Silver City, NM, May 28, 2020 -- Eric LaPrice has been named as Acting Forest Supervisor on the Gila National Forest beginning June 7, 2020. LaPrice will serve on the GNF for a 120-day detail.

Eric currently serves as the District Ranger on the Western Divide Ranger District on the Sequoia National Forest in California, where he has served since 2015.

He began his Forest Service career in 2003 as the NEPA coordinator on the Dolores Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest. In 2009 he went to the Coconino NF as the Red Rock Ranger District NEPA Planner. Before joining the Forest Service, he worked for nine years as an Environmental Consultant with Urban Engineers of Erie. Inc., and four summers as a Lake Erie Lifeguard on Presque Isle State Park.  Eric served as a Public Information Officer on the 2013 Silver Fire.

Eric was born and reared In Erie, Pennsylvania where he attended Gannon University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Ecology. He received a graduate certificate in Environment and Occupational Science and Health and his Master's degree in Environmental Science.

His wife Jessica is a Professor of Biology at Austin College in Sherman, Texas.  Whenever possible, he goes to Texas to spend time with her.  He also enjoys horseback riding and doing all kinds of photography.  

For information on the Gila National Forest, check out our website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/gila