Governor Brown announced yesterday his reappointment of J. Keith Gilless, dean of the College of Natural Resources and professor of forest economics, as chair of the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection.
“The Board of Forestry and Fire Protection is pleased to learn of the reappointment of Dr. Gilless,” said Matt Dias, acting executive officer of the board. “His dedication and leadership as a chairman has allowed the board to meet its critical mission of serving the people of California in promoting sustained and responsible management of the forested landscapes within the state."
Gilless has served on the board since 2011 and has been chair since 2013.
“Dean Gilless’ reappointment is a tremendous honor, and it reflects on the high regard in which he is held by the forest industry, the environmental community, political leaders, and family forest owners,” said Richard Standiford, CNR cooperative extension forest management specialist.
Bill Stewart, forestry extension specialist and director of the UC Berkeley Center for Forestry added, "The reappointment represents the commitment of the Governor to continue to use science to guide California's policies for our forests...the board chair has a unique opportunity to get everyone focused on innovative and new solutions."