Georgia Forestry Commission Honors the Forester of the Year

Matthew O’Connor continues working with landowners to help protect and restore forests across Georgia.

AILEY, Ga. (Farm Monitor)The Georgia Forestry Commission has named Toombs County native Matthew O’Connor its 2025 Forester of the Year.

O’Connor spent decades working with the Georgia Forestry Commission, helping landowners manage, protect, and restore forests across the state.

The award recognizes years of service in Georgia’s forestry industry and ongoing work supporting forest stewardship and land management.

O’Connor says his focus remains on helping keep Georgia’s forests healthy and productive for future generations.

Related Stories
International Paper’s Rome facility produces roughly 850,000 tons of containerboard each year.
Farmers say weather extremes and rising costs are creating a more challenging season across Georgia peach country.
Waylon NeSmith says continuing the operation is a way to carry on the lessons and legacy his father left behind.
The new initiative is helping agricultural leaders strengthen their advocacy and leadership skills.
Favorable weather and hard work are leading to high strawberry yields and steady crowds at Green Acres Farm, a u-pick destination in Cochran, Georgia.
Student Katelyn Lindsay is traveling the country to support growers and connect consumers to the crop.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Study looks at how triazine chemistry impacts effectiveness against resistant weeds
Tractor Supply’s Paper Clover Campaign raises millions of dollars each year for 4-H youth programs and scholarships. Local store community marketing manager Lexie Gamble joined Tuesday’s Market Day Report alongside 4-H student Matthew Rochford to discuss the partnership.
Superior Livestock Auctions markets more than 1.7 million head of cattle nationwide while also building long-term relationships between both cattle raisers and beef producers.
The proposal would require farmers’ consent before companies can sell agricultural data
Georgia Farm Bureau event focuses on leadership, connection, and opportunities in agriculture
Event brings livestock competition into downtown setting