A Note from GFC’s New Deputy Director

GFC Family and Friends,

It is truly my pleasure to be serving you as Deputy Director as we promote forestry and protect Georgia’s natural resources, both through a stewardship ethic and protection from wildfires. I would also be remiss if I did not start by thanking Tim Lowrimore, the GFC Board of Directors, those who served on the interview panel, and the Florida Forest Service. I would not be the person I am today if it were not for the support I received from our neighbors to the south.

Throughout my career, I have worked with private and public land managers, all while continuing training, deploying, and moving up in the Incident Command System. Through all of this, there have been several constants that hold true no matter where we go. The greatest –there is nothing like Southern hospitality! Showing respect, listening carefully, and being honest, no matter the circumstances, are priorities that allow us to be successful. In time, I believe you will come to find that I put my effort into serving you, so that you can better serve the public.

Customer service will be a driving factor in everything we do. As we have all experienced, there are constant challenges that we must face head on. While we know the benefits of sound forest management and prescribed fire, we have a responsibility through our leadership, service, and education to share these important tenets with those around us.

The response I have received from the GFC family has been inspiring. For those I know and others I have recently spoken with, I appreciate the warm welcome and willingness to assist.

Moving to Macon and working for the GFC is something my family and I are very excited about. My wife, Christina, was born and raised in Marietta, while the majority of my family resides in South Carolina. We have a two-year-old son and this opportunity allows us to be closer to both of our families.

As we move into the future, I have much to learn about this state, about our landowners, and about you. As I visit your area, please don’t hesitate to come say hello. I look forward to meeting every single one of you and building upon a common bond; our love for Georgia’s Forest!

Johnny Sabo