Cris Alarcon, News@InEDC.com [Media Release]

(PLACERVILLE, CALIFORNIA) June 23, 2022 —

Former Shasta County CEO Matt Pontes has been hired as the first director of wildfire and fuels management for Sierra Pacific Industries. SPI is a family-owned forest products company that owns and manages more than 2.3 million acres of timberland in California, Oregon and Washington. It is one of the largest U.S. lumber manufacturers as well as a producer of millwork, windows and renewable energy.

An SPI press release notes Pontes brings more than three decades of experience in forest and wildfire management, fire response and recovery, and public agency leadership to the table. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry & Natural Resources Management from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

“We are excited to have Matt’s strategic leadership in this newly created position developed to protect our timberlands, ecosystems and rural communities,” said SPI CEO Mark Emmerson. “Matt will guide our company’s work in wildfire suppression and resiliency efforts, leveraging his experience in public and private organizations combined with his strong understanding of wildfire and natural resources management. As we strive to protect our lands and communities through strengthened partnerships with adjacent landowners, rural communities, and state and federal agencies, we are pleased to have Matt join our team and lead this important effort.”

“I am extraordinarily grateful for the opportunity to join the leadership team, family culture and crew at SPI,” said Pontes. “This new role aligns with my passion in wildfire, forestry and natural resources. With SPI’s proven track record of success in healthy forest management and sustainability, I look forward to partnering with agencies, land owners and communities to strategize on wildfire resiliency.”