Annual Meeting Report

On the business front, the General Session was well-attended as Rick Gallagher of Robinson & McElwee shared insights about new labor laws. Kathy Beckett of Steptoe & Johnson discussed bats, crayfish and other at-risks species. Also, Shawn Grushecky of the Appalachian Hardwood Center told attendees about surface considerations relative to oil and gas exploration. By special request, Mona Griswold and Linda Carnell outlined the basics of the WV Tree Farm Program and Project Learning Tree, respectively. All speakers were entertaining, informative and much appreciated.

Then, at the Awards Luncheon, several awards were given to recognize outstanding achievement in our industry. Also, Frank Jerioro of U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin’s office read a letter to WVFA from his boss and WV Sen. Robert Karnes, Chair of the Senate Natural Resources Committee, spoke to us. Following  the Awards Luncheon was an afternoon of relaxation or recreation, depending on your taste. Saturday’s banquet concluded the meetings as winners from the day's events were recognized and door prizes were awarded to all present. A drawing was held of new-members sponsors and John Crites II won the rocking chair. WVFA President Ed Kraynok of Coastal Timberlands presented awards for outstanding service and achievements to several of our own. First-Vice-President Greg Wilhelm of The Forestland Group presented President Kraynok with the president’s plaque. And Becky Metz, representing the WV Tree Farm Committee, announced that the Silent Auction raised more than $3,000 (something of a record - most raised per attendee, ever) and also announced that Karl Plitt donated $1,000 in memory of his mother, Pat Plitt, and Mark Metz.