Page 17 - Georgia Forestry - Issue 1 - Winter 2024

Specializing in Aerial Application With over 30+ years Industry Experience
Sarah 803.480.1961 | Gary 803.687.2586 rutlandfly@gmail.com
Rutland Flying Service, Inc.
COVID, I think for the first time Ameri- cans realized how fragile the food supply chain and our agricultural supply chains really are. A nation that can’t feed, clothe and shelter itself can’t sustain itself.”
The Importance
of People
The agriculture and forestry industry stands as an essential pillar in the state of Georgia. As the primary economic driver, it not only sustains our food, shelter and clothing but also contributes to an ever-expanding array of life essentials through continuous innovation. When you encounter the label “Georgia Grown,” it represents more than just a product; for Tyler Harper, it symbolizes the people behind the scenes and the pivotal role they play in ensuring the safety and well- being of us all.
“There’s a lot of things that make me proud of Georgia agriculture and forestry, but the one thing that makes me most proud is the people. They’re resilient. They go to work every day understanding the work that they do is vital to our state’s economy,” said Harper. “The fact that we’re the number-one forestry state in the nation is something that I get to brag about to my Ag commissioner colleagues from around the nation.”
According to Harper, the heart of the state’s success — being ranked the best state for business 10 years in a row and growing at one of the fastest rates of any state in the nation — are the farmers and foresters that he has the opportunity to connect with every day.
“I’m really excited about where we are, I’m really excited about where we can go, and I’m always excited about working with the people that are involved in this industry. A lot of them have become dear friends and colleagues. We’re a family, and that’s what I love about what I do every single day,” said Harper. “I get to go to work to represent some of the best people in the state of Georgia, some of the best industries, and at the end of the day that allows all of Georgia and all Georgians to be successful.”
JOHN CASEY IS A STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS PROFESSIONAL WHO SUPPORTS CLIENTS THROUGH THE ART OF STORYTELLING. IN HIS DOWNTIME, JOHN CAN BE FOUND HUNTING AND FISHING ON HIS FAMILY’S CENTENNIAL FARM IN NORTHWEST GEORGIA.
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