Jerry Byrd named the 2025 Appalachian Region Outstanding Logger by the Forest Resources Association
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE– Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Daniels, West Virginia, July 11, 2025– The Forest Resources Association (FRA) honored Jerry Byrd Logging as FRA’s 2025 Appalachian Region Outstanding Logger Award winner. The award was presented at the Appalachian Region/West Virginia Forestry Association Joint meeting on July 11 during the Logger Appreciation Dinner at The Resort in Glade Springs, Daniels, West Virginia. FRA’s Appalachian Region Consultant, Jeff Jenkins, gave a presentation sharing an overview of the Jerry Byrd Logging family business and operations, highlighting their mechanized logging operation and commitment to safety, family values, and community support. Jenkins presented Jerry Byrd and his family (Sarah, Millie, and Russ) with a solid cherry plaque in the shape of a crosscut saw to commemorate their accomplishment. FRA also provided the Byrd family with a check for $500 as part of their award. Jerry accepted the award on behalf of his family and the entire Jerry Byrd Logging team. Jerry acknowledged his faith in God, the dedicated crew, and the support of his wife and family as reasons for the company’s success.
Jerry Byrd is a fifth-generation logger from Unicoi County, Tennessee. He took over his family’s business in 2004 after his father, Eddie Lee Byrd, was seriously injured in a logging truck accident. His priority is always safety. He and his crew use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and participate in monthly safety meetings. Forestry Mutual provides their Workers’ Compensation Insurance, including tips for reducing risks while logging. Jerry Byrd Logging is a mechanized logging business that operates in three states: North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. The floods that ravaged western North Carolina from Hurricane Helene last fall caused significant destruction in the Cherokee National Forest. Jerry has a crew working there now, salvaging trees that were blown over during the storm. Jerry Byrd was recognized in 2024 as the Master Logger of the Year for the Tennessee Forestry Association. Jerry has served on the board of his local water utility district, participated on Unicoi County’s Search and Rescue team, and is currently a member of the Forestry Advisory Committee for the Tennessee Farm Bureau. Outside of logging, Jerry and Sara are busy managing their farm, homeschooling Millie (10) and Russ (7), and continuing to be involved in the church and community. The Tennessee Forestry Association and Unaka Forest Products nominated Jerry Byrd Logging for the FRA 2025 Appalachian Region Outstanding Logger Award.
“Jerry Byrd exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional logger—not only through his commitment to running a safe and efficient operation, but also through his leadership, strong faith, integrity, and dedication to family and community,” said Jeff Jenkins, FRA Appalachian Region Consultant. “It was a privilege to recognize Jerry and his team. Their work represents the very best of our industry.“
