COLLABORATION: A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS IN THE FORESTRY INDUSTRY

By Jean-Paul Damé Communications Director, FMIC

Date: June 28, 2023

Location: Mt. Gilead, North Carolina

In a joint effort to promote safety and express gratitude, the North Carolina Forestry Association (NCFA) partnered with Jordan Lumber Company to organize a truck driver appreciation and safety lunch. This event, held in collaboration with the Carolina Loggers Association (CLA), Vestige View Solutions, and the Loss Control team from Forestry Mutual Insurance Company, aimed to support log truck drivers and enhance industry-wide safety practices.

(Left to Right) Ryan Layle, Ryan Barton, Shawn Fulks, Mike Powell, David McLean, Scott Bunch, Jordan Rose, Derek Breedlove, Jonzi Guill, Greg Plumley, Nick Thomas, Jim McCraney.

With the increasing number of claims in the insurance industry, it has become essential for truck owners and drivers to prioritize safety measures. Dashcams and telemetrics have emerged as crucial tools, providing visual evidence in fraudulent lawsuits and absolving drivers of blame in accidents. Derek Breedlove, Senior Solutions Partner at Vestige View Solutions, a strong supporter of Forestry Mutual, has been instrumental in advocating for these technologies.

Recognizing the scarcity of log truck drivers and the inherent risks they face in one of the world's most dangerous professions, the collaboration among NCFA, Forestry Mutual, CLA, and Vestige View demonstrates the industry's commitment to working together for the benefit of all stakeholders. Greg Plumley, Loss Control Director at Forestry Mutual Insurance Company, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, "Working alongside the CLA, Vestige View, NCFA, and Jordan Lumber is a great way to show our appreciation and ensure safety."

The Forestry Mutual team, consisting of eight loss control representatives, provided valuable safety tips and expressed gratitude to the drivers. Jordan Lumber Company generously prepared a to-go lunch comprising hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and beverages during the event. Log truck drivers, such as Ashley Harrison from Zimmerman Farm and Trucking, appreciated the safety advice provided by Forestry Mutual, emphasizing the value of such initiatives in promoting their well-being on the roads.

Mike Powell, NCFA - Greg Plumley, FMIC and Jonzi Guill

Organizers of the Truck Driver Appreciation Day, Mike Powell, Director of Forestry Programs, NCFA and Mike Cheston, Procurement Forestry, Jordan Lumber

Ryan Layle, FMIC

Jordan Lumber cooks up the dogs and burgers to say "THANK YOU" drivers.

This collaborative effort highlights Forestry Mutual's commitment to "Setting the Standard" in the industry and exemplifies how mutual collaboration can yield mutual benefits. By joining forces with regional partners and fostering a culture of safety, the NCFA, Forestry Mutual, CLA, and Vestige View Solutions are actively working towards improving the forestry industry.

In an industry where safety and cooperation are paramount, the successful collaboration showcased in this event is an inspiring example of how your insurance company can impact the industry.