Senate Joint Resolution 1250, sponsored by Walley, honors Tom Midyett for his decade-long service on the Tennessee Forestry Commission. Appointed by Governor Bill Lee, Midyett represented the pulp and paper industry and served two consecutive five-year terms. His leadership has significantly contributed to the success of the Tennessee Division of Forestry, particularly in areas such as fire suppression, landowner support, and the management of state forests. As Chairman, he prioritized modern resources for staff, secured additional funding, and emphasized the importance of urban forests, positively impacting Tennessee's 13.8 million acres of forestland.
The resolution acknowledges Midyett's influence on the state's forest industry, which has generated over $29 billion annually for Tennessee's economy. It recognizes his commitment to enhancing the state's forest resources and his collaborative approach to expanding services to communities. The General Assembly expresses its gratitude for Midyett's contributions and wishes him continued success in his future endeavors.