The Tennessee Forestry Association (TFA) and the University of Tennessee School of Natural Resources awarded Josh Daugherty with the 2025 Extension Agent of the Year Award at the TFA annual meeting in Chattanooga from Sept. 3–5. David Mercker, an Extension forestry specialist with the School, presented the award to Daugherty.

Daugherty has served as the Ag and Natural Resources Agent in Morgan County for five years. He developed an outdoor educational program promoting Tennessee’s forests and forest industry when he started working in Morgan County. It includes monthly educational events, youth programs, and Master Logging continuing education courses.

TFA also honored Mercker with the 2025 Forest Resource Award. Mercker says, “It’s a pleasure to serve landowners and the forests they own. This award is received with much gratitude.” Mercker has worked in the School of Natural Resources, formerly the Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, for 26 years. He develops innovative educational programs to teach people about sustainable forestry. During the pandemic, he gained recognition for “Back Porch Forestry,” a series of virtual educational sessions held from his back porch. Before joining UT, Mercker worked as a consulting forester for 13 years.

TFA is a nonprofit organization that promotes a better understanding and appreciation of Tennessee forests through public relations, government, and educational programs.