of the
Forest BY JESSIE SHOOK
I
f there is one thing the hard-working men and women of agriculture are known for, it is being stewards of the land – whether that be for livestock, crops or even the forest. “Foresters simply produce different commodities than farmers such as timber, wildlife habitats, recreational opportunities and aesthetics,” said Billy Rye, President of Forest Management Specialists, Inc. “Forest products are used to build our houses, provide paper and packaging material, provide renewable energy materials, and wood for furniture and flooring.” Rye is what you might call a veteran
forester. With his 32-year (and counting) career, his love of the forest began when he was a participant on FFA’s forestry judging team. This competition introduced participants to forest management, timber measurements, tree identification and wildlife habitat management. “I really enjoyed the study and competition during my years in FFA,” Rye said. “I also enjoyed working outdoors as I had a summer job working on a farm.” Rye enjoyed the principles of managing land and learning stewardship. “After taking several classes in forestry during college, I was hooked,” Rye added.
Billy Rye, President of Forest Management Specialists, Inc. and state chapter chair of the Association of Consulting Foresters of America.
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Cooperative Farming News
All photos were taken at Pinetops, LLC. Owned by Lydia Boesch and Frank Owen.
Stewards
