Let it be forest

We’ve got a few spots left for our upcoming trip to the wetlands restoration area at Deer Lake State Park in Walton County. Join us to learn about this critical ecological site and enjoy a diversity of pitcherplants and orchids!

Register here: https://www.flawildflowers.org/event/260430-field-trip-deer-lake/

Very sad news today

It’s with profound sadness that we share the passing of Mike Mathis, manager of the Florida Forest Service’s Chipola Forestry Center. Mike passed last week after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Mike began his FFS career in 2007 as Holmes County Forester before working his way up to managing the Panama City area center, which oversees wildland fire operations and forestry across seven counties.

After Hurricane Michael devastated much of the area in 2018, Mathis was instrumental in leading response teams with chainsaws and heavy equipment. For years after the storm, he led recovery efforts, working with landowners to help restore the community, earning the prestigious National Wildfire Mitigation Award. His selfless service and leadership helped sustain the center during these trying times, and his commitment to the state was evident during many active wildfire seasons.

Mike also played a key role in the addition of the new Sandy Creek State Forest, more than 12,000 acres of public land near Panama City that will benefit Floridians for generations.

Mike’s impact on the Florida Forest Service and the state of Florida will continue to touch lives for years to come. His remarkable leadership, lighthearted spirit, and genuine kindness are lasting gifts to the state and to everyone fortunate enough to have worked alongside him.

Our deepest condolences go out to Mike’s family, friends, and the entire Florida Forest Service community.