Get The Most Out Of Your HMA Membership
In late May, more than 45 HMA members, non-members, and industry suppliers traveled to Wausau, WI, for HMA’s 2026 Spring Regional Meeting. Open only to members, promotion sponsors, and National Conference exhibitors, HMA’s Regional Meetings are not only signature HMA events, they’re also one of HMA members’ most beneficial membership perks. These meetings provide attendees with excellent opportunities to see other operations in action, share information, gather new ideas, and network with industry peers. All that said, it was time well spent in Wisconsin.
First and foremost, thank you to our tour hosts for opening their doors: Kretz Lumber Company, Antigo, WI; Menzner Hardwoods, Marathon, WI; Menominee Tribal Enterprises, Neopit, WI; Northcentral Technical College, Antigo; and NWH, Dorchester, WI. I know firsthand how much time and effort goes into planning tours for a large group of people, and I speak for all attendees when I say we appreciate it!
And to our attendees, thank you for taking the time to be with us in Wisconsin.
I know that it’s difficult to take time away from the office, work, and families, so it was great to see such strong participation and several new faces who were attending their first HMA Regional.
One last shout out goes to our meeting sponsors: Eagle Machinery and Supply, Menzner Hardwoods, and TS Manufacturing. Your generous support truly made a difference in helping control costs and delivering a memorable time for all attendees. Thank you, all!
Last month, I was able to make the trip to Washington, D.C., for the Hardwood Federation’s 2026 Fly-In. This annual event is more than gathering together with industry colleagues; the real value is meeting with our elected officials and their staff to share our industry’s stories, successes, struggles, and ways our Senators and Representatives can use their voices to make a difference.
Thank you to Dana Cole and the Hardwood Federation staff for their efforts in arranging another successful Fly-In and their continued work in D.C.
Now that spring is in the rearview mirror, plans are being made for HMA’s 2026 Fall Regional Meeting. At the time of writing this column, we’re targeting the Mid-Atlantic states. Details are coming together quickly, so keep your eyes and ears open for more information in the near future.
Are you considering HMA membership or looking to lend your support to solid hardwood promotion? Email me at ian@hardwood.org to discuss HMA membership criteria and benefits, as well as our promotion and education campaigns.
