Moulds Named VP Of Business
Development
BPWood Ltd. of British Columbia, Canada, recently announced the appointment of Bill Moulds to the new role of Vice President of Business Development.
Moulds has centered on startups and the refinement of complex offshore wood supply chains. He also played a pivotal roll in the early growth at BPWood.
Moulds created South Fraser Container Services (SFCS), which became the foremost container loader in the Port of Vancouver serving North American Export wholesalers and mill shippers.
SFCS was acquired in 2012 by the Tokyo Lumber Terminal organization.
Moulds’ depth and wise eye will support BPWood’s trader group with analytics and insights, according to a company statement. He will concentrate on increasing growth and maintaining the brand of The Nimble Innovators.
The group now has 25 dedicated BPWoodies and will celebrate 25 years, next year.
From the first cut of log to its final use case, BPWood delivers sustainable supply chains on the periphery of “pure commodity” wood markets.
BPWood creates, drives, and supports specialty wood businesses, working with seasoned North American and carefully nurtured strategic manufacturers, globally.
To learn more, visit www.bpwood.com.
J.D. Irving Purchases Biomass Boiler
J.D. Irving Grand Lake Timber’s Chipman Sawmill in New Brunswick, Canada, is celebrating the commission of a new biomass boiler that will significantly reduce fossil fuel consumption and contribute to a sustainable future.
The project marks a step toward an eco-friendlier lumber drying process and will allow the mill to substantially reduce its carbon footprint.
The boiler generates two megawatts of energy, or enough to power around 500 homes, through a cutting-edge turbine. The 1.47 kilowatts turbine is a central feature of the project, and it will provide more than enough power to meet the energy demands of the mill.
More than $36 million was invested in the project, which promises to revolutionize the way energy is sourced and utilized at the mill. The new boiler will be particularly important during winter months as it will eliminate the need to burn extra fuel to produce enough steam for wood processing.
For more information, go to www.jdirving.com.
Burns Honored As Lumberman Of The Year
Pat Burns, the former president of Patrick Lumber Co. in Portland, OR, was recently honored with the prestigious 2023 Lumberperson of the Year Award by the Portland Wholesale Lumber Association (PWLA), at a recent meeting.
The accolade recognized Burns’ “exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and remarkable contributions to the Northwest Lumber industry.”
Gunnar Brinck, chairman of the Lumberperson of the Year Committee, outlined the criteria behind the recognition by noting that it requires a “commitment to the industry, community contributions, and outstanding character and leadership traits.”
“Pat’s lifelong commitment to honesty, integrity and service to others aligns seamlessly with these benchmarks,” he added.
Burns’ career journey began in 1983 after graduating from the University of Washington. His work ethic and commitment to building relationships led him to carve a niche in the industry.
As part of a team that acquired Patrick Lumber Company in the late ’90s, his integrity and core values transformed the business into a “model of success while maintaining adaptability in a changing industry landscape.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Burns’ dedication to mentoring and coaching youth in sports demonstrates his commitment to personal growth and community service.
Brinck commended Burns’ care for others, citing numerous instances where he went above and beyond to assist colleagues and even strangers without being asked, illustrating his commitment to selflessness, and doing what’s right.
The presentation marked a celebration of Burns’ outstanding achievements, recognizing his role as a luminary in the industry and a true asset to the community.
His name will be immortalized on the larger recognition board, permanently displayed at the World Forestry Center, marking his place among a distinguished group of industry leaders.
Learn more at www.patlbr.com or call 503-222- 9671.
Boise Cascade Announces Retirement Of Tom Hoffmann And A New Door Shop Facility
Boise Cascade, headquartered in Boise, ID, announced the retirement of Tom Hoffmann, Senior Vice President of Purchasing, Building Materials Distribution (BMD) division, effective March 1, 2024.
Hoffmann joined Boise Cascade in 1981. He served in many key roles and leadership positions over the years, including Division Operations Manager, Pacific Region Manager and Denver Branch Manager. Hoffmann holds a bachelor’s degree in business with a dual major in management and marketing from the University of Idaho. He was promoted to vice president in 2016 and senior vice president in 2021. He currently oversees the procurement, safety and transportation functions for the BMD division.
“We have been intentional in planning for this transition considering the experience and numerous areas Tom has managed over the years. We are reorganizing the functional responsibilities to provide our emerging leaders with the opportunity for growth and professional development,” said Jeff Strom, executive vice president. “I am personally so grateful for Tom’s leadership, dedication, and many contributions to BMD and our entire industry.”
“I want to thank Tom for 43 years of extraordinary service! His unwavering focus on living our values and taking care of our customers, suppliers, and fellow associates will leave a lasting imprint on so many people,” said Nate Jorgensen, CEO. “We wish him the very best in the next chapter of his journey.”
In other news, Boise Cascade announced the addition of a door shop in Commerce City, CO, a suburb of Denver. The 127,000 square foot millwork facility was recently completed and has begun production.
“We are excited that this new facility will allow us to expand our offering of pre-hung doors and other millwork products in one of the country’s fastest growing markets,” said Bud Skinner, millwork business development manager.
“Our new state-of-the-art facility in the Denver market will complement our full-line distribution business,” said Jerry Bandel, Denver branch manager. “We look forward to providing high service levels and will work to integrate and leverage our sales team’s abilities as we ramp up the millwork production capabilities.”
Boise Cascade Company is one of the largest producers of engineered wood products and plywood in North America and a leading U.S. wholesale distributor of building products. For more information, please visit www.bc.com.
Specialty Building Products And TOOLBX Partner To Drive eCommerce Growth For LBM Dealers
Specialty Building Products (SBP) of Duluth, GA, a distributor of specialty building products in North America, and TOOLBX, the leading eCommerce platform for independent lumber and building supply dealers, announced a strategic collaboration to help SBP’s customers capture the growing opportunity in eCommerce.
The partnership will provide SBP’s extensive network of dealers with access to TOOLBX’s comprehensive digital LBM platform, empowering them to enhance their online presence, streamline operations, and better service their customers, according to a company statement.
Through this collaboration, SBP dealers will gain:
Seamless product data: Synchronized product information ensures accurate and up-to-date online product listings, leading to improved customer experience and sales efficiency.
Enhanced customer engagement: TOOLBX equips dealers with online ordering, customer messaging, quote tools, and a customer portal for account management and payments, building trust and convenience for contractors and homeowners alike.
Streamlined business operations: TOOLBX’s platform integrates with existing ERP systems, automating complex pricing rules like individual Pro discounts, while simplifying inventory management and order processing.
“We care about our dealer customers’ success. And with e-commerce penetration at less than 1 percent amongst the average LBM dealers, we took it upon ourselves to bring a best-in-class solution to our customers,” said Jeff McLendon, president and CEO of SBP. “A number of our customers are already using TOOLBX and we want to make our product data available to them through TOOLBX.”
“TOOLBX goes beyond the e-commerce checkbox. Dealers need a comprehensive digital solution that truly transforms their business. We provide that with a suite of customer-facing tools that enable them to streamline operations, enhance customer service, and boost loyalty among their Pro or retail segment,” said Erik Bornstein, CEO and cofounder of TOOLBX. “We’re thrilled to partner with a leader like SBP and empower their customers with the resources they need to thrive online.”
Those who are customers of SBP and any of its family of brands, such as U.S. Lumber, Alexandria Moulding, DW Distribution, Millwork Sales, Reeb or Amerhart, can contact SBP representatives for more information or email toolbx@sbp.com.
For more information, visit www.sbp.com.
Koppers Names James A. Sullivan President and Chief Operating Officer
Koppers Holdings Inc. announced the election of James A. Sullivan as President and Chief Operating Officer, effective January 1, 2024. Sullivan has been Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer since January 2020. Leroy M. Ball will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Koppers.
As president, Sullivan will have a bigger role in the development of Koppers 2030 strategy, which is expected to build upon the company’s 2025 Expand and Optimize strategy that has consistently produced improved safety performance, steady progress in sustainability, and record financial results.
Ball will continue to apply his leadership to drive shareholder value, which includes setting the company’s corporate strategy, advancing its people-first culture and building key stakeholder relationships.
With over 20 years of direct industry experience, Sullivan joined Koppers in June 2013 as Vice President of Business Development before advancing into various roles of increasing responsibility, culminating in his appointment to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in January 2020.
Commenting on the change, Ball said, “Jim has contributed so much to the evolution of Koppers since he joined the company over 10 years ago. From spearheading the restructuring and resurgence of the Carbon Materials and Chemicals business, to breaking down business unit silos by uniting operational leadership, and advancing our 2025 Expand and Optimize strategic plan, he has driven a culture of performance. I am very happy to recognize Jim’s accomplishments in this way while also keeping him engaged in the next phase of Koppers evolution.”
Sullivan added, “It is my honor to accept this new responsibility as President of Koppers. I am proud of our team around the world, who has demonstrated the power of working together to drive results, improve safety, lead in sustainability, and promote our values of People, Planet, and Performance. I look forward to continuing to grow our business under Leroy’s leadership.”
Koppers, with corporate headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA, is an integrated global provider of treated wood products, wood treatment chemicals, and carbon compounds. Their products and services are used in a variety of niche applications in a diverse range of end markets, including the railroad, specialty chemical, utility, residential lumber, agriculture, aluminum, steel, rubber and construction industries. They serve their customers through a comprehensive global manufacturing and distribution network, with facilities located in North America, South America, Australasia, and Europe.
For more information, visit www.koppers.com.
MiCROTEC Appoints Ofer Heyman As New Corvallis CEO
MiCROTEC, a global leader in innovative scanning solutions for the wood products industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ofer Heyman as its new Chief Executive Officer in Corvallis, OR. Heyman brings a wealth of experience and a background in the industry, making him a valuable addition to the MiCROTEC team.
Prior to returning to MiCROTEC, Heyman served an impressive 17-year tenure at Lucidyne Technologies, acquired by MiCROTEC in 2020. Beginning as an image processing engineer in 1999, Heyman assumed roles like senior product and project manager, director of business development, and ultimately, director of operations from 2014 to 2016.
Frank Jöst, MiCROTEC Group CEO, expressed his enthusiasm about Ofer’s return, “We are happy that we convinced Ofer to come back to Corvallis and support us as we continue the MiCROTEC vision for the North American Market.”
MiCROTEC looks forward to leveraging Heyman’s leadership and industry experience to further strengthen its position as a pioneer in wood scanning solutions.
MiCROTEC is a global technology partner for the wood processing industry, constantly developing new approaches and solutions to add value to the sawmilling and wood processing industry.
For more information, visit www.microtec.us.
BID Group Unveils AI-Powered Linear ResawExpert Optimizer, Celebrates 100th Anniversary Of Comact Brand
BID Group of Mirabel, Quebec has introduced its innovative AI-Powered Linear ResawExpert Optimizer with vision.
According to BID’s representative, this cutting-edge technology redefines wood transformation by combining “precision, efficiency and innovation in the pursuit of maximizing yield.”
BID’s ResawExpert is a game changer, especially in Softwood and hardwood processing, ensuring every inch of raw material is utilized efficiently, resulting in superior products and significantly reduced losses.
Key features of BID’s AI-Powered Linear ResawExpert are as follows: independent optimization and grading, rotation validation scanner, optimization by units of clear wood, NHLA cutting grades and custom grades, quick and easy installation on an existing line and more.
The innovation doesn’t stop here, the resaw optimizer can be initiated in parallel with ongoing operations, and activation can occur once tuning is completed, minimizing downtime, and ensuring a smooth transition to enhanced results.
BID Group is currently implementing the first ResawExpert at a hardwood flooring producer in Quebec. The project is progressing seamlessly, marking a significant milestone.
“We are thrilled to introduce the AI-Powered ResawExpert, a testament to BID’s commitment to driving innovation in the industry,” said Simon Potvin, President of Wood Processing at BID Group. “This technology not only enhances the value of our customer’s products, but also contributes to sustainable practices by minimizing waste.”
In other news, BID Group which offers wood processing technologies and integrated solutions, announced that it is celebrating 100 years of the Comact brand’s “performance, innovation and commitment.”
Comact was founded in 1924 in the Beauce region of Quebec. Since its beginnings, it has “pushed the technological boundaries of the wood processing industry, elevating customers’ yields, revenues and bottom-line profitability.”
The company has grown from a small, family-run business to having multiple locations serving international markets.
“The last 100 years have been a testament to the hard work and pragmatic ingenuity that are the hallmarks of Comact,” said Alistair Cook, CEO of BID Group. “The company’s and brand’s growth and longevity in this competitive industry reflect its dedication to delivering exceptional, high-performance equipment and a reputed steadfast service to its customers.”
The historic partnership between BID Group and Comact since 2013 highlighted the companies’ aligned values and visions for the future of wood processing. It has been integral to developing cutting-edge solutions that drive productivity and cost savings for an ever-growing clientele.
“When Comact joined forces with BID Group, it was a strategic decision that has enabled us to leverage our collective expertise and legacy of operational lifecycle excellence,” commented Simon Potvin, president of Wood Processing at BID Group. “We are excited to continue this journey, honoring our roots while looking forward to executing our ambitious strategies that will shape the next century of wood processing.”
As BID Group leaders said that the partnership “reaffirms its commitment to breakthrough transformation, with plans to integrate artificial intelligence and other digital technologies to ensure customers’ operations are prepared for the decades to come. BID Group is also in an ongoing process to execute a comprehensive and progressive sustainability roadmap that will set new benchmarks for the wood processing industry.”
The centennial celebrations will include a series of events designed to engage customers, employees and stakeholders.
For more information on BID Group’s centennial celebrations and their impact on the wood processing industry, go to www.bidgroup.ca/en/100thanniversary.
Carbotech Group Announces Expansion in USA
Carbotech Group, headquartered in Plessisville, QC, continues to expand in the United States with the acquisition of a 14,000 square foot plant in Roebuck, SC, marking a major milestone in its American expansion.
With this acquisition, Carbotech Group is strengthening its ability to quickly meet the needs of its American customers. A new local team of mechanical and automation technicians will also be created.
Together with the plant, this will improve the manufacturing of Carbotech equipment and enable the storage of spare parts for Autolog and Carbotech equipment.
The plant is strategically located in the heart of the American South. It will also be home to a training center to develop expertise on Carbotech and Autolog equipment so that it can reach its fullest potential.
Carbotech Group also recently announced the appointment of Jon Comber as Managing Director of U.S. Operations. His extensive knowledge of Carbotech and Autolog products, as well as his impressive professional background in the sawmilling industry (including experience as a plant manager), make him the ideal person for the role.
Carbotech Group was born of Carbotech’s acquisition of Autolog. Together, the two specialists in their fields boast over 70 years of experience in comprehensive sawmill solutions for the wood industry.
For more information, visit www.carbotech.ca.
Nicholson Manufacturing: Innovating the Forestry Industry with Additive Manufacturing
Nicholson Manufacturing Ltd., a name synonymous with innovation in the forestry industry, is once again at the forefront of technological advancement. Known for revolutionizing the industry in the 1940s with the introduction of lathe and rosser-head-style debarkers, and later, in 1951, with the first whole-log mechanical ring-type debarker, Nicholson has continuously set the benchmark for efficiency and effectiveness. Today, from their base in Sidney, British Columbia, Canada, they design and build ring debarkers that serve lumber facilities worldwide, boasting processing speeds exceeding 650 feet per minute.
Building on their legacy of pioneering progress, Nicholson Manufacturing is now embracing additive manufacturing, a cutting-edge form of 3D printing, to enhance their wear parts, starting with the innovative MLX™ knife tips. This technological leap marks a significant step forward in customizing products for specific applications, offering a blend of precision and versatility previously unattainable.
The success of their field-tested debarking knife tips has paved the way for further advancements. Nicholson plans to extend this technology to other critical wear parts. Their goal is simple yet ambitious: to reimagine every part susceptible to wear and tear, ensuring enhanced durability and efficiency.
This move towards additive manufacturing is not just a technological leap; it represents Nicholson’s commitment to sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The benefits of this approach are multifaceted:
Increased Wear Life: The new parts promise extended durability, although the exact lifespan varies by mill.
Impact Resistance: Enhanced resistance to carbide breakage from unforeseen elements like rocks.
Reduced Maintenance: The frequency of tip changes on debarkers is significantly lowered.
Easier Recycling: Aligning with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, the new parts are designed to be more recyclable.
According to a company representative, the team at Nicholson Manufacturing, always quick to spot the ‘forest between the trees,’ demonstrates a remarkable ability to integrate cutting-edge technology into their proven models.
By adopting additive manufacturing, they not only uphold their reputation as industry leaders but also underscore their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and efficiency.
In a world where adaptation is key, Nicholson Manufacturing stands tall, continuing to shape the future of the forestry industry, one groundbreaking innovation at a time, stated a spokesperson for the company.
For more information, visit www.nicholsonmfg.com.
PPG Appoints New Vice President-Elect, Global Sustainability
PPG, headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, announced that Peter Votruba-Drzal will become vice president-elect, global sustainability, effective immediately. Diane Kappas, current vice president, global sustainability has announced her intention to retire from PPG, effective July 1, 2024.
Votruba-Drzal, who will report to Irene Tasi, PPG senior vice president and chief growth officer, will collaborate cross-functionally to drive the company’s sustainability efforts, including increasing sales of sustainably advantaged products, creating increased value for customers, and reducing the environmental impact of PPG operations.
Votruba-Drzal joined PPG in 2005, following a role as a materials researcher at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Throughout his tenure at PPG, he has held various technical management roles with increasing responsibility, including supporting six different businesses with a focus on harnessing innovation to drive growth.
Since 2022, he has led the technical activities for PPG’s architectural coatings and traffic solutions businesses. Prior to this role, Votruba-Drzal led the research and product development activities for PPG’s mobility initiatives in addition to the Automotive and Industrial Coatings segments.
“Peter’s diverse experience at PPG will further strengthen our capabilities and drive growth in this critical area. We thank Diane for her many important contributions in sustainability and in several leadership roles across PPG, congratulate her on a successful career, and wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement,” said Tasi.
Kappas has nearly 40 years of experience at PPG and held general management roles, including leading the protective and marine coatings and automotive coatings businesses in the Americas region and operational leadership roles in sustainability, manufacturing, supply chain, procurement, human resources, and environment, health and safety (EHS) during her career.
An avid believer in diversity, equity and inclusion, Kappas was the founder of PPG’s Women’s Leadership Council and a founding member of the LGBTQ Council. She was named PPG’s first vice president, global sustainability in 2021. Kappas earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Business Administration degree from Duquesne University.
For more information, visit www.ppg.com.
TS Manufacturing Acquires Remaining Shares In A&E
TS Manufacturing, located in Lindsay, ON, is proud to announce the acquisition of the remaining shares in A&E.
As TS enters this new phase with the acquisition of A&E, they are eager to share key updates and reassure their valued customers and partners about the future of this collaboration.
According to a company representative, they are proud to announce the purchase of the remaining shares from Brian Smith, Managing Director at A&E. Smith, and the dedicated teams at A&E, both in New Zealand and the USA, have forged deep connections with their customers, developing products that are integral to the industry.
These relationships and innovations are the bedrock of A&E’s success and will continue to be a focal point for TS as they move forward.
The commitment that TS has to continuing to service their customers under their existing brands remains unwavering. The company wants to assure all their clients that the high standards of service and product quality will continue as they uphold the unique strengths of both TS Manufacturing and A&E operating independently.
This acquisition symbolizes not just organizational growth but a strengthening of their shared dedication to innovation and excellence in customer service.
TS is optimistic about the future and the myriad of opportunities this partnership will continue to bring as they expand their offerings with the enhanced breadth of knowledge and expertise available in a team of nearly 150 strong capable personnel.
TS Manufacturing offers a complete line of machinery, controls and software to fit your mill. For more information on their complete line of sawmill and planer mill offerings, please email them at sales@tsman.com, call at (705) 324-3762 or visit www.tsman.com.
Continental Underwriters Inc. Promotes Andrea Green
Continental Underwriters Inc., located in Richmond, VA, recently promoted Andrea Green to Risk Assessment and Claims Director of Operations. In this new role Green will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Risk Assessment and Claims Division by evaluating and implementing processes throughout the division, while coordinating with other divisions throughout Continental Underwriters to develop and implement processes that connect all of the company’s divisions and to help their teams operate more efficiently. She also manages and oversees all of the claims for Continental Underwriters book of business and helps in the recruiting, hiring and onboarding process for her division.
Continental Underwriters Inc. is a Managing General Agency (MGA) and wholesaler providing the forest products industry in North America with a broad range of insurance and risk management solutions designed to safeguard against losses and protect the value of the businesses they insure. Their programs offer a portfolio of insurance coverages for the building materials, lumber, forest products and woodworking industries.
Green’s first job in the forest products industry was when she was hired by Continental Underwriters in 2019. When she first joined the company, she brought over nine years of valuable experience in the insurance industry, primarily in claims handling. A company representative said that Green has proven to be an excellent addition to their team, as she possesses a strong passion for assisting others and is driven to develop her career further by deepening her knowledge of the company’s forest products niche. She is dedicated to providing top-notch service to Continental Underwriters’ clients, agents and carrier partners.
Green has been married to Bobby Green since 2022 and enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as visiting local wineries and traveling.
Continental Underwriters is a member of Lake States Lumber Association, Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen’s Association, Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers, National Wood Pallet & Container Association, Hardwood Manufacturers Association, North Carolina Forestry Association, Western Wood Products Association, Mississippi Lumber Manufacturers Association, Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association Inc., Great Lakes Timber Association, National Hardwood Lumber Association, Virginia Forestry Association, West Virginia Forestry Association and Wood Products Manufacturers Association.
For more information, visit www.contund.com.
The AGL Group Expands Services To U.S.-Mexico Border
The AGL Group, headquartered in Weymouth, MA, an international logistics firm and a leading freight forwarder of forest products, has expanded their offerings to now offer service to U.S.-Mexico border as well as interior Mexico.
With offices in Jacksonville, FL, Barranquilla, Colombia and a 52,000 square foot warehouse in Blakeslee, PA, AGL has a team dedicated to cross border shipments. As the US-Mexico trade grows AGL has strategically positioned itself to be able to offer service straight through direct to our clients Mexican partners.
“We no longer need to transload at the border, or have multiple entities involved. We truly are a one stop shop for all loads going to the border and into Mexico,” said Stephen Zambo, CEO.
To begin shipping with AGL into Mexico, please email Stephen Zambo at SAZambo@TheAGLGroup.com, call their main line at 781-544-3970 or visit www.theaglgroup.com.
SFPA Approves Dues Credit To Lumber Manufacturer Members
Southern Forest Products Association’s (SFPA) executive committee has approved a credit of $155,000, or 51 percent of budgeted dues. With “flexibility” in its capital reserves, SFPA will return the excess revenue in the form of a dues credit on monthly reported Southern Pine lumber shipments.
“The significant credit demonstrates SFPA’s commitment to prudent budgeting and increasing SFPA’s value for its members,” said Eric Gee, SFPA’s executive director. “This ongoing dedication has allowed the SFPA, for the third time in its 118-year history, to share excess revenue with lumber manufacturer members.”
SFPA of Metairie, LA is a nonprofit trade association that has represented manufacturers of Southern Pine lumber since 1915. Today, SFPA is the leading source of information about Southern Pine lumber products for design-build professionals and consumers.
“As we move forward into 2024, we remain committed to building on the success of our lumber promotion activities, international market development, and the Forest Products Machinery and Equipment Exposition,” said Rich Mills, chairman of SFPA’s board of directors.
For more information, go to www.sfpa.org.
Logging Leader Says Rising Costs Hurt The Industry
By Tom Inman
The logging industry must increase profitability and change public perception to maintain its workforce to survive, reports the director of the American Loggers Council.
The remarks came at the recent Greensboro, NC, meeting of the Appalachian Lumbermen’s Club. Scott Dane, Council executive director, said the national organization represents loggers in 38 states through local chapters and was formed in 1994 to serve as a unified, national voice for professional loggers across the United States.
Dane said the industry is struggling with an aging workforce and low profit margins. The average age of a logger in the U.S. is over 55 years and not enough young people are considering the profession.
The Council supports the Future Logging Careers Act legislation which proposes to exempt minors of age from employment by their parents in any occupation on a job site owned and operated by their parents. Minors 16 and older may perform any job, whether hazardous or not, which is similar to the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Dane said logging companies have not been able to raise rates to match the rising costs of insurance, equipment, fuel and wages. Dane noted that primary and secondary manufacturers were very profitable in 2021 and 2022 when demand for products were high.
“This really was not shared in the logging community,” he said. “Loggers did not receive the same increases your companies did.”
The American Loggers Council is the only national organization solely dedicated to representing the rights and interests of independent loggers and log truck contractors on a national level. Dane said the Council combines the power of its members with state and regional logging associations across the country to help the industry by sharing the benefits of education, training, networking, research, promotion and legislative advocacy.
The Council is producing a series of four videos to explain forest management and sustainability, promote careers in logging and educate the public. The first is available on the group’s website www.amloggers.com.
