Industry News – December 2025
Wolverine Hardwoods Now Offering Breeze DriedTM Sticks
Wolverine Hardwoods, based in Allegan, MI, recently announced that they now offer Breeze Dried sticks as the exclusive, authorized distributor of LTL in the U.S.
These sticks have uniform grooves and ridges that run the width of the sticks, letting air flow freely unlike fluted sticks with one groove. “Breeze Dried sticks are the safest stacking sticks to use on wide and high-grade lumber to reduce or eliminate sticker stain. With Breeze Dried sticks, air drying can successfully replace the fan drying, a repiling process saving up to 50 percent in kiln costs,” stated a Wolverine Hardwoods company representative.
Breeze Dried Crossers:
• Reduce or eliminate crosser stain on the top and bottom of bundles by placing authentic Breeze Dried crossers on top and underneath. Breeze Dried crossers incorporate the same patented designs as all Breeze Dried sticks.
Patented Maximum Air Flow Design:
• Sure-grip, anti-slip corrugated surface
• Angled design clears moisture more efficiently vs. straight fluted sticks
• Removes moisture, decreases dry time and increases drying quality
• Trusted quality and service for over 20 years
• Discounts for program customers
Javan Mallery established Wolverine Hardwoods in 1996. The company specializes in kiln-dried Northern hardwood lumber and plywood. Wolverine Hardwoods is dedicated to delivering top-notch products and services by using their industry experience while maintaining family values. Wolverine Hardwoods kiln dries 1,000,000’ per month at their location in Allegan, MI.
Learn more at wolverinehardwoods.com.
Menzner Hardwoods Co. Acquires Harris Hardwoods Inc.
Menzner Hardwoods Co., a leading American manufacturer of hardwood mouldings, millwork, and lumber, recently announced that it has acquired Harris Hardwoods Inc., a manufacturer of hardwood cabinetry components, panels and mouldings.
This acquisition further entrenches Menzner Hardwoods as a premier manufacturer in the hardwood industry and enables expansion into the cabinetry component market, while further extending its reach in the hardwood moulding and millwork category, according to a company press release.
Menzner Hardwoods Co. is a fifth-generation family business headquartered in Marathon, WI, and will maintain all ongoing Harris Hardwoods Inc. operations in Foreston, MN.
Visit menznerhardwoods.com to learn more.
Tribesigns Launches TribeWood Crafted With Oak And Walnut
Tribesigns, an online furniture brand, has launched a new sub-brand, TribeWood — a solid wood furniture brand.
While inheriting Tribesigns’ consistent commitment to cost performance, TribeWood elevates the experience with solid wood manufacturing, craftsmanship and refined design, according to a company representative.
“It’s more than furniture—it’s a return to warm living,” said Andy Huang, CMO of Tribesigns. “Each TribeWood piece is crafted from fine natural woods like Oak, Walnut and fir, preserving organic grain patterns and finished with eco-conscious techniques. With simple lines and natural hues, these designs fit the authentic rhythm of family life—understated yet refined.”
For more information, visit tribesigns.com.
USDA Funds Projects To Reduce Wildfire Risks
The USDA Forest Service, located in Washington, DC, is investing $200 million in 58 projects through the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program.
“These grants are about putting real resources directly in the hands of the people who know their lands and communities best — America’s foresters,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins.
“No single organization can address the severe wildfire threats we face today. We must work together to protect our forests and communities,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “For those communities that already have plans in place, these investments will enable immediate, collaborative action to reduce wildfire risk.”
The selected projects span 22 states and two tribes, supporting efforts to develop or update their community wildfire protection plans and carry out projects to remove hazardous or overgrown vegetation that can fuel fires that threaten lives, livelihoods and resources.
In total, the program is investing $1 billion over five years to assist at-risk communities, including tribal communities, nonprofit organizations, state forestry agencies, and Alaska Native Corporations with planning for and mitigating wildfire risks on lands not managed by federal agencies.
The Forest Service worked with tribes and states through an interagency working group to develop the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program. Grant proposals undergo a competitive selection process that includes review panels made up of state forestry agencies, tribal representatives and other partners. The proposals prioritize at-risk communities that have been impacted by a severe disaster, are at a high or very high potential for wildfire hazard and are classified as low income.
More information about the funded proposals, as well as announcements about the grant program, can be found at fs.usda.gov/managing-land/fire/grants/cwdg/funded-proposals.
