Fighting Fire. Protecting Forests. Serving Georgia. – WE ARE GFC!
The words “first responder” bring to mind images of ambulances, EMT’s, and fire trucks screaming up to a blazing house fire or highway wreck. The brave men and women who perform these services are heroes of uncommon ability. Yet there’s another group of first responders you may not instantly recognize – the versatile and courageous employees of the Georgia Forestry Commission.
For more than a century, GFC rangers have been answering calls to attack and suppress wildfires across Georgia – close to 4,000 a year! They also jump into action after severe weather events, chain sawing downed trees, clearing highways, assisting with medical deliveries, and supporting state and federal relief agencies. Offensive maneuvers are also part of our package – plowing fire lines, conducting prescribed burns, monitoring and treating the invasion of dangerous insect and plant diseases, creating and helping implement management plans for forest landowners. Our employees are the defenders of the natural resources that trees make available: clean water, clean air, homes for wildlife, spaces for beauty and recreation – and the myriad of products that come from the forest.
Of course, no team can be successful without a strong foundation, and at GFC that comes from people who share the passion for serving. Our outreach to the world may not be on the TV news, but it influences the world in formidable ways. GFC forest inventory specialists monitor the growth and availability of timber statewide. Marketing experts promote the resource to buyers around the globe and facilitate investment and manufacturing here at home. Reforestation efforts stretch from planting and growing superior genetic seedlings, to harvesting, processing, and selling millions of them to all of Georgia. A robust group of equipment and maintenance handlers, along with professionals in IT, education, communications, and administration round out our powerful roster of public servants. Importantly, each of us takes immense pride in the bonds that unite us and the mission we uphold:
We provide leadership, service, and education to protect and conserve Georgia’s forest resources.
In 2026, we invite you to learn more about who we are and what we do. Stay connected to our social platforms on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Check out the many videos and resources we showcase at GaTrees.org. Listen to our popular “Forestry Forum” podcast. And get to know us at special events throughout the state.
Our clock never stops. The GFC is a mighty 24/7 agency whose response teams stand ready for our fellow Georgians. And we’re mighty proud to be partners – with you.
Fighting fire. Protecting forests. Serving Georgia.