Ed Stoots, western region regional forester for the Virginia Department of Forestry, has received the John A. Beale Memorial Award from the national Society of American Foresters (SAF). Ed, whose office is in Salem, is a resident of Cloverdale, Va.
The Beale Award recognizes outstanding efforts by an SAF member over a sustained period of time in the promotion of forestry through voluntary service to the Society.
“Ed embodies the criteria of the Beale Award in every regard – in his initiative, service and leadership, both within SAF and in the field of forestry generally,” said State Forester of Virginia Bettina Ring. “He has provided continuous service to the Society since 1984, bringing a diverse perspective to his leadership positions that is reflective of his career in forestry while working for both the forest industry and the public sector.”
Stoots joined the VDOF in 2001 and oversees approximately 1/3 of the state’s 16 million acres of forestland and the 40 employees who protect that land. His advocacy for sustainable forestry and forest protection extends beyond his role as regional forester.
Stoots said, “It’s been a great privilege to serve the Society at the local, state and national levels. And I am both grateful to the Society of American Foresters and humbled by this tremendous honor.”