In a significant move to celebrate the intersection of forestry and wildlife conservation, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp joined leaders from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to honor four outstanding corporate forest landowners. Georgia Power, Weyerhaeuser, PotlatchDeltic, and Forest Investment Associates have been officially recognized as DNR’s Wildlife Partners under the esteemed Forestry for Wildlife Partnership program for 2025.
The Forestry for Wildlife Partnership, a program with a 30-year legacy, stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in promoting wildlife conservation and sustainable forestry practices. This voluntary initiative, coordinated by the DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division, focuses on aligning forest management with broader statewide conservation strategies, including the Bobwhite Quail Initiative and the State Wildlife Action Plan. The scope of work undertaken by these wildlife partners is diverse, ranging from crucial habitat restoration for the endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers to the preservation of vital wetland ecosystems for rare amphibians and the protection of prairies that harbor endangered plant species.
The official announcement of this year’s wildlife partners took place at the state Capitol, with Governor Kemp, the First Lady, and key DNR leaders present. DNR Commissioner Walter Rabon highlighted the remarkable impact of the 2025 Forestry for Wildlife partners, noting that their dedicated efforts have positively influenced wildlife conservation across nearly 1 million acres of land in Georgia.
“Working lands are not just about timber and resources; they are also vital for conserving our native wildlife and precious natural habitats,” stated Commissioner Rabon. “With over 90 percent of Georgia’s lands under private ownership, the Forestry for Wildlife Partnership has been instrumental in uniting with large landowners for over three decades. Together, we are committed to restoring and protecting Georgia’s diverse wildlife and wild places. These wildlife partners exemplify how forestry and conservation can effectively work hand-in-hand to achieve this shared responsibility.”
Key Contributions of Forestry for Wildlife Partners
The Wildlife Resources Division proudly recognized Weyerhaeuser, PotlatchDeltic, Forest Investment Associates, and Georgia Power for their exemplary commitment to wildlife conservation through various impactful actions:
- Integrating Wildlife Management into Land-Use Planning: These wildlife partners have proactively incorporated wildlife management considerations into their core land-use planning and timber management practices. This holistic approach ensures that conservation is not an afterthought but a fundamental aspect of their operational strategies.
- Providing Essential Data for Research: Contributing significantly to scientific understanding, these partners supply invaluable data to support the Wildlife Resources Division’s ongoing research projects. This data is crucial for informed decision-making and effective conservation strategies.
- Empowering Employees through Training: Demonstrating a commitment to building internal expertise, these companies offer internal training opportunities for their employees. This training focuses on integrating forestland management with wildlife-friendly practices, maximizing benefits for multiple natural resources.
- Enhancing Public Recreational Opportunities: Recognizing the importance of connecting people with nature, these wildlife partners generously offer public recreational opportunities on their forestlands. This includes access for activities like hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing, fostering appreciation for Georgia’s natural heritage.
- Collaborating in Conservation Partnerships: These organizations actively participate in partnerships with various conservation organizations, amplifying their impact and contributing to a broader collaborative conservation network across Georgia.
- Managing Riparian Forests for Ecosystem Health: Demonstrating environmental stewardship, they prioritize the management of riparian forests. This crucial practice benefits both wildlife habitats and ensures the protection of water quality, recognizing the interconnectedness of forest and aquatic ecosystems.
Specific Projects Showcasing Partnership Impact
The diverse projects undertaken by these wildlife partners highlight the tangible benefits of the Forestry for Wildlife Partnership:
- Chapman’s Fringed Orchid Conservation: Conducting surveys and implementing management strategies specifically benefiting the rare and beautiful Chapman’s fringed orchid, showcasing a commitment to plant diversity.
- Land Donation for Species Protection: Demonstrating exceptional generosity, partners have donated land to support the conservation of protected species, including providing critical habitat for red-cockaded woodpeckers.
- Coordinated Prescribed Burns: Working in close coordination with the DNR, partners conduct prescribed burns on their properties, particularly those bordering conservation lands. This controlled burning is essential for habitat management and reducing wildfire risk.
- Bald Eagle and Swallow-tailed Kite Nest Protection: Actively monitoring and protecting nests of iconic species like bald eagles and swallow-tailed kites on their company lands, contributing to the recovery of these bird populations.
- Endangered Fringed Campion Habitat Preservation: Participating in surveys and implementing habitat preservation efforts for the endangered fringed campion, another example of plant-focused conservation.
- Priority Habitat Restoration: Focusing on restoring priority habitats such as longleaf and shortleaf pine savannas, vital ecosystems that support a wide array of wildlife.
- Gopher Tortoise Conservation: Managing land specifically to conserve and increase populations of gopher tortoises, recognized as a keystone species and Georgia’s state reptile, highlighting the importance of ecosystem engineers.
- Public Access for Outdoor Enjoyment: Providing valuable public opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing, connecting communities with nature and promoting conservation awareness.
The Importance of Woodlands and Program Participation
Abundant and healthy woodlands are fundamental to the well-being of wildlife in Georgia. With over 24 million acres of forestland, and more than 22 million acres privately owned, the role of private landowners in conservation is paramount. The Forestry for Wildlife Partnership offers a pathway for landowners with at least 10,000 acres to actively contribute to this crucial effort.
For those interested in learning more about the ongoing initiatives and achievements of this program, the annual report of DNR’s Wildlife Conservation Section provides comprehensive details: https://georgiawildlife.com/conservation/annualreport.
It is also important to note that all conservation enhancement components within the Forestry for Wildlife Partnership are fully compatible with the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Inc. (SFI). SFI represents a voluntary commitment within the forest industry to uphold high environmental standards in land management, ensuring a sustainable future for Georgia’s forests and wildlife.
In conclusion, the Forestry for Wildlife Partnership and its dedicated wildlife partners are playing a crucial role in safeguarding Georgia’s natural heritage. Their commitment to sustainable forestry and wildlife conservation serves as an inspiring model for collaborative conservation efforts.
