Network News: Inspectors Archive

Gary Beyer - 2002 National Tree Farm Inspector

Gary Beyer, of Charles City, Iowa, was the recipient of the 2002 Wesley R. Meier Outstanding Inspecting Forester of the Year Award.  Beyer received his award during the National Tree Farmer Convention that was held last fall in Asheville, North Carolina.

Beyer has been a volunteer inspector for the Tree Farm program for 25 years, in which time he has certified 210 new Tree Farms. In the last year alone, he certified 10 new Tree Farms and reinspected 51 Tree Farms in his home state of Iowa.

His commitment and belief in the Tree Farm program and Tree Farmers themselves is evidenced in his work and dedication over the years. Beyer annually submits a nomination for the State Tree Farmer of the Year Award. In fact, he has nominated and worked with five past Iowa State Tree Farmers of the Year.

Beyer's active involvement within the forestry community has proven key to creating a greater understanding of the Tree Farm program as well as of forestland stewardship. He is a member of the Iowa Chapter of the Society of American Foresters where he has held several offices in the past, including chair. He also helped to launch the Northeast Iowa Forestry Advisory Committee (NEIFAC) which was initially intended to serve as a sounding board concerning issues on forestry practices and improving job performance. It has since evolved into what is now an effective and active grassroots lobbying organization.

Despite the name he's made for himself in responsible forest management, Beyer insists that Tree Farmers provide him the energy and opportunity to do what he's done over the years. “I appreciate this award, but much more I appreciate the American Tree Farm System and the Tree Farmers for what you do," said Beyer.