The director of SFI® and forest policy role at Michigan Forest Products Council is now being filled by Eaton Rapids, Mich. native, Raymond Gurley. He succeeds long-time director Scott Robbins.

As the director of SFI and forest policy, Gurley is responsible for coordinating and conducting logger training programs, implementing industry and landowner outreach efforts, and serving as the face of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® program (SFI-Michigan). Gurley will also be advising and informing members of the Michigan Forest Products Council (MFPC) of policies and guidelines that will have an impact on forest management.

“This position has many components,” said Marc Blom, president of the MFPC board of directors. “We were looking for a candidate with a background in forestry who could represent and promote the SFI program and the forest industry in our local communities and also the policy arena, while also recognize when federal or state policies may have an impact on forest management. I’m confident that Ray will excel at these tasks.”

Gurley brings more than seven years of experience in the forest industry to MFPC from his previous positions at Michigan State University, the United States Forest Service, Oceana Conservation District, Consumers Energy, and most recently at Michigan Department of Natural Resources. These experiences have expanded his knowledge of everyday challenges faced by landowners, loggers, and mills and assists him in crafting a vision of how he can be of most assistance to the industry.

“Ray’s experience in the industry and his enthusiasm to advance the logger education training opportunities will be a great asset to this position,” said Scott Robbins who is retiring after nine years with MFPC and 38 years in the forest industry.

Gurley’s fondness for the forest industry doesn’t end when he leaves work. In his spare time, he enjoys small game hunting, managing the woodlot on his small farm, and backcountry camping with his wife and their two dogs throughout Michigan.

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