2018 August Hardwood Matters by National Hardwood Lumber Association

TH E VOIC E O F THE HARDWOOD IN DUSTRY

H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

C O A V T D EF A

A u gu s t 20 1 8

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E N AT I O N A L H A R D W O O D L U M B E R A S S O C I AT I O N S T R O N G R O O T S . G L O B A L R E A C H . | W W W. N H L A . C O M

Consistency. Yield. Trust. Specializing in Premium Pennsylvania Hardwood Lumber and Logs • Red Oak • White Oak • Hard Maple • Soft Maple

• Cherry • Poplar • Ash • Hickory

® Matson Lumber Company 132 Main St. Brookville, PA 15825

Your trusted source for exceptional quality and consistency for more than 200 years.

Phone: (814) 849-5334 Fax: (814) 849-3811 www.MatsonLumber.com info@MatsonLumber.com

CONTENTS August 2018 • Issue 192

WHAT'S INSIDE

ONLINE

feature

instant

12 We Advocate For You

TOP POST OF THE MONTH at facebook.com/NHLAOfficial

departments

Millions of us will continue dealing with HOT weather today. Look out for signs that it's time to cool down with this guide . . .

7 Accolades 9 Memorial 10 Industry Insights 16 Rules Corner

reader services

6 16

4 6 18 20

President’s Message In The News Educational Calendar Job Board

nhla.com WHY SHOULD YOU BECOME A MEMBER OF NHLA? TORONTO 2018 SAVE THE DATE OCT. 2-4

W W W. N H L A .C O M

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S T H E VO I C E O F T H E H A R DWO O D I N D U ST RY National Hardwood Lumber Association PO Box 34518 • Memphis, TN 38184-0518 901-377-1818 • 901-382-6419 (fax) info@nhla.com • www.nhla.com

THE MISSION OF NH LA To serve NHLA Members engaged in the commerce of North American hardwood lumber by: maintaining order, structure and ethics in the changing global hardwood marketplace; providing unique member services; promoting North American hardwood lumber and advocating the interest of the hardwood community in public/private policy issues; and providing a platform for networking opportunities.

ADVERTISER INDEX 3

King City/Northway Forwarding

IFC Matson Lumber Company

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

MISSION LEADERS

Brent Stief Huron Forest Products President

Jon Syre Cascade Hardwood LLC Unique Services

Darwin Murray McClain Forest Products Vice President

Nordeck Thompson Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods Rules

Pem Jenkins Turn Bull Lumber Co. Past President 2014-2016

Orn Gudmundsson, Jr. Northland Corporation Structure

NHLA STAFF

Mike Powers Maley & Wertz Industry Advocacy & Promotion

Lorna D. Christie CEO l.christie@nhla.com Amanda Boutwell Marketing and Communications Manager a.boutwell@nhla.com Renee Hornsby Director of Communications/Editor r.hornsby@nhla.com

■■■ Trisha Clariana Office Manager

IBC Pike Lumber Company, Inc.

Desirée Freeman Controller

5 RossiGroup

Julia Ganey Member Relations Manager

Thompson Hardwoods, Inc.

U•C Coatings, LLC

Rich Hascher Inspector Training School Instructor

For advertising inquiries: Contact John Hester, Director of Membership at j.hester@nhla.com or 901-399-7558.

John Hester Director of Membership and Business Development Carol McElya Accounting Assistant & Publications Becky Miller Inspector Training School Administrator Vicky Quiñones Simms Membership Development Manager Dana Spessert Chief Inspector

Kevin Gillette Tioga Hardwoods Membership & Networking COMMITTEE CHAIRS Dave Mayfield Mayfield Lumber Co. Membership Dave Bramlage Cole Hardwood, Inc. Promotion & Advocacy Garner Robinson Robinson Lumber Convention Pem Jenkins Turn Bull Lumber Co. Nominating Steve Jones Ron Jones Hardwood Sales, Inc Inspection Services Orn Gudmundsson, Jr. Northland Corporation Finance Bucky Pescaglia Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc. ITS/Continuing Education Stephanie VanDystadt DV Hardwoods, Inc. Communications & Marketing Joe Snyder Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc. Rules Darwin Murray McClain Forest Products Strategic Planning

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

W W W. N H L A .C O M

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

THE VALUE OF ASSOCIATION COLLABORATION

ollaborative efforts with industry associations have always been a part of NHLA’s philosophy – we are stronger together than we are alone.

Association collaboration makes sense because our industry’s history has demonstrated that it produces positive results. And it is certainly a sound investment of our members’ money to join with other associations in proactively addressing key industry challenges and opportunities. The value of collaboration isn’t just about pooling our financial resources to achieve a one-time goal. Whether big or small, each of our industry associations offer a unique perspective and expertise that when joined together can create innovative solutions to many of our most pressing issues. Imagine the opportunities created by our associations working together to identify the opportunities of HCLT or other emerging trends. Creating a shared pool of such knowledge is the key to our future success.

other large and small associations funding the study as a member of the Economic Impact Steering Committee. The goal of the Committee is to determine and promote the value of the hardwood industry and its economic impact at both the national and state level. All financial supporters of this effort will be invited to participate on the Committee. In addition to providing financial support, Committee members will also provide assistance in compiling existing data to expedite data collection. The study will analyze key economic indicators, including employment, gross regional product, labor income, output and taxes paid by the industry from various sources. Once all the information is compiled, national, state and Congressional district reports will be created for our use in promoting the industry’s economic contributions. Both large and small associations are participating in this important effort. If you, or your association, is interested in helping fund the study, or have data to share, please contact Dana Cole at the Hardwood Federation. Individual corporate contributions are also appreciated. Again, all contributors will become members of the Economic Impact Study Steering Committee.

Consider the success of our joint efforts that led to the creation of the Hardwood Federation. In the past, we have come together with other associations to produce promotional campaigns designed to connect directly with consumers, and research projects with both associations and universities designed to help our members make better decisions.

What a great example of the value of our industry associations joining together to support our members! In addition to the Economic Impact Study, our industry associations are also currently exploring opportunities to create joint educational events. We will keep you updated as such efforts move forward.

Another key benefit of association collaboration is that it increases our ability to influence change in how federal, state and local governments view our industry. That is why we are joining with other leading trade associations in funding the development of the hardwood industry’s first national economic impact study. Quite frankly, a study like this is long overdue. Once completed, it will dramatically enhance our efforts in telling the story of our industry at all levels of federal and state governments, and with the public.

Regards,

Brent Stief, NHLA President | Huron Forest Products brent@huronfp.com

Dana Cole of the Hardwood Federation has done an outstanding job in managing this important initiative. NHLA has joined with nine

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

W W W. N H L A .C O M

A new beginning for the Gold Standard for Cherry from Emporium, PA The Rossi Group announces the launch of its new State of the Art high-tech sawmill at Emporium in Pennsylvania to serve domestic and export markets from the sustainable Allegheny Forest resources with the highest quality Cherry and many other hardwood species.

Rossi Group LLC, www.rossilumber.com Tel: 1(860) 6323505 W W W. N H L A .C O M

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

IN THE NEWS

MHCC Adds Sawmill To Its Educational Arsenal Mt. Hood Community College's Natural Resources Technology (NRT) program has a new sawmill. No, it's not a giant building filled with equipment, but a portable piece of machinery. Nonetheless it can process logs 32 inches in diameter and 21-inches long. "Using a sawmill offers a great learning opportunity," Jason Pinkerton, a forest resources instructor with the program, said in an announcement. Second-year natural resources technology students have used the Wood-Mizer mobile sawmill to transform logs into boards, posts and other building materials to create sheds and tables. The bandsaw mill encourages students to build skills in communication and teamwork while teaching them to operate a hydraulic mill.

“

The Fly-In is one of the most valuable things I’ve ever done with my time. You get a chance to visit with your congress people and senators and tell them your story about your company and what you’ve been through. If you don’t do it, it’s not going to happen. — Jeffrey Wirkkala, President of Hardwood Industries, Inc.

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

GEORGIA-PACIFIC'S CORRIGAN PLYWOOD FACILITY IS HOME TO ONE OF FIRST ROBOTS IN WOOD MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY J.T. Lee gets to produce plywood using some of the world’s first robots in the wood manufacturing industry. J.T. is a Master Robotic Technician at the Georgia-Pacific Plywood plant in Corrigan where robots are changing the way plywood is made. The Corrigan facility is home to three PolyPatch robots that are designed to detect and repair imperfections in wood veneer during production. Operating under the guidance of specially-trained technicians, these robots are increasing production efficiency while helping to create a better finished product. “Our robots can handle 525 plywood panels in one hour—about 1 panel every 20 seconds,” said Lee. Normally, it can take twice that amount of time to treat the same number of panels. In most wood manufacturing plants, the PolyPatch responsibility is handled by multiple workers who are stationed on the line determining where the glue-like filler is needed and using it to repair the wood panels. While these jobs still exist within Georgia-Pacific and other manufacturing facilities throughout the world, the Corrigan Plywood plant is a unique example of how plants are being modernized to not only improve production, but to attract, retain and challenge industry employees. With this modernization, employees have either advanced as robotic technicians or have assumed different roles within the plant. While technology can sometimes be a threat to those on the front lines within the manufacturing sector, Georgia-Pacific is optimistic the new robots will have an opposite effect on workers. “New technology can challenge employees and give them the opportunity to grow their careers. By adding robots to our assembly lines, it is our goal to provide more meaningful work which leads to greater job satisfaction,” said Bluethman. W W W. N H L A .C O M

ACCOLADES

Congratulations Milestone Members NHLA would like to recognize our members who are celebrating a milestone anniversary of 5 years or more during the months of July and August.

5 YEARS Comact Equipment Inc. | Sustaining | July 2013 Monarch Millwork, Inc. | Associate | July 2013

20 YEARS Maxwell Hardwood Flooring | Associate | August 1998

30 YEARS

Welcome New Members

ACTIVE U1 MEMBERS Yoder Timber & Lumber / Windsor, OH Tebo Creek Lumber / Lewiston, IL Clear Lake Lumber Inc. / Spartansburg, PA Wagler & Sons Sawmill / Cottage Grove, TN JAF USA LLC / Wilmington, NC Keisling Auction & Realty / Byrdstown, TN Steury & Sons LLC / Camden, MI Haliburton Service & Wildlife Reserve / Haliburton, Ontario, Canada ACTIVE U2 MEMBER Smith Flooring Inc. / Mountain View, MO Eagle Lumber Co. LLC / Greensburg, KY ACTIVE U3 MEMBER Musser Lumber, Co., Inc. / Rural Retreat, VA ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Frontier Services Inc. / Kansas City, MO PARTNER MEMBER Hangzhou Aboo Furniture / Zhejiang, China Big Tree Lumber, Inc. / Guangdong, China SUSTAINING MEMBERS Lemoyen Forestry, LLC / San Antonio, TX

Maple Rapids Lumber Mill, Inc. | Active U2 | July 1988

“

“I really appreciate everyone who takes the time and resources to come to Washington to share with me their expertise in their area. I enjoy getting to hear from different groups about how the legislation that we are considering would impact them. I hope others will take the opportunity to come because your input is helpful to make sure we craft legislation that works back at home as well.” — Representative Vicky Hartzler (R-Missouri 4th District)

W W W. N H L A .C O M

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

SHADE-DRI ® Superior Protection for Superior Hardwoods.

HIT A HOME RUN

JOIN THE NHLA KD CERTIFICATION PROGRAM EXPORTING ASH WITH NHLA KD CERTIFICATION

EXPORTING ASH WITH USDA PHYTOSANITARY

No Square Edge* = No Volume Loss = No Labor Time

Square Edge = Volume Loss = Extra Labor Time

2 PHYTO ONLY

45% Loss in Volume

• Protect valuable logs and lumber • Protect against sun, wind, rain and dirt • Keep logs cooler to reduce stain • Regulate airflow to reduce drying defects

Visit us at Booth #501 at NHLA to learn more!

www.uccoatings.com 1-888-363-2628 sales@uccoatings.com

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

Reduce Waste and Increase Profit Margins with NHLA

Shipping ASH to Europe?

HOME RUN SAVINGS With KD Certification

HOME RUN SAVINGS

To learn more about the NHLA KD program and the territories applicable in EU please visit nhla.com or contact Dana Spessert, Chief Inspector at 901-399-7551 or email d.spessert@nhla.com. *minimal bark allowance

“

“I love to talk about restoring our forests to the health and vitality that they had when we were keeping them properly managed.” — Representative Tom McLintock (R-California 4th District)

W W W. N H L A .C O M

MEMORIAL

A Life Well Lived . . . Frances Toole Redmond

The hardwood community lost a special friend last month, Frances Redmond. Frances had battled with cancer for a number of years. When I heard she had passed, all sorts of memories bubbled up in my mind. We must never forget the people who are genuine and truly special. She was Dave Redmond’s partner when he was President, but also a passionate industry leader in her own right. Someone once said that “There is no end, there is no beginning, there is only the passion of life.” For those of us who had the privilege of knowing Frances, I believe you will agree that is a perfect way to describe her. She had a passion for making everyone feel welcome at Board functions and conventions. For wives especially, it is hard to join a new group and feel comfortable. Frances made it her mission to make sure the wives felt welcome and included. She was also a strong advocate of the Hardwood Forest Foundation. She had a 23- year career as a school librarian, so it is no wonder that her biggest passion, aside from her family, was promoting literacy, particularly in inner city schools. I’m sure that the pupils who had her personally in her local school were truly fortunate. These types teachers make a difference — we all remember the teacher that influenced our lives. During her term as the First Lady she promoted a program to donate books to local underprivileged children in the city of our convention. To do this she took to the stage during the opening session. This is a daunting task, one that not many are eager to attempt. She was concise and held the crowd while she encouraged donations and “sold her point.” Her passion was easy to see. Frances Redmond was certainly a special person and a great friend to our association and the hardwood industry. Her life was well lived, and she was well loved.

Frances went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday afternoon, June 27th, 2018. Frances was born on January 26, 1952 in Augusta, GA to the late Samuel Perrin Toole and Frances Herlong Toole. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Dave Redmond, and their two children Meredith Jenkins (husband Ryan) and Bo Redmond (wife Sara); 6 grandchildren - Emily, Kyle, and Will Jenkins, and McCord, Wade, and Thad Redmond. The family would like to thank their many friends and also the medical staff at Augusta Oncology and Northside Hospital in Atlanta for their wonderful love and support throughout her treatments. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Grace United Methodist Church.

W W W. N H L A .C O M

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Analyzing Wood Markets, Timber Owners and Hardwood Lumber Exports by BROOKS MENDELL, PH.D., Forisk Consulting

his article is the second of three quarterly industry updates we will publish with NHLA in advance of my presentation at NHLA’s Convention in Toronto later this year. The purpose of these articles is to provide an update on trends across the forest industry and timberland-investing sector. Please feel free to contact me with questions! This quarter begins with notes on how to evaluate wood markets for investing capital in your mills. Then, we highlight timberland ownership changes in North America. Finally, we provide an update on hardwood lumber exports. MILL RISK AND WOOD MARKET ANALYSIS

When assessing wood baskets (basins) for forest industry investments, one line of analysis focuses on the “riskiness” and competitiveness of existing and announced wood-using mills in the area. Timberland investors want to confirm that (1) announced mills get built and (2) existing mills remain open to buy their trees and logs. Existing wood-users have interest in the health of current and potential competitors for wood raw material. And everyone wants a sense for the sustainability of local timber supplies, labor pools, and markets for manufacturing residuals.

3. Facility health. Is this facility, in its structure and equipment, old or new? Does it employ cutting edge technology? What is the “ability to pay” for raw material? While this is the most difficult of the three categories to assess, strong conclusions on “end markets” and “firm commitment” usually correspond with conclusions associated with facility health.

TOP TIMBERLAND OWNERS IN NORTH AMERICA Private ownership of “industrial” timberlands is relatively consolidated. While the U.S. has over 500 million acres of timberlands and Canada has the third largest forest base in the world, the list of players that manage or own 10,000 acres or more each of the most productive and “investable” forests counts hundreds, not thousands, of firms and individuals.

When analyzing mill risk, consider three categories of analysis: 1. End markets. Are the end markets – such as newsprint versus fluff pulp versus linerboard – served by the mill strong or weak? The answer to this question is observable and can be answered with readily available data. The high-level answer to this question, The top ten timberland owners in North American hold at least one along with a breakdown of mill capacities by type in the market, million acres each. Weyerhaeuser leads with 12.4 million acres, more provides a powerful, first-cut at the situation for local mills. than the next six of the top ten combined (see table). PotlatchDeltic closed the gap between themselves and Sierra Pacific to come in at 2. Firm commitment. Ultimately, are the corporate owners demon strating high or low commitment to the continued operations of No. 5, as their merger in Q1 2018 added 530,000 acres, bringing their total to 1.9 million. Green Diamond expanded southward to the mill or construction of the new project? We maintain become equity stakeholders and managers of the 380,000-acre Twin a checklist of items that, for the most part, are answerable with Creeks Timber. publicly-available information. Questions include, for example, employment levels and hiring activity, signs of community involvement, and capital allocation as disclosed in press releases or public filings.

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

W W W. N H L A .C O M

TOP 10 TIMBERLAND OWNERS IN THE U.S. AND CANADA, 2018 Firm

Type

Weyerhaeuser J.D. Irving Rayonier Sierra Pacific PotlatchDeltic Green Diamond CalPERS Acadian Timber PRIM (Mass. Pension) BBC Land (John Malone)

Public REIT Forest Industry Public REIT Forest Industry Public REIT Private Institutional Investor Forest Industry Institutional Investor Private

Timberland Acres by Region (thousands) South West North Canada 7,008 3,660 1,744 1,248 1,924 1,796 378 12 1,948 1,135 615 155 360 1,369 1,108 299 761 585 365 80 1,000 -

PEAKING HARDWOOD LUMBER EXPORTS? Within hardwood lumber markets, sector-specific trends vary. Hardwood lumber consumption for exports, millwork, and cabinets led estimated increases, rising a combined 21% year-over-year. Declining consumption in pallets and railway ties muted gains from other sectors. In 2017, grade products were estimated to represent 49% of hardwood lumber consumption, while industrial products were expected to account for 51%. Exports, pallets, and railroad ties comprised 72% of all U.S. hardwood lumber consumption in 2017. Of these categories, hardwood lumber exports deserve a closer look. Hardwood lumber export volumes were up 28% year-over-year in 2017, with growth in all regions. Both the U.S. West and South grew 30%, and the North gained 24%. Since the recession, the South has led all regions, growing at a compound annual rate of 16%. The South accounts for 50% of all hardwood lumber volume (see Figure below).

Total 12,412 3,171 2,174 1,960 1,905 1,729 1,108 1,060 1,030 1,000

1000 1030 1060 1108 1729.232 1904.953 1959.666 2173.664 3171.38 12412.4

Looking forward, the demand for U.S. hardwood lumber remains robust on the ground, though subject to volatility from trade negotiations and disputes. Why? In 2017, China was the largest importer of U.S. hardwood lumber, accounting for 52% of exports. Canada was the second largest hardwood importer at 15%, followed by Vietnam with 10%. Still, through February 2018, hardwood lumber exports were up 14% year-over year; the South rose 8%, the West 28%, and the North 17%. All of the above reinforces the need to watch, track and analyze the forest industry capacity across North America by market and mill type. In Q3 2018, we will talk to the trends and changes across North American wood-using mills. The research will detail current capacity by firm and sector across North America, along with projected capacity levels by sector and region for the next two years. The goal of publishing this analysis is to support strategic and operational plans for wood-using mills or timberlands in the U.S. and Canada.

HARDWOOD LUMBER EXPORTS BY U.S. REGION Dr. Brooks Mendell is President and CEO at Forisk, where he leads the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s research program. Founded by Dr. Mendell in 2004, Forisk publishes the Forisk Research Quarterly, which provides market analysis, operations research and timber forecasts to senior management and investors in North Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forest products industry and timberland investing sectors. Dr. Mendell earned BS and MS degrees at M.I.T., an MBA at the University of California at Berkeley, and a PhD in Forest Finance at UGA.

W W W. N H L A .C O M

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

C O ATE V D A F

by DANA COLE, Executive Director Hardwood Federation

Webster’s Dictionary defines advocacy as “the act or process of supporting a cause or proposal” and an advocator as “one who please the cause of another; one who defends or maintains a cause or proposal; or one who supports or promotes the interests of a cause or group.” Strangely, Webster’s does not list “lobbying” or “lobbyist” as a synonym of the word in either form . . . the word most closely associated with advocacy in Washington, D.C. However, here inside the Beltway, the two terms are often used interchangeably; perhaps it is a matter of the positive and negative connotations that the words have developed over time. The origins of lobbyist and lobbying as words related to the attempt to persuade elected officials to act in a preferred manner dates back at least to the late 18th century where it was used in English political circles. The popularity of the term in the United States is often linked to the advocates that waited in the lobby of the Willard Ho-

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

tel, located a block or so from the White House. During his time in office (1869-1977), President Ulysses S. Grant would often wander over to the lobby of the hotel for a brandy and cigar, only to be met by the city’s power brokers who took the opportunity to plead their case directly to the President. According to myth, President Grant referred to them as lobbyists and the word has stuck. Today, lobbyists can be found at every level of local, state and federal government. And although you can certainly still find lobbyists enjoying a cocktail at the Willard Hotel, they have expanded their territory far beyond those walls. Anyone who has ever asked a PTA for new playground money, contested a traffic ticket, or signed a petition of any sort has advocated for a cause. Lobbyists advocate for countless organizations, causes and political parties at the state level just as intensely as they do at the federal . . . and many work in both spheres. Although some bad actors have tarnished the good name of lobbyists and advocacy, educating elected officials and government bureaucrats on the pros and cons of proposed legislation or rule making is an essential part of policy making. The sheer number of W W W. N H L A .C O M

“

It is vitally important that you come to Washington D.C. to educate the legislature on the issues that are impacting our businesses, and the health and sustainability of our forests. Through working with our lawmakers, we are getting a healthier forest, a more sustainable forest and a forest that is managed for the long term for our future.” — Darwin Murry, McClain Forest Products

Left to right: Emily Morrow Finkell, Don Finkell, Representative Diane Black, Bill Joyce and Jesse Joyce.

issues that come before anyone in a decision making capacity is formidable; the opportunity to hear from experts and practitioners is welcomed and expected by the vast majority of congressional members. The Hardwood Federation is proud to be your advocate . . . or lobbyist . . . in Washington, D.C. Compared to many hardwood organizations, like NHLA which is celebrating its 100th birthday, we are a relatively new entity begun in 2004. A group of hardwood industry leaders from multiple associations recognized the importance of speaking with one united voice on federal policy issues in Washington, D.C. From this concept, the Federation was born, uniting 23 hardwood national organizations, state associations and lumbermen’s clubs under one umbrella. For the first few years, the Federation was housed within NHLA. We then moved to Washington D.C. in order to have more regular and direct contact with Congress and Administration officials. Our roster of member associations has increased to 26. Advocacy work is not one of immediate gratification. It can take years to move an issue forward. Over the years, the Federation has had both short term and long term successes. Early achievements included spearheading the W W W. N H L A .C O M

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

“

Left to right: Bill Joyce, Don Finkell, Emily Morrow Finkell, Representative Chuck Fleischmann, Allie Finkell and Jesse Joyce.

It is so important when people take time out of their lives and their businesses to come visit with representatives in Washington. It’s very valuable to us to be able to sit down and talk to the people who are going to be directly affected by the policy decisions that we make here.” — Representative Martha Roby (R-Alabama 2nd District)

implementation of pro-hardwood provisions under the Healthy Forest Restoration Act (HFRA) including ensuring $5 million to fund two early warning systems in North Carolina and Oregon hardwood forests to identify emerging pests and disease and persuading the U.S. House of Representatives that Green Schools legislation include American Hardwoods. The Federation also sprang into action when it was discovered that the U.S. Army was contracting with a company to install bamboo floors in the Camp Lejeune marine base. The Federation alerted Members of Congress from hardwood districts and led a coalition to inform Army procurement officials about the benefits of U.S. hardwoods. The Army changed their plans and installed a U.S. grown product. Longer term achievements include the passage of amendments to the Lacey Act to include hardwood products and help to level the playing field in trade by combating illegal logging around the world. Similarly, the Federation has worked to ensure that American hardwoods are included in U.S. government procurement guidelines. But it seems nothing is ever really completely finalized in Washington and we continue to monitor both of these issues to ensure that there is not backtracking.

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

And of course, there are issues that are perennially ongoing. Federal forest management reform is an example of an issue that seems to have been around forever. Over the last several years, we have consistently lobbied for change and have in fact seen incremental changes and improvement implemented. Tiny steps can lead to big progress, so we keep chipping away. And this is, in a nut shell, what we do as your advocates (aka lobbyists). We hammer away at whoever we can buttonhole until we get our way. We may lose some battles, but we are always in for the war. And as noted earlier, nothing is ever really done and over in D.C! We will continue to advocate, educate, lobby and fight for hardwood industry cause. Of course, we aren’t alone in our work. Business leaders like you are an important and effective weapon in our arsenal. We hope you will join us in our efforts, either here in D.C. as part of our annual fly-in or in your own home town as you meet members of your local and state governments. Be your own best advocate . . . reach out to educate and you will be pleasantly surprised by the outcome. To learn more about the Hardwood Federation, visit www.hardwoodfederation.com. W W W. N H L A .C O M

RULES CORNER

NHLA Can Use Quality Control to Increase Confidence and Grow Your Bottom Line by DANA SPESSERT, NHLA Chief Inspector

CONFIDENCE IN LUMBER INSPECTION IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS.

hen I graduated from the NHLA Inspector Training School in 1986, I never dreamed that I would be in a position to help thousands of lumber inspectors and hardwood companies. I also never thought about the importance of quality control. Today I know and realize both of these things in a big way. The biggest hurdle that a newly trained lumber inspector must overcome is . . . confidence. Confidence in lumber inspection is the key to success. NHLA Inspector Training School students go through rigorous exercises in memorization of the Rules Book. They cut out boards, first on their own and then with the other students, all together in the classroom. If a student grades a board higher than his peers, he walks to the front of the room. Standing in front of the entire class the student must now defend his position. At this point, and I speak from experience, your mind goes into a state that can only be described as brain dead; as you now cannot

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

see the cuttings that were so evident before . . . talk about humiliating! Over time, the class begins to gain confidence and the number of board grades that are different from the others begin to go down and the long walk to the front of the class begins to get shorter. At the conclusion of 3 months, a wonderful graduation ceremony takes place and a certificate of completion illustrates each person’s hard work and effort. Graduates then go to work grading lumber where some of them may have little to none on the job feedback. When I began as a Quality Control Technician in the fall of 2001, I never thought I would be able to check another Inspector’s grade without causing a full-on fist fight. To my surprise it was quite the opposite. At first there was very little interaction, but then as it became a regular check of their grade accuracy the Inspectors looked forward to check inspections. In addition to regular check inspections, I also recorded the reasons for the off-grade material, such as too much wane, side bend, knot size, stain and other defects which helped the company to identify areas of process improvements as well as additional educational opportunities. Many years ago, NHLA created a quality assurance program called the Facility Grade Certification Program. The program was designed to both assure the employer of the Inspector’s grade accuracy and a way to ensure to the company’s suppliers or customers that they were voluntarily auditing their grade accuracy. In addition to the Facility Grade Certification, NHLA made an investment in our team of National Inspectors by sending them through Quality Control training; allowing them to share ideas and best practices with the industry on ways to help them improve a company’s operations. NHLA now offers Quality Control visits to help build the ever-elusive confidence that all Inspectors need. Let NHLA work with your Lumber Inspectors and Operators to increase their skill level, their confidence and your bottom line. For information on how you can become a part of the better way to do things, please contact Dana Spessert, Chief Inspector at d.spessert@nhla. om or 901-399-7551. W W W. N H L A .C O M

TRAIN YOUR EMPLOYEES. BOOST REVENUE. Enroll your staff in our next 12-week Inspector Training School Program.

EDUCATION & TRAINING For hardwood business owners and their employees Register for classes at www.nhla.com/calendar

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

6-17

29-Nov 17

11-13

17-21

Inspector Training School Progressive Program BLOCK 1

Inspector Training School 187th Class

Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

Alternative program to the 12week Inspector Training School Block 1: Two weeks of hands-on training Block 2: Online study time Block 3: Three weeks handson training and testing Venue: NHLA Headquarters Memphis, TN

Traditional 12 week hands-on training to achieve the certificate of completion in Hardwood Lumber Inspection. Venue: NHLA Headquarters Memphis, TN Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber.

Venue: Kamps Hardwoods, Inc. Caledonia, MI

Venue: Wood-Mizer, LLC Indianapolis, IN

Instructor: Jack English, NHLA National Inspector

Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

25-27

9-11

Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber.

Venue: Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc. / Fayette, MO

Venue: HHP Inc. Henniker, NH

Instructor: Mark Bear, NHLA National Inspector

Instructor: Jack English, NHLA National Inspector

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber.

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector

W W W. N H L A .C O M

EDUCATION IS KEY TO YOUR COMPANY’S SUCCESS "No better place to start in the lumber/forest industry. That knowledge can carry you in many avenues of our industry." —Michael Klingler, NHLA Inspector Training School 116th Class

For Inspecor Training School info visit www.nhla.com/education/inspector-training-school

OCTOBER

! 9-11 w e N Walnut

15-18

Lumber Grading

This seminar is designed to teach Walnut lumber grading. This is the only species that will be discussed. Venue: Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc. / Fayette, MO Instructor: Mark Bear, NHLA National Inspector

OCTOBER

29-Nov. 16 Inspector Training School Progressive Program BLOCK 3

Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

Intro class to gain a basic understanding of the NHLA hardwood lumber grading rules and how the rules affect the value of lumber. Venue: WV Wood Technology Center / Elkins, WV Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector

NOVEMBER

27-Dec. 7 Inspector Training School Progressive Program BLOCK 1

Alternative program to the 12week Inspector Training School Block 1: Two weeks of hands-on training Block 2: Online study time Block 3: Three weeks handson training and testing

Venue: NHLA Headquarters Memphis, TN

Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor

W W W. N H L A .C O M

OCTOBER

A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

JOB BOARD LUMBER INSPECTOR

Ferche Millwork, Inc is seeking a green lumber grader that can back up the kiln dry grader - responsible to assure that incoming lumber meets grade and other duties as needed. The job is located in Mt. Pleasant, TN. The company is willing to train a new NHLA Inspector Training School graduate. Ferche Millwork offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports our employees’ wellness and financial security. Benefits include: Medical, Dental & Vision; employer paid life & LTD; 401K with employer match; additional voluntary insurances; and paid vacation. Salary is dependent upon experience Apply in person at 107 Oakwood Dr., Mt. Pleasant, TN 38474, online at Ferche. com or email Ed Clear at eclear@ferchetnyard.net Ferche Millwork, Inc. Corporate: 400 Division St. N | Rice, MN 56367

FORESTER

Brownlee Lumber is seeking a Forester. Experience determining the quality and quantity of the timber for sale and knowledge of the timber industry and the hardwood industry as a whole is required. Must have experience accurately preparing bids on standing timber and logs. Minimum of 2 years' experience + Forestry Degree preferred. All applicants must be goal-oriented, friendly, and reliable. A STRONG WORK ETHIC IS REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS. EXCELLENT wages. *Great Culture* *Competitive Pay* *Full Benefits To apply, please send your resume to: LFunair@brownleelumber.com Brownlee Lumber Company, Inc. 2652 Hazen Richardsville Road | Brookville, PA15825 Phone: 814-328-2991 | Fax: 814-328-2422

MILLWRIGHT

Brownlee Lumber Company, Inc. is seeking to hire a Millwright to perform preventative maintenance according to PM Schedules. Proactively diagnose potential problems in order to prevent downtime. Conduct needed repairs on manufacturing and mobile equipment. Communicate respectfully with other team members and vendors. Improve skills through various education opportunities. Be able to use, operate, diagnose, repair, replace, fabricate, and enhance equipment. Applicants must have experience with hardwood lumber machinery and equipment and be experienced with safety requirements and documentation.

“

* To view current job postings or to post a job, visit www.nhla.com/industry-services/job-board. All applicants must be goal-oriented, friendly, and reliable. A STRONG WORK ETHIC IS REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS. *Great Culture* *Competitive Pay* *Full Benefits Anticipated Annual Income of $50,000 - $65,000. Hourly rate: $18.00 - $21.00. Overtime Opportunities Are Available! To apply, please send your resume to: LFunair@brownleelumber.com Brownlee Lumber Company, Inc. 2652 Hazen Richardsville Road | Brookville, PA15825 Phone: 814-328-2991 | Fax: 814-328-2422

HARDWOOD LUMBER GRADER/INSPECTOR

Hawkeye Forest Products is hiring a hardwood lumber grader/inspector for its Trempealeau, WI facility. This is a full-time, permanent opportunity working for a world class hardwood lumber manufacturer. Responsibilities: • Visually inspects green and/or dry hardwood lumber according to species, grade and dimension • Grade at production rates, while maintaining the required grading accuracy • Uses NHLA lumber grading rules to inspect lumber • Work safely and help maintain a safe work environment Qualifications: • NHLA certified or equivalent experience • Past experience grading walnut lumber is a plus • Possess ability to accurately apply NHLA rules Pay & Benefits: • Competitive Pay • Full Time Hours • Overtime Hours and Pay • Full Plan of Benefits • Monday-Friday • First Shift To apply visit: http://www.hawkeyeforest.com/careers or send a resume to nomalley@baillie.com Hawkeye Forest Products Trempealeau, Wisconsin

“As a former forestry major myself, I appreciate the issues that those in the hardwood industry deal with. I know people often wonder if there is any value in coming to D.C., but when my constituents come to my office to tell me the reality of the things they are dealing with, it’s much more important than just a letter.” — Representative Tim Walberg (R-Michigan 7th District)

| A U G U S T 2 0 1 8 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

W W W. N H L A .C O M

Basswood

Black Cherry Hard Maple

Red Oak

Soft Maple

RS Red Oak QS Red Oak

Hickory

PS White Oak

White Ash

RS White Oak

Tulip Poplar

QS White Oak

Black Walnut

Pike Brand Hardwoods with 10 varieties plus Quarter & Riftsawn White & Red Oak. ®

Unrivaled Variety.

We produce 10 primary wood species in 4/4 through 8/4, with 10/4 - 12/4 - 16/4 available in some species.

100% Guarantee.

Our promise is simple: If, for any reason, you’re not satisfied with our product, call day or night and we’ll make it right!

Unrivaled Service.

We guarantee delivery on time even with mixed loads, on grade, with consistent color, and kiln dried to perfection.

P.O. Box 247 • Akron, Indiana 46910 • 800-356-4554 • 574-893-4511 fax: 574-893-7400 • www.pikelumber.com • e-mail: sales@pikelumber.com

NHLA Annual Convention COME GROW WITH US

DON'T MISS OUT! Register Today!

Premier Sponsor

for the 2018 NHLA Convention {Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget Passports are required}

OCTOBER 2-4 | SHERATON CENTRE | DOWNTOWN TORONTO Register online at www.nhla.com/networking/convention