Page 19 - Georgia Forestry - Issue 2 - Spring 2024

Heather Brasell’s Journey as an Environmental Steward
By John Casey
A mid the towering pines of her family property in Berrien County, Georgia, Heather Brasell stands as a testament to the transformative power of environmental stewardship. Recently recognized as the American Forest Foundation’s 2023 National Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year, Brasell’s journey from a forestry technician in New Zealand to a land manager in South Georgia is a captivating narrative of resilience, passion, and
commitment to sustainable forestry.
The Roots of Inspiration
Brasell’s odyssey began in New Zealand, where her early career in animal ecology eventually led her to the tropical rainforests of North Queensland and the forests of Tasmania. Fate intervened when she met her husband at an international conference on nitrogen fixation, luring her to the United States — specifically to the Gaskins family property in Berrien County, Georgia, just east of Tifton.
Years later, Brasell was abruptly faced with urgent challenges in the wake of her husband’s passing.
“Everything that was planted was the same age lob- lolly and slash pine,” said Brasell. “When my husband
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