2019 December 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 December 2019

2019 Convention Recap 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

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CONTENTS December 2019 • Issue 207

WHAT'S INSIDE feature 12

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2019 NHLA Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase: Coming Together to Find New Paths to the Future

departments 6 Accolades

ONLINE TOP POST OF THE MONTH at facebook.com/NHLAOfficial Happy #ForestProductsWeek! Today's Fact: Did you know that 49% of a hardwood tree's dry weight is actually sequestered carbon? Trees take in Carbon Dioxide, hold on to the Carbon, and release the Oxygen that we need to breath! #CarbonNeutral #ClimatePositive #WoodistheFuture

8 Legislative Log Through All of the Other Noise, Federal Forest Efforts Quietly Advance

20 Rules Corner Questions from Live with the Chief

reader services 4 22 24

President’s Message Educational Calendar Job Board

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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.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

MISSION LEADERS

Darwin Murray McClain Forest Products President

Bucky Pescaglia Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc. Unique Services

Jeff Wirkkala Hardwood Industries, Inc. Vice President

Kevin Gillette Tioga Hardwoods, Inc. Rules

Brent Stief Huron Forest Products, Inc. Past President 2016-2018

Mike Powers Maley & Wertz, Inc. Industry Advocacy & Promotion

NHLA STAFF Lorna D. Christie CEO l.christie@nhla.com Amanda Boutwell Marketing and Communications Manager a.boutwell@nhla.com

ADVERTISER INDEX

Renee Hornsby Director of Communications/Editor r.hornsby@nhla.com

IFC DMSi

TallyExpress by DMSi

5 King City/Northway Forwarding

TMX Shipping Co.

Melissa Ellis Smith Graphic Designer m.ellis@nhla.com

15 USNR

IBC Pike Lumber Company, Inc. 9 3 RossiGroup

Wood-Mizer, LLC

■■■ Rachel Blossman Marketing Associate r.spiers@nhla.com Trisha Clariana Office Manager

For advertising contact: John Hester, Director of Membership and Business Development at j.hester@nhla.com or 901-399-7558 or Vicky Simms, Membership Development Manager at v.simms@nhla.com or 901-399-7557

Desirée Freeman Controller Julia Ganey Member Relations Manager Rich Hascher Inspector Training School Instructor John Hester Director of Membership and Business Development Jens Lodholm Data Administration Specialist

Jon Syre Cascade Hardwood, LLC Structure David Mayfield Mayfield Lumber Co. Membership & Networking COMMITTEE CHAIRS Stephanie VanDystadt DV Hardwoods, Inc. Membership Rob Cabral Upper Canada Forest Products, Ltd. Promotion & Advocacy Garner Robinson Robinson Lumber Company Convention Scott Cummings Cummings Lumber Company, Inc. Inspection Services Bruce Horner Abenaki Timber Corp. ITS/Continuing Education John Griffin Frank Paxton Lumber Communications & Marketing Joe Snyder Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc. Rules

Carol McElya Inspector Training School Administrator Roman Matyushchenko Associate Dean of Education Vicky Quiñones Simms Membership Development Manager Dana Spessert Chief Inspector

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

THANKFUL

s 2019 draws to a close, our thoughts turn to the lessons of the past year, as well as the promise of our future in 2020. I realize using the word promise may seem odd, given that many of us are still slogging through a year that we would like to forget.

We have members who are in the fight of their lives to save their businesses. Others tell me their situation is stabilizing, and that they will live to fight another day. Yet another chaotic chapter in my story of the hardwood industry. Somewhere in this chaos, we still need to find the time to recognize what we are thankful for, and equally important, look for new approaches to define our own stories in 2020. This industry, and my involvement in NHLA, has helped define my life. I was born in a small town in Missouri with a population of 367, yet I have had the privilege of experiencing remarkable people and places all over the world. The education I received at the Inspector Training School and the connection to NHLA opened doors to business and people that I never imagined possible. Those connections helped me buy my first home, supported my family, and introduced me to business partners and friends that will be important to me personally and professionally for the rest of my life. I will always be thankful for that. I am also thankful and humbled to lead the NHLA Board of Managers. Make no mistake about it; these men and women are committed to our members’ success. Our newest Board members include Ed Armbruster (Northwest Hardwoods), Eric Boer (Mason's Mill & Lumber Co.), Josh Brennan (Frank Miller Company, Inc.) Bill Buchanan (Buchanan Hardwoods, Inc.), Burt Craig (Matson Lumber Co.), Monica Hastings (Cersosimo Lumber Co.), Brin Langmuir (Falcon Lumber Ltd.), Tom Oilar (Cole Hardwood, Inc.), and Jason Smith (Westbury Lumber Co.). My thanks also to most recent past Board members who served our members’ well during their terms: Dave Bramlage (Cole Hardwood, Inc.), John Crites II (Allegheny Wood Products), John Moss (Moss Lumber Industries), Bob Rorabaugh (Rorabaugh Lumber Co.), Bill Rosenberry (Carl Rosenberry & Sons Lumber), Kevin Gillette (Tioga Hardwoods Inc.), Mike Powers (Maley & Wertz).

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To our departing Board members, know you are leaving the Board, and NHLA, stronger because of your service. And to our new members, welcome aboard, I look forward to your contributions. When you pay NHLA for a product, a service, or your membership dues, our philosophy has been the same for over a hundred years. We are caretakers of those payments. Our obligation is to ensure we invest your money to help your business grow. Our staff has been hard at work throughout 2019, keeping our members informed about emerging issues that have the potential to impact their business. And in a market downturn, they still managed to deliver an outstanding Annual Conference with the largest exhibit hall in our history, a new generation of educational offerings, outstanding networking opportunities, and wrapped it all up with a patriotic and New Orleans style Gala at the end. As we identify what are thankful for the opportunities of the past year, we must also consider our future. My new year’s resolution is both simple and complex. I will continue to do my best to support our ongoing promotional efforts. I am happy to say that we are making progress on the industry’s efforts to create a long-lasting partnership to promote the attributes of American hardwoods. We have created a coalition of hardwood associations to work collaboratively and unified in promotional messaging. All hardwood associations are invited to join this critical effort. NHLA is on the Action Team of this group, along with the Hardwood Federation, Hardwood Manufacturers Association, the National Wood Flooring Association, and the American Hardwood Manufacturers, Inc. NHLA is actively involved with this group and is working with others to create a path moving forward. I am convinced that our industry will prosper again. And with the holiday season approaching fast, our thoughts turn to family, friends and the new year. It is a time to be thankful for what we have and look forward to a new year filled with opportunities. On behalf of the NHLA Board of Managers and staff, Happy Holidays!

Darwin Murray, NHLA President McClain Forest Products dmurray@mcclainforestproducts.com W W W. N H L A .C O M

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ACCOLADES

Congratulations

Milestone Members NHLA would like to recognize our members who celebrated a milestone anniversary of 5 years or more during Sept.-Dec.!

Welcome New Members (Q3 2019 as of printing)

100 YEARS Holmes & Co., Inc. | Active U1 | September 1919 6

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LEGISLATIVE LOG

Through All of the Other Noise, Federal Forest Efforts Quietly Advance by DANA COLE, Executive Director Hardwood Federation

hile the trade war with China has consumed the Hardwood Federation’s attention and advocacy bandwidth this year, there continues to be activity on other pressing public policy issues. Federal forest management reform is one of these, particularly now that wildfires are once again raging in California and policymakers are searching for solutions. Earlier this year, Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) announced that they were working on legislation that would expedite and expand the removal of dead, dying and hazardous trees in our national forest system. While we have not yet seen a draft of the bill, indications are that it would include regulatory reform provisions to allow for expedited forest management work on federal forests and pair those provisions with language authorizing incentives for utilizing the forest material/biomass that is generated from these projects. In a joint statement the Senators said: “We’re working together to develop bipartisan legislation to improve management and speed up restoration of forest landscapes, create viable solutions for the removal of woody biomass and dead and dying trees, accelerate post-fire restoration and reforestation, and expedite targeted treatments of dangerously dense forested areas where wildfires are most likely to start.” Also under development by our forester friend in the House—Congressman Bruce Westerman (R-AR-4)—is a bill that has more of a climate change/greenhouse gas reduction angle to it. Again we have not seen any language, but we understand it will focus on three key areas: 1. Increased Tree Planting – The proposal will seek to convert more marginal farmland and wetlands back to forest land through changes in existing conservation programs. This will be paired with incentives for planting more trees in urban areas and promoting aforestation through existing foreign aid incentive programs. 2. Growing More Wood – The measure will promote making federal forests more resilient and productive so that they are maximizing the total amount of wood on our forest lands by thinning and

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other management practices to promote larger trees and more total wood per acre over time. According to Rep. Westerman, the idea is to manage forests in a manner that does not allow their canopies to close, which may make them less prone to catastrophic fires and provide much better wildlife habitat. Westerman believes forests managed in this way will also have many other ancillary benefits such as water conservation and increased outdoor recreation and economic development in rural areas. 3. Using More Wood – The bill would accelerate more wood demand and creative uses of wood in buildings, paper production, energy, and chemical feedstocks, among other areas. The measure would include a sustainable building tax credit that allows residential and commercial builders to receive tax credits for building and renovating buildings that a) are innovative and use environmentally friendly building materials such as wood; b) that are more energy-efficient to operate and maintain; and c) store more carbon over time. Finally, the bill would modernize the federal Renewable Fuel Standard or RFS to allow forest-based biomass to qualify for this fuel mandate. Currently, the definition of “forest biomass” in the law authorizing the RFS is severely restrictive so that only energy derived from tree plantations is eligible. Along with modernizing the RFS, Westerman’s bill would fund more research and development to develop more wood energy and wood feedstock technology to create more markets for wood. These are just a couple of proposals that are germinating. Politically, it does not appear likely that we are going to see substantive action in the federal forest management space this year. Funding the government past November 21 and negotiations on a U.S. Canada Mexico Agreement (USMCA) are clearly well ahead of federal forestry in the priority queue. As we know, however, that could change quickly— particularly if the wildfire situation continues to escalate out West. That is why we are continuing to reach out to our champions in the House and Senate to remind them that federal forest reform remains a priority for the hardwood sector and offer our help in finding workable policy solutions. W W W. N H L A .C O M

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT LEGNA SOFTWARE, LLC

Legna:

Leading the Hardwood Industry into the Future

CEO Woody Rich working with Software Developer John Rendleman.

s we step into the third decade of the 21st century, we take with us new technologies that make our lives easier. Much like the microwave revolutionized cooking in the 1980s, new software and technologies are making life in the hardwood lumber industry more efficient.

Blazing the trail in new industry technologies is NHLA Member, Legna, a software company that has been committed to the forest industry for over 30 years. Members of Legnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s staff have backgrounds in concentration and distribution yards as well as sawmills. They have an intimate understanding of the unique needs of each segment of the hardwood lumber industry and are committed to

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their customers. Need proof? The average tenor of Legnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s employees is 20 years. Legna creates software that helps businesses, from wood product producers to manufacturers and distributors, get the most out of their logs and lumber. They have software applications for every segment

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of the industry, and it’s their goal to make your company more efficient and successful overall. Legna Chief Operating Officer, Tyler Dittrich values their longtime NHLA membership, saying, “Legna has built a great relationship with NHLA and its members. We are eager to continue building on our relationships with other members, particularly given our dedication to the North American wood products industry. We don’t serve other industry verticals, and we do not plan to. By being part of the strong NHLA network, we’ve continued to enhance existing relationships as well as develop new ones.” Legna offers software solutions for lumber inventory management, log inventory management, log accounting software, lumber tally software, log scaling, and log grading software. From the evaluation of standing timber to the distribution of value-added products, Legna’s log and lumber inventory software provide the information needed to seamlessly manage the movement of wood from source to supplier to customer. Legna’s TallyWorks Suite is used extensively across North America. The Suite includes two lumber and log inventory systems, TallyWorks Lumber and TallyWorks Logs. The software provides accurate information at each stage of production, with up-to-the-minute cost and inventory data to improve sales, enhance management of operations, better utilize resources, and improve customer relations. Dittrich explains how Legna is good for the growth and success of companies in the hardwood lumber industry, saying, “Your business is more efficient and productive when your log and lumber applications are from a single provider. From the standing tree to shipment of your remanufactured products or individual components, Legna has a TallyWorks module to meet your needs, providing seamless solutions, which allow your operations an unrivaled value-chain analysis and reporting.” “Our TallyWorks Suite is a single-solution provider that you can trust to ensure your systems are operating at peak performance at all times. We provide handheld computers, barcode scanners, label printers, and more in addition to the most powerful software solutions available, and we offer 24/7 service & support. We hold ourselves to a higher standard. Our commitment to service is second to none. We want you to get the most out of our applications and for you to be a success. Our relationship with our customers is significantly important to us, which is why you and your entire team have one number to call any time you need service or support for our products.” Legna is appreciative of being a part of the NHLA community, saying, “In many industries, a software or technology provider may be thought of as just a vendor. To Legna, NHLA offers an opportunity to be part of something greater than just our role as a vendor or supplier. As an NHLA member, we are proud to be part

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“Your business is more efficient and productive when your log and lumber applications are from a single provider.” — Tyler Dittrich of not just a trade association, but a North American industry that has provided the highest quality products to consumers around the globe for generations. We value our role as a member of the association and partner to the industry and are grateful to our fellow members for including us in the organization.”

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Welcome Reception

2019 NHLA Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase Coming Together to Find New Paths to the Future

he National Hardwood Lumber Association held its 122nd Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase presented by Rossi Group, October 2-4 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The Convention kicked off with a welcome reception, sponsored by Cascade Hardwood Group, bringing together 900 hardwood industry professionals. The gathering was the perfect time to network with people in the industry, catch up with long-time partners, form new relationships, and talk about the future of the industry.

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Day two was headlined by the Opening Session, sponsored by Northwest Hardwoods. NHLA President Darwin Murray started off the session with a rousing call to demand action from lawmakers in Washington, DC, regarding the trade war. The Hardwood Federation set up a texting system to contact representatives across the country, and Murray asked the audience to text the word HARDWOOD to 52886, which would provide a link to send a quick letter to individual representatives. As the audience began texting, pinpoints started to drop onto a map projected on the large screen next to Darwin. The room became energized as the map was flooded with pinpoints across the US. By W W W. N H L A .C O M

The gathering was the perfect time to network with people in the industry, catch up with long-time partners, form new relationships, and talk about the future of the industry. Welcome Reception the time Darwin was finished speaking, over 966 emails demanding action had been sent to elected officials asking for relief from the economic devastation caused by the tariffs. It was a glorious display of the power of the hardwood lumber industry. Continuing on a high note was a powerful keynote address by Archie Manning, All-American Quarterback, and NFL Icon. Mr. Manning relayed his experience of persistence, perseverance, and leadership that led him to success throughout his football career. He inspired those in attendance to consider applying his examples to their own businesses to experience success, even in a down market. Other notable events of the Opening Session were the acknowledgment of new NHLA members and companies celebrating 30, 50, and 75 years of membership. John Hester, NHLA Director of Membership and Business Development, inducted three companies to the “100-Year Member Club,” including Whitson Lumber Company from Clarksville, TN, Holmes & Company, Inc. out of Columbia City, Indiana, and Robinson Lumber Company, from the host city of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Archie Manning

After the opening session, Darwin Murray and Ted Rossi joined Northwest Hardwood’s CEO, Nathan Jeppson, to cut the ribbon opening the Exhibit Showcase, which was the largest in Exhibit Showcase history, featuring over 120 hardwood industry-specific companies. Thursday wrapped up with an array of receptions. The Exhibitor Appreciation Reception, and the NHLA Inspector Training School Reception sponsored by Cole Hardwood, Inc. Capping off the night was the Exhibit Showcase Networking Reception, which provided excellent networking opportunities as well as specialty cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a jazz trio. Sponsoring the Networking Reception was Breeze Dried, eLIMBS, King City/Northway Forwarding, Nyle Dry Kilns, Hardwoods Specialty Products, and Swaner Hardwood Company. On Friday, the Convention opened with a General Session featuring the NHLA Board of Manager elections, where Bruce Horner (of Abenaki Timber), Jon Syre (of Cascade Hardwood), and Stephanie VanDystadt (of DV Hardwoods) were re-elected for a second term. Eight new board members were elected, as well. The new board W W W. N H L A .C O M

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Whitson Lumber Company

members include Eric Boer (Mason’s Mill & Lumber Company), Josh Brennan (Frank Miller Lumber Company), Bill Buchanan (Buchanan Hardwoods, Inc.), Burt Craig (Matson Lumber Company), Monica Hastings (Cersosimo Lumber Company), Brin Langmuir (Falcon Lumber Ltd.), Tom Oilar (Cole Hardwood, Inc.), and Jason Smith (Westbury Lumber Company). Friday’s General Session, sponsored by Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance, included the presentation of the first-ever Women in Leadership Award. The audience gave a standing ovation as John Crites accepted the award on behalf of the late Patricia Crites of Allegheny Lumber. There was also a vote to change the NHLA Bylaws, allowing electronic voting on bylaws changes, which easily passed.

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Robinson Lumber Company

Holmes & Company, Inc.

The NHLA Annual Convention presented a variety of educational topics. The first educational seminar, “North American Hardwood Market Trends,” was hosted by David Caldwell and Judd Johnson with the Hardwood Market Report. The session, sponsored by WoodEye and Eagle Machinery & Supply, Inc., focused on the current state of the hardwood marketplace and the factors currently influencing business and potential business change. Some key takeaways from Caldwell and Johnson were to define the future of the hardwood lumber industry by being flexible, adding value through the understanding of customers, and doing everything possible to stay in business. A standout education seminar on Thursday was “New CustomerFocused Selling Strategies” with Bob Graham, the CEO of Serious Soft Skills LLC. The seminar, sponsored by Paw-Taw-John Services, Inc., W W W. N H L A .C O M

By the time Darwin was finished speaking, over 966 emails demanding action had been sent to elected officials asking for relief from the economic devastation caused by the tariffs. focused on ways to integrate social media into business strategy, creating new leads, and keeping established relationships fresh. Bob revealed where to find customers by explaining the demographics of each social platform. Some interesting points that resonated with the audience included website tips, how to read Google Analytics, and how to conquer the fear of risk.

USNR

Before the day wrapped up, NHLA Chief Inspector, Dana Spessert, took the stage for the educational seminar, “Discovering Lost Profits with the NHLA Yield Analysis and Quality Control Program,” sponsored by TRN USA Forest Products LLC. Spessert explained how understanding the details of hardwood profitability (or lack thereof ) is the key difference between a vibrant future or no future at all, which is why NHLA created the Yield Analysis and Quality Control Programs. Dana reminded the audience that “you cannot manage what you do not measure.” There was much more to learn in Friday’s Education Seminars. Bob Graham began the day speaking to a packed ballroom during his seminar on “Breakthrough Skills to Lead Better,” W W W. N H L A .C O M

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The Exhibit Showcase was the largest in Exhibit Showcase history, featuring over 120 hardwood industry-specific companies.

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The Inspector Trainig School Alumni reception sponsored by Cole Hardwood. David Doucette recieved the first Rich Hascher award.

Fridayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s General Session, sponsored by Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance, included the presentation of the first-ever Women in Leadership Award. The audience gave a standing ovation as John Crites accepted the award on behalf of the late Patricia Crites of Allegheny Lumber.

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The new board members pictured here (left to right): Eric Boer (Masonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mill & Lumber Company), Josh Brennan (Frank Miller Lumber Company), Jason Smith (Westbury Lumber Company), Burt Craig (Matson Lumber Company), Brin Langmuir (Falcon Lumber Ltd.), Tom Oilar (Cole Hardwood, Inc.), and Bill Buchanan (Buchanan Hardwoods, Inc.). Grand Finale Paty at the National World War II Museum

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where he taught attendees how to harness three breakthrough skills that would show a 50% increase in productivity and revenue. He delved into each skill and explained how it would help attendees how to manage different generations, challenging employees and colleagues, and more. Over 300 attendees gathered to watch AHEC Executive Director, Mike Snow’s education seminar on “Tariffs, Trade Wars, and the Future of US Hardwood Exporters.” During the seminar, sponsored by ACES Division of Kuehne+Nagel, Inc., Mike Snow provided a detailed update on US hardwood exports to the world, with a particular emphasis on the trade war with China and increasing trade tensions with Canada, Mexico, and the EU. After Snow finished speaking, he led a panel discussion with AHEC directors from Europe, Latin America, the Middle East/India, Japan, and China/ Southeast Asia concerning trends in their respective regions. The Executive Director of the Hardwood Federation, Dana Cole, hosted the final education seminar. In the session, “Hardwood Promotion Collaboration: A Search for Answers,” Dana introduced a new Hardwood Promotion Collaboration that is seeking new ways to reach consumers. There was also a panel discussion on the topic with NHLA CEO Lorna Christie, Tom Inman with AHMI, and Linda Jovanovich with HMA. Allegheny Wood Products sponsored this final education seminar. W W W. N H L A .C O M

New this year to the Exhibit Hall was the NHLA Learning Lounge, sponsored by Continental Underwriters. The Learning Lounge featured a panel of experts discussing a variety of topics, including the optimization of dry kilns, insurance, logistics of the forest products industry, improving yield and profits through automation and optimization, business software, and a discussion about real-time opportunities when faced with adversity. The Convention ended in style with a Grand Finale Party, sponsored by Robinson Lumber, Hardwoods Specialty Products and Swaner Hardwood Co., Inc., at the National World War II Museum. Guests celebrated three days of making new connections and strengthening existing relationships by enjoying an exceptional performance from the Victory Bells, followed by door prizes and dancing underneath six WWII aircraft suspended from the ceiling. As always, The NHLA Convention was a great time to catch up with fellow members, network with clients and potential clients, and learn from peers, speakers, and presenters.

The 2020 NHLA Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase will be September 23 - 25 at the Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky. D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S |

RULES CORNER

Questions from Live with the Chief What's Your Question

by DANA SPESSERT, NHLA Chief Inspector

his month I want to continue answering questions that were presented during the monthly Live with the Chief event on Facebook.

Question: “When grading lumber and there is a specified color sort, can the amount of Sapwood/ Heartwood be changed by surfacing to Standard Rough Thickness?”

Question: “Are there specific rules you go by when grading kiln dried lumber & how can I find/learn them?” The NHLA Rules Book was written for green and airdried grading of hardwoods and then we added a Kiln Dried Rule on page 56 of the 2019 version, under the heading of “INSPECTION OF KILN DRIED LUMBER”. Under the paragraph of “Standard Kiln Dried Rule” it states:

The answer to this question can be answered using two separate Rules in the Rules Book. In the 2019 version of the NHLA Rules Book on page 8, paragraph 23 under the title “Sapwood - Heart wood” it states: “Unlimited Sapwood or Heartwood is admitted unless otherwise specified. Contracts for special grades under a heartwood or sap wood specification shall state the maximum or minimum percent age of heartwood or sapwood desired and how it shall be calculated, whether in width, length, girth, facial or surface area.” As stated in the Rule above, the measurement method needs to be clearly stated on the Purchase Order/Agreement in order for the inspector to measure correctly, whether it is the entire face or Cuttings required, is an example. The second part of the answer can be found on page 4, paragraph 4, “General Instructions” which states:

“Lumber shall be inspected and measured as the inspector finds it, of full length, width and thickness. No allowance shall be made for the purpose of raising the grade, except that in rough stock, wane, and other defects which can be removed by surfacing to standard rough thickness shall not be considered.”

As is stated in the Rule, “wane, and other defects which can be removed by surfacing to standard rough thickness shall not be considered.” Sapwood and Heartwood are not considered defects. So, the answer to the question is: No, you cannot surface a board simply to change the color sort to remove Sapwood or Heartwood.

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“Kiln dried lumber will be graded and measured as such, the grading rules for air dried lumber to be applied in all respects, unless otherwise specified. Rough kiln dried lumber specified 3/8” to 1-3/4” thick may be 1/16” scant of the nominal thickness; 2” and thicker may be 1/8” scant and the 10% of scant quartered lumber admitted by Paragraph 36, may be 3/32” scant on one edge in 1” to 1-1/2” lumber and 3/16” on one edge in and thicker. The minimum widths mentioned in all grades may be 1/4” scant in width and the 10% admitted by Paragraph 10 may be 1/2” scant in width. In other respects, the rules for grading air dried lumber shall apply.” The major difference between grading kiln dried and green (or air dried) lumber is simply the minimum widths in all grades can be ¼” scant (narrower) than the grades allow and the thicknesses can be under thickness by the amount listed in the Rule: 3/8” to 1 ¾” thick can be 1/16” scant and 2” and thicker can be 1/8” scant in thickness.

SAVE THE DATE: DEC. 12

RULES CORNER GOES LIVE Every month we invite you to join us as NHLA Chief Inspector, Dana Spessert, answers your lumber-grading questions LIVE on Facebook. Please follow us on Facebook at NHLA_Official to receive notifications of our live broadcasts. The next “Live with the Chief” will be held on December 12, 2019 at 4pm Central. Everyone is welcome to send in questions in advance by emailing r.spiers@nhla.com. W W W. N H L A .C O M

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“In August, Harold White Lumber was proud to participate in one of the greatest programs NHLA has ever offered! The NHLA Sawmill Yield Analysis Study. The in-depth comprehensive study uncovered substantial areas for our sawmill to improve overall yield and reduce manufacturing costs. Our entire log and sawmill team was completely on board. I have the highest praise for the NHLA team of Dana Spessert, Mark Bear and Tony Parks. Their wealth of knowledge and problem solving was amazing. In today’s perilous markets; this is a program that every mill cannot afford to not participate in! In less than 2 weeks production, I will more than make up the cost of the study and affect my bottom line annually over $500,000! WTG NHLA!”

Ray White, Harold White Lumber

Announcing NHLA's Quality Control Services, our newest Members Only Benefit Because You Can't Manage What You Don't Measure! The complexity of today's global markets requires new tools to reduce costs and increase profitability for sawmill owners. To meet that demand NHLA is proud to announce the launch of the Sawmill Yield Analysis Study and Quality Control Checks.

After completing the Sawmill Yield Analysis study, Quality Control Checks can be performed on a monthly or quarterly basis to ensure the profits continue to move in the right direction. Check-ups include customized education designed exclusively for your mill employees.

The Sawmill Yield Analysis Program reviews the sawmill process from log selection to the end product and measures every step in-between. The purpose of the study is to enhance operations, reduce costs and help you squeeze more profit from every log.

Interested in learning more about how these member-only benefits can help your company prosper? Contact Chief Inspector Dana Spessert today at d.spessert@nhla.com or 901-399-7551.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Dana Spessert, NHLA Chief Inspector, at 901-399-7551 or d.spessert@nhla.com

NHLA PROVIDES EDUCATION AND TRAINING TO IMPROVE YOUR BOTTOM LINE Register for classes at www.nhla.com/education. JANUARY

APRIL

7-March 27

6-8

20-May 1

Intro to Hardwood Lumber Grading

Inspector Training School Online Training Program MODULE 1

Inspector Training School 191st Class

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

AUGUST

10-21 Inspector Training School Online Training Program MODULE 1 Two weeks of hands-on training.

Venue: NHLA Headquarters Memphis, TN Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor Module 2: Online study Module 3: Three weeks handson training and final testing at NHLA headquarters.

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

Two weeks of hands-on training.

Venue: NHLA Headquarters Memphis, TN

Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor

Module 2: Online study Module 3: Three weeks handson training and final testing at NHLA headquarters.

SEPTEMBER

1-Nov. 20 Inspector Training School 193rd Class

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

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

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

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JOB BOARD

BILLSBY LUMBER CO.

Salary & Benefits: Health Insurance – BCBS. Dental Insurance- BCBS. Vision InsuranceBCBS. Employer Paid and Voluntary Life Insurance and AD&D – Mutual of Omaha Long & Short Term Disability. Mutual of Omaha 401K with Employer Match. Paid Time Off/Paid Holidays.

Qualifications and Required Skills: NHLA Grading Certification

How to Apply: Please contact Mary Lee McConnell at marylee@thompsonappalachian.com or 931-469-7272 about applying for this position.

Since 1972, Billsby Lumber has strived to offer quality lumber, prompt service, and dedicated customer care that are all unmatched in the Mid-Michigan area. Now, Billsby Lumber Co. is searching for a Lumber Grader to join their team in Harrison, MI.

Salary & Benefits: Salary will be based on experience. Benefits include Medical, Paid Vacation, Life Insurance, Simple IRA, and Paid Holidays. How to Apply: Please email resume to Lori Manley at lori@billsbylumber.com Billsby Lumber Co. 2725 Larch | Harrison, Michigan 48625 Phone: 989-539-9842 | www.billsbylumber.com

OAKCREST LUMBER & HARDWOOD FLOORING

Oakcrest Lumber & Hardwood Flooring We are a Christian-family owned company needing a hardwood lumber inspector to grade green and kiln-dried lumber as well as to train new graders at our facility in Newport, TN. We are located off I-40, just east of Knoxville-Sevierville, TN in the heart of the smoky mountains. Please call 229-649-9328 for information. Qualifications and Required Skills: NHLA Certification OR 3+ years of on-the-job training. Salary & Benefits: Hourly pay with overtime pay. 2 weeks starting vacation. 8 paid holidays. Hospitalization ins. Dental offered at low rates. Christmas bonus. How to Apply: Please contact Russell Weaver at 229-649-9328 or oakcrest1@windstream.net to apply for this position.

Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods, Inc. 100 Harless Drive | Huntland, Tennessee 37345 Phone: 931-469-7272 | www.thompsonappalachian.com

THOMPSON APPALACHIAN HARDWOODS, INC.

Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods, Inc. seems to manufacture the highest-quality Appalachian hardwood products, create superior value, and provide consistency in products and services for their customers. Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods, Inc. is searching for a Sawmill Millwright and Maintenance Technician to join their team at their Huntland, TN facility. Qualifications and Required Skills: Minimum 2 Years Experience Salary & Benefits: Health Insurance – BCBS. Dental Insurance- BCBS. Vision InsuranceBCBS. Employer Paid and Voluntary Life Insurance and AD&D – Mutual of Omaha Long & Short Term Disability. Mutual of Omaha 401K with Employer Match. Paid Time Off/Paid Holidays. How to Apply: Please contact Mary Lee McConnell at marylee@thompsonappalachian. com or 931-469-7272 about applying for this position. Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods, Inc. 100 Harless Drive | Huntland, Tennessee 37345 Phone: 931-469-7272 | www.thompsonappalachian.com

Oakcrest Lumber & Hardwood Flooring 3287 S. Hwy 41 | Buena Vista, Georgia 31709 Phone: 229-649-9328

THOMPSON APPALACHIAN HARDWOODS, INC.

* To view current job postings or to post a job, visit www.nhla.com/industry-services/job-board.

Qualifications and Required Skills: NHLA Lumber Inspection Certification

2 4 DECEMBER

2 0 1 9 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S

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

What would our industry look like without LUMBER INSPECTORS? 12-WEEK INSPECTOR TRAINING SCHOOL PROGRAM January 7-March 27 Memphis, TN “Many people think they know the Rules, but they don’t actually know what the book says. Learning the Rules at the NHLA Inspector Training School has helped our sawmill identify mistakes that were costing us $130,000 to $180,000 a year depending on species.” — Grant Dorris, ITS Class 188, Volner Sawmill, Inc.

CLASS BEGINS

JAN. 7

NHLA . . . WHERE HARDWOOD LUMBER INSPECTORS ARE MADE! Register now at nhla.com/education or call us at 901-399-7563.