CAMDEN — Known by many for its “water, wildlife and woods,” officials from the Alabama Forestry Association and its Foundation, encourage citizens to embrace the natural resources found in Camden, especially timber.

Camden native and Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey made a stop in Camden Monday to discuss job opportunities available through the forestry industry.

“Forestry is a very stable industry. The forestry and timber industry, yes it’s big in the state, but it’s stable,” Ivey said addressing the crowd of community leaders and educators. “Jobs stay here, they’re not transient … it’s a chance to come back home, raise your family and have a real career in forestry.”

Ivey said one-in-10 workers in Alabama come from the forestry industry.

“Recognize we’re in something very stable,” Ivey said. “Forestry accounts for 10 percent of gross domestic product, or GDP. Forestry is something we can be proud of and perpetuate it with our young people.”

In partnership with the Black Belt Initiative that encourages young people to seek jobs in the forestry industry, Ivey said bringing a positive message of forestry to students early, is key to creating a legacy within the state.