair will build on the strong foundation that is SGSF.
I urge each of you to remain committed to the spirit of participation, collaboration and innovation that defines SGSF. Together, we will remain strong in our role as the southern voice of sustainable American forests – working together to conserve, protect and enhance our southern forests, ensuring they remain a source of strength and resilience for generations to come.
Thank you for your support and dedication. It’s been a privilege to serve as your Chair, and I look forward to what we will achieve together in the years to come.
