PLC Logger's Voice Winter 2024

Volume 18 Issue 1 | Winter 2024

A Quarterly Publication of the Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

PLC in Vermont Expansion to the Green Mountain state underway Page 14

Also in this issue...

President’s Report

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New Members

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Director’s Report

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Machias Savings Bank

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Board of Directors Will Cole, President

Chuck Ames, 1st Vice President

Cover: PLC Member Lincoln Farm Timber Harvesting operation in Randolph Center, Vermont. Photo courtesy of Sam Lincoln.

Duane Jordan, 2nd Vice President Kurt Babineau, Secretary Andy Irish, Treasurer Tony Madden, Past President Aaron Adams Jack Bell Brent Day Thomas Douglass

A quarterly publication of:

Marc Greaney Steve Hanington

The Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Randy Kimball Sam Lincoln Robert Linkletter Molly London Jim Nicols Marty Pelletier Ron Ridley

108 Sewall St., P.O. Box 1036 Augusta, ME 04332 Phone: 207.688.8195 www.plcloggers.org

Gabe Russo Wayne Tripp Gary Voisine

PLC Staff Executive Director Dana Doran dana@plcloggers.org Deputy Executive Director of Legislative & Public Affairs Ben Grant ben@plcloggers.org Deputy Executive Director for Membership & Operations Jessica Clark jessica@plcloggers.org

Safety and Training Coordinator Donald Burr safety@plcloggers.org Office Coordinator Vanessa Tillson office@plcloggers.org Membership Services Coordinator Renee’ Wright renee@plcloggers.org

The Logger’s Voice Editor and Designer Jon Humphrey Communications and Photography jehumphreycommunications@gmail.com Advertising Jessica Clark jessica@plcloggers.org © 2024 Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast (PLC) All material (“content”) is protected by copyright under U.S. Copyright laws and is the property of the PLC or the party credited as the provider of the content.

For more information call (207) - 688 - 8195

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PLC in Vermont

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Machias Savings Bank

Also Inside 4 5 6 7 8 21 26 30 32 40 42 45 46 48

Calendar Updates President’s report New Members Executive Director’s report PLC staff Changes Log A Load Trucking Safety Mechanized Logging Operations and Forest Trucking Program Maine Forest Service Master Logger® ALC updates Congressional updates

Event

Calendar

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

Updates

Do you have news to share?

The PLC is always seeking news from our Members that showcases our industry’s professionalism, generosity, and ingenuity.

Send ideas to communications@plcloggers.org

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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From the President

By Will Cole Hello everyone.

As we wind down on another year, it seems appropriate to close out with two specific holidays: Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Thanksgiving is a time for family to gather, reflect, and appreciate all the blessings in our lives.

Sometimes it also brings pain to reflect on losses of family that have occurred. As the old saying goes, “We don’t appreciate what we have until it’s gone.” Yet through those losses we tend to get a greater appreciation for those who remain.

Instead of focusing on what we don’t have, we are thankful for what we do have. The timber industry has similar parallels. Reflecting on the losses over the last few years it hurts, but it also gives a greater appreciation on what remains.

I find it interesting that the most thankful people tend to be the ones with the least and the least thankful people tend to have the most in terms of material things.

My son Zac has been going to Uganda on mission trips for the past 10 years. I had a chance to go twice with him. Two separate events that I experienced will always remind me of Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The first is we were traveling to different public schools teaching vacation Bible school. (In Africa they haven’t outlawed God from school.) Some schools there might be 1000 children and some much smaller, but one is etched in my mind.

We traveled deep into the countryside on roads that it didn’t seem possible a bus could go on. After getting stuck, we eventually arrived at a little shack of upright poles and a tin roof with no walls, no electricity, no water and a dirt floor. A pastor’s wife taught school to the local children there.

As we pulled up in our bus fully clothed and fully fed in the comfort of our bucket seats, there stood around 15-20 children and adults singing and clapping at our arrival. Many of the children wore clothes either too big or small for them and if they had shoes, they also were often the wrong size. When it was time to depart, much to our surprise, they had assembled an array of gifts of food which they insisted we take. Many, if not all, the people there eat two meals a day and literally grow it themselves. It was one of the most humbling experiences of my life.

It taught me that truly thankful people don’t focus on what others have or on what they don’t, but on what they do have.

We would do well as a culture to extinguish the entitlement culture that has spread throughout our land.

The second event was distributing gifts to the children. Billy Graham’s son Franklin started what is called Operation Christmas Child. Churches throughout the country pack shoeboxes with gifts for children all over the world. In the boxes are several gifts and the gospel message of Christ.

Zac and I had the privilege of distributing with the help of our team over 800 boxes. The children all sat on the ground and received a box they were instructed not to open until told. Not one child did! Then when the time to open came it was our job to show them how to play with the toy. Many had never seen one. As I walked down one lane, I noticed a little girl staring into the box at a doll. So I picked up the doll and showed her how to hug it and immediately her face lit up like a Christmas tree.

It was then I truly realized what Christ meant when He said it is more blessed to give than to receive.

Thankfulness comes from an abundant heart, not an abundance of things and it is only with an abundant heart we share and receive gifts with joy. The Bible teaches God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.

Humility seems to be the key that unlocks true abundance.

That truth is reflected in the celebration of Christmas by the birth of Christ. Philippians 2:6-9. “Who being the form of God did not consider it robbery to be equal with God but made Himself of no reputation taking the form of a bondservant and coming in the likeness of men. Humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death on a cross. Therefore, God has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name.”

As we close out 2023 instead of focusing on what we don’t have, let’s be thankful for what we do have.

And receive the gift of the One who humbled Himself on the cross for the salvation of mankind.

Merry Christmas, Will.

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

Welcome New Members New Contractor Members

New Supporting Members

Emerson and Sons Logging, LLC of Groton, VT Crosstrac Equipment of Hartland, VT joined the PLC as a new Preferred Supporting Member in joined the PLC as a new Contractor Member in November of 2023. CrossTrac Equipment is a October of 2023. The company is Master Logger® certified and has a professional staff of forestry-focused heavy equipment dealer with 6. To learn more contact Zach Emerson at (802)- locations in Wisconsin, Michigan and Vermont.

274-4039 or zacharyemerson802@gmail.com, or The company’s mission is to provide unrivaled service and support to logging and forestry visit emersonandsonslogging.com customers in these regions and beyond. Known Mike Hammer and Sons, LLC of Whitingham, for expertise in the TimberPro equipment line and VT joined the PLC as a new Contractor Member cut-to-length equipment generally, the company supports tracked and rubber-tired machines made in October of 2023. The company is Master Logger® certified and has a professional staff of by TimberPro, Barko, Rottne, and Komatsu, along 1. To learn more contact Craig Hammer at (802)- with other product lines. To learn more contact Melissa Martin at (802)-359-4543 or 688-3938 or mikehammerandsons@gmail.com mmartin@crosstrac.net or visit Thurston Forestry, LLC of Brandon, VT joined www.crosstrac.net/ the PLC as a new Contractor Member in October Cass Insurance Inc. of Newport, VT joined the of 2023. The company is Master Logger® certified and has a professional staff of 2. To learn PLC as a new Supporting Member in November more contact Everett Thurston at (802)-342-1288 of 2023. Cass Insurance is a small agency that has been successfully writing coverage for clients in or ethurston88@gmail.com Vermont and New Hampshire for over 29 years.

Tamarack Management of Arlington, VT joined The majority of the agency’s clients are loggers the PLC as a new Contractor Member in October and truckers. Cass Insurance understands how important loggers and truckers are to our everyday of 2023. The company is Master Logger® certified and has a professional staff of 2. To learn lives and that they don't work typical 9 to 5 hours.

The agency is available to assist clients by 7 a.m. more contact Blake Pike at (802)-681-3563 or most days and willing to meet with clients on bpike84@gmail.com weekends if needed. Clients know that when they D. R. Logging Inc. of Eagle Lake, ME joined the call, the same agents will be picking up the phone and will be able provide them with the PLC as a new Contractor Member in October of 2023. The company has a professional staff of 2. individualized attention they deserve. To learn To learn more contact Derek Rioux at (207)-316- more contact Nancy or Michelle at (862)-3346944 or cassinsurance@myfairpoint.net 6434 or drioux88@gmail.com

Not a member but interested in joining the PLC? Contact Jessica at (207) 688-8195 or email jessica@plcloggers.org The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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So Close, But So Far

By Dana Doran From the Executive Director

Logs being loaded at a PLC Member Emerson and Sons Logging, LLC job in Sharon, VT. In December.

Happy 2024 to all of our Members, Supporting Members and friends in the logging community throughout the Northeast. Here’s hoping that 2024 starts better than 2023 finished.

As all of you know, the PLC expanded officially in October and now has about 15 new Contractor members and three new Supporting Members from the state of Vermont. More contractors are joining from Vermont each week and in a short period of time, it is likely that contractors from other Northeast states will also start to join to

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take advantage of all that the PLC has to offer.

Clearly, there’s strength in numbers.

While the need for and value of the PLC to contractors in other states is not surprising, the feedback we have received from those who might not like the idea is. The new organization seems to be popping up on agendas of forest products type organizations over the last few months, including one organization in southern New England that made the statement, “I have talked occasionally with Dana at PLC Maine and he’s been friendly and helpful. If

Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

they reach into MA, that might be a different story.” geography and in the end it’s all about politics, power and control.

I guess that we should be flattered by the attention; good, bad or indifferent. With that in mind, Weather it just goes to show that as much as we hear, “this is one industry and all legs of the stool are just as As I write this article, Maine is just important as the other,” I can’t help but chuckle. I recovering from a major wind and rain event that guess it’s okay for some to say it when they have occurred on December 18, 2023. At a time when the control, but when that control seems to be threatened ground should be freezing and our members moving from their perspective, they often show their true to their winter ground, instead, there are roads colors. Regardless, it just goes to show how washing out, significant power outages, temperatures important the work of the PLC is, regardless of near 60 and folks simply not working because of

Doran

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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Doran Continued from Page 96 mother nature. The forecast doesn’t look all that impressive either so it’s hard to say what this winter will have in store. Three weeks ago, it was cold with four straight days below freezing and everyone was excited for winter. Today, not so much.

Vermont had a similar weather catastrophe back in early July. As we all know, the summer of 2023 has been the summer that never happened. After an epic rainstorm early that month, the ground was saturated and significant flooding occurred, limiting the ability of most contractors in the state to work and forcing many to halt their operations for all of July and most of August. Some contractors already hadn’t gone back to work after shutting down for mud season and lost nearly four months of income, bringing insult to injury.

As I reported in the last edition of the Voice, following the floods in VT, there was a furious attempt by contractors to push state government there to help those who suffered as a result. Farmers, homeowners, even theater and art gallery owners, received millions of dollars of aid to help bail them out. Despite the feverish pace and effort to help those impacted, guess who was left on the outside looking in?

The PLC has recently sent out a survey to its membership in Maine to assess damages from the storm, similar to what Vermont conducted for contractors there in late July in early August. It is expected that the results might be similar, but perhaps on a larger scale.

Vermont logging contractors estimated on the low end that about $5 million in operational revenue was lost in the month of July alone, but even despite the evidence, it appeared that there was no flexibility or opportunity to provide aid to loggers. We hope that the response in Maine isn’t the same as in Vermont, but time will tell and my crystal ball doesn’t give me a good feeling.

to deal with the complications and ramifications from weather events, there are examples all around us that can be used to help; many of which have to do with equipment and climate resilient practices and applications.

However, the question remains, will loggers be treated the same as similar industries, will policymakers treat loggers with the same level of respect and will governmental agencies start helping and stop resisting requests for assistance, simply because it’s coming from loggers?

In 2021, the PLC was invited to sit on Maine Governor Janet Mill’s Task Force on the Creation of a Forest Carbon Program. This task force was created as a result of the discussion on forest carbon during the Maine Climate Council proceedings in 2020. The Task Force was charged with developing incentives to encourage forestland management practices that increase carbon storage specifically on woodland owners of 10 to 10,000 acres while maintaining harvest levels overall.

As part of the Task Force’s final report, there were many recommendations that the PLC was supportive of, most of which identified logging contractors as part of the solution and not part of the problem.

These suggestions included promoting climate friendly timber harvesting practices and supporting the use of low impact harvesting equipment. To implement these recommendations, it would require significant financial incentives from the state. These financial incentives included:

The next few months are certainly going to be interesting as the PLC works on similar issues in states that are not physically connected but have so much in common.

∙ Supporting higher level on-the-ground performance to encourage climate-friendly timber harvesting with verifiable outcomes by promoting voluntary use of third-party certified harvesting companies. Third-party certification provides verification that high standards are being met at the point of harvest, by utilizing independent licensed consulting foresters as Politics verifiers, ultimately providing a verification model for As the logging community looks for solutions landowners that participate in a carbon program and

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

utilize the services of timber harvesting companies. ∙ Providing financial cost-share resources for harvesting companies to become third-party certified in a similar manner as cost-share resources are provided by the State to landowners who create a forest management plan (i.e. the MFS WoodsWise program). ∙ Increasing funding for the Direct Link Loan (Clean Water State Revolving Fund) program and reassess the elements of the program so as to provide greater availability of reduced interest loans for equipment that will minimize soil compaction and disturbance of forest soils. ∙ Providing cost-share resources for landowners and contractors to purchase and implement carbonenhancing best management forest practices (e.g., portable bridges, culvert pipes, grass seed, hay, skid trail regrading, road relocation, post-harvest stabilization, corduroy, gravel, silt fencing).

Outcomes of these actions would include: ∙ Currently, there are approximately 300 logging companies in Maine and just over one-third are third-party certified. Cost-share resources to support more companies becoming certified will increase landowner awareness and provide greater verification of climate-friendly harvesting practices. ∙ Significant increase in the use of trained loggers, logging equipment, and best management practices that promote climate-friendly harvesting practices.

Since the report was published, the PLC has attempted to get these incentives funded through various means at the state level, both at the agency level, through legislative efforts, and most recently, at a meeting with Governor Mills in April 2023. However, despite our pleas and demonstration of evidence, performance, and accountability with each one of the recommendations above, nothing has been done to help move these initiatives forward to help contractors and increase climate resiliency. In fact, our efforts have been met with downright resistance with no alternative gameplan or justification. Meanwhile, the administration has managed

to hire new staff and increase the size and scope of the bureaucracy instead, which will do nothing to help contractors nor make Maine more resilient to climate change.

Meanwhile, the Forest Carbon Taskforce has been organized again, as of December 2023, to take another bite at the apple and see why certain initiatives haven’t moved forward and what more could be done. At the first meeting, the PLC made known its frustration with the resistance in Maine state government and the fact that the ideas from the original report must be implemented first before anything else is supported.

In Vermont, it seems to be very similar to Maine, in terms of weather impacts on logging contractors and government assistance, with one big exception. As I reported above, the flood this past summer was catastrophic for logging contractors and almost identical to what Maine experienced on December 18th. When the logging community turned to government for help Vermont, the big difference from Maine was that it discovered that it wasn’t that the government didn’t want to help, but that it was simply unprepared to help.

Vermont has consistently created programming to help family farms, but it had never organized programming to help the logging community.

How do we know this?

As a result of some covert research by PLC Board Member Sam Lincoln, Lincoln Farm Timber Harvesting, we discovered in a report produced by the Agency of Agriculture, Food, and Markets (AAFM) in Vermont that financial aid for agricultural water quality protection from FY16-FY22, over $67,333,755.00 in funding for agricultural water quality in Vermont alone was provided to family farms. During that same timeframe, the only direct funding source to help logging contractors with water quality that parallels the type of support that agricultural producers get, is an annual appropriation to the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation for $50,000 for a skidder bridge cost share program. If I’ve done my math correctly, that’s $350,000 Doran Continued on Page 126

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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Doran

Continued from Page 11 16

over seven years as compared to more than $67 million. I And secondly, we are working with the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation in Vermont think you can see the difference. to establish a Forest Equipment Loan Program – using The big difference in Vermont though is that State Clean Water Revolving Loan Program funds from since the summer of 2023, a majority of legislators and the federal government. This program would be created executive branch officials have bent over backwards to with existing funding, and it is estimated that a program work with the PLC to level the playing field, help the can be created in July 2024 and will not require any logging community and plan a major suite of initiatives general fund appropriation. that could not only help mitigate climate impacts, but With this idea, Vermont would utilize Clean equip contractors to be part of the solution. If only Maine Water Revolving Loan Funds from the US EPA to could do the same. provide reduced-interest rate financing for investment in State Representative Katherine Sims (Dlow impact harvesting equipment, similar to the Direct Craftsbury, VT) and State Representative Jed Lipsky (ILink Loan Program in Maine. The purpose of this Stowe) have introduced a bill for the next legislative session that will help level the playing field for Vermont financial incentive would be to increase the use of best contractors. Did I mention that Representative Lipsky is a management practices with low ground pressure logging equipment that will help to protect and improve water Master Logger® Certified contractor?

One initiative in the bill that Rep. Sims and Rep. quality in and around logging operations. This modernized use of these existing funds would provide Lipsky have introduced will create a Forest Operations Climate Resilience Incentive for logging contractors. This funding to specific lenders to loan to logging contractors at a reduced interest rate, which could be as low as 2%, policy idea would help contractors offset the costs that consistent with current programs for farmers. Again, they must absorb for pre-harvest preparation that will notice any similarity to what we have proposed in Maine? protect soils and infrastructure and reduce and/or The next few months are certainly going to be eliminate sedimentation and phosphorous runoff, during interesting as the PLC works on similar issues in states and after harvests.

Based on a decades old program that is operating that are not physically connected but have so much in common. The question will be, will the two states learn successfully close to Vermont, which could act as a from each other and do what is right for the environment model for implementation, the New York Watershed and the contractor in the end? Will the two states do Agricultural Council (WAC)’s forest management implementation program incentivizes logging contractors similar things because it’s the right thing to do and set to implement best management practices to enhance water politics aside or will it be business as usual?

In closing, I received an email about two weeks quality protection measures during forest operations in the ago from an employee of one of our Board members. This Catskill Mountains. The Legislative fix would establish gentleman used to be a state legislator in Maine decades and fund a similar program that provides payments to ago but also has an affinity for logging and forest logging contractors for specific materials and practices management. I hear from him from time to time when it that can be utilized for forest road construction, land preparation, culverts and sediment control in advance of comes to legislative efforts. He said, “Dana, I’ve been harvest implementation. Examples include erosion control around a long time, but the one thing I’ve learned in my 70 plus years on this earth is that politics plays a bigger measures on skid trails (mulch, seed, waterbars, straw wattles); right sized culverts, geotextile fabric, and gravel role than I ever imagined. It’s politics more than anything that determine your plight in life. If you lose the battle, or stone on access roads and landings; and bridges for temporary stream crossing structures during logging. This but win the war in this game, you’re going to come out better in the end.” As I get older and dedicate more of my program will ensure logging contractors can continue to life to this industry, I couldn’t agree more. affordably implement water quality protection measures Please stay safe, be well and stay in touch. and enhance ecosystem protection. Notice any similarity to what we proposed in Maine?

Reminder: PLC Legislative Updates will begin in January 2024.

Watch your email for them!

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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Two months after launching the largest expansion in its history, the Professional Logging Contractors (PLC) of the Northeast is rapidly ramping up its operations in the state of Vermont.

The Green Mountain State is the focus of the PLC’s expansion beyond Maine, and the logging and forest trucking trade association is wasting no time there identifying legislative priorities, meeting with key players in the forest economy, and adding new Members and Supporting Members.

Those efforts kicked off on Oct. 18, as the PLC

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held its first official Vermont event in Barre to present information on the regional trade association and its benefits to invited professional logging and forest trucking companies. The event drew more than 50 loggers, and many have since joined or are now in the process of following up with the PLC seeking more information on membership and joining.

“It was a great event and those loggers who attended deserve credit for taking the time out of their busy schedules to be there to consider the representation and benefits a regional trade association can bring to their

Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

Expansion to the Green Mountain State Underway

PLC Member Longview Forest Inc. operating in Windsor Vermont in October. business,” PLC Executive Director Dana Doran, said. “The numbers and the positive response the PLC saw at the Oct. 18 event in Barre have only reinforced our belief that expanding beyond Maine was the right decision at the right time.”

Since the event, the PLC has been moving quickly to accelerate operations in Vermont while working closely with a steering committee of a dozen Vermont logging contractors to guide the expansion.

As of mid-December, 15 Vermont logging contractors had joined the PLC and many more were expressing interest. Three Supporting Member companies had also joined. Members of the steering committee are

now beginning to personally reach out to other loggers and potential Supporting Member companies they know to discuss joining, and those efforts will intensify in the new year.

Meanwhile, Exec. Director Doran and PLC Board Member Sam Lincoln of Vermont, who is a former Deputy Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation, have been crisscrossing the state joined at times by other steering committee members including Vermont Rep. Jed Lipsky - to meet with key people and organizations to introduce them to the PLC, its legislative priorities, and the issues the logging industry faces in the state.

Vermont

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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Continued from page 15

PLC Member Emerson and Sons Logging, LLC chipping at a job site in Sharon, Vermont in December.

Those meetings notably included a logging tour and discussion with Vermont Speaker of the House Jill Krowinski and her staff in Cabot, Vermont on Dec. 13.

Vermont Representatives Katherine Sims and Henry Pearl joined that tour and the response from Speaker Krowinski was very positive.

Other meetings have taken place with Vermont

Senators Robert Starr and Brian Collamore, The Nature Conservancy in Vermont, the Vermont Woodland Owners Association, the Vermont Resources Council, Audubon Vermont, the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, and Vermont Governor Phil Scott’s policy staff.

The reception overall has been very good, Lincoln

Vermont

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

said.

“The idea that logging contractors and truckers are, as an association, reaching out to all these organizations I think is well received,” Lincoln said of the meetings with individuals and organizations. “As we are talking about the opportunities and quite frankly the vulnerabilities that we are facing in the industry and how it ties into their

objectives, I think it is resonating strongly and they’re really interested.”

In 2024, the PLC plans to hold one of its annual Safety and Fleet Trainings in Vermont in the spring. The PLC also plans a strong presence at the Northeastern Forest Products Equipment Expo on May 3-4, 2024, in Essex Junction, Vermont, and will hold a full board meeting in Vermont

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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Vermont Speaker of the House Jill Krowinski, center, during a PLC logging tour in Cabot, Vermont on Dec. 13.

Vermont Continued from Page 17 the state late next year.

The PLC has also created a safety dividend program in Vermont similar to the PLC Safety Group Dividend Program offered in Maine through a partnership with Acadia Insurance.

Meanwhile, a more immediate priority is the 2024 Vermont legislative session, which begins in January. With the aid of the steering committee, and drawing on previous successful efforts in Maine, the PLC has drafted a set of policy priorities that Rep. Sims has already submitted to

The Vermont Office of Legislative Counsel, which aids in drafting bills for the Vermont General Assembly. Funding sources for those priorities are being explored. The priorities include: ∙ Creating a comprehensive economic impact and workforce availability study to look at the impact of timber harvesting and hauling on Vermont’s economy. This data will be vital to determining and achieving policy objectives in the state. ∙ Launching sustained forest economy career

As part of the PLC’s transition to a regional organization you will notice a few changes: The PLC website address has changed to plcloggers.org and PLC staff email addresses have changed to end with @plcloggers.org, for example executivedirector@maineloggers.com is now dana@plcloggers.org Please know, the prior website address and email addresses will automatically forward to the new addresses if you use them in error to allow this transition to go smoothly.

You will notice other changes including our new logo, and the name change on the sign in front of our office in Augusta.

There will be no loss or changes to the benefits you receive from your membership, and we anticipate that this expansion will lead to additional benefits for all members, both in Maine and Vermont.

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

promotion and workforce development efforts to highlight can be done in Vermont, and that’s what we’re trying to do. career opportunities and enhance workforce recruitment Sam and I are going to continue to push those policy through advertising, marketing, and logging tours for the priorities and there will be challenges, but it’s been a really public. These efforts would also include either bringing the positive experience thus far.” highly successful Mechanized Logging Operations and As momentum and publicity continues to build for Forest Trucking the PLC in Vermont, Program the PLC the general interest developed in Maine among logging to the state of contractors in joining Vermont or the organization encouraging appears to be high, Vermont citizens to according to enroll in the current members of the program. steering committee. ∙ Providing Zach free annual safety Emerson of Emerson trainings to Vermont and Sons Logging, contractors in order LLC, a Master to create a culture of Logger® certified safety in the industry company, is a and reduce injuries member of the and insurance claims Vermont steering and costs. committee, and was ∙Establishing one of the first forest operations logging contractors climate resilience in Vermont to join incentives modeled the PLC once the on those in PLC Logging tour underway in Cabot, Vermont on Dec. 13. From left to opportunity opened neighboring states right, PLC Exec. Director Dana Doran; Vermont Rep. Katherine Sims; up in October. that would provide Emerson has Vermont Speaker of the House Jill Krowinski, and forester Dave Senio. financial assistance been logging fullto logging contractors for time since 2006, starting out their time and money spent working for his father Chris on pre-harvest water quality who began the business, and protection efforts – these eventually buying into the expenses are increasing in business as a full partner.

Vermont as a result of heavy Like other Vermont rains and warmer winters loggers who have already and contractors are currently joined the PLC, he loves the absorbing the full cost. industry and believes he ∙ Creating a forest needs to make the time to equipment loan program get involved. utilizing Clean Water “I’m 100 percent Revolving Loan Funds from invested in logging and the U.S. Environmental that’s really one of the main Protection Agency to reasons I joined PLC. When provide reduced-interest rate I found out that we had the financing for investment in opportunity to be a part of low impact harvesting the PLC I knew it was going equipment. to be the best way to help “A lot of those ideas preserve what I love and PLC Exec. Director Dana Doran, center, visiting PLC are things that we’ve already work so hard to do, and I done in Maine,” Doran said. Member Emerson and Sons Logging, LLC in October. Zach often wonder how I can help Emerson, at left, and his father, Chris, at right, are partners leave things better for our “So I think there are many in the business. The company was one of the first Vermont future loggers and this is a ideas that we’ve moved logging contractors to join the PLC. forward with in Maine that great way to do that.”

Vermont

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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Vermont Continued from Page 19 to do it but it’s worth it and there’s plenty of benefits,” Emerson said.

Emerson said. “The PLC is a great organization, and As always, time is at a premium for loggers having it come to Vermont is huge. It’s the only dealing with the winter harvesting season and the many responsibilities of running their businesses, but PLC staff association that I know of that is just devoted to loggers and truckers, and that’s huge and we need it, there’s no question and current PLC Members in Vermont are stepping up to about it.” assist loggers in joining any way they can, and Emerson Are you a Vermont logging contractor interested in encouraged loggers to make time for that process. joining the PLC? Call 207-688-8195, email “It’s just a matter of taking the steps to get the jessica@plcloggers.org or check out www.plcloggers.org! paperwork done, it’s a process, you’ve got to have the time

Record Funds Raised at PLC Log A Load for Maine Kids Southern Maine Golf Tournaments!

Lafoe Logging harvester operating during a snowstorm in Cabot, Vermont during the logging tour the PLC organized for Vermont House Speaker Jill Krowinski on Dec. 13.

Interested in joining the PLC of the Northeast? Call (207) 6888195 or email jessica@plcloggers.org 20

Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

PLC announces staff changes and additions following regional expansion AUGUSTA, ME – The Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast (PLC) expansion beyond Maine is now well underway, and the organization has announced staff changes and additions to ensure the quality of representation and benefits offered to its members remain consistent and strong throughout the region.

PLC Member Services Manager Jessica Clark, an 8year veteran of the organization, has been promoted to Deputy Executive Director for Membership & Operations.

Ben Grant of Waterville has been hired as the PLC’s new Deputy Executive Director of Legislative & Public Affairs. Grant has more than a decade of experience in legislative and public affairs, most recently as Senior Legislative Aide for the Republican Office in the Maine House of Representatives. He previously served as Director of Public Affairs for Dirigo Partners of Cumberland, ME, a legislative aide in the Maine House, and as Acting State Director of StudentsFirst, a nonprofit organization based in California. Grant was also a self-employed blueberry harvester owner and operator for two years prior to starting his professional career.

Grant is a 2010 graduate of Thomas College in Waterville, ME, where he earned a B.S. in Sport Management with a Marketing Concentration. He has an extensive understanding of legislative affairs, advocacy, and communications. He may be reached at (207) 688-8195 or ben@plcloggers.org.

Renee’ Wright of Skowhegan has been hired as the PLC’s new Membership Services Coordinator. Wright has more than five years of experience in office management, safety roles, and rental operations management for a heavy equipment dealership in Skowhegan, where she worked frequently with logging contractors. Prior to that she worked as a park ranger at Lake George Regional Park in Skowhegan.

Wright is a 2019 graduate of Unity College in Unity, ME with a BS in Conservation Law Enforcement.

She may be reached at (207) 688-8195 or renee@plcloggers.org “Ben and Renee’ have excellent qualifications for the roles they are taking on, and Jessica is a proven and valued member of our team,” PLC Executive Director Dana Doran, said. “Their contributions will be critical to the PLC’s success as it enters a new chapter representing loggers and forest truckers throughout the Northeast.”

The staff additions and changes for the logging and forest trucking association follow the PLC’s expansion in early October, which began with contractors from the state of Vermont becoming eligible to join the PLC and marked the biggest step for the organization since it was founded by loggers in Maine in 1995.

The new PLC staff members will be based at the PLC’s office in Augusta. Additional staff will soon be added in Vermont as part of the expansion.

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

Ben Grant

Renee’ Wright

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Machias Savings Bank in Machias, Maine. The bank has 15 branches located throughout Maine and has been backing the logging industry for more than 100 years.

Dean Clark has worked closely with Q&A with Dean Clark, SVP, Regional Market those in the logging industry for more than 20 Manager with Machias Savings Bank... years. In his current role as SVP, Regional Market Manager with Machias Savings Bank, he leads a regional market team that works to provide a refreshingly different customer experience.

Q: Tell us about Machias Savings Bank and the Bank’s history in Maine.

Since 1869, Machias Savings Bank has been committed to serving people and businesses throughout Maine and supporting thriving communities. Today, with over 300 employees and 15 branches from Caribou to Portland, our commitment to moving Maine forward through financial health, one person, one business, and one community at a time is

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

From left to right, Machias Savings Bank leadership team members Dean Clark, SVP, Regional Market Manager; Chris Fitzpatrick, Board of Directors; and Mike Kelley, SVP, Business Banking.

just as strong as ever.

recognize that we’re working toward more than just the success of these individuals. These are businesses that play a vital role in helping our Q: Why did MSB choose to partner with Professional Logging Contractors of Maine? local economies flourish.

To that end, we’re proud supporters of PLC as the premier voice of Maine’s logging We all know that logging is one of Maine’s oldest industries and Machias Savings industry. From promoting the important role Maine’s loggers and truckers Bank has been a partner in this play statewide to fighting industry for over 100 years. It battles at the legislative level, contributes millions of dollars we understand the need for a year to the state and local that voice in order for this economies. Countless Maine families rely on it for their livelihood. However, industry to survive for generations to come. we also know that the industry faces challenges from weather, climate, regulations, mechanical Q: What services does MSB offer to those in our industry? breakdowns, and the increasing cost of operations. As their banking partner, we work hand in hand with our logging customers to Machias Savings Bank partners with overcome these challenges together because we loggers and trucking companies throughout the Machias

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Machias

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state. Even if we don’t have a branch presence industry changed over the years? in a certain location, that doesn’t hinder us from creating relationships statewide and assisting While the “needs” of the industry are not those in the industry with their financial needs - significantly different - loggers still need whatever those might look like. equipment, land to harvest, trucks to haul wood We provide an array of commercial and working capital to operate - what has products and services ranging from equipment changed are the prices of equipment, cost of loans and lines of credit to loans to purchase labor, increase in operational costs and a shift in land, as well as competitive rates on depository the interest rate environment. Our longstanding needs. involvement with the industry makes us well We often think of equipment loans as the positioned to both anticipate these types of shifts and offer solutions to keep in step with main financial need within this industry. As businesses grow there are often other financial the changing landscape. needs that arise - such as payroll, or the need for One such solution is the Maine Forestry a fleet or credit card for everyday expenses or Direct Link Loan Program, which we know setting up HSA or IRA accounts for their many of our partners in the industry can take employees. Whatever their needs, we’re advantage of. The program offers reducedprepared to make sure our customers have all interest rate financing for Forestry Best the tools they need for a successful operation.

Management Practices – a financial incentive that promotes environmentally friendly Q: How have the finance needs of the logging equipment and ultimately helps protect and

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improve the land they’re working on. We’re happy to help match our partners with opportunities like this that can benefit their business.

Q: What sets Machias Savings Bank apart from its competitors?

About ten years ago I was referred to a small logging contractor who was looking to upgrade a piece of equipment. We spoke on the phone for quite some time, he sent over all the information I’d need for the application process that night, and the next day I drove into the woods and closed his loan on the hood of my truck, so he didn’t have to leave his job site to come to the bank.

Local decisions, quick turnaround, and flexibility are what set us apart. Those attributes are the start of a strong relationship. This is the dedication you get on Day 1 and the same service you’ll receive for all the decisions that come next.

worked with Chris in the past, you’re still in great hands when you trust us with your banking needs. I’ve been proudly partnering with logging businesses for more than 20 years, and so has my colleague Mike Kelley, an Aroostook County Native who leads our northern regional branches and is committed to building relationships with businesses that make a difference every day to Maine’s economy.

Q: What are the bank’s plans for working with our industry into the future?

The logging industry is an instrumental part of the Maine economy. When you succeed, Maine succeeds. We’re a proud partner in this industry and look forward to supporting its growth in years to come.

Many of our partners have worked with Chris Fitzpatrick over the years. We’re happy to congratulate Chris on his retirement at the end of 2023 after 22 years with Machias Savings Bank.

Rest assured, if you’ve

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast Log A Load for Kids effort raises record $287,691 in 2023 AUGUSTA, ME – The Professional Logging Contractors (PLC) of the Northeast raised a record $287,691 for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in Maine in 2023 through its annual Log A Load for Kids fundraising efforts.

The total shattered the previous record set in 2022 of $262,403, with the PLC’s two Log A Load golf tournaments and the Log A Load live auction at the PLC’s annual membership meeting performing strongly while funds raised at the American Loggers Council (ALC) annual meeting in Bethel, ME also contributed to the total.

“It is truly inspiring that despite the many challenges facing the Northeast’s logging industry, PLC’s Members, Supporting Members, friends, and families rallied once again in 2023 to raise a record amount for Children’s Miracle Network hospitals,” Dana Doran, Executive Director of the PLC, said. “No matter what the conditions in the industry are, this group always reaches deep for the kids and their families.”

On Jan. 19, Doran will present a check for the funds to representatives from Northern Light/Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor and The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

The PLC’s Log A Load efforts have now raised more than $2.195 million since 1995.

The PLC partners with both the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital (BBCH) and Northern Light Health Foundation for its annual Log A Load fund drive.

BBCH in Portland and Northern Light in Bangor are both CMN Hospitals.

The PLC and the Northern Light Health Foundation (formerly Eastern Maine Health Systems Foundation) have partnered in the Log A Load fund-raising effort since 1996. BBCH joined the Log A Load effort in 2019 and all donations have gone to support research and training, purchase equipment, and pay for uncompensated care, all in support of the mission to save and improve the lives of as many children in Maine as possible. BBCH and Northern Light in Bangor both have Neonatal Intensive Care Units that have received support for years from the PLC’s Log A Load efforts.

The South Carolina Forestry Association started the Log A Load for Kids program in 1988. Originally, the concept was for loggers, wood-supplying businesses, and other industry supporters in various states including Maine to donate the value of a load of logs to their local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

In December the PLC received this note and these Christmas cookies from Jacob Thiboutot and his family. As you may recall Jacob is the 2023 Children’s Miracle Child from The Barbara Bush Children's Hospital at Maine Medical Center.

We can’t share the cookies (personally signed by Jacob!) but we can share this photo and the note because this thank you really goes out to all of you who so generously step up year after year to support the PLC’s Log A Load for Kids fundraising efforts.

Thank you so much for your generosity! Every little bit helps as this job is never done.

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Check out the equipment and job opportunities our members have listed on the PLC website at the LOGGING ZONE! If you have equipment for sale, are looking to buy, are looking for employees, or are looking for employment - check it out!

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Trucking Trucking Industry News...

TruckX-ELD, TST 1 ELD, and WORLD TRUCKING ELD devices have 60 days to replace them with compliant ELDs. These ELDs now appear on FMCSA’s Revoked Devices list.

Motor carriers and drivers who use the ELDs Dec. 1 2023 listed above must take the following actions: REVOKED ELDs: 10 ELDs Removed from Discontinue using the revoked ELDs and revert FMCSA Registered Devices List... to paper logs or logging software to record required hours of service data.

On December 1, 2023, FMCSA removed the Replace the revoked ELDs with compliant following ELDs from the list of registered ELDs due to ELDs from the Registered Devices list before January the providers’ failure to meet the minimum requirements established in 49 CFR part 395, subpart B, 30, 2024. appendix A. Dec. 8 2023 Motor carriers and drivers using CI ELD LOGS, ELD 2 GO, ELD4TRUCKING, ELOG365, GOLDEN FMCSA has reinstated CI ELD LOGS to the ELD, POWERTRUCKS ELD, STEER RIGHT ELD, list of Registered Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)...

FMCSA has reinstated CI ELD LOGS to the list of Registered Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs).

Motor carriers and drivers may now use CI ELD LOGS to record and transfer hours of service data.

The following device is now listed on the list of registered ELDs. The ELD was previously revoked, but has been reinstated.

ELD Name: CI ELD LOGS ELD Model number: CILGS ELD Identifier: CRS270 ELD Provider: CV Options LLC Questions?

Contact ELD@dot.gov.

Oct. 17 2023 CVSA Releases 2023 Brake Safety Week Results...

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

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Trucking Inspectors in Canada, Mexico and the U.S. tanks, corroded holes in a spring brake housing, conducted 18,875 commercial motor vehicle inspections inoperative tractor protection valves, etc. Service brake Aug. 20-26 for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s violations, such as (CVSA) Brake Safety Week. For the weeklong cracked linings, inspection and enforcement initiative, inspectors focused brake adjustment or on the brake systems and components of commercial loose chambers, motor vehicles and submitted brake-related data to the may combine to put Alliance. Of the total vehicles inspected, 87.4% did not the combination of vehicles out of have any brake-related out-of-service violations. service under the Commercial motor vehicles are placed out of 20% brake service – meaning restricted from further travel – when criterion. Certain an inspector identifies critical vehicle inspection item service brake violations. violations are Of the 18,875 total commercial motor vehicles inspected, 2,375 (12.6%) were removed from roadways automatically placed out of because inspectors discovered brake-related out-ofservice violations. Some examples of brake-related out-of service when found on the steering -service violations that automatically place the vehicle axle. out of service include broken brake drums, loose air

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Safety PLC Safety Posters and Online Resources

By Donald Burr PLC Safety & Training Coordinator safety@plcoggers.org

Last spring, at the annual Safety Trainings, the PLC debuted 12 safety posters. These posters cover the following topics: Battery Safety, Tire Safety, Driving Safety, Eye Protection, Grinder Safety, Constructive Criticism and Proper Load Tie-Down, Electrical Fire Safety, Driver Safety, Truck Entering Signs, Personal Protective Equipment, Center Mount Trailer Operator Safety, and Electrical Power Line Safety. We picked these topics because they covered the top safety issues that we hear about from our partners, who provide us with trends on issues, close calls, and injuries. Our partners include Maine State Police Troop K, Acadia Insurance, Maine Employers Mutual Insurance Company (MEMIC) insurance, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Maine AgrAbility, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

These posters are designed to be hung in a logging contractor's garage, work trailer (service box), office, or maybe even on the back of the stall door in the company washroom. Our vision is for them to be hung wherever they will be seen and read best.

We made these posters with large, colorful graphics with a short, to-the-point message of safety. In logging, having your eyes and mind on the hazards around you is crucial. These posters are visual reminders to focus on the job and that safety is everyone’s job.

If you are new to the PLC, we have lists of other safety resources online. These include short videos designed to be shared with your employees by text or email. We offer two types of videos; one is called Humpday Safety. These are short (under 5 minutes),

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The PLC offers 12 Safety Posters covering a variety of important topics. The first set is free to Members, additional sets $25 each!

Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

Safety focusing on a safety topic. The other set of videos is called the “Un-Safe Zone,” where I interview a logger who has gotten hurt and tell their story. The idea is that we can learn a lot from other people's mistakes. I view an injury as similar to taking a continuing education class.

The injured person and the company they work for paid for it and now live through the pain and inconvenience of the injury. We should learn all we can from them to avoid going to that class. We also offer training outlines that you can print and use during a tailgate talk time.

Many PLC Safety resources including videos are There is also a line of podcast-type videos. These may be available in the password protected Members Only videos, but the true value is in the audio, not the visual. section of our website at These usually run about 20 minutes. There is also more plcloggers.org/contractormembersonly/ content online in the password-protected Members-only Members can follow the instructions online to obtain a section of our website. password. This is a Members-only PLC benefit.

In the challenging and high-risk environment of logging, safety is not a luxury; it's a necessity. The If you would like a set of these 12 posters or help Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast's with log-in credentials to enter the members-only section, commitment to safety is exemplified by its innovative contact the PLC office at 207-688-8195, and they will set use of safety posters and video resources. These visual you up. If you have a topic or an injury story to tell, aids serve as constant reminders of the importance of contact me, and we will work out getting it done. Think adhering to best practices, ultimately contributing to a safer and more resilient logging industry in the Northeast. Safe, Work Safe, Be Safe.

This continues its mission to elevate safety standards.

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Safety The next PLC Safety Committee Meeting will be held online via Teams at 9 a.m. January 24 All PLC Members encouraged to attend!

Watch your email for details

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

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Safety Ted Clark, CLCS, Loss Control Consultant, Acadia Insurance

Safety needs to be a culture comes to setting expectations around safety. Lead by When you develop a work plan for the day, what example. do you think about? If you’re like most people, you probably spend the majority of the time considering what 3. Discipline is key. A key component of a risk needs to be done in order to produce. “A machine needs to management plan is setting up consequences for be moved here.” “The grapple should be done by the end of unsatisfactory performance. Unfortunately, I believe this is the week.” “This operator is out sick.” If you’re like most a part that is missing from most safety programs. This people, safety is rarely the first thought you have when you could be due to various reasons: fear of the person leaving, get started in the morning. In my years of doing risk you care about the person, or you shy away from hard management professionally, I have noticed that there is a conversations. While these are all understandable concerns, tendency across all industries to only discuss safety in consider what it would look like if you raised a child predetermined time slots: once a year at the annual safety without consequences for their actions. Can’t picture this? training, once a month during a required tailgate meeting, Turn on the news. While we love our children more than and following a severe incident that took place. While well anything, most of us recognize that part of showing that intentioned, this practice does not always set us up to love is by disciplining them. The same goes for your successfully create a safe workplace, because it can have employees. the unintended consequence of making safety appear as an 4. Set the expectation on day 1. The first day for option. any employee is a key time for the owner to set While no one will argue that safety hasn’t always expectations. Take time with the new employee to “onbeen important, the spotlight being shined on safety the last board” them and set up the expectations like schedule, 20 years has brought it to the forefront as a cultural shift attitude, and safety. If you’re a large employer, a that needs to take place. Because of this focus we have seen formalized orientation program is probably necessary but a significant evolution in the way safety is handled by for smaller employers, this may be a conversation at the companies, with the best companies recognizing that it’s garage or in the truck on the way to the first job. Regardless not enough to just follow the regulations, instead safety of how you bring a new employee on board, it’s easier to needs to permeate every aspect of their operations. Safety set clear expectations from the get-go rather than try to needs to be a culture. change a learned behavior.

The idea of developing a safety culture is one most For the last year or so I have been looking at the of us can get behind but we stall out when we see what a roof on my house, knowing it needs to be replaced. I don’t daunting obstacle it is. Here are some key points to think about it every day but when it starts raining, I hold consider when you make the decision to shift your my breath and pray it doesn’t leak. The fact is the roof is company’s culture: hanging by a thread and it’s only a matter of time before it starts leaking if I don’t address the problem. I’ve been 1. It won’t be easy. Changing the culture of a lucky. company is going against the grain of years or decades of learned behavior. Employees will resist. You will be Have you been lucky? Is your risk management frustrated. But as I stand on a landing and look around at all program like my worn-out roof? Do you hold your breath the mechanized machines that rely heavily on computers every time something out of the ordinary happens? and DEF, I think to myself, “loggers adapt”. Like the Changing the culture of your company takes baby steps, but Theodore Roosevelt quote says, “Nothing in the world is allowing safety to permeate your everyday conversations worth having or worth doing unless it means effort, pain, versus treating it like it’s in a separate box will be the first difficulty…” key step in shifting your company’s culture towards a safer 2. Lead by example. Years ago, I was standing on future. the landing with an owner and his employee pulled up onto Acadia is pleased to share this material for the benefit of the landing and got out without a hard hat on. The owner its customers. Please note, however, that nothing herein should proceeded to yell at his employee for not having his hard be construed as either legal advice or the provision of professional hat on. The ironic part of this story is that the entire time I consulting services. This material is for informational purposes was there, the owner never once wore a hard hat, I’m not only, and while reasonable care has been utilized in compiling this even sure he owned one. When I brought this up to him, he information, no warranty or representation is made as to explained that he didn’t need to wear a hard hat because he accuracy or completeness. Recipients of this material must utilize was not covered under the worker’s compensation plan so their own individual professional judgment in implementing sound if he gets injured, it’s his problem. Your employees look to risk management practices and procedures. you for leadership, and you are the tip of the spear when it

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Safety Acadia

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*This sign-in sheet is intended to be used with the quarterly Safety Training Topic on page 35. Refer to the cutline on page 35 when removing it from the magazine.

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

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Safety de Quervaine Tenosynovitis

By Morgan Becker, B.S., OT/S, Johnson & Wales University Occupational Therapy Entry-Level Doctorate Have you ever been operating a joystick while working a machine and experienced pain or swelling at the base of your thumb? Maybe even coupled with a “sticking” sensation when you move your thumb and wrist? Well, those symptoms might be caused by de Quervaine Tenosynovitis (DQT).

DQT is a repetitive-use injury of the wrist and thumb that causes a tendon in the wrist to become trapped.

Once this tendon becomes entrapped, performing everyday work tasks such as operating all types of joysticks, doing maintenance on machines, or any task involving the thumb and surrounding wrist area become painful and potentially unbearable. Aggravation of this tendon at work may lead to lingering effects at home when doing similar movements during household chores or caring for children.

If this description is relatable to you, there is a simple test that can be performed to help indicate the presence of DQT. It is called the Finkelstein’s test. To perform this, simply close your fist around your thumb, orient your fist so your thumb knuckle is pointed up, and then extend your fist toward the floor. If the motion causes a painful feeling in the wrist below the thumb, this could mean DQT. This information is not meant to self-diagnose, rather to provide you with more information for your primary care physician (PCP).

If you or someone you work with is experiencing signs of DQT, don’t wait to get evaluated; prolonging treatment may lead to surgery and a longer road to recovery. Schedule an appointment with your PCP as soon as symptoms appear to avoid losing function in your thumb completely.

Common treatments for DQT include taking antiinflammatories, receiving corticosteroid injections, and splinting with a thumb spica brace. (The brace must be worn consistently to be effective.) In severe cases, surgery to release the trapped tendon is the only option. Recovery tenderness at the surgery site for a few months. is typically two weeks of minimal usage, and the stitches Now to address logging with DQT; it’s your career are removed at the end of this period. After the initial and you shouldn’t have to change paths. In any task where recovery period, it is normal to experience swelling and pain occurs, stop the movement, and check to make sure Logability

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you have your wrist in its natural position (not twisted or turned at any awkward angle). In addition, adaptive equipment and adaptive techniques can support you on the job. Equipment such as using a thumb spica brace during painful tasks, making handles on levers larger to allow for easier grip, or adding an armrest so your wrist isn’t strained while performing the movement are examples of adaptive equipment. Other options could be adaptive techniques.

This could be as simple as making sure you don’t skip breaks; these are vital to reducing your risk of musculoskeletal injuries and keeping you physically able to work your job. Additionally, make sure to gently stretch your wrist multiple times throughout the day. If you have been diagnosed with DQT and are still having trouble on

the job, ask your PCP about a referral to occupational therapy to help you obtain adaptive equipment and perform your best at your job and at home.

As an additional resource, contact Maine LogAbility for more information on adaptive equipment for your job. Phone: 1.800.287.1478

For More Information, visit Maine LogAbility, part of the Maine AgrAbility program: https://extension.umaine.edu/agrability/

Free in 2024 for PLC Members and their employees!

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MLOFT 2023 graduation PASSADUMKEAG – Graduates of Maine’s some modern day commonsense into the process. Our industry needs young innovation to expose the obvious only college training program for operators of that this generation might have missed, I wish you the mechanized logging and forest trucking equipment best.” were recognized Nov. 9 at the site where they spent late fall completing the final, trucking stage of the The program was created in 2017 by three program after months harvesting timber using Maine community colleges, the Professional Logging sophisticated state-of-the-art machines like those they Contractors of Maine (now the Professional Logging will encounter in the logging industry.

Contractors of the Northeast), and industry partners.

Family members, friends, and many supporters Dozens of graduates of the program currently work in the industry, and demand for additional logging and of the 20-week Mechanized Logging Operations and Forest Trucking Program (MLOFT) joined students at forest trucking operators in Maine is high and projected to remain so for the foreseeable future. the afternoon event at Madden Timberlands on Diamond Lumber Road.

The students spent this summer and early fall harvesting timber at an active job site in Summit The graduates include Jarrett Dubord of Township, gaining hands-on timber harvesting Windsor; Dave Elvers of Lincoln; Caden Foster of experience and benefiting from the guidance of veteran Houlton; Cole Gagnon of Hampden; Lucas Gustin of logging instructors for an educational experience that is Corinth; Dylan Hooper of Blue Hill; Adam Meng of unmatched by any other timber harvesting and hauling New Sharon; Dominick Olsen of Charleston; Lauren Robinson of Guilford; Tobias Sarrio of Hancock; Cole training program in Maine and neighboring states.

Sillanpaa of Industry; and Arthur Unobskey of Brewer. Students then moved to Passadumkeag for more weeks of hands-on experience operating commercial trucks, Will Cole, President of the Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast (PLC), noted the loading log trailers, and gaining knowledge critical to program is now in its seventh year and said the role it forest trucking.

This year’s class is the first to have the is playing in bringing a new generation with new ideas into the industry is critical as that industry evolves and opportunity to earn a CDL-A permit and receive preparation for the state driving exam. This significant the current workforce ages. addition to the program was made possible thanks to a “Nothing remains the same, change is grant from the Harold Alfond Center of Advancement something that forces innovation and moves us away for Maine’s Workforce, and the Maine Jobs and from our comfort zone, and as this happens we make Recovery Plan through Maine Quality Centers funding. use of what worked in the past and implement “This program has a proven track record of innovation into the process, but oftentimes opportunities are not fully realized or missed altogether addressing Maine’s shortage of qualified logging operators in an efficient and affordable way, and the simply because of generational gaps from the past to the future,” Cole said. “Our intent with this program is addition of forest trucking this year is further preparing to combine generational wisdom, you’ve been given an these graduates for multiple positions in today’s timber opportunity to experience the most modern harvesting harvesting and hauling industry,” PLC Executive equipment on the planet with the wisdom of instructors Director Dana Doran, said. “Our members who’ve been in the industry for decades. Treasure what and employers in this industry across the state are looking for cross-trained operators who can efficiently you’ve been taught, master it, and then start injecting

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MLOFT 2023 students and instructors on Nov. 9 haul timber, haul equipment, and operate the equipment program, and applauded the students for completing its needed to harvest wood, and this program offers the best rigorous requirements. comprehensive preparation for the industry available in the “On behalf of the Maine Community College country today.”

System and our Board of Trustees congratulations, this is a The program is administered by Northern Maine big deal and a real accomplishment, and we are here to Community College (NMCC) and includes a strong celebrate with you.” Belyea said. “This is the biggest group emphasis on safety as well as giving students an we’ve ever had at one of these celebrations and that means a understanding of the variables of timber growth, tree lot and it says a lot.” species, and markets. Students pay no tuition or fees, and the This year as in past years, the majority of students program provides all personal protective equipment (PPE) already have jobs waiting for them after graduation, and the and scholarships from Skowhegan Savings to assist with addition of trucking to the program is welcomed by Maine’s living expenses. logging industry, where demand for both drivers and Timothy Crowley, President of NMCC, said logging operators exceeds supply. partnerships between Maine’s community college system, Since the program began there have been nearly 100 the PLC, Maine legislators, industry supporters, and Maine graduates, and 60 percent are still working in the industry.

Quality Centers, to name a few, have been key to the In 2024 the program is expected to begin in April and run program’s success. twice in the central Maine region.

“Partnerships can be difficult and can be Although consistently ranked as one of the most challenging, but it’s how we’re going to move forward and satisfying careers in the United States, logging is a it’s how’s we’re going to continue to develop the workforce challenging and demanding profession, and in Maine and in Maine,” Crowley said. elsewhere aging of the workforce and the costs of training Dan Belyea, Chief Workforce Development Officer new operators are threats to its future, making programs like for Maine’s Community College System, thanked the PLC MLOFT critical to meeting workforce and NMCC for their efforts in operating the successful demands.

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Maine Forest Service Announces A Temporary Bridge Cost Share Program

By Tom Gilbert Water Resources Specialist Maine Forest Service This project is funded through a grant from the USDA Forest Service The Maine Forest Service announces a new cost share program to help loggers and other interested forestry professionals purchase temporary bridges for use on forestry operations. Eligible applicants will be reimbursed for 80% of costs, up to a maximum of $2,000 per bridge, for the purchase or construction of up to three new wooden temporary bridges for use on timber harvests in Maine.

For timber harvesting operations, using portable bridges for temporary stream crossings is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to cross streams. In addition, temporary bridges that are properly installed and removed after use do not cause maximum of $6,000 per applicant. Please note THIS negative impacts to streams such as chronic IS A REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM. YOUR sedimentation, damage to the stream banks or channel, APPLICATION MUST BE APPROVED BEFORE A or barriers to the movement of fish and other aquatic BRIDGE IS BUILT OR PURCHASED. wildlife.

The first application period will be from Who is eligible to apply?

December 8, 2023 through January 31, 2024.

Timber harvesting and forestry service Applications will be accepted on a quarterly basis for providers based in Maine. Eligible applicants include as long as funds are available. logging contractors, private consulting foresters, and For an application, companies employing licensed foresters. Program minimum bridge funds are limited and applications will be accepted specifications and other and reviewed on a quarterly basis for as long as program documents, go to funding is available. Preference will be given to sole mianrforestservice.gov and proprietors and companies with fewer than 11 look under Featured Projects, employees. or use your phone to scan the QR code: How does the program work?

To receive cost-share funding, an application must be submitted for up to 3 new wooden skidder For more information contact bridges that meet program specifications. Once the Tom Gilbert at (207) 441-5282 application is approved, the applicant will receive an or thomas.gilbert@maine.gov. approval package. The applicant can then build or purchase up to 3 new wooden bridges and submit the Claim for Payment Form and other documentation to MFS to be reimbursed for 80% of the cost, up to a

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Professional Logging Contractors of Maine

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

Andy Irish, President of Irish Family Logging, a Master Logger® Certified Company, completes term as President of ALC PERU, ME - Andy Irish, President of Irish for loggers is a goal of the Master Logger standard.

Family Logging, a Master Logger® Certified Company, Thank you, Andy!" completed his term as Under Irish’s President of the leadership, the ALC American Loggers Annual Meeting held Council (ALC) in midOct. 4-6 in Newry, October, marking the ME, included panels end to a successful on competing forest year leading the certification standards national association and their value, as well and promoting the as the importance of principles and standard logger representation of the Northeast in the leadership and Master Logger® oversight of such Certification Program. programs.

Ted Wright, Industry Executive Director of advocacy is an the Trust to Conserve important performance Northeast Forestlands indicator in the (TCNEF) and the comprehensive Master Master Logger Andy Irish, at right, at the ALC Annual Meeting with incoming ALC President Mike Albrecht of Master Logger Logger Certification California. program, said Irish has standard. The standard been dedicated to was written to raising the bar of professionalism in the industry for encourage loggers be participants in forest industry trade many years and brought that commitment to his role as associations so they can be better informed about what’s ALC President. happening around them and provide strength in "A heartfelt thank you to Master Logger Andy numbers. Taking on industry advocacy positions is Irish for his service as President of the ALC,” Wright looked upon very highly from a certification perspective said. “Andy has put in countless hours in over the years as it demonstrates engagement and deep commitment to advocating for professional loggers across the country the logging profession. and here in the Northeast. Andy is also the Treasurer of Thank you Andy, and congratulations on a job the TCNEF board which oversees the Northeast Master well done!

Logger program and was part of the original cohort of Master Loggers in 2000. Being involved in the advocacy

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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As We See It October 2023

By Scott Dane Inconsistent Federal Transportation Policy Hurting the Economy and Environment

timber up to 99,000 pounds. Other sections of the interstate in different states are grandfathered in at higher weights than the standard Interstate weight limit.

The U.S. Federal Transportation Policy is a disjointed, bureaucratic hodgepodge of restrictions and requirements lacking consistency across the states, imposed under the extortive threat of federal funding losses.

Are particular Federal Interstate Highways in New England or other states built to a different engineering standard than federal interstates in other states?

The answer is no, they are all built to the same standards.

Similar bureaucratic manipulation is What weighs more? A ton of milk or a ton of logs? apparent with the Electric Vehicle push. The heavier electric semi-trucks would by law have been forced to A ton is still a carry less cargo, thus increasing transportation costs ton, there is no which would be passed onto the consumer. But EV difference. Why, then, semi-trucks have now been authorized to carry 2,000 can a truck hauling more pounds (4,000 in Europe) to accommodate the milk carry heavier heavier batteries of the EV semi-trucks. So again, loads than a truck what weighs more? Batteries or logs? carrying logs on the Optimum transportation weights are Federal Interstate? recognized as a major contributing factor in This is but one maximizing transportation efficiency, reducing example of the consumer costs, and improving safety while resulting vagaries of a federal in less carbon emissions. Transportation engineering policy that allows studies have recognized the opportunity to safely specific commodities exemptions or authorization to increase truck weights on the federal interstate carry more weight on the Federal Interstate System. system. Congress has established precedents with In many areas, there is a wide disparity carve-outs and exemptions in select states for specific between the speed and weight limits on state and commodities, routes, and weights. Globally, other interstate roadways, even when compared with other countries and regions, specifically Canada and the Interstate Highways. For instance, in New England European Union, allow for heavier weight limits on states, trucks hauling timber are authorized to access their roadways. the Federal Interstate System at 100,000 pounds.

Meanwhile, on a specific 23-mile corridor of federal Why doesn’t Congress and the Administration interstate in Minnesota, trucks are allowed to haul

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

establish competitive, efficient, and uniform weight standards for the federal interstate system?

It seems that the influence and targeted opposition of the railroad lobbyists are derailing (pun intended) the overriding goals of the Transportation Department to provide safe and efficient avenues for the nation. It would be much better for our national transportation goals if the railroad industry invested in their equipment, tracks, and safety instead of investing in politicians. With the history of accidents and hazardous chemical spills exposing communities to life-threatening situations, the railways have plenty to focus on.

This year Congress has the opportunity to put the economy, environment, and public safety above monopolistic railroad interests by supporting the Safe Routes Act of 2023. This Bill has been introduced in both the Senate and House of Representatives. Failure to pass the Safe Routes Act of 2023 will continue to expose the public to unnecessary safety risks, increase consumer product costs, generate more carbon emissions, and contribute to climate change by requiring the use of more fossil fuels.

The question for Congress and the Administration is simple – Are you going to establish uniform, consistent, and fair Federal Transportation Policies across the country, or are you going to continue to allow unelected lobbyists to dictate transportation policy at the expense of the general public?

The Administration and many in Congress profess wanting to reduce fossil fuel use, reduce

carbon emissions, improve the economy, create rural jobs, and support general welfare and safety. This is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to these priorities by passing the Safe Routes Act of 2023. Choosing not to support the Safe Routes Act of 2023 would be a demonstration of whose best interest is being served by our elected officials.

The Logger’s Voice Winter 2024

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Congressional Delegation Updates Throughout our nation’s Wisconsin, Idaho, and Mississippi. history, the forest products Our resolution notes the economic benefits of industry has supported goodlogging: creating rural jobs, providing revenue for state paying jobs, driven local and local governments and national forests, and economies, strengthened rural supplying raw materials for a wide range of consumer communities, and protected our products. natural environment. From here in Just as important are the industry’s the Northeast to the Deep South environmental benefits our resolution highlights. to the Pacific Northwest, this Loggers are the means by which healthy forest industry is a linchpin of management plans are accomplished. They plant 2.5 America’s economy. billion trees annually for forest regeneration. They are on Our $300 billion forest the front lines of protecting watersheds and animal products industry begins with the habitats, sequestering carbon to reduce the impacts of Sen. Susan Collins loggers and log haulers, the climate change, providing public recreational skilled and resilient men and women who work in the opportunities, and reducing the loss of life and property woods, harvesting and transporting the renewable from wildfires. materials for essential products, from lumber and paper I am proud to share that this resolution to biofuels and insulation. In addition, these hardworking unanimously passed the Senate in October, which is no individuals are proud stewards of our forests, keeping our small feat in the current political environment. I come woods healthy for wildlife and humans. from a six-generation forest-products family and know of This fall, I joined Senate colleagues from no other enterprise that requires more faith in the future throughout the country in leading a resolution and respect for the past. It is essential that existing, designating Oct. 12, 2023, as National Loggers Day in generations-old businesses are supported. In these order to recognize the many contributions made by the challenging, highly partisan times, it is encouraging that logging industry in the United States. Along with my members of the Senate can transcend politics to Maine colleague, Senator Angus King, our bipartisan recognize an industry and a workforce that are so vital to resolution was co-sponsored by Senators from our economy, our environment, and our heritage. the rising levels of carbon in the air impact the health of Sprucing Up the Timber Economy in the Pine Tree State our forests. The bipartisan Timber Innovation Act for Building Rural Communities Act would require the Maine may be known to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to those from away as the Pine Tree establish carbon impact monitoring programs designed State, but even that nickname specifically to support Maine wood product businesses. doesn’t convey just how central I also sent a letter to the General Services the forests are to our identity, Administration requesting more information on the culture, and economy. And while federal government’s process of considering more mass knowledge of our forests is timber and other low-carbon building materials in the passed down to each generation, construction and renovation of federal buildings. Using we must continue to provide our more mass timber products in government projects would loggers — all of you — with the create an incredible opportunity to create more rural jobs, Sen. Angus King resources to nuture one of reduce the risk of wildfires, increase forest resiliency and Maine’s greatest treasures. decrease the carbon footprint of federal buildings. This is Like many industries across the country, the a win-win for Maine and taxpayers if you ask me. timber economy is facing labor shortages while As our state continues to navigate a 21st century struggling to recruit new workers. That’s why I was economy, we must look at the root of the challenges proud to introduce legislation like the Jobs in the Woods facing our timber industry to support the livelihoods of Act and the Future Logging Careers Act that would help our forest economy. With the proper training and skills to invest in new talent through targeted grant and training help responsibly manage our forests, grant resources to programs for young loggers and loggers young at heart. monitor carbon impacts, and increased accessibility to It’s a “silver buckshot” approach to ensure that Maine federal projects, together we can plant the seeds of today can continue its forestry legacy and workforce traditions for a better tomorrow. Thanks as always for all you do for decades to come. and the tireless work you contribute to our great However, we also need to make sure we’re laying state. the foundation for this future by responsibly tracking how

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

We are wrapping up another busy year in Congress. As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, including Ranking Member of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, and House Agriculture Committee, I am incredibly proud to have helped usher in significant federal funding and support for Maine’s logging and forest products industries, and for the people of Maine.

The Agriculture Committee Rep. Chellie Pingree and I are continuing our work on the upcoming Farm Bill, which, as I mentioned in previous columns, will have a significant impact on how the federal government supports the ever-changing needs of the forest product and wood innovation industries.

The energy title of the Farm Bill, for example, authorizes the Community Wood Energy and Wood Innovation Programs. We’ve seen the vast benefits of these programs in Maine – for example, GO Lab received $250,000 from the Wood Innovations Grant Program to test and market wood fiber insulation. The University of Maine received $250,000 from the grant program to support a combined heat and power wood energy system.

To confront the climate crisis, companies nationwide want to offset their carbon emissions. One way for companies to reduce their environmental footprint is to participate in “carbon markets” and support carbon sequestration in our forests. Maine has approximately 17 million acres of forests and is 89 percent forested. The average carbon density in aboveground trees across our state is over 20 US tons per acre. However, few forest owners currently participate in carbon markets due to the upfront costs and uncertainty about rules and requirements. That’s why I introduced the Rural Forest Markets Act which will help Maine’s family forest owners tap into carbon markets. My bipartisan bill will create an economic incentive for climatefriendly management of Maine’s forests and make sure we

protect lands that are the environmental and economic backbone of our rural communities.

In addition to the federal support I am working to shore up for Maine’s logging industry in the Farm Bill, this year, Maine was designated as home to one of the nation’s first Tech Hubs. Maine’s new Forest Bioproducts Advanced Manufacturing Tech Hub. When the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act passed last Congress, we sent a message to the world that America values domestic innovation and manufacturing. That message is being realized with the establishment of 31 Tech Hubs across the nation to supercharge and strengthen economic opportunity in our communities and work towards a more sustainable supply chain. The Tech Hubs program is an economic development initiative designed to drive regional innovation and job creation by strengthening a region’s capacity to manufacture, commercialize, and deploy technology that will advance American competitiveness.

The Forest Bioproducts Advanced Manufacturing Tech Hub, based in Brunswick and led by the Maine Technology Institute, received a $500,000 planning grant with its new designation—opening the door to further federal investments of up to $75 million.

With this new designation, Maine Technology Institute will work to accelerate development and deployment of innovative, climate-forward products derived from forests and other natural sources that can displace plastics, sequester carbon, and replace toxic chemicals while bolstering U.S. supply chain resilience.

This designation is monumental for our state and our centuries-old forest products industry. As the most forested state in the nation, Maine’s forestry industry is prime for the exponential growth and innovation the Biden Administration’s Tech Hubs program epitomizes. I am thrilled to see the Biden Administration invest in this critical work in Maine and recognize the immense potential for the forest bioproducts industry to be a key part of the climate solution.

Happy New Year, Maine!

It’s officially the holiday season, and as we look back on the past year and look forward to the start of a new one, I want to reflect on the work I’ve partnered with Maine’s logging industry to accomplish in 2023.

In March, I got the chance to speak with some Maine loggers at the American Loggers Council Congressional Reception, where I was awarded the Inaugural Congressional Leadership Award for my work on behalf of our Rep. Jared Golden loggers. I don’t mention this to boast, but instead to thank you: I’ve only been able to get things done for Maine’s logging industry because you consistently do the hard work to get in touch with my offices to let us know what you need.

Take workforce shortages. As you have told me, this is an issue exacerbated by laws preventing young Mainers from

getting hands-on training from their parents or grandparents in their family businesses. After all, it’s these types of operations that form the backbone of Maine’s forestry economy. It’s truly a way of life, and the ability of current logging families to pass down the trade to future generations is critical for the industry’s survival.

In response, I introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill called the Future Logging Careers Act. This legislation allows 16 and 17-year-olds in Maine, under parental supervision, to assist in the day-to-day operation of their family’s businesses – including operating logging machinery. Generations of Mainers have made a good living from the woods, and if teenagers are allowed to work on their family’s farm or ranch, there is no good reason they shouldn’t be able to contribute to their family’s logging operation, too.

It’s these types of investments in the future of Maine’s logging industry that will pay off in the long run. I got a sneak peak of what just some of these careers may look like when I attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Timber HP this Golden Continued Page 50

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Golden

Continued from Page 49

summer in Madison. This Maine company manufactures Act – which would require the pharmaceutical industry to wood fiber insulation that is cheaper and more continue providing paper inserts with their medications – environmentally friendly than other types of insulation. we did so knowing that it would protect hundreds of jobs Timber HP shows how we can put Maine timber to work at home, particularly at the Twin Rivers paper mill in here at home: we don’t need to ship our wood out-of-state Madawaska. But we also did so because everyone or internationally to create jobs for distant manufacturers. deserves safe, reliable information about the drugs that Timber HP uses Maine wood cut by Maine loggers keep them healthy – regardless of whether they have hauled by Maine drivers, to make a product in Maine, by access to technology. Loggers – and the forest products Mainers, for Mainers. industry at large – will always fill critical roles like these That’s what makes the work you do much bigger that, at first, people from away might than just one industry. When we worked together to overlook. introduce the Patients’ Right to Know Their Medication

PLC Annual Meeting May 9-10, 2024

The PLC’s 2024 Annual Meeting, Dinner, Awards Ceremony and Live Log A Load Auction will be held on May 9–10, 2024 at the Samoset Resort in Rockport! Please be sure to block the dates in your calendars.

We are planning a fun social event on May 9, so watch your email for more updates and book lodging now!

Booking Link: https://reservations.opalcollection.com/ Code: 051024plcm

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Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast

Loggers Serving Loggers Since 1995

Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast 108 Sewall St. P.O. Box 1036 Augusta, ME 04332