For the fourth consecutive year, Forest Investment Associates (FIA) has been recognized by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as a Forestry for Wildlife Partner – an honor that reflects FIA’s continued commitment to integrating sustainable forestry and conservation across its Georgia timberland portfolio.

The Forestry for Wildlife Partnership is a voluntary, participant-driven program led by DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division. The program recognizes large forest landowners who demonstrate meaningful contributions to wildlife conservation through responsible forest management, habitat restoration, and collaboration with conservation partners.

This year’s recognition highlights FIA’s work supporting biodiversity, habitat enhancement, and long-term forest health across working landscapes in Georgia.

*In the photo, FIA team members Ross Holbrook (L) and Chad Lincoln (R) are receiving the Forestry for Wildlife Partner recognition from Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp.*

CONSERVATION IN ACTION ACROSS WORKING FORESTS

FIA’s forest management practices are designed to balance economic performance with environmental stewardship. Through active collaboration with DNR biologists and conservation organizations, FIA incorporates wildlife-focused management strategies into its operational planning.

Key efforts include:

Integrating wildlife management into timberland planning and operations
Supporting habitat restoration initiatives, including longleaf pine ecosystems
Managing riparian zones to enhance water quality and wildlife corridors
Conducting prescribed burns to improve forest health and habitat conditions
Providing recreational access opportunities where appropriate

“Responsible forestry and conservation go hand in hand,” said Chad Lincoln, FIA Operations Manager, Southern Region. “Our teams work closely with DNR and local partners to ensure that the forests we manage continue to support wildlife habitat while remaining productive, resilient working landscapes.”

INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP AND ONGOING SUPPORT

In addition to being recognized as a Forestry for Wildlife Partner, FIA is proud to serve as a Silver Sponsor supporting DNR’s Forestry for Wildlife Partnership program. The sponsorship reflects FIA’s broader commitment to strengthening collaborative conservation efforts across Georgia’s predominantly privately owned forestlands.

With more than 90 percent of Georgia’s forests privately held, partnerships among landowners, state agencies, and conservation organizations play a critical role in sustaining both ecological and economic value.

“Programs like Forestry for Wildlife demonstrate how private land stewardship contributes to measurable conservation outcomes,” said Ross Holbrook, FIA Sustainability Manager. “At FIA, we view sustainability as integral to long-term investment performance. By aligning forest management with wildlife and habitat priorities, we are building resilient landscapes that benefit our investors, communities, and ecosystems alike.”

A LONG-TERM COMMITMENT

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia since 1986, FIA has long prioritized sustainable forest management across its U.S. and international investment platforms. Recognition by DNR underscores the firm’s belief that working forests can simultaneously deliver timber value, carbon storage, biodiversity benefits, and public recreation opportunities.

As FIA looks ahead, the firm remains committed to strengthening partnerships that advance responsible forestry and natural capital stewardship across the landscapes it manages.

To learn more about DNR’s Forestry for Wildlife Partnership, please follow the link here: Gov. Kemp, DNR Announce 2026 Forestry for Wildlife Partners | Department Of Natural Resources Division