Florida Forestry Association

10/09/2026

Look who is featured on this week! 💚🥳🙌

This , “Fresh From Florida” is highlighting Korey Griner, Ken Griner, Eric Handley, and Lynetta Usher-Griner of Usher Land & Timber. This multigenerational agricultural operation is located in Chiefland, spanning more than 6,800 acres, the farm produces timber and manages a large cow calf herd while supporting Florida’s forestry and beef industries.

This diversified operation has its own logging division and focuses on sustainable land management. Timber harvested from the farm goes on to be used as fiber for a variety of commercial purposes, contributing to one of Florida’s largest agricultural sectors. The operation also maintains a 1,000 plus cow calf herd. This directly supports Florida’s beef industry and ensures consumers have access to local, Florida grown beef produced with care and stewardship.

As Florida agriculture continues to evolve, Usher Land & Timber showcases the impact of multigenerational farming and the importance of sustainable timber production and cattle management in supporting the state’s agricultural economy. Learn more at: usherlandandtimber.com

10/05/2026

Friendly reminder that the deadline to apply for the Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program is October 9!

“Small, private forest landowners are the backbone of our state’s forest industry,” said Ag Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “By providing assistance to forest landowners to strengthen their pine timber against this destructive pest, this program helps protect Florida’s natural resources and economy.”

The southern pine beetle is one of the most economically devastating forest pests in the Southeastern United States, with periodic outbreaks destroying thousands of acres of pine timber. Recent outbreaks in Alabama, Georgia, and other neighboring states have resulted in devastating timber losses.

“Southern pine beetle activity has remained relatively low in Florida in recent years,” said Rick Dolan, Director of the Florida Forest Service. “Active forest management can both protect individual stands and reduce the risk of widespread outbreaks.”

The Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program, supported through a grant by the U.S. Forest Service, provides incentive payments for landowners who have overstocked pine stands and need to conduct a first thinning. In addition, it offers partial cost reimbursement for activities that can mitigate southern pine beetle activity, such as prescribed burning, mechanical underbrush treatments, and the planting of longleaf or slash pine rather than loblolly pine, the beetle’s preferred species. All qualifying applications received during the submission period will be evaluated and ranked for approval.

To apply, click the link below.

Home - Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services

10/05/2026

Help us welcome Chris Tuten to the Association team as our Director of Forestry & Regulatory Affairs!

A fourth-generation Florida cattle producer, Chris has spent much of his life working in agriculture, operating heavy equipment, and being involved in issues affecting rural landowners and working lands.

He previously served as a Jefferson County Commissioner and currently serves on the Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District Board. Through those roles, he has been involved with best management practices, local government, land-use planning, water and natural-resource issues, agriculture policy, and the challenges facing rural communities and private landowners.

Agriculture has always been an important part of his life, and he has a strong interest in protecting Florida’s working lands and supporting the people who depend on them for their livelihoods.

Chris and his wife live in Jefferson County with their three sons. They are active in their community and church, where he helps lead the youth ministry.

With his experience, expertise, and enthusiasm, Chris is a great fit at the Association. We're excited to see all the ways he will help us keep Florida forestry growing!

10/02/2026

Congrats to Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan on his leadership role at Southern Group of State Foresters!

New term, new leadership for the Southern Group of State Foresters.

Al Davis, Director of the Texas A&M Forest Service, will serve as Chair of the SGSF Executive Committee for 2026–27, joined by Florida State Forester Rick Dolan as Vice Chair and Arkansas State Forester Kyle Cunningham as Treasurer. Kentucky State Forester Brandon Howard will remain on the Executive Committee as Past Chair, providing continuity following his term at the helm. We look forward to the year ahead under the leadership of these four state foresters and their continued service to southern forestry.

09/30/2026

Happy 90th anniversary to our friends at the Florida Forest Service! Thank you for all the ways you positively impact our state!

09/28/2026

VOTE YES ON AMENDMENT 2! ✅

Florida forests protect natural resources. Support those who work the land to keep our state green, growing and thriving. Vote YES on Amendment 2 to reduce the tax burden on qualifying equipment to keep us growing for YOU and the quality of life we all depend on.

09/25/2026

09/24/2026

With diesel fuel costs up, keeping our domestic food supply affordable and available is at risk, but there are steps we can take.

On behalf of Florida agriculture, I am grateful to Governor DeSantis for approving my request to reduce truck weight regulations on our farmers during this tough time. These regulatory rollbacks will reduce costs for everyone.

We need to do all we can to protect and support our farmers and ensure their ability to keep serving Floridians. Every bit helps.