New deputy supervisor for Chattahoochee, Oconee

GAINESVILLE - The Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests have a new Deputy Forest Supervisor.

Paul Bradley accepted the post and began work in early January in the U.S. Forest Service's Gainesville office. The Deputy Forest Supervisor is the second in command of the two National Forests in Georgia.

"I'm happy to be here in Georgia," Bradley said. With more than 30 years of natural resource management experience, Bradley says he is looking forward to the unique challenges and opportunities on the two national forests in Georgia. "With the close proximity of Atlanta, Georgia's National Forests have a definite urban influence," Bradley said. "I am looking forward to working with individuals from the city and from the forest communities to ensure the best decisions are made regarding our precious forest resources," he stated.

Bradley comes to Georgia from the Appalachian Ranger District in northwestern North Carolina where he served as a District Ranger since 1990. He also worked as a Natural Resource Specialist for the Department of Interior and the Bureau of Land Management in Washington, DC, Alabama and Colorado.

"We're excited about the depth of experience that Paul brings to our National Forest," said Kathleen Atkinson, Forest Supervisor for the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forest. "I know Paul will be a great asset for our organization as well as an important support for our communities," she said.

Bradley will make his home in the Hall County area. He is married to Barbara and has two children and three grandchildren. In his spare time, he loves to fly fish.