Forest Landowners Association Honors Champions of Private Forest Landowners at 2025 National Conference
Asheville, NC – June 24, 2025 — The Forest Landowners Association (FLA) proudly recognized outstanding support for private forest landowners at the 2025 National Conference of Private Forest Landowners, held at the historic Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina. During the Awards Lunch on June 19, FLA and the Forest Landowners Foundation honored a distinguished group of individuals and partners whose contributions have strengthened private forest management and helped cultivate the next generation of forestry leaders.
“Our annual awards shine a light on those who go above and beyond to support private forest landowners,” said Scott Jones, CEO of FLA. “This year’s honorees exemplify leadership, innovation, and dedication to ensuring working forests continue to thrive for generations to come.”
2025 Forest Landowners Association Award Recipients
Partner Recognition Award
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Southeast Regional Office
The Southeast Regional Office was honored for its collaborative approach to species conservation and its long-standing partnership with FLA. Their efforts to engage directly with landowners and prioritize transparency have strengthened working relationships and enhanced the regulatory landscape for private forests.
Leadership Award
Pete Weisenberger, Tyler, TX
A dedicated FLA member since 1997, Weisenberger was recognized for decades of volunteer leadership and his relentless advocacy for private landowners. His work across the South and beyond has helped grow the Association’s reach and influence.
Extension Forester of the Year
Janet Steele, South Carolina
Recognized for her exceptional contributions to landowner education, technical outreach, and support for forest stewardship across the region, especially in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
Next Generation Forest Landowner of the Year
Will Ficklen, Georgia
Honored for his commitment to forest management, stewardship values, and leadership among the next generation of forest landowners. Will serves as an active member of the markets committee.
Landowner of the Year
Linda Bruton, North Carolina
Celebrated for her outstanding forest management practices, long-term land stewardship, and exemplary leadership within the forest landowner community.
Forest Landowners Foundation Champion of the Year Awards
The Forest Landowners Foundation also honored two individuals with its prestigious Champion of the Year Award:
David Foil, Georgia
A past president of Forest Resource Consultants, Foil was recognized for his leadership in advancing sustainable forestry through education and innovation, including his contributions to the Foundation’s “Forest Factor” sustainability tool.
Mary Schwerin, Utah
Honored for her ongoing commitment to forestry education and policy, Schwerin was instrumental in founding the Next Generation Fund, which supports students pursuing careers in forest policy in memory of her late husband, Rob Olszewski.
The event also featured remarks from Forest Policy Institute students Olivia Reed (University of Georgia) and Adam Watson (University of the South – Sewanee), who shared how their experience at the FLA Fly-In in Washington, DC, deepened their understanding of forestry advocacy.
“These award winners inspire us all,” said Dr. Lauren O’Shea, President of the Forest Landowners Foundation. “Their passion and dedication are paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for private forests.”
To learn more about the Forest Landowners Association and Foundation awards, visit https://forestlandowners.com/who-we-are/forest-landowner-awards/
Media Contact:
Michelle Cain
Director of Communications
Forest Landowners Association
mcain@forestlandowners.com