Jim Sitts, Columbia Forest Products’ Appalachian Timber Manager to Receive Award

Jim Sitts has been chosen to receive the 2015 Forest Conservationist of the Year award in the North Carolina Wildlife Federation’s Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards program. Sitts is Appalachian Timber Manager at Columbia Forest Products.

Greensboro, N.C., July 29, 2015 – Columbia Forest Products is pleased to announce that Jim Sitts, Appalachian Timber Manager, has been chosen to receive the 2015 Forest Conservationist of the Year award from the North Carolina Wildlife Federation.

The recognition is part of the Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards program, honoring individuals and organizations that exemplify conservation activism in the state of North Carolina. The award will be presented to Sitts at the Annual Governor’s Awards Banquet on September 12, 2015 in Raleigh, NC.

Sitts is a 45-year veteran of the forest products industry and has been with Columbia Forest Products since 1981. He is a Registered Forester in the state of North Carolina and has earned the designation of Certified Forester through the Society of American Foresters.

In addition to his work as a forest conservationist, Sitts has served on the boards of organizations such as the Hardwood Federation, the Forestry Mutual Insurance Company and the National Woodland Owners Association. He holds degrees from Paul Smith’s College and North Carolina State University.

T. Edward Nickens, chairman of the NCWF Awards Committee, commented on Sitts’ selection for the Forest Conservationist of the Year award, stating, “Jim understands the perspectives of companies in the industry as well as the importance of good forest conservation practices. His deep knowledge and wide-ranging perspectives make his ideas and insights both realistic and achievable – and hence highly beneficial to furthering the habitat conservation and restoration goals of the North Carolina Wildlife Federation.”

About the North Carolina Wildlife Federation

Established in 1945, the North Carolina Wildlife Federation’s mission is to protect, conserve and restore wildlife and habitat in the state of North Carolina. The organization brings together citizens, outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, anglers, industry and government in the fulfillment of this mission.

NCWF policies, programs and activities are based on these principles: stewardship of natural resources; science-based decision-making; inclusivity of broad wildlife interests and perspectives; a non-partisan approach to policy, and partnering with organizations and individuals who share the Federation’s vision.

The North Carolina Wildlife Federation is affiliated with the National Wildlife Federation.

About Columbia Forest Products

Established in 1957, Columbia Forest Products has provided fine decorative hardwood plywood panels to the woodworking industry for nearly 60 years. Columbia’s decorative veneers and panels are used in high-quality cabinetry, fine furniture, architectural millwork and commercial fixtures.

As an employee stock owned manufacturing firm (ESOP), Columbia is committed to offering products with integrity, originating from responsibly managed forestlands and assembled with EPA award-winning PureBond^® formaldehyde-free technology. All Columbia products are backed by exceptional customer service and technical support.

Website address: www.cfpwood.com.