LANSING – The Michigan Forest Products Council (MFPC) has announced that Michigan Department of Natural Resources Director Keith Creagh received the annual Tuebor Award from the MFPC’s board of directors.

“Director Creagh has been and continues to be a leader for Michigan,” said MFPC Chairman, Ron Salisbury. “Over the past four years, he has an accomplished record as a public servant, particularly his successful effort to help continue the progress the forest products industry has made since the Governor’s first Forest Products Summit in 2013.”

The MFPC cited Creagh’s efforts to:

– Record timber production.

– Forest industry partner in impact of market fluctuations.

– Key adviser for the Governor’s first Forest Products Summit.

– Timber Advisory Committee Support member

– Recognizes forest industry opportunities

– Takes a boots-on-the ground approach when it comes to solving industry issues

The annual Tuebor Award recognizes significant accomplishments in business and natural resource policy. Recognition focuses on leadership in support of well-managed forests that are vital to Michigan’s quality of life, environment and economy.

“Keith Creagh is an innovator and his support for the forest products industry is a perfect example of his forward thinking. Keith’s leadership and unwavering support for Sustainable Forestry is shared by many within the MDNR,” said Mark Pontti, public affairs manager for Verso Corp.,

“This award recognizes not only his forestry advocacy but also an uncommon passion to improve the industry for all landowners and forestry-related businesses. He recognizes the tremendous job creation potential of this renewable, natural-resource-based economy,” Pontti added.