Carl E. Garrison III (’78 B.S. forestry) received the college’s Alumni Award of Achievement. “Carl Garrison has distinguished himself for his character and contributions to forestry in the commonwealth over many years,” said Dean Paul Winistorfer. “We are proud to call him an alumnus of this college, but more so proud for Carl himself by the example he has set within the forestry community.”

Garrison joined the Virginia Department of Forestry in 1980 and spent a total of 25 years with the agency. He left in 1995 to open and operate his own business, then returned in 2002 to the position of regional forester. Garrison was appointed Virginia’s state forester in 2004 and retired earlier this year.

Garrison quickly became a national leader in the integration of forestry and technology. He and his team developed innovative enterprise software known as IFRIS (Integrated Forest Resource Information System), a program modified and used by the U.S. Forest Service and a number of states. IFRIS is still the standard by which other forestry management programs are judged.

Garrison shared his vision across the region, serving as chairman of the Southern Group of State Foresters and taking leadership roles with the National Association of State Foresters and the Society of American Foresters. He is both a registered forester and a certified forester, highly coveted certifications held by less than 10 percent of those in the profession.

“I’m honored to be recognized by the college that I regard so highly,” Garrison said. “It’s tremendous to be recognized by these friends and peers whose support has helped to make my state career as successful as it was. I’m very grateful.”

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