A Forest Tradition Lives On

By Jude Mead

Jody Bronson’s career at Great Mountain Forest (GMF) began 50 years ago. He started quietly and wishes to leave quietly. It seems fitting to mark the end of Bronson’s career in a way that honors the traditions of the forestry profession by another long-standing tradition: hanging his boots in a tree. Those boots represent years of hard work, dedication and countless hours spent among the trees. They have walked muddy trails, logging roads and forest lands through every kind of weather. Each mark and worn sole tells a story. There is also a more solemn meaning to this tradition because, when a forester or woodsman loses their life on the job, their boots may be hung in a tree as a sign of respect and remembrance. Bronson’s title at GMF was Forest Manager, and he now holds the title of Forester Emeritus. He carries the title with pride, reflecting his years of service and his lasting connection to the profession. As Bronson hangs up his boots in a remote section of GMF, he does so with gratitude for the years, the people and the experiences that have shaped his life. He leaves quietly, just as he began, knowing that the work will continue and that the traditions of the woods will live on. ■