Page 27 - Georgia Forestry - Winter 2018

GEORGIA FORESTRY COMMISSION
“Our challenge and our opportunity is to bring these varying perspectives together for a unified strong support network for forestry.”
As a first order of business, Williams toured the state to meet with the forestry community and hear their issues.
Representative, he took on service roles with the Watkinsville City Council, Chamber of Commerce, and Rotary Club. He’s also a champion for volunteerism and has devoted a lot of time to Extra Special People, a local non profit group that works with developmentally disabled children and young adults.
Williams’ classification as a forest landowner is a designation that gives him immense pride. In 2005, he was named Tree Farmer of the Year for outstanding management of his forestland in Watkinsville, and he takes his commitment to the organization’s “Wood, Water, Wildlife, Recreation” emblem seriously.
“I believe in multiple uses for forestland,” Williams said.
“I want to bring understanding about the business of forestland ownership to the capitol and make a difference for people and the natural resources we all depend on.”
Williams and his wife, Beth, live on their forested property, where their management goals are primarily for timber and wildlife. Beth is an avid horsewoman who enjoys riding fire- breaks and skidder trails. Deer, turkey, rabbits, songbirds and even fox squirrels have found a home on the property.
“Nothing makes me happier than to see that black head of a fox squirrel in the woods,” said Chuck Williams. “It tells me we’re doing the right things.”
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