Advertise on podcast: The Georgia Forestry Forum

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 [email protected]  Paul McDaniel Forest Health Coordinator Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected]  RT Lumpkin Prescribed Fire Center Coordinator Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected] Matthew Mrizek Staff Forester, Dixon Memorial State Forest Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected] Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeLazy Boy Blues by Unicorn HeadsA Trip Around the Moon by Unicorn HeadsModern Situations by Unicorn HeadsSweet Release by Dan Lebowitz Freesound.org Attributions -  Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield Deep Cinematic Impact by MeijstroAudioDigital Wildfire by vekoNKeyboard by MattRuthSoundMedium 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 WorkshopTCW Facebook Page Resources and programs discussed: Georgia Project Learning TreeLEARNING IS IN OUR NATURE - Project Learning Tree (National)Project WILD | Department Of Natural Resources DivisionProject WILD (National)Georgia Project WETProject Wet (National)Lancaster CampOutdoor Wildlife Leadership School(OWLS) | Georgia Natural Resources FoundationNRCW (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/gadnrInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgiawildlife/Twitter/X: https://x.com/GeorgiaWild Chelsea York Educator Coordinator, Georgia Forestry Commission State Co-Coordinator, Project Learning Tree [email protected] Kim Morris-Zarneke Program Manager, Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center State Coordinator, Project WILD [email protected] Ann Marie Brezina Sustainability and Ag. Sciences Director High School Environmental Science Teacher Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeUnder the Sun by Everet AlmondCome Along by Dan LebowitzTop of the Morning by TrackTribe Freesound.org Attributions -  Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_DolmanCinematic Impact Boom by Universfield Digital Wildfire by vekoNForesters Tractor and Sawing Trees by dibko Keyboard by MattRuthSoundHave 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 [email protected] Jeff Kastle Management Forester, Region II Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected],ga.us Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeBirdseye Blues by Chris HaugenSunrise From a Moonbeam by Dan LebowitzCountry Sky by Telecasted Freesound.org Attributions -  Birds at Bells Bend by food4sparrowsBug Eating Plants by Samantha_Dolman Cha Ching by Lucish_ Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield Deep Cinematic Impact by MeijstroAudioDigital Wildfire by vekoNDog Triple Bark by crazymonke9Keyboard by MattRuthSoundMagic Fireball by JoelAudio Medium Sized Propellor Plane by soundslikewillem Phone Ringing by AUDACITIERQuail 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 [email protected] Rebecca Waller Southern Response Center Manager Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected]  Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeThe Painted Night by National SweetheartRollin' by Lauren DuskiYou Are The Only by Tracktribe Freesound.org Attributions -  Blackbird Fly By by acclivityCinematic Impact Boom by Universfield Deep Cinematic Impact by MeijstroAudio Dial by CGEffexDialing on an iPhone by pfranzen Digital Wildfire by vekoNMedium 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 CommissionLearn 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 [email protected] Mark McClure Forest Health Specialist Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected] Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeMood Ring by National SweetheartSwampland by Chris HaugenWhere I Stand (Ft. Anahita Skye) by Blue Deer Freesound.org Attributions -  Birds at Bells Bend_01 by food4sparrows Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_DolmanCinematic Impact Boom by Universfield Dialing on an iPhone by pfranzen Digital Wildfire by vekoNDramatic Organ, A by InspectorJ Jar of Nails by PaulPauwels Keyboard by MattRuthSoundSleigh Bells Sound Effect by GowlerMusicSword 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 CommissionGeorgia 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 [email protected] Charles Wasdin Fire Chief Hazlehurst-Jeff Davis Fire and Rescue (912) 375-6699 Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeCome On Out by Dan LebowitzRunning It Down by Everet AlmondToo Late Now by Go By Ocean Freesound.org Attributions -  Cha Ching by Lucish_Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield Digital Wildfire by vekoNKeyboard by MattRuthSoundRadio 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 CommissionAtlanta’s Champion Trees | Trees AtlantaNational Champion Tree Program | National Champion Tree ProgramHome - Park PrideThe Wild Trees – Richard PrestonBig 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 [email protected] Eli Dickerson Director of Education, Park Pride Volunteer, Trees Atlanta [email protected] Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeHustle Econo by National SweetheartSeasons by Telecasted Freesound.org Attributions -  January Sleet by pcaeldriesKeyboard by MattRuthSoundTire 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 [email protected] Wendy Burnett Director of Public Relations Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected] Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeAll the Fixings by Zachariah HickmanTaking in the Changes by Everet AlmondBring 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 vekoNKeyboard by MattRuthSoundLightning 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 [email protected]  Will Dale Ranger III, Habersham County Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected]  Matthew O'Connor Lead Forester, Region 4 Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected]  Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeLand of a Loss by Dan LebowitzPure Magic by Chris HaugenThe Painted Night by National Sweetheart Freesound.org Attributions -  Ambulance by bmoreno Chainsaw by ItsTheGoodstuff Cinematic Impact Boom by Universfield Digital Wildfire by vekoNDun Dun Dun by Simon_LacelleGravel 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 [email protected] Druid Preston Forest Services, Utilization, & Marketing Department Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected] Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeClouds Lifting by TelecastedHeadlands by National SweetheartRollin' by Lauren Duski Freesound.org Attributions -  Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_DolmanCinematic 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 [email protected] Chris Henderson Chief Ranger, Walker County Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected] Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeCattle by TelecastedToo Late Now - Go By OceanSweet 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 [email protected]  Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeBring it Together by TelecastedLazy Boy Blues by Unicorn HeadsSwimming in a Fish Bowl by Mark Karan, Scott Guberman, Angeline Saris, and Jeremy Hoenig Freesound.org Attributions -  Bear Growl 1 by tbsounddesignsCinematic Impact Boom by UniversfieldHelicopter Spraying Herbicide by Benboncan Lightning Strike by nissse Medium Sized Propellor Plane by soundslikewillem Radio Click 4 by ERHZip 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 [email protected] Scott Thackston Water Quality Program Coordinator Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected] Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Duck in the Alley by TracktribeFreedom by Dan LebowitzSugarbee by Chris HaugenTwilight 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 [email protected] Brandon Merz Forest Health Specialist Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected] Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  For Our Friends by TelecastedFun in the Sun by Chris HaugenYou are The Only by TrackTribeDuck in the Alley by TrackTribe Freesound.org Attributions -  Birds at Bells Bend by food4sparrows Bug Eating Plants by Samantha_DolmanForesters Tractor and Sawing Trees by dibkoHit FX Winding Down by Motion_SLightning Strike by nissse River Summer by KlankbeeldSnake 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 [email protected] Kris Butler Deputy Director Georgia Forestry Commission [email protected] Credits: YouTube Audio Library -  Open and Closed by Dan "Lebo" Lebowitz & Tone SeekerSunrise from a Moonbeam by Dan "Lebo" Lebowitz & Tone SeekerArm Wrestler by National SweetheartDuck 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 zerolagtimeGood Morning by barriganHammering by kentdavies959Helicopter Spraying Herbicide by Benboncan Keyboard by George HopkinsOpen Can by MakoFo Quick, Bouncy, Happy, Bright Melody by AlmightyPsycheRadio Click 4 by ERHShiny Object by sonically_soundTabletop Clock Ticking by ycbcr Water Splash 1 by lwdickens  Have ideas, feedback, or questions? Let us know!