FMIC 2022 1st qtr. Newsletter

FMIC FORESTRY MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY

1ST QTR. 2022

LEGENDS OF FMIC 3-D Footprints Logging, Inc.

Maxon, North Carolina

THE BIGGS STORY Keith Biggs,

President, Forestry Mutual Insurance

SPOTLIGHT TRUCKING

Truck Driver Interviews with Lowndes Timber, Inc.

HOW-TO “Risk Assessment”

Towing Charges and What’s Covered?

SAW SHOP - Bryan Wagner THE BACK-CUT

1st. Quarter 2022

CONTENTS

From the BIG Desk

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Partnerships in Forestry Report from North Carolina Forestry Association.

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Partnerships in Forestry

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FMIC SPOTLIGHT - Trucking

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Keith covers trucking losses, continued support for our associations, and 2022 FMIC growth.

Report from Tennessee Forestry Association.

Mr. Leroy Clark Jr.: “Wild Kat Kid” and Mr. Burnell Thomas: “Man Up Stairs” Who drives for Lowndes Timber, Inc. share how they stay safe driving.

Annual Reminder 9 Claims Reporting and Drug & Alcohol screening requirements.

FMIC Member Benefit - Vestige

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SAW SHOP - THE BACK-CUT

By Bryan Wagner The final installment on the five-point felling plan.

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PROFILE FMIC - the BIGGS Story

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LEGENDS OF FMIC - 3-D Footprints Logging, Inc.

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Partnerships in Forestry

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Discounts for in-cab camera systems to FMIC members.

With forty+ years in the insurance industry, we explore what forestry has meant to Keith Biggs as President of Forestry Mutual.

David McLean spends a few hours with 3-D Footprints Logging, Inc., out of Maxon, NC, and gives us a snapshot into an incredible logging family.

Report from Carolina Loggers Association.

THE RISK ASSESSMENT

Do You Have an Attitude to Reducing Your Risk Exposure?

"There’s no such thing as an accident.”

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AGENCY CORNER - Towing Charges and What’s Covered? 20 How to mitigate the cost of cleanup, towing and storage fees.

Partnerships in Forestry

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FMIC KITCHEN - Pot Roast

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Report from Virginia Loggers Association Embrace the pot roast this winter!

Staff Directory 24

Happy 2022 We celebrate our clients, employees, and success stories into the new year.

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FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

These past 50 years could not have been possible without your dedication and support.

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TRUCKING SPOTLIGHT LOWNDES TIMBER, INC.

FORESTRY MUTUAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CHAIR Michael Walters

LEGENDS OF FMIC

David McLean spent a few hours with 3-D Footprints Logging, Inc. out of Maxon, NC. 3-D, owned by three brothers, Ricky, Jamie & Terry Deese.

12 SAW SHOP

The best risk management tool available to the timber-cutter is the five-part felling plan.

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DIRECTORS Tommy Barnes Chip Capps Joel Cathey Randy Denman Candace Dinwiddie Joey Ferguson John Hatcher Mike Macedo Tedrick Ratcliff Bernard Rose Marshall Thompson Matt Thuman FORESTRY MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY 801 Jones Franklin Road Suite 100 Raleigh, NC 27606

(800) 849-7788 www.forestrymutual.com

FMIC AGENCY

P.O. Box 19467 Raleigh, NC 27619

(866) 755-0344 www.fmicagency.com FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

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FROM THE

BIG DESK QUIT HAVING LOSSES IN 2022!

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t is in our people that I believe is our future. How our staff and clients can show resilience under challenging times, continued learning, adapting, and personal dedication to the well-being of our close-knit family of policyholders. 2021 marked an exceptional year for Forestry Mutual Insurance Company as we celebrated our 50th anniversary. Over the past fifty years, we have come a long way, and I am looking forward to a bright and prosperous Forestry Mutual future.

QUIT HAVING LOSSES IN 2022

I know that I am repeating myself here. However, trucking accident prevention is still our number one priority.

Our truck driver training is having a positive impact on accident prevention. Our Loss Control team continues its truck driver awareness training with in-person classroom training. Since 2018 we have trained 1902 drivers, and of those trained truck drivers, we had only eight driver error-related accidents, which is less than a 0.42% ratio. Our driver training speaks to the positive results that it is having in the industry. We need to continue educating our drivers to reduce their speed, not get distracted by your technology, get plenty of rest and take their time.

SUPPORTING OUR ASSOCIATIONS

The success of our wood products industry is in the hands and leadership of our regional associations. Without their dedication and engagement with the loggers, landowners, and mills, our industry would be in a perilous situation. This simple fact is why Forestry Mutual Insurance has donated, sponsored, and advertised millions of dollars over the years to these critical and appreciated associations. North Carolina Forestry Association (NCFA) and Tennessee Forestry Association (TFA) have had breakthroughs within the current Federal Infrastructure Investment Jobs Act signed into law in November. Their stories are in the Partnerships in Forestry features in this newsletter, highlighting the importance of our associations’ leadership in the industry.

SHAPING THE FUTURE

Last year, we entered a new phase as a collaborative insurance service provider, offering our full suite of insurance solutions. This year Forestry Mutual Insurance Company and The FMIC Agency aim to provide everything our unique customer needs in a one-stop-shop suite of services. We are creating new services, transforming our operations, improving customer experience, and continuing to deliver value to you, our customers.

As Forestry Mutual Insurance Company wraps up celebrating our 50th anniversary, I want to salute our employees, customers, and association partners who have helped us change the way people insure their businesses while safeguarding their employees.

Let’s continue to shape the future together.

If you have any questions or suggestions on how we can better serve you, please don’t hesitate to give me a call.

Keith Biggs, President, Forestry Mutual Insurance Company (919) 880-1006

FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

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North Carolina congressional delegation’s good intentions to promote commerce in the state.

NORTH CAROLINA N.C. Forestry Association

Dr. John Hatcher, Executive Director, North Carolina Forestry Association

NORTH CAROLINA GRANDFATHERED

Ensuring the Safe and Efficient Delivery of Raw Forest Products in North Carolina. The forest products industry in North Carolina enjoys a 10,000 lb. variance on state roads for the transportation of a multitude of raw materials. This variance allows producers to deliver their goods safely and efficiently to market without having to be too concerned with the variability in the weight of raw materials due to tract characteristics, weather conditions, and tree species. Over the last couple of years, producers have been concerned about losing this variance on several state highways slated to transition into the federal interstate system. Thanks to a coalition of concerned interests, producers in North Carolina can now continue “business as usual.”

In 2011 the North Carolina Forestry Association (NCFA), its member companies, and other agricultural commodity groups worked with members of the North Carolina General Assembly to introduce and support legislation granting a 10,000 lb. variance for the transportation of raw forest and agricultural products on North Carolina state roads.

The coalition was successful with their efforts when Governor Bev Perdue signed Senate Bill 749 into law on June 26, 2012. This bill was a huge win for North Carolina because, at the time, this variance was several tons higher than the variances for forest products in neighboring South Carolina and Virginia. However, producers would soon learn the life span of this variance could be in jeopardy due to an unintended consequence associated with the 6

FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

A few years after the forest products industry in North Carolina was granted a 10,000 lb. variance, several members of the North Carolina congressional delegation were successful in their efforts to have the roads (Table 1 below) slated to transition into the federal interstate system. While this was a win for commerce in North Carolina, it caused the forest products industry to lose its weight variance on these state roads once they transitioned unless they were “grandfathered” in at the federal level. While the North Carolina General Assembly has authority over state roads, congress must grant any modifications to interstate weight limits.

Soon after the designation of the roads in Table 1,

Table 1. NC State Highways Transitioning into the Federal Interstate System.

a similar coalition that helped pass the NC legislation in 2012 began working with members of the North Carolina congressional delegation to introduce language that would preserve the variance so that production would be able to haul up to 90,000 lbs. on these new interstates. In 2018, the NCFA and several members companies began meeting with members of the delegation and in the spring of 2019, the Carolina Loggers Association joined in these efforts.

The coalition quickly identified Senator Richard Burr, and Representatives David Price and GK Butterfield, as congressional members that really understood this issue and were able to help out.

Inclusion of the grandfathering language by Senator Burr in the 2019 Infrastructure Bill was a huge victory, but it was not until 2021 when H.R. 3684: Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act was passed out of the United States’ Senate with bipartisan support that the coalition gained the momentum needed to get the grandfathering language across the finish line.

When President Biden signed H.R. 3684 into law on November 15, 2021 his pen stroke ensured the safe and efficient delivery of raw forest products in North Carolina for today and future generations. ~FMIC

TENNESSEE

Tennessee Forestry Association Candace Dinwiddie.

Executive Vice President, Tennessee Forestry Association

TENNESSEE MASTER LOGGER OF THE YEAR Shannon Jarman, TN Master Logger of the Year The Tennessee Forestry Association (TFA) congratulates Shannon Jarman as Tennessee Master Logger of the Year. Shannon was honored at the TFA convention recently held in Chattanooga. Shannon, his wife Rachel, and the entire family are to be commended for their commitment and dedication to the logging industry while remaining active and an integral part of the Dickson County community.

Shannon believes in an innovative approach to logging. He continues to learn about new technology and takes pride in keeping cutting-edge equipment clean, safe, and efficient for his crew to use. Shannon sets safety and stewardship as top priorities as a logger. His family has continued their logging tradition in Middle Tennessee since Shannon and his dad, Steve, harvested trees using tractors and mules back in the 1980s.

Shannon plans his harvests, implement Best Management Practices, and works with landowners to achieve the desired results for present and future generations.

Shannon, Rachel Jarman along with their family was honored as Tennessee’s Master Logger of the Year.

TFA is proud to recognize Shannon, Rachel, and their children for their commitment to family, their local community, and the profession of timber harvesting.

Shannon carries his workers' compensation coverage through Forestry Mutual Insurance. The Tennessee Forestry Association sponsors the Tennessee Master Logger program in partnership with the Tennessee Dept. of Agriculture Division of Forestry and the University of Tennessee. For more information on the Tennessee Master Logger program, please check out www.tnforestry.com.

TN Forest Industry Workforce Development Video

Please check out the TN Forestry Association’s wood industry workforce development video. The video may be accessed at www.tnforestry.com/workforce-development.

The video is shown to middle and high school students at FFA meetings and vocational school programs across the Volunteer State. Funding for the video was provided by the TN Dept. of Agriculture.

TFA and the TN wood products industry partner with the Apprenticeship TN, a program through the TN Dept. of Labor & Workforce Development. Wood industries may be eligible for financial and training assistance from the State of TN as apprentices are hired in mills and with logging crews. Learn more at www.ApprenticeshipTN.com.

For more information, contact Larry Pitts, TN Forestry Association Workforce Development Coordinator, at 931 572 8592 or lpitts@tnforestry.com. continued on page 13 FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

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Leroy Clark Jr. Lowndes Timber, Inc. Burnell Thomas Lowndes Timber, Inc.

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n our 1st Quarter, 2022 Trucking Spotlight series, we are happy to spotlight the achievements of two truck drivers with Lowndes Timber, Inc. out of Valdosta, Georgia. Lowndes Timber has been with Forestry Mutual since January of 2016. Kyle Herring, son of Derek Herring, who oversees the logging crews, had this to say about Leroy and Burnell. “Leroy can run all the equipment and is a hard worker. If he is the first one at the deck in the morning, he can load himself”. Kyle adds, “he is always on time and doesn’t have to worry about him.

He is very dependable and reliable.”

When it comes to Burnell and his work ethic, Kyle says, “Burnell is an all-around good driver. He is always safe and very dependable, and on time.” he adds, “He is a well-spoken Christian man. He is just someone you would want to represent your company as a truck driver.”

DRIVER SPOTLIGHT

Our first driver spotlight goes to Leroy Clark Jr., who goes by the CB handle “wild kat kid.” We at FMIC would really like to know the back story on how he acquired that name. Leroy is fifty-seven and a father of six and nine grandchildren. When he is not driving, you can find Leroy fishing and tending his garden...when he has time to plant one.

Leroy has been driving for over thirty-eight years.

When asked why he decided to be a truck driver, Leroy answered, “well, one day, I was sitting on my front porch, and a man came up to me and asked if I wanted to drive a truck?” Leroy asked his aunt, who was with him, what she thought of him being a truck driver? She said, “you should do it.” Leroy pauses and continues, “the rest is history.”

“Take it one day at a time and don’t drink and drive.”

Leroy has been driving for Lowndes Timber for twenty-seven years. In 2016 Derek Herring bought Lowndes Timber, and Leroy has stayed on for the last five years. We asked Leroy how driving a log truck has changed over the last twenty years?

“Trucks have changed a good bit. I have driven trucks that had no air and no power steering, and tires for trucks have become better too.” He says, “the biggest changes in driving have been the amount of traffic on the roads. You have to always be watching out for folks driving.”

What do you like and dislike about driving a truck?

Leroy says, “I really like getting out on the road. I don’t have any dislike for driving. I just really enjoy driving.” He adds, “If I could give any advice to

experienced and new drivers, it would be to take it slow and easy.” Leroy adds, “Take it one day at a time and don’t drink and drive.”

DRIVER SPOTLIGHT

Burnell Thomas, nicknamed “Papa” and CB handle “Man Up Stairs.” Burnell is married and has three kids and five grandkids. Burnell has been driving for the past thirty-eight years and the last four years with Lowndes Timber.

When asked why you decided to be a truck driver, Burnell responded, “I used to live right next to Interstate 75 when I was younger and saw the trucks driving up and down the Interstate.” he says, “So, I said to myself that I wanted to drive trucks for a living.” Burnell adds, “I got a big help from the gentleman who was also a deacon at his church who was a truck driver and would let me tag along on some of his trips.”

It would appear Burnell got the driver bug early in his life.

He got his start in 1983 in Macon, Georgia, driving for Poole’s Truck Line. Burnell also drove for Florida Rock and Tank Line out of Jasper, Florida, and for Scale Transport for about ten years before driving for Lowndes Timbers. Burnell says, “I’ve driven just about every type of truck there is. I have driven Mack’s, Kenworth’s, Freightliners, Volvo’s, and even Western Stars.”

Burnell thinks back on the past twenty years and what has changed while driving, “Well, there is more traffic, and more younger drivers are on the road.”

Burnell adds, “I like driving. It is like being your own boss.” He pauses and chuckles, “and I don’t have to deal with other people.” Burnell points out, being a truck driver takes you away from your family, “I’ve missed a lot of family time from being on the road so much over the years.” Burnell wanted to add this, “It doesn’t matter if you’re new or old to driving, safety is number one, and don’t forget that the trailer is behind you."

When Burnell is not driving, you can also find him fishing and hanging out with his grandkids. On Sundays after church service, you’ll find him watching the Atlanta Falcons, and after work, he’s enjoying watching the Georgia Bulldogs and Atlanta Braves.

From all of us at Forestry Mutual Insurance, we want to say thank you to Leroy and Burnell for your expertise and professionalism behind the wheel. ~FMIC FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

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of a claim, reporting a claim, completing a form, or the validity of a claim, please get in touch with the claims department immediately.

D. It is imperative that the policyholder immediately notifies the claims department when a claimant returns to work. Also, any change that you feel may affect the claimant’s status, such as termination of employment, knowledge of another job, etc., should be reported immediately.

­­ANNUAL REMINDER Greg Plumley – FMIC DLC

Claims Reporting and Drug & Alcohol Screening Requirements The following information assists policyholders in meeting their obligation for properly reporting injuries to Forestry Mutual and explaining when a drug & alcohol screening is required. Policy and procedures can be located in the FMIC Operations Manual Section F Claims Reporting.

1. FMIC Operations Manual, Section III, Loss Control Procedures, F, Claims Reporting, 3. a. states:

All policyholders are required to notify the Mutual of any employee accident, for which a doctor’s visit is needed within 24 hours of the date on which the policyholder or any of its supervisory personnel is first made aware of the injury.

Should the policyholder fail to provide such notice, the Mutual may deny coverage for the unreported claim and may seek reimbursement by the policyholder for any payments made by the Mutual as the result of the unreported claim.

A. Call 1-800-849-7788 to report claims promptly or use the appropriate State forms on our website. www.forestrymutual.com Click on the claims box on the left side.

B. If you feel a claim is not legitimate, report your suspicions as soon as possible.

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If you have any questions regarding the status

FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

2. FMIC Operations Manual, Section III, Loss Control Procedures, F, Claims Reporting, 3.b. states:

Any injury to an employee that requires emergency treatment at a medical facility will require a drug and alcohol screen by that treating facility. It is the policyholder’s responsibility to order the drug and alcohol screen from the treating facility. If the policyholder cannot obtain a drug and alcohol screening at the time of treatment, immediately contact the Mutual’s claims department at 1-800-849-7788 and request their intervention. If, in any case, the employer fails to fulfill this requirement, the Mutual may deny coverage of the claim.

3. Techniques to Reduce Claims Costs The best way to control the cost of both your minor and major compensation claim is to avoid the emergency room when possible. We encourage all policyholders to establish themselves with a local general practitioner and orthopedic group with the understanding that when feasible, all injured employees will be directed to one of these doctors first as opposed to the emergency room.

4. OSHA Record-keeping Requirements OSHA requires employers to post a summary of the total number of job-related injuries and illnesses that occurred during the previous calendar year.

Summaries must be posted from February 1 to April 30, 2022. However, employers need only post the Summary (OSHA Form 300A), not the OSHA 300 Log. If you had no recordable injuries or illnesses in 2021, you still must post the form with zeros on the total line.

In order for employees to view the OSHA 300A Summary, post it in a common area such as a break room or on a bulletin board, or wherever you post other important notices to employees.

Also, a reminder that employers with ten (10) or fewer employees, and employers in certain industry groups, are normally exempt from federal OSHA injury and illness record-keeping and posting requirements. ~FMIC

VESTIGE PARTNERS WITH FORESTRY MUTUAL Vestige offers a reduced rate on their comprehensive vehicle cameras and GPS Systems for trucking.

At Vestige, we are proud to partner with Forestry Mutual Insurance Company and offer a reduced rate on our comprehensive Camera & GPS solution. We work exclusively with the Logging industry and believe in providing better visibility to improve safety and control, enhance performance, increase productivity, and improve peace of mind that your trucks and drivers are protected.

We have a modern and flexible SaaS Telematics platform that delivers an ROI by reducing operational costs, increasing loads per week, improving safety with maximum visibility, and reducing insurance premiums and fraudulent claims.

We are unique in that we can manage up to 8 cameras per truck. VestigeView is your defense against the hazards your drivers face every day with our customizable camera system and comprehensive GPS software.

With Vestige, you can access live audio and video feed or view historical events anywhere, anytime.

Our trainers are here to customize and train you on the solution so that your operation is running at maximum capacity while protecting your trucks on the road. With Vestige, you have one point of contact and a support staff centrally located at the home office to resolve issues immediately that may arise.

FEATURES: -Event-Based Video, events based off driver behavior that generates a safety score.

-Automatic Video Uploads and Alerts for Shock, Aggressive Driving, Accidents, and Panic button alerts.

-Live Driver feed available 24/7 -Includes GPS -Professional Installation is also included for day, night or weekend installs.

Please reach out to Derek Breedlove at 704-770-8392 or derek.breedlove@vestigeview.com to schedule a live demo or speak more about the Vestige Multi-Camera solution that so many loggers are already utilizing. ~FMIC

REAR FACING CAMERAS ON CABS AND TRAILERS

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SAW SHOP

By Bryan Wagner Chainsaw & Logging Safety Trainer

THE BACK-CUT

W

ithout a doubt, the timber-cutter has the most dangerous job in the logging woods. The timber-cutter is exposed to risk on many different fronts. Every aspect of manual felling has risk involved with it. In the articles that have been previously posted, I have broken the felling process down into segments. Each part of the felling process has its own risk factors.

With that said, we are going to review the Five-Part Felling Plan.

The best risk management tool available to the timber-cutter is the five-part felling plan. This plan isn’t new; it has been around for over thirty years.

A brief refresher is good for awareness.

1. CHECK FOR ALL OVERHEAD HAZARDS. What’s up there that could hurt me? Where’s your body positioned?

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2. CHECK FOR SIDE LEAN. Side-lean determines the good side and bad side of the tree. Limit your exposure to the weighted or bad side of the tree. Stay on the good side. Where’s your body positioned?

FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

3. ESCAPE! The escape route is a 45-degree path away from the falling tree. The escape distance should be as far as possible, with your “eyes to the sky.” Get Out of Dodge!

4. HINGE THICKNESS. The basic rule of thumb is one-tenth the DBH of the tree. Tree species and other situations may affect the “called for” thickness of the hinge. The hinge is the steering wheel during the felling process. The tree goes where the hinge tells it to. The hinge is an important safety factor. Should the tree strike another object on the way to the ground, the hinge helps to prevent rebound. Proper hinge wood can’t exist with a by-passed notch. Both cuts of the felling notch must meet. One purpose of the notch is to create the hinge length. The hinge length should be at least 80% of the diameter of the tree.

Number 5 is what we are going to talk about in this issue. THE BACK-CUT PLAN. This must be important because he has it in bold print! The back-cut is the final felling cut. There are two very different ways to make the final cut. Both are “legal,” one is exceptionally safer.

The conventional back-cut was most likely the method most of us were taught when we were younger. After the tree is face-notched correctly, the sawyer starts the felling cut from the back of

continued from page 7 the tree, cutting to his desired hinge thickness. This sounds relatively easy, but there are a lot of things happening as this type of cut is being used. If the tree has a front-lean, tensioned wood is present on the backside of the tree. When tensioned wood is cut, you get movement. You are “chasing” or racing the tree. As mentioned earlier, this technique is legal but has a higher risk associated with it. The danger comes in the form of the tree’s movement and the proximity of the timber-cutter to the moving tree.

Escape Time is limited due to the tree’s movement during the back-cut process. Often the sawyer must race or chase the tree down to prevent fiber pull or splitting of the butt log.

Tennessee Forestry Association Collecting Acorns to Grow White Oaks in TN

THE CONTROLLED-RELEASE BACK-CUT A much safer and efficient back-cut is the controlled release method. Its title tells the story; the timber-cutter has control of the tree until he wants the tree to move. This back-cut is made by boring the saw perpendicular behind a properly notched tree. The timber-cutter is forming the hinge and its thickness at this point. When the hinge thickness is correct, the sawyer cuts to the back of the tree.

During this whole process, the tree hasn’t moved because compressed wood has been cut.

The remaining wood on the back of the tree is referred to as the “trigger.” The trigger is basically the tension wood of the tree. When the trigger is cut, the tension is released, and the tree is allowed to fall.

The safety benefits of this back-cut are huge. The efficiency and productivity of this method make it a whole package. The controlled release back-cut is being sold to fight a nationwide trend.

Ninety-some percent of manual felling deaths take place within eight feet from the stump.

Cub Scout Troop 3212 from Tracy City gathering white oak acorns for growing seedlings

Thanks to a grant from the TN Dept. of Agriculture, TFA partnered with the University of Tennessee to collect almost 3,000 lbs. of white oak acorns. These acorns were collected by scout groups, 4-H clubs, civic and community organizations, and interested landowners and sent to the East Tennessee State Nursery. Nursery staff has sowed the acorns, and thousands of white oak seedlings will be growing soon. Tennesseans will enjoy these future white oaks throughout the state and enjoy the flooring, barrels, and many daily use our white oak resource provides. ~FMIC

By using the controlled release back-cut, the timber-cutter gains ample time to escape from the falling tree. Log quality is enhanced by using a controlled release. There is no fiber left to split or pull.

It has been cut while working to the back of the tree.

With the safety and productivity issues considered, the controlled release back-cut is the way to go.

As stated earlier, the risk factors involved with the manual felling process are many. Using good decisions coupled with proper techniques can reduce risk levels. Using the five-part felling plan and cutting with a controlled release drastically reduces the risk of injury. Let’s go home, the same way we started, SAFE! ~ FMIC

Acorns Sent to East TN State Nursery for Sowing from TFA members, scout troops, 4-H clubs, and civic groups from across the state FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

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BIGGS THE

By Jean-Paul Damé Communications Director

G

iven the task to write a short article about Keith Biggs was by no means a small endeavor. How do you write a short essay about a man who has spent the last forty-one years in the logging insurance industry?

The previous two decades as the current President of Forestry Mutual and an influential business and industry leader in one of the world's most dangerous professions? First, let's start peeling back the onion that is Keith Biggs.

Here are a few details I could extract (yes, it's like pulling teeth getting him to talk about himself) while we spent a day visiting clients in Virginia. Keith was raised in Williamston, North Carolina, and enjoys hunting and fishing. He's the oldest of three siblings and played football in High School, and had a scholarship to NC State until a leg injury ended his athletic career.

A teacher who knew Keith in High School, Bill Cale, gave Keith some direction and farm work. Little did they both know that their relationship as student-teacher-mentor would last a lifetime.

After graduating High School, Keith attended East Carolina University and majored in Industrial Technology that focused on engineering principles, productivity improvement, operations management, cost, and project analysis. Skills that he has applied throughout his career.

STORY

Keith and Coy Baker in loss control as it was more cost-effective than subbing out the insurance service to Hewitt/Coleman. In 1988 Keith left the field as a loss control representative and moved into the office full-time as he took on billings and underwriting. He says, "it was the best move I ever made," and prepared him for taking the helm as President at Forestry Mutual a decade later.

In the two decades with Keith at the helm, Forestry Mutual grew from providing workers' compensation insurance coverage in North Carolina to expanding services to South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and now Mississippi. To say there were no growing pains, obstructions, and hard times would be a lie. Forestry Mutual and its exceptional team tackled each obstacle that came along and turned them into opportunities.

Under his leadership, safety in the logging industry improved tremendously across the United States.

His continued focus on personal relationships with regional forestry associations and the loggers set Forestry Mutual apart from other workers' compensation companies. In Keith's opinion having loss control representatives working with loggers on their job sites is crucial to keeping the logging industry safe and insurance rates low.

continued on next page

During his time at college, his former high school teacher, Bill Cale, left teaching and took a position with Hewitt/Coleman as their loss control representative. He told Keith that they needed another loss control representative, and in 1980 Keith joined Bill and started his career in the logging insurance industry after graduating college.

In 1985 Bill became the Executive Director of the North Carolina Self-Insurers Fund. In 1986 Bill hired

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FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

Travis Myers, M. M. Wright Logging and Keith Biggs, - Gasburg, Virginia

His willingness to reach out to State DOT and Federal OSHA agencies helped pave the road for a better working relationship with those agencies and the logger.

Being innovative in successfully expanding Forestry Mutual was done by those relationships he built and cultivated. Gaining the trust and friendships in a very close-knit and protective industry.

Sometimes you must get out of your comfort zone to grow not only as a company but as an individual.

After spending time with Keith, he is in his natural element outside, on the road, on the logging site, talking with the logger. When visiting a logging site, Keith often knew the logger's father and watched them grow up and take over the family business.

Being in the industry for forty+ years does have its advantages in building lifelong friendships.

Now we all know Keith did not do all of this by himself. He pulled together a world-class staff of managers and directors—Greg Plumley, Loss Control Director, has changed forever how loss control training and client engagement is implemented.

Greg's safety training methodology sets an example for the entire industry to follow. Coy Baker, Director of underwriting, has spent thirty-five years working with Keith at Forestry Mutual and maintains our competitive edge. Nick Carter, Agency manager, runs the FMIC Agency $25+ million in annual sales and continued growth. Under her guidance and care, Amy Almond, CFO, the company's financial wellbeing is at its best footing. Speaking of best, we've gone from an AM Best C- to a B++ and should by Summer 2022 achieve an A- rating. This is a no small feat to accomplish and is due to the continued professionalism of the entire staff.

Relationship building has been Keith's secret to making Forestry Mutual successful over the years.

Having spent a lifetime interacting, working with, and being willing to give financial support to the logging associations built a culture of mutual success. He says, "your success is our success." He adds, "These are not just our clients. They are our friends, my friends, and I want them to be safe and go home the way they left in the morning."

Success is knowledge through experience. Keith has

always been out there on the ground with the loggers and mill owners. He knows first-hand what goes on in the woods and the mills—getting dirty, muddy, dusty, and wet. When visiting a client, the elements do not phase him. (I think he actually enjoys it). Keith understands how hard and dangerous the work can be.

Working and cultivating close relationships with Forestry Mutual’s board and its past and present Chairmen. George Pace and Michael Walters. Their dedication and belief in the direction Keith wanted to take Forestry Mutual allowed the company and his unique leadership style to flourish.

His passion for the wood products industry, focusing on "safety first," brought attention to our training at the national level. Not long ago, our target was on the man on the ground with the saw. Training them how to prevent injuries while stumping. Injuries in the woods are at an all-time low.

Log truck accidents have risen sharply over the years due to highway congestion and distracted drivers.

His focus has been on the log truck driver and bringing down accidents and claims. Keith believes our specialized training will successfully reduce these accidents. Our team's continued dedication to setting the standard in safety is what truly sets Forestry Mutual apart.

As Keith navigated the company to grow and expand its services across the Southeastern United States, there was some trepidation from staff and the board of directors. As George Pace and Michael Walters say, "Sometimes you must get out of your comfort zone to grow not only as a company but as an individual."

And what you now see is a company that has gone from one state, North Carolina, to providing exceptional service in six states with the future looking bright. Our future success is due to the years of Keith's small one-on-one talks, steady leadership, embracing technology, and a dedicated passion for the logging family.

Keith is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

In his spare time, you'll find him hunting, fishing, or boating on Lake Gaston with family and friends.

He is quick with a handshake, telling stories and listening to rock & roll.

For years to come, we will continue to see the effect of the "Bigg" impact one man has had on our national logging industry. ~FMIC FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

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LEGENDS OF FMIC 3-D Footprints Logging, Inc. Maxon, North Carolina

Left to Right Ricky, Jamie & Terry Deese - Fayetteville, NC

By Jean-Paul Damé Communications Director

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FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

David Mclean and I spent a few hours with 3-D Footprints Logging, Inc. out of Maxon, NC. 3-D Footprints has been a client with Forestry Mutual Insurance for over 21 years and has never had a claim. A true testament to keeping one of the world’s most dangerous professions a safe work environment. 3-D is owned by three sons, Jamie, Terry, and Ricky Deese, who inherited the business from their father, and the company name is a tribute to walking in their father’s footsteps.

The “D” references their last name, Deese.

Jamie tells us that they haul around thirteen to fifteen loads a day to Riegelwood Mill, 70 miles each way. We asked his brother Ricky, who drives one of their trucks, how he keeps safe while moving logs on the highway. He says, “take your time, watch your mirrors, and slowdown in curves.” He continued, “notice how our trailers are built? Look at that headache rack. No wood is going to come through into my cab and kill me.”

We asked Jamie where his favorite place to eat is?

He laughs and points across the road...to his truck.

(Funny guy, I was looking for a local diner to eat lunch after our visit. No help there).

Jamie did mention that their highway log truck entrance flags "keep growing feet and walking away", and could they buy a new set from David? All of our Loss Control reps carry with them an assortment of safety equipment from flags, flashers, hardhats, and safety vests that can be purchased at a reduced rate.

Terry Deese and David McLean share a quick laugh.

Interestingly enough, he mentioned the headache rack, as we at Forestry Mutual had a client fatality recently with a load. They had been driving 37mph on a narrow straight road that had a drop-off, lost control, and rolled. The logs slid through the cab killing the driver. David showed the in-cab video of the accident to the brothers. After viewing the video, Terry also mentioned that their trailers, which can be hard to unload, he admits, have logs lower in the bed of the trailer, making for a lower center of gravity, and again pointed to their reinforced headache rack.

Jamie Deese purchased new road safety signs from David McLean.

James Hunt (JJ) Truck Driver for 3-D Footprints Logging.

While David and I were there for an hour or so, several loads were loaded. one of the drivers was James Hunt (JJ). He says that working for the Deese brothers is great. They all have a great sense of humor and take care that everyone keeps safe. For example, flagging down and stopping traffic to allow the log trucks to come in and leave safely. Driver Richard Jacobs has worked for 3-D for about a year and a half but has known the brothers for twenty years says, “the Deese brothers are magnificent and fine people to work with.” ~FMIC FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022 17

issues you may have with your local legislatures.

Saturday will kick off with a business meeting with some great speakers and end Saturday night with entertainment and a live auction to benefit Log-A-Load for kids.

NORTH CAROLINA Carolina Loggers Association Jonzi Guill, Communications Director

2022 CLA ANNUAL MEETING & EXPO After a year of the world working from home and not having much social contact, your Carolina Loggers Association has big plans for 2022!

In the absence of an Executive Director, the CLA is still moving forward with the lead of the current staff in place; Jonzi Guill, Communications Director, and Joanne Reese, Finance Administrator. The staff is being guided and fully supported by the CLA Executive Board. The absence of an Executive Director has not hindered the planning for the future of the CLA and upcoming events we are excited to announce.

Your CLA Annual Meeting will be back in Wilmington, NC, in 2022, at the wonderfully located Hotel Ballast. This year’s meeting will focus on the needs and hardships loggers experience in the entire logging industry, but most directly in the trucking industry. The FMCSA is constantly changing and adding to the already existing long list of requirements, and we want to make sure that knowledge is passed on to our loggers. When we ask any member what their most significant issue is, they always reply with trucking!

The Annual Meeting is scheduled for March 11-13, 2022. A welcome reception will be held on Friday evening for all those in attendance, including an invitation to your State Representatives. This will provide an opportunity to network with other logging and partner members as well as discuss any

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FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

There is also a great opportunity for sponsorship at the Annual Meeting. Not only would you be helping your CLA financially carry out an awesome event, but there is also the opportunity for your business to be displayed during the event, including tabletop space for displays and the chance to network with loggers that may already be customers or to bring in new customers. Registration and sponsorship information is available on our website at www.ncloggers.com/annual-meeting-2022 Due to Covid and vendors being short on equipment and supplies, the bi-annual Mid Atlantic Logging & Biomass Expo was canceled in 2021. We are excited to announce we are back on schedule with this event in Laurinburg, NC, for April 29 – 30, 2022. Your CLA has partnered with the NC Forestry Association and Shoeheel Land Management to bring back the live logging expo that so many loggers look forward to.

There is still the opportunity to reserve your spot for your business to be part of this event. If you have new equipment, you would like to show, this is the place to display it and/or run live. For more information, as well as the complete Expo packet can be found on the CLA website at www.ncloggers.com

As the year comes to an end, 2021 did not go without great accomplishments. Your CLA is pleased to announce that President Joe Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act into law in November. Your CLA and its members worked closely with the NC Forestry Association and the American Loggers Council to include provisions for NC in this Act to grandfather existing gross vehicle weight limits on state roads transitioning into the federal interstate system. Your CLA will continue working with the NCFA, ALC, and other State Associations to benefit our members and partners in the logging industry. ~FMIC

Do You Have an Attitude to Reducing Your Risk Exposure?

“Accidents will happen,” goes the old saying, but are all accidents inevitable? Another well-known old saying is, “There’s no such thing as an accident.”

Maybe some unavoidable lousy luck is out there, waiting for us, but, if we’re honest, we would have to admit that we have likely caused at least one accident through our own carelessness.

No one should have to go through life so averse to risk that they hide away in a bunker, but on the other hand, learning about potential hazards and being aware of your surroundings can only help you get through an accident-free day. Developing a better “safety attitude” could even save a life.

To evaluate your own safety attitude, ask yourself how often you think about safety on the job? If the answer is “not very much” or “only when a co-worker gets hurt,” then you could help yourself and those around you by developing a new attitude towards safety. Here’s a suggestion: Understand what, in your operation, is a high risk, then develop an attitude of making an impactful effort towards recognizing and eliminating those risks daily.

FMIC has identified six areas that significantly impact your risk levels daily. Attention towards these six items will help you reduce your risk and increase the overall attitude of your workforce.

1. NEW EMPLOYEES – Operations with one or more employees having less than one year’s experience on that job increase their logging incident exposure.

Assign a co-worker to the new employee to mentor him.

2. TEAM EXPERIENCE – Operations where employees have worked together as a crew for five years or longer reduces their logging incident exposure.

By Greg Plumley, FMIC DLC

3. MECHANIZATION – Fully mechanized operations that eliminate manual chainsaw operation from any production function on the job (especially felling) can dramatically reduce their logging incident exposure.

4. SAFETY ATTITUDE – Operations in which the owner and employees demonstrate a genuine concern for safety, as manifested by consistent use of proper safety equipment, safe operating procedures, safety meetings, and enforced safety rules, and which have no tolerance for unsafe behavior, reduce their logging incident exposure.

5. SAFETY AWARENESS - Operations with consistent safety awareness and training programs have safety-minded employees who expect the unexpected. Utilize safety meetings and articles to encourage reducing incident exposure.

6. ACCOUNTABILITY – The leadership of your operations which demonstrates consistent and sustained accountability for infractions of safety rules, represents those who have created a truly safe work environment. Accountability consistent and combined with a genuine concern for employee safety reduces incident exposure.

Education is knowledge, and it takes knowledge to protect yourself from the ever-increasing risk level and the liabilities you face daily.

Please contact your Forestry Mutual Field Representative if you require more information; they are willing and ready to assist you.

“Safety is a full-time job, don’t make it a part-time practice.”

FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

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TOWING CHARGES AND WHAT’S COVERED?

By Chris Huff

Towing, storage, and cleanup costs?

AGENCY CORNER

I

t seems that in recent years the towing and cleanup charges assessed when an accident occurs have been skyrocketing. We have seen outrageous charges across all states in the southeast where we conduct business, but it is applicable nationwide. Sometimes as much as $50,000 to $100,000 is due to many different factors, and there are other things we as insureds can do to try and mitigate the cost.

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FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

The first issue we deal with is non-consensual towing when there has been an accident on a roadway. Law enforcement officers must act quickly to get the road cleared and accessible to the public.

The officers are working off a rotation list for that area and directly call one of the local towing companies to remove the accident. At that point, the trucking company has no control over which towing company will show up. However, suppose you can get to the accident in time or instruct your driver to discuss with the officer. In that case, you may be able to use a towing company you have an ongoing relationship with.

It is always good to build a relationship with a towing and recovery company to call in these situations. That relationship may save you a tremendous amount of money on towing, storage, and cleanup costs incurred. Beyond the actual towing of the units damaged from the scene, the next significant expense is the cleanup of the load, which could include fuel spillage. In the forest industry, a truck rollover can be costly due to the type of logs or chips spilled. Suppose the towing company must call in additional equipment to remove debris. In that case, there will be an additional charge, driving up the cost. continued on next page

In this situation, if you can get equipment to the scene yourself to load the logs on another truck or clean up the chips, you will save a considerable amount of money. We have had a few situations where our insureds were able to contact another logger close to the scene of the wreck, and they were able to help with the cleanup.

The last issue we see that can cause a considerable expense on the towing and recovery bill is the storage cost. Some towing companies charge excessive storage fees for the unit until the towing bill is paid. We have seen charges as much as $500 a day. So, it is very important to work with your agent and carrier to try and get the vehicle out of storage as soon as possible to reduce the accumulation of storage fees.

There are certain situations where your insurance will cover towing and recovery, but there are times where it will not. First, suppose the other party is at fault. In that case, they should be responsible for your vehicle repairs and towing costs if you have physical damage on your policy. In some states, they are also required to cover cleanup costs.

On a commercial policy, the thing to remember is that your liability coverage will not cover towing if you are at fault. In this instance, you would need to have physical damage coverage (comprehensive & collision) to cover the towing. How the physical damage coverage is written can determine how much the carrier will cover. Some policies written on a stated amount limit may have a limited towing expense. And some policies written on cost new limits (ACV) may not have a towing limit. Some policies will have coverage for cleanup, and some may not. It is crucial to read your policy or consult with your agent.

1ST PLACE - TECHNICAL WRITING Forestry Mutual is proud of one of our own, Brian Macanka, Loss Control Representative in North Carolina. Forest Resource Association (FRA) presented to Mr. Macanka their 2021 Regional Technical Writing Award (First Place). This award recognizes his exemplary technical writing skills in support of America's Forest Products Industry. His article, "Air Lift Landing Gear Retrofit," first ran in our Spring 2021 2nd Quarter Newsletter.

We at Forestry Mutual would like you all to help us congratulate Mr. Macanka for being recognized as an advocate and leader in our industry.

Lastly, if you find yourself with an excessive towing bill after an accident, work with your insurance company and try to get it reduced. Sometimes, a towing expert can give you an estimate on fair charges in which you could act quickly to offer to pay the towing company at a reduced rate. In certain situations, it may be necessary to hire an attorney to assist you in reducing the charges to a reasonable amount. ~FMIC Brian Macanka, Loss Control Representative, North Carolina.

FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

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$20,000 property damage. Everyone in our business knows extremely well that the $20,000 property limit is too low to cover most commercial truck repairs.

VIRGINIA

Virginia Loggers Association

WINDS OF CHANGE

Ron Jenkins, Executive Director, Virginia Loggers Association

Virginia citizens are likely to see significant changes beginning January 2022. Republican Party candidates won the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General’s offices. Youngkin’s transition team is not releasing information about his cabinet and agency heads’ choices or specific policies.

Although Virginia law is already set to increase these limits in 2022 and 2025, it will not provide enough coverage to pay most truck damages. VLA will encourage the administration to review this issue and help raise the limits further.

Business owners are optimistic the Youngkin administration will seek positive changes as Virginia’s 74th Governor. VLA will be active in the Virginia General Assembly from January – March 2022. Please get in touch with Ron Jenkins at 804-677-4290 or info@valoggers.org.

We invite you to join VLA’s family for their annual meeting August 11-14, 2022, at the Williamsburg Lodge!

We hope you had a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Virginia Loggers Association encourages Governor-Elect Youngkin to recognize biomass as a viable renewable resource option for energy policy, which now has a limited life based on the recently passed Virginia Clean Economy Act.

Most VLA members encourage more markets here in Virginia. VLA will also seek an active economic development plan in Virginia’s forest products industry from the administration. The USFS forest inventory now shows forest growth is exceeding removals.

One area of particular concern for the logging & hauling businesses and insurance companies is the low motorist liability threshold for medical and property damage. Virginia requires motorists to have insurance or register an uninsured vehicle for a significant fee. Virginia law now sets minimum bodily and property liability limits of 25/50/20 for uninsured and underinsured motorists.

This means the total liability for medical injuries to all injured persons may not exceed $50,000, with a $25,000 limit for one individual and a maximum of 22

FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

Virginia State Capitol building, Richmond, Virginia

FMIC

KITCHEN PERFECT POT ROAST

By Jean-Paul (JP) Damé Communications Director

Embrace the pot roast this winter!

Pot roast can be a simple and delicious addition to your winter menu options.

My favorite roast is the chuck roast; it has terrific marbling throughout the meat, and when given ample time to cook, the chuck roast winds up being melt-in-yourmouth delicious. You can not rush a pot roast, and if you do, you’ll be disappointed with the results, as will your jaws muscles from all the chewing.

DIRECTIONS

Choose a nicely marbled piece of meat.

Generously salt and pepper your chuck roast.

Preheat the oven to 275˚. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Then add 3 to 4 tablespoons of “high heat” olive oil.

Cut celery into 3” pieces and set aside.

Cut two onions in half and then peel and cut 6 to 8 carrots into 2-inch slices. When the oil in the pot is hot (but not smoking), add in the halved onions, browning them on one side and then the other.

Remove the onions to a plate.

Throw the carrots into the same hot pan and toss them around a bit until slightly browned for about a minute or two.

If needed, add a bit more olive oil to the hot pan. Place the meat in the pan and sear all sides for about a minute or until it is nice and brown all over.

Remove the roast to a plate.

With the burner still on high, use beef broth (about 1 cup) to deglaze the pan, scraping the bottom with a whisk.

When the bottom of the pan is deglazed, place the roast back into the pan and add enough beef stock (3-4 cups) to cover the meat halfway.

Add in the onions, carrots, and celery as well as 3 or 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary and about 3 sprigs of fresh thyme.

Put the lid on, then roast in the oven for 3 hours (for a 3-pound roast). For a 4 to 5-pound roast, plan on 4 hours.

INGREDIENTS

1 whole (4 to 5 pounds) chuck roast 2 tbsp. olive oil 2 whole onions 4 to 6 whole carrots-cut/cubed 4 to 6 celery stocks-cut 3” pieces Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste 1 cup beef stock 3-4 cups beef stock 3 sprigs of fresh thyme, or more to taste 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, or more to taste FMIC 1ST QUARTER 2022

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RALEIGH OFFICE STAFF Keith Biggs

Coy Baker

Brian Macanka

Brittany Rhinehart

Jean-Paul Damé (JP) Jenny Clawson

Robin Utley Amy Almond Nancy White

Kim Richmond

LOSS CONTROL STAFF

Greg Plumley

Jordan Rose

David McLean Greg Helton

Jimmy McCraney Shawn Fulks

Chris Hudson Philip Sligh

Jeremy Helton Paul Dyess

Jason Townley

Justin Guyer

Bryan Wagner

FMIC AGENCY STAFF

Nick Carter

Susan Ogden

Eddie Campbell Chris Huff

Alan Schaefer Jack Williams Greg Hutson

Chris Covington

Emma Turner Sheila Earls

Lindsey Burns

Pamela Foreman Melanie McKee Thea Barber Judy Angley

TITLE

DIRECT PHONE

President

919-880-1006

Underwriter

919-925-3344

Operations Manager Project Manager

Communications Director

Policy Services Representative

919-747-7511

EMAIL kbiggs@forestrymutual.com

cbaker@forestrymutual.com

bmacanka@forestrymutual.com

919-747-7596

brhinehart@forestrymutual.com

919-760-4815

jclawson@forestrymutual.com

919-747-7513

aalmond@forestrymutual.com

919-747-7514

krichmond@forestrymutual.com

919-219-6028

jpdame@forestrymutual.com

rutley@forestrymutual.com

Policy Services Representative

919-747-7512

Controller

919-760-4961

TITLE

DIRECT PHONE

Director of Loss Control

804- 712-5007

gplumley@forestrymutual.com

Region 3 Field Representative

910-303-0396

dmclean@forestrymutual.com

704-301-2919

jmccraney@forestrymutual.com

540-392-3997

chudson@forestrymutual.com

731-225-2087

jhelton@forestrymutual.com

478-796-1453

jtownley@forestrymutual.com

TITLE

252-916-3376

DIRECT PHONE

bwagner@forestrymutual.com

Agency Manager

803-669-1003

ncarter@forestrymutual.com

Agent

919-770-6132

ecampbell@forestrymutual.com

912-414-9778

aschaefer@forestrymutual.com

843-324-4728

ghutson@forestrymutual.com

Chief Financial Officer Accountant

Region 1 Field Representative Region 5 Field Representative

Region 6 Field Representative

Region 10 Field Representative

Region 11 Field Representative

Region 20 Field Representative Region 30 Field Representative Region 40 Field Representative Region 41 Field Representative

Region 50 Field Representative

Chainsaw & Logging Safety Trainer

Accountant Agent

Agent

Agent Agent

Account Manager

Account Manager Account Manager Account Manager Account Manager

919-208-7604 828-442-3143 434-755-1004 843-244-0487 912-944-7274 731-343-1936

919-745-4961

919-810-9485 601-760-0011

EMAIL

jrose@forestrymutual.com

ghelton@forestrymutual.com sfulks@forestrymutual.com

psligh@forestrymutual.com

pdyess@forestrymutual.com jguyer@forestrymutual.com

EMAIL

sogden@forestrymutual.com

chuff@forestrymutual.com

jwilliams@forestrymutual.com

919-745-4964

ccovington@forestrymutual.com

919-745-4967

searls@forestrymutual.com

919-745-4966 919-745-4965

eturner@forestrymutual.com lburns@forestrymutual.com

843-531-5019

pforeman@forestrymutual.com

919-760-6878

tbarber@forestrymutual.com

Account Representative

919-745-4963

Account Representative

919-745-4968

Account Representative

nwhite@forestrymutual.com

mmckee@forestrymutual.com jangley@forestrymutual.com