Governor Ralph Northam announced Friday September 17 that Chad Shelton, Vice President of Virginia Loggers Association, was appointed to the Board of Forestry (BOF). Chad will serve as advisor on the BOF to the Virginia Department of Forestry and Governor's office, representing the forest harvesting sector of the forest products industry.

Chad Shelton grew up in a logging family. His parents, Howard & Lana Shelton and owners of H. J. Shelton Logging, Inc. welcomed Chad's interest in the business. Chad is an important part of the business now and helps his parents with operations, marketing, contracts and more.

While Chad is active in the family business, he is also adding on a new specialty sawmill, and serving as an active leader in his community and VLA. He is an active board member who serves the industry at large with conviction and dedication for the industry.

Chad works closely with Pittsylvania County Farm Bureau and other committees dedicated to forestry, agriculture, and the businesses who make it up.

Chad had long envisioned that forest harvesting and agriculture were too similar to be treated differently under the law.

In 2019, Chad led VLA on a legislative journey to change the Virginia tax code and sought the Virginia General Assembly's approval for an amendment that would treat forest harvesting equipment just like farm machinery. He ultimately sought an exemption from all personal property and machinery taxes in all Virginia Counties.

Through Chad’s efforts and close county leadership connections, he was able to secure Pittsylvania County Farm Bureau’s commitment to put forth a local resolution that would accomplish his goal. Chad also worked closely with Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors and Commissioner of Revenue winning their support for this change.

Chad joined his local Farm Bureau representatives to their annual Resolutions committee in Charlottesville and together won the overall Farm Bureau support. The resolution was adopted by the full voting body of the VA Farm Bureau.

Mr. Shelton continues to support Virginia logging businesses and mills by maintaining a visible profile in the forest products industry. He is working to ensure that forest biomass is included in Farm Bureau's official policy. Chad represents the principles of keeping Virginia pro-business environment and helping all businesses grow.