On February 24, 2026, the Georgia Forestry Association (GFA) and Georgia Forestry Foundation (GFF) welcomed 88 landowners and forestry partners to Barrow Farms in Butler, Georgia, for a Landowner Field Day hosted by Homer Barrow. The event brought landowners together with forestry professionals to explore practical management strategies for timber, wildlife, and overall forest health.
Sessions covered pond management, dove fields and food plots, wildlife management, longleaf pine management, and timber sales. Experts from UGA Extension, the Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia DNR’s Private Lands Program, 4S Wildlife, the National Deer Association, the National Wild Turkey Federation, Quail Forever, the Chattahoochee Fall Line Conservation Partnership, The Longleaf Alliance, USDA NRCS, Gay Wood Company, and GFA shared their knowledge and experience. Together, these partners provided landowners with actionable information to help them evaluate management options and make informed decisions about their property.
A Demonstration of Prescribed Fire and Drone Technology
One of the day’s highlights was a prescribed fire demonstration led by RT Lumpkin, Georgia Forestry Commission Prescribed Fire Coordinator. Attendees watched a drone operator ignite a prescribed burn across 40 acres of four-year-old longleaf pine. The drone flight took just under five minutes from takeoff to landing, while the burn itself was completed in approximately 20 minutes.
The demonstration showcased how drone technology can support prescribed burning operations, offering a potential tool for applying fire efficiently across forestland while accounting for important smoke management considerations. For landowners interested in longleaf pine management, the demonstration provided a firsthand look at how evolving technology can complement established forestry practices.
Connecting Landowners with Resources and Expertise
Landowner Field Days bring forestry education directly to the properties where management decisions happen. By learning from experienced professionals and connecting with fellow landowners, participants gain practical knowledge, explore new approaches, and build relationships that can support their long-term management goals.
Whether managing timber, improving wildlife habitat, creating recreational opportunities, or planning for the next generation, landowners benefit from having access to reliable information and trusted forestry partners.
GFA and GFF thank Homer Barrow for hosting the Butler Landowner Field Day and all participating organizations for sharing their expertise. Special thanks to ArborGen, Barrow & Byrd Properties, Royal Restrooms, and Singleton Forestry Services for sponsoring the event and helping make this educational opportunity possible.
Interested in connecting with forestry professionals and learning more about upcoming educational opportunities? Visit the GFA Events page to find upcoming events.