The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) is strengthening its connection to communities across the state by naming region managers to lead local operations. Five region managers have been selected to support the agency’s mission of protecting and conserving Georgia’s forest resources. The regions cover all of the state’s 159 counties.
Jason Gillis of Douglas will assume the position of Region Manager for Region 3 on
January 16, 2023. Region 3 encompasses a number of counties, mostly in the state’s southwest quadrant. They includ Harris, Dooly, Quitman, Tift, Sumter, Baker, and Seminole Counties. Some of the communities in Region 3 are Tifton, Columbus, Cordele, Blakely, Albany, Thomasville, and Bainbridge.
Gillis is a second generation GFC employee and has been with the agency for 23 years. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Georgia and is a registered forester.
Gillis has served the Commission in various roles and is nationally qualified as a Finance Chief and Task Force Leader in the Incident Command System. He and his wife, Sara, have three children.
“Jason is deeply rooted in Southwest Georgia and is passionate about serving communities throughout the region,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Director Tim Lowrimore. “He’s a great leader and landowners will surely benefit from his experience and dedication.”
Gillis will lead and supervise region personnel in accomplishing statewide and regional objectives. He will also serve on the GFC’s Executive Leadership team. Landowners in Region 3 will continue to reach out to their local GFC contact for resource information and to schedule services.
For more information about forestry in Georgia and services of the Georgia Forestry Commission, visit GaTrees.org.