In September 2025, a landowner filed a complaint stating he had not received payment for a timber harvest conducted in February 2025. After an investigation that included assistance from local mills and GFC foresters, officials determined the landowner had not been paid for timber harvested from his 21-acre tract.
GFC Director Johnny Sabo said the case was a collaborative effort.
“This was a team effort from Georgia Forestry Commission personnel to ensure we continue to protect and sustain Georgia’s timber industry,” Sabo said.
Commission officials said the case underscores the importance of protecting Georgia landowners and forest resources.
Timber theft remains a significant concern in Georgia, where forestry is one of the state’s leading industries. The state ranks among the top exporters of wood, wood fuel, and wood pellets nationwide. GFC data from 2022 show the forest industry had a total impact of $42 billion, with $807 million in tax revenue generated.
