SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Oregon has a new state forester.
The state Board of Forestry voted 4-2 on Wednesday to name Doug Decker to lead the department.
Decker is a 24-year veteran of the Oregon Department of Forestry, starting in 1987 as assistant director of public affairs.
He rose through the ranks, holding posts as director of public affairs, director of the Tillamook Forest Heritage Trust, and state forests project leader.
Decker replaces Marvin Brown, who resigned last October after the board decided it wanted a new leader who could forge better relationships with various interest groups while the department deals with tough budget cuts.
The department manages state forests, regulates logging on private timberlands, and fights wildfires.
