"We're grateful to be bringing Ryan to this forest," said Jewett. "We welcome his wide-ranging experience, approachable attitude and smart management style. He will be a great addition to this forest and a great leader in the community."

Foote began his career with the Forest Service in 1999 as a seasonal Fisheries Technician on the Lassen National Forest in California. Following his graduation with a degree in Freshwater Fisheries from Humboldt State University, Foote converted to a permanent position as a Fish Biologist where he worked for the next 13 years on restoring habitat for Spring-run Chinook salmon and steelhead habitat on public lands, while supporting efforts across the forest. In 2014, Foote moved to the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, serving as the Deputy District Ranger on the Coeur d'Alene River Ranger District. He helped lead the District in large landscape restoration efforts, managing recreation and precious metal exploration programs, and responding to large wildfire events. Most recently, Foote served as the Acting District Ranger position on the Uwharrie National Forest in central North Carolina.   

"I am excited to come to Georgia and honored to serve everyone who enjoys their public lands," said Foote. "I look forward to joining the Chattahoochee-Oconee team and working with our many partners, stakeholders, and surrounding communities."

Foote will manage a staff of more than twenty people at the Chattooga River Ranger District office located in Lakemont, Georgia. The diverse district includes Georgia's second highest mountain, Rabun Bald, the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River, Lake Burton, and the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail passes through the district. The district office was the first Forest Service building in the nation to meet the Gold Standard for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.