Sumter's Shaw honored for his forestry work

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CHARLOTTE - American Forest Management, the nation's largest land management and land sales company, exemplifies leadership in the forestry industry with recent awards presented to founder Bartow S. "Bo" Shaw Jr. of Sumter and biometrician Clara Clark.

American Forest Management Founder Bo Shaw was named the 2018 Distinguished Forester by the Association of Consulting Foresters at this year's National Conference in Asheville, North Carolina, on June 11. According to ACF, the award is presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the industry and the association, including to the application of forestry on private lands, the advancement of the profession and to private ownership of forest lands. A member of the association since 1974, Shaw was initially nominated for the award by his fellow South Carolina chapter members before being approved by more than 99 percent of the national voting membership.

"I am incredibly humbled to win the Distinguished Forester Award," Shaw said. "It's a great honor to have been nominated by my peers and fellow chapter members, many of whom I've worked with throughout my career."

Former ACF president Billy Humphries presented Shaw with his award and remarked, "Bo has provided great service to his profession, his community, friends, family, church. He has served as a supporter and encourager to employees and many noble and worthy organizations with his time, leadership skills, trustworthiness and professionalism."

ACF is a national association established to promote the professionalism, ethics and interests of consulting foresters. A member of the association since 1974, Shaw has proven to be a leader in issues that affect the industry and private forest landowners. Throughout his career, he has served numerous leadership positions for local, state and national service and forestry organizations, including the Sumter Economic Development Board, the Carolina Forestry Association and the American Forest and Paper Associations. Shaw has degrees from Clemson University and Duke University and has been named a Distinguished Alumni at both schools.

In addition, Clara Clark, a biometrician at American Forest Management, was recently bestowed the prestigious Young Forester Leadership Award by the North Carolina Society of American Foresters. The annual award is made to a member under the age of 40 who exhibits the potential for exemplary leadership and distinguished service.

"This award means so much to me, as it is a reflection of my passion for the industry," Clark said. "I'm excited to continue to learn and grow within the field."

An active member of SAF's Catawba Chapter, Clark serves as its treasurer, primary contact and organizer of chapter meetings. Dedicated to the field, Clara has also coordinated volunteer opportunities for members. She will serve as the North Carolina Division Secretary for 2019.