FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOVEMBER 14, 2025
Forester Matthew O’Connor jumped into action after Hurricane Helene swept through his Vidalia yard in 2024. Little did he think that just over a year later, his can-do decisions would help earn him special recognition from the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC).
O’Connor, who has been with GFC for six years¸ has been named “2025 Forester of the Year” by the Commission for his outstanding service. The Toombs County native joined GFC in 2019 after earning a forestry degree at the University of Georgia. He serves as the agency’s Region 4 Lead Forester.
“Matthew has been consistently raising the bar in every aspect of his work,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Director Johnny Sabo. “As a new supervisor, he helped the team complete 20-percent more landowner cases in the region and was an indispensable resource in evaluating Helene storm damage. To our agency and to landowners in his region, Matthew is a well-known advocate for the forestry community.”
O’Connor oversaw the surveys of massive timber damage and GFC facility damage in the wake of Hurricane Helene. He is noted for his versatile skills and is a strong proponent of sustainable forest management. He is a licensed prescribed burner and often assists with burns throughout South Georgia.
Having grown up on a tree farm, O’Connor enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing. When time allows, he also enjoys traveling or spending time with family and friends. He currently spends most of his free time renovating a recently purchased home in Vidalia.