What is the Future of Forestry in Georgia

Georgia’s forests are more than a backdrop to our state’s landscape. They are the backbone of rural economies, family legacies, and one of the strongest forestry markets in the nation. From small family-owned tracts to large-scale timber operations, forestry continues to shape the future of communities across the Southeast. Yet with changing global markets, evolving land use patterns, and new environmental and economic pressures, an important question stands before us: What is the future of forestry in Georgia?

That question inspired Jordan Trotter Commercial Real Estate to bring together landowners, industry leaders, and policymakers from across the state for a meaningful and forward-looking conversation.

The event featured forestry experts from the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources at University of Georgia, including Dean Todd Petty, Professor Bronson Bullock, and Dr. Stephen Kinane, who provided insight into the current U.S. forestry market and the trends shaping Georgia’s timber industry.

State leadership also played a critical role in the discussion. Jon Burns, Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives, joined fellow legislators Chas Cannon, Steven Meeks, and Jesse Petrea to share their perspectives on policy, growth, and the long-term sustainability of Georgia forestry. Industry leadership was represented by Tim Lowrimore, President and CEO of the Georgia Forestry Association, and Johnny Sabo, Director of the Georgia Forestry Commission, who addressed collaboration between private landowners and public agencies.

Together, these voices created a powerful dialogue centered on one shared goal: ensuring that forestry remains the fiber that holds together Georgia’s families, fuels local economies, and strengthens communities across the Southeast.

This event was more than a panel discussion — it was a call to action. A moment for landowners and leaders to align around opportunity, stewardship, and a vision for the future of forestry in Georgia.

From left to right: Tim Lowrimore, President & CEO Georgia Forestry Association; Waters Jordan; UGA Warnell Student & Jordan Trotter Associate; Representative Gary Richardson; Dean Todd Petty,The UGA Warnell School of Forestry; Representative Jaclyn Ford; Representative Chas Cannon; Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives, Jon Burns; Representative Steven Meeks; Representative Jesse Petrea; Johnny Sabo, Director of the Georgia Forestry Commission; Dr. Stephen Kinane, The UGA Warnell School of Forestry; Dennis Trotter, Co-Founder of Jordan Trotter Commercial Real Estate; Professor Bronson Bullock, The UGA Warnell School of Forestry, Troy Jordan, Co-Founder of Jordan Trotter Commercial Real Estate