Page 28 - Georgia Forestry - Issue 2 - Spring 2021

Glenn Earnest
Glenn Earnest
History and hope played the biggest parts in Glenn Earnest’s post-Michael decisions for his forested acres in Seminole County. With 45 years in the commercial forest
industry behind him, Earnest knows a thing or two about land management. He’d recently thinned his 18-year-old longleaf pine and was looking ahead to a good harvest. But Michael had other plans, and losing a 200+ year-old red oak was the sign he said prompted him to restore his forestland.
“It was part of the native ecosystem,” he said. “It was habitat to owls, hawks and a lot of species. Bringing it back to its native condition was the responsible thing to do.”
The cost of such a plan, however, was a burden. Getting financial help through FDMP for site clean-up made a big difference.
When Earnest walks beside rows of freshly planted longleaf now with his loyal dog, Lori Darlin’, by his side, it’s clear he’s comfortable with new beginnings.
“I have a real appreciation for what’s really import- ant,” Earnest said. “We make decisions based on hope.”
26 | GEORGIA FORESTRY Mike Jones