ATHENS, GA (November 1, 2016) - The Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA) is pleased to welcome Tim Russell as its Young Forest Specialist. Russell will implement sustainable young forest management practices in New York state in partnership with the Wildlife Management Institute (WMI) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

"Young forest cover provides habitat for deer and many other game animals, and in the last few years I've seen a lot of opportunity to enhance wildlife habitat through young-forest management techniques," said Russell, who earned his forest resources management degree from SUNY-ESF in 2012. "I see a lot of potential in this position to help hunters improve wildlife habitat. I'm really excited about this fantastic opportunity to work for QDMA."

The practices Russell will promote in New York will benefit a variety of at-risk wildlife on private lands as part of WMI's Young Forest Initiative.

"I am excited to have Tim join the QDMA staff," said Certification Programs Manager Matt Ross, a licensed forester. "His experience in New York, and his knowledge of forest management and the state's regional habitat and cultural diversity, make him a perfect fit for this position."

Russell previously worked as a forest technician at Forecon Inc. and F&W Forestry Services, where he marked and scaled timber, inspected logging operations and conducted forest inventories. Russell is experienced in GIS software as well as working with wildlife species, which will prove useful as he joins the QDMA team.

Russell and his wife, Amy, reside in Cortland, N.Y.

About QDMA
QDMA is dedicated to ensuring the future of white-tailed deer, wildlife habitat and our hunting heritage. Founded in 1988, QDMA is a national nonprofit wildlife conservation organization with more than 60,000 members in all 50 states and Canada. To learn more about QDMA and why it is the future of deer hunting, call 800-209-3337 or visit www.QDMA.com.