FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUGUST 26, 2025
A Georgia Forestry Commission field forester has earned national recognition for his conservation efforts in the Southeast. Kevin Lee, of Mitchell, Ga., has been named regional winner of the 2024 Hugh Hammond Bennett Award for Conservation. The recognition is given by the National Conservation Planning Partnership, a group of natural resource conservation agencies. The award honors a person who excels in planning and advancing voluntary conservation efforts on private lands.
Kevin Lee is a forestry graduate of the University of Georgia and has never stopped learning and serving for the benefit of landowners. He’s a licensed pesticide applicator, a certified prescribe burner, and is qualified as a wildland firefighter and engine operator.
“Kevin makes us all very proud,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Director Johnny Sabo. “His training and experience provide a unique versatility that positively impacts Georgia’s forest landscape. This conservation award proves that commitment on an important national scale.”
Lee is known for his diligent work ethic, professionalism, and willingness to help others. He is credited by his colleagues with having outstanding communication skills and a caring demeanor. Lee works closely with non-industrial forest landowners, forestry contractors, consultants, and government agencies. In the last year he has conducted more than 250 site visits to give general and specialized forestry advice, including guidance on cost-share, harvesting, reforestation, burning, and timber harvesting. He is proficient with computer mapping, as well as conservation plans, inspections, and field checks. In addition, he is very active in community and school outreach, as well as forestry field days.
Lee is currently working to continue his education by obtaining his Georgia Registered Forester license.
For more information about the services of the Georgia Forestry Commission, visit GaTrees.org