FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FEBRUARY 19, 2025
As North Georgia’s population increases, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) is highlighting its focus on wildfire prevention and protection. For its exceptional outreach to local communities, the GFC’s Fannin/Towns/Union Counties Unit has earned the agency’s “Unit of the Year Award for Community Engagement.”
“These employees demonstrated truly outstanding results and commitment in Fiscal 2024,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Director Johnny Sabo. “They are top performers in a number of categories, from wildfire response to government meetings and homesite risk assessments. We take great pride in knowing that residents here are in such capable and skilled hands.”
Chief Ranger Blake Melton said his team was “surprised” to receive the award, yet very grateful to have their performance recognized.
“The area is getting very populated,” said Melton, “especially since COVID. We’ve got a great crew and we try to reach as many people as we can through our activities and programs.”
The Georgia Forestry Commission evaluates all its units annually on criteria related to wildfire readiness and suppression, landowner services, and employee performance, among other measures. The Fannin/Towns/Union Counties Unit was noted for completing 214 hours per employee in outreach programs. It is very active in the “Firewise USA” program, which helps communities prepare for the possibility of wildfire. It takes part in numerous career days, Smokey Bear events, and agriculture expos. The Unit received high marks for its public image and its building and grounds maintenance, as well.
Area residents who make up the GFC Fannin/Towns/Union Counties team in addition to Blake Melton are Edward Berrong, Andrew Jones, Seth Nichols, Scott Peter, and Frank Sanchez.
For information about services of the Georgia Forestry Commission, visit GaTrees.org.
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