Page 8 - Georgia Forestry - Issue 4 - Fall 2024

R ob Strother’s journey into The significance of the Logger of the
the world of logging began at an early age, long before he was old enough to wield an axe or operate heavy
machinery. As a child, Strother played with logging toys, dreaming of the day he would join the family business.
He watched his father and grandfather work tirelessly, their commitment to the land and their craft shaping the fami- ly’s legacy. Now, as the third-generation owner of Strother Timber Company in Washington, Georgia, Strother has not only upheld that legacy but has elevated it to new heights. This year, his dedication to sustainable forestry practices and his leadership in the industry have earned him the distinguished title of Georgia Logger of the Year.
“I buy all the wood, put out fires, and run the equipment when I need to,” said Strother. “I’ve always known this was what I was going to do.”
His passion for logging, instilled by his father and grandfather, grew with each passing year, transforming into a lifelong vocation rooted in tradition and values passed down through the generations.
Year award is not lost on Strother. To him, logging is far more than just a job — it’s a way of life, a calling that has shaped his identity and that of his family for decades.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by the Georgia Forestry Association,” said Strother. “It means a lot to me, my family and my employees.”
A Critical Link in
the Supply Chain
In the complex world of forestry, loggers like Strother serve a vital role. They are the crucial link connecting landowners and mills, ensuring that the timber nurtured over decades reaches its full potential and contributes to Georgia’s thriving market.
“Loggers serve as a critical link in our forestry supply chain,” said Andres Villegas, incoming vice chairman for the Georgia Forestry Foundation and vice president of public affairs and communications with Rayonier. “They link landowners and mills to help bring value to the timber that they’ve grown
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