Indianapolis, IN–The 125th anniversary of the Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen’s Association (IHLA) Annual Convention and Exposition was held here recently at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. Approximately 1,200 people were in attendance.
The IHLA reported that it expanded the exhibit hall by more than 15 percent for this year’s event. Numerous speakers also gave presentations with an emphasis on providing attendees with all of the economic and industry forecasting data possible.
Among presenters were the following:
•Charles Marshall, of Pike Lumber Company, who welcomed attendees during the Opening Session.
•The Real American Hardwood Coalition, which updated attendees on its three-year plan.
•Purdue University representatives gave a presentation on digital forestry, focusing on the future of forestry and harvesting.
•Dr. Matthew Will, of the University of Indianapolis, who spoke about the uncertainty of the economy.
•Andy Johnson, of the Hardwood Market Report, who offered insight into the Hardwood market trends.
•Michael Snow, executive director of the American Hardwood Export Council, whose presentation was “American Hardwood Exports in a Turbulent World.”
The traditional Tree Farmer Breakfast was also held, at which time Logger of the Year, Tree Farmer of the Year and Tree Farm Inspector of the Year are announced annually.
Next year’s IHLA Annual Convention and Exposition will be held Feb. 5-7. Headquartered in Fishers, IN, more information about this organization is available at www.ihla.org.
