Conn Named Division Forester of the Year

NASHVILLE – John Conn was recently named the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry’s Forester of the Year. The award is presented annually to a division forester who exemplifies the highest level of professionalism in serving the citizens and forest landowners of Tennessee.

 

“As the Reforestation Unit Leader, John has shown great leadership in steering the division’s nursery and tree improvement programs,” said State Forester Steven Scott. “The citizens of Tennessee are fortunate to have such a dedicated individual working to improve the sustainability and quality of our forests.”

 

Conn received Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Forest Management from the University of Tennessee in 1977 and 1980 respectively. After college, he first worked for the USDA Forest Service as a biological technician working in forest health. Conn next served 24 years as nursery supervisor in Swansea, South Carolina, first under the management of Champion International Corporation then by International Paper Company. He joined the Division of Forestry as Reforestation Unit Leader in 2004.

 

“The reforestation and tree improvement staff are as much a part of this award as I am,” said Conn. “It is such a pleasure to work with people who do such a good job and work hard every day.”

 

Conn’s interest in nursery management developed from his early research work as a technician.

 

“There’s great satisfaction in growing a crop of trees from seed to seedlings and knowing that when they leave the nursery they’ll be used to enhance the forests of Tennessee,” said Conn.

 

He currently resides in Polk County with his wife Darlene.Both are members of the Benton United Methodist Church. John is an avid fan of UT football and basketball, and enjoys flint knapping (making arrowheads).