Forest Service Gets Awards
The Oconee National Forest has earned multiple national ‘Making Tracks’ awards for outstanding conservation education in both individual and group categories. This award recognizes substantial involvement in conservation education programs that highlight wild turkey restoration and management.
“The legacy of wild turkeys is strong on this forest,” said District Ranger, Thomas Dozier. “Though education and partnerships, we are doing our part to ensure that legacy continues for future generations.”
Individual winners from the Oconee National Forest include: Liz Caldwell, Wildlife Biologist; Angela Marcano, Recreation Technician; Zack Nichols, Law Enforcement Officer; and David Fowler, Recreation Technician. A group conservation education award was also received by the Oconee National Forest.
“We use active management, such as prescribed fire, to restore habitat for many species including wild turkey,” said District Wildlife Biologist, Liz Caldwell. “Active education in our communities and schools is just as important.”
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests provide the finest outdoor recreation opportunities and natural resources in Georgia.
Featuring nearly 867,000 acres across 26 counties, thousands of miles of clear-running streams and rivers, approximately 850 miles of recreation trails, and dozens of campgrounds, picnic areas, and other recreation activity opportunities, these lands are rich in natural scenery, history and culture.
The mission of the USDA Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is part of the Southern Region, with the Forest Supervisor’s office in Gainesville, managing four district units in Blairsville (Blue Ridge District), Lakemont (Chattooga River District), Chatsworth (Conasauga District), and Eatonton (Oconee District).
