Timber in Mason County: Green Diamond Economic Impact, Sustainable Forestry, Community Investment
The Timber in Mason County luncheon featured Green Diamond, offering members an in-depth look at sustainable forestry practices, economic contributions, wildfire readiness, and the company’s continued investment in Mason County. The update provided valuable perspective on how working forests support both local communities and long-term environmental goals.
Vice President & General Manager Brian Sayler, Policy & Communications Manager Jason Callahan, and Public Affairs Coordinator Natalie Marshall shared an overview of the company’s history and current operations. Founded in 1890, Green Diamond is now one of the largest private forestland owners and managers in the United States, overseeing 2.2 million acres of working forest land across nine states and employing more than 300 people. The company focuses on long-term stewardship through sustainably harvested timber, renewable energy opportunities, and natural climate solutions.
They highlighted Green Diamond’s commitment to responsible forest management, noting that 100% of their lands are third-party certified and supported by six conservation agreements across four states. These agreements directly protect 61 species and guide practices that prioritize water quality, biodiversity, carbon storage, wildfire resilience, and recreational access. Annual third-party audits help ensure compliance and accountability.
Locally, Green Diamond plays a significant role in Mason County’s economy, supporting jobs, contributing millions in wages, and generating substantial tax revenue. Their Northwest Timberlands team manages tree planting and harvesting, recreation access, commercial rock and gravel operations, floral greens, and partnerships with community clubs and Tribes. Collaboration with local partners and neighbors remains central to their work.
Sayler shared how carbon sequestration and wildfire preparedness factor into their forest management approach. The company extends tree rotations to capture additional carbon and partners with organizations to support climate-focused forestry initiatives. With fire season always top of mind, Green Diamond maintains a detailed fire response plan, dedicated equipment, and close coordination with regional fire services. Ongoing mitigation efforts during harvesting are intended to reduce risk and help protect both forestlands and surrounding communities.
Callahan provided a legislative update, outlining current priorities including wildfire funding, utility corridor expansion, Climate Commitment Act spending, and ongoing tax discussions impacting the forestry sector. While the state budget includes funding for wildfire prevention and response, industry leaders continue advocating for long-term investments that support forest health and community safety.
The team also addressed the ongoing sale of the Mason Lake Recreation Area. Green Diamond shared that they are in discussions with Mason County about a potential purchase. Mason Lake holds deep meaning for many families and community members, and there is a strong desire to see the site remain a public park. Green Diamond emphasized their commitment to keeping Mason Lake an asset for the community as conversations about the property’s future continue.
Separately, leadership discussed a recent company restructure, explaining that Green Diamond is transitioning away from in-house logging and road construction to reduce operational risk while maintaining continuity through contracted services. These changes are intended to help the company remain competitive and adaptable, while continuing its commitment to Mason County and sustainable forestry.
Green Diamond’s update underscored the important role working forests play in Mason County’s economy, environment, and community identity. From sustainable forestry practices to wildfire preparedness and long-term investment in local partnerships, the conversation reflected both the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
For additional information or questions, Green Diamond can be reached at info@greendiamond.com or (360) 426-3381
Presentation slides from the luncheon are below.
About our Speakers:
Brian Sayler is the Vice President and General Manager of Green Diamond’s Pacific Northwest Timberlands. where he oversees all aspects of the company’s timberlands operations in Western Washington. Based in Shelton, Sayler brings years of experience in the forest products industry, including leadership roles spanning engineering, logging operations, and regional management. Brian is a licensed professional engineer with the state of Washington and has almost 30 years of experience in the forest products industry. Over the course of his career, he has worked in Washington, Oregon, Mississippi, and Arkansas. A Grays Harbor County native, Sayler holds a bachelor’s degree in Forest Engineering from Oregon State University and an MBA from Saint Martin’s University.
Jason Callahan serves as Policy and Communications Manager for Green Diamond, where he leads external engagement efforts across Washington, Oregon, Montana, and the U.S. South. Based in the company’s Shelton office, Callahan works closely with elected officials, legislative staff, tribal leaders, state agency leadership, trade associations, lobbyists, and conservation and environmental organizations to advance sound natural resource policy at the state and local levels. Callahan holds a Juris Doctor from Florida State University and a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Resource Management from West Virginia University, is a member of the Washington State Bar Association, and serves on several regional and statewide boards.
Natalie Marshall is a Public Affairs Coordinator for Green Diamond, where she supports external engagement efforts related to working forests and natural resource management. A graduate of Oregon State University and based in Shelton, she works closely with internal teams and external groups to help build relationships with community leaders and industry partners across Washington, Oregon, Montana, and the U.S. South. Natalie brings a collaborative, detail oriented approach to public affairs, with experience supporting outreach, events, and strategic communications that advance sustainable forestry and sound policy. She is a graduate of Washington AgForestry Leadership, a board member of Turning Pointe Survivor Advocacy Center, and a Shelton-Mason Chamber Ambassador.
