The Georgia Department of Natural Resources named Fort Yargo State Park Manager Eric Bentley as the new Region 3 manager for Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites. Bentley will oversee operations of 15 sites within middle and southwestern Georgia, including Kolomoki Mounds, F.D. Roosevelt, Reed Bingham and the soon-to-open Chattahoochee Bend.

He replaces Ronnie Eakins, who served as Region 3 manager for seven years and retires this May.

Bentley previously managed Fort Yargo State Park, a popular destination in Winder known for mountain bike trails, disc golf and lake swimming. Bentley has a 16-year career with the DNR, having worked at Little White House State Historic Site, Kolomoki Mounds State Historic Park and Unicoi State Park.

“Eric was selected due to his extensive work history in the field of recreation,” said State Parks Chief of Operations Wally Woods. “His previous experience in both state parks and state historic sites, along with his excellent management skills, law enforcement skills and public safety skills made him a superior choice. Eric is a solid performer with a proven track record.”

Bentley is a native Georgian who grew up in Cleveland, going to White County High School and Gainesville College before earning his degree in Forest Resources from the University of Georgia. He, his wife, Jennifer, and children Trevor, 11, and Tanner, 8, will reside in Blakely.