This February, forestry students Emma Dunn and Liam Reid represented UGA at the Forest Landowners Association’s Forest Policy Fly-In in Washington, D.C. The experience provided an inside look at how federal forest policy is shaped and how its outcomes influence private landowners, investors, and the broader forestry sector. The students met with members of Congress, including Representative Buddy Carter, Senator Jon Ossoff, and Representative Bruce Westerman, along with congressional and federal agency staff to discuss forestry’s role in rural economies, supply chain resilience, and long‑term land stewardship.
Archive for 2026
02.19.2026
Student Spotlight: Will McCommons
Will McCommons, a second-year Master of Forest Resources student from Greensboro, GA, has built his career path on a lifelong connection to the woods, one that began with days spent learning from his grandfather, who worked in the lumber industry. After earning his BSFR at UGA, Will returned to Warnell to earn his MFR in Forest Business to deepen his understanding of the business side of forestry. He credits the program with broadening his perspective on how the industry operates and opening new career opportunities.
01.15.2026
Balancing Risk and Reward: Fertilization Decisions in Timberland Investments
Timberland management is a long-term investment shaped by biological growth, market dynamics, and strategic decisions. One silviculture option, fertilization stands out as a key treatment with the potential to enhance productivity and financial returns. However, Dr. Bruno da Silva and fellow researchers from the Center for Forest Business found that fertilization outcomes are uncertain, and this uncertainty complicates decision-making for landowners and investors.
01.06.2026
Alumni Spotlight: Chance Loeffler
Chance Loeffler is an alumnus of the Master of Forest Resources (MFR) program at the University of Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry & Natural Resources and currently serves as a forester with Larson & McGowin. Through his work, Chance supports a diverse range of landowners and investors, applying the technical, analytical, and professional skills he developed during his time in the MFR program.
