The Alabama Forestry Association drew record-breaking attendance at its 2025 annual meeting this weekend in Orange Beach. More than 450 industry leaders from across Alabama and the Southeast took part in the three-day gathering.
AFA President and CEO Chris Isaacson praised the event’s momentum.
“This year’s Annual Meeting was a tremendous success for the forest industry,” Isaacson said. “From the record attendance of our members to the speakers and the topics that were covered, I am proud of the growth and resilience we are seeing in our industry. This meeting proved our membership is energized for innovation and collaboration, and we are excited to continue to work on the future of the forest industry.”
U.S. Senator and gubernatorial candidate Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) served as the keynote speaker, centering his remarks on trade and tariff issues affecting forestry.
“Alabama’s forestry industry is critical to the state’s economy, especially to rural Alabama,” Tuberville said.
“I was honored to attend AFA’s annual meeting and hear directly from industry leaders. With President Trump at the helm, we’re working around the clock to slash red tape and help Alabama foresters thrive. I look forward to continuing to partner with Alabama’s foresters and producers to unleash our economic potential.”
Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter also addressed attendees and moderated a CEO panel featuring Caroline Dauzat, owner of Rex Lumber; Glenn Nunziata, CEO of Enviva; and Doug Otto, interim director of the Alabama Port Authority.
“It was an honor to be with Alabama’s hardworking forestry professionals at the AFA’s Annual Meeting this week,” Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) said.
“At $36 billion annually, forestry is one of Alabama’s top industries and supports well over 55,000 jobs in our state. I’m proud to work with this organization to protect these jobs and grow this vital industry.”
A highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the 2025 AFA Legislator of the Year Award to State Sen. Jack W. Williams (R-Wilmer).
The award is presented annually to a legislator who stands strong for AFA’s principles and fights for the membership’s needs in the State House.
“To be recognized by the Alabama Forestry Association in this way is truly an honor,” Williams said. “This award is without a doubt, one of the most meaningful that I have ever received. Alabama’s timber industry plays a vital role in our state’s economy, and I remain committed to doing everything I can to promote and protect its future.”
The AFA Annual Meeting is designed to bring together forestry professionals to discuss challenges, successes, and opportunities. The next Annual Meeting is scheduled for September 13-15, 2026.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
