[ODF_Private_Forests] Message From Forestry Board Chair John Blackwell

[WEEKS Kevin]

Private Forests News list members:
Oregon Board of Forestry chair John Blackwell provided this message to ODF staff earlier this week regarding the recruitment process for a new State Forester.

Kevin Weeks
ODF Agency Affairs
(503) 945-7427
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Hello everyone  -

You have been working through difficult times, and I know that the Board of Forestry's decision last week to accept Marvin's resignation has added further challenge and uncertainty.

Please know that each member of the Board has great respect for your dedication and professionalism, and full confidence in the ability of the agency and its leadership team to move forward successfully.  The Department's reputation as an organization that gets the job done is built on years of dedication, professionalism and teamwork. Thank you for those qualities.

Our decision last week does not reflect any concern about the department's efficiency or effectiveness.

Although the decision did arise from concerns about relations with stakeholder groups at a policy-making level, we also recognize Marvin's contributions to the cause of sustainable forestry in Oregon. These include his leadership in acquisition of the Gilchrist State Forest, and his guidance during tough budget reductions.

We on the Board also recognize our obligation to proceed in a way that provides as much continuity as possible for you and for our stakeholders. Next week, we'll release a draft of our plans for recruiting a new State Forester, and we will be considering these at our November 5 meeting in Brookings. Our hope is to have the new person on board early next year. The executive team will keep you updated on this work.

Leadership changes are part of the process as large organizations continually search for the best way forward. Emotions and personal attachments are natural and important parts of the process as well, and we on the Board know that you are working through those together.

Once again, on behalf of all of the Board members, thank you for your excellent work. We will continue to share information with you as the State Forester recruitment moves ahead.

Sincerely,

John Blackwell, Chair
Board of Forestry


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