Russ Yeomans named Chair of Georgia Forestry Association (GFA) Board of Directors: Lifelong Forestry advocate to lead Georgia’s top industry forward

The Georgia Forestry Association (GFA) has announced Russ Yeomans as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. Yeomans, president of Yeomans Wood and Timber, Inc. and a longtime forestry advocate with deep roots in the industry, will lead the Association in its mission to advance the interests of Georgia’s forest landowners and forestry stakeholders.

“I’ve never known life without forestry,” Yeomans said. “I am honored to serve as Chair of the Georgia Forestry Association’s Board and look forward to building on the accomplishments of past leaders to further strengthen Georgia’s forestry industry.”

As Chair, Yeomans is dedicated to advocating for the interests of GFA’s members and the broader forestry industry. In his role, he will champion policies that drive growth and sustainability within Georgia’s forestry sector, amplifying the industry’s voice on key issues, and advancing initiatives that support forest landowners, strengthen rural communities, and benefit the state as a whole.

Yeomans brings decades of experience to the role. His early involvement with GFA began in 1999 as a member of the Logging and Transportation Committee. Over the years, he has served in various capacities, including on the GFA Board and in supporting the organization’s premier events.

“GFA and its staff are highly respected at the Capitol and within the advocacy community,” Yeomans noted. “I look forward to leveraging that expertise to foster alliances that promote innovation, business growth, and sustainable forestry practices in Georgia.”

Beyond GFA, Yeomans has been a vocal advocate for forestry in his local community. As a past chair of the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce Board, he played a key role in initiatives like the Pine Tree Festival and Southeast Timber Expo, which celebrate and promote the importance of forestry in the region.

“We are honored to have Russ leading our Board during this critical time for Georgia’s forestry industry,” said GFA President & CEO Tim Lowrimore. “His deep experience, dedication, and leadership will be invaluable as we continue advocating on behalf of forest landowners, rural communities, and the long-term sustainability of our state’s working forests.”

The Georgia Forestry Association proudly welcomes Yeomans’ leadership as it furthers its mission to champion Georgia’s forestry industry and its vital contributions to the state’s economy, environment, and communities.

About the Georgia Forestry Association (GFA)

Since 1907, the Georgia Forestry Association has served as the premiere advocate for working forests in Georgia, working daily to promote a healthy business and political climate for forest landowners, forest product manufacturers and forest-based businesses. To learn more, visit www.gfagrow.org.