Washington, D.C. – A bipartisan group of Midwestern governors is proud to announce that Wisconsin
Governor Scott Walker has been named as chairman of the Midwestern Governors Association
(MGA). Governor Walker’s agenda will focus on promoting Midwestern forestry and natural resources
issues.
“I am honored to again chair the MGA, and I look forward to working with my fellow governors to
ensure that the Midwest remains the go-to destination for outdoor recreation,” said Governor Walker.
“It is always vital that we manage our forest lands in a way that both protects them for the future and
provides economic stability for Midwestern companies and families.”
Under Governor Walker’s leadership, the association will work to promote the economic, recreational,
and tourism benefits of the regions’ forests. By working together, states can maximize the economic
and recreational potential of our forests.
MGA executive director Jesse Heier said, “The Midwest is home to some of the best national
resources that can be enjoyed in each of our four distinct seasons. We look forward to working with
Governor Walker and all Midwestern governors on this important recreational and economic issue.”
Specifically, the MGA will bring together secretaries and directors of natural resources and other
regional leaders over the next year to prioritize and address areas of mutual interest.
“The Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association (GLTPA) congratulates Governor Walker on
being named chairman of the Midwestern Governors Association for the second time and that his
focus during his term as chairman will be on forestry and natural resources,” said Max Ericson,
president of the GLTPA. “Governor Walker has been a strong advocate for sound forest management
and the benefits it provides for Wisconsinites socially, economically, and ecologically. Governor
Walker has taken time to fully understand the importance of forest resources to the state and has
invested in the future of the industry by funding the Wisconsin Forest Practices Study and other
programs that benefit the health and vitality of one the states most economically important
industries.”