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H A R DWO O D M AT T E R S T H E VO I C E O F T H E H A R DWOO D I N D U ST RY
NHLA KILN DRYING CERTIFICATE REPLACES USDA PHYTOSANITARY 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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DEPARTMENTS
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Letters to the Editor Inside NHLA Insurance Corner Foundation Focus Legislative Log
READER SERVICES
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4 President’s Message 6 Executive Director’s Message 21 Calendar 22 Job Board
IN THIS ISSUE... 10
National Hardwood Lumber Association Rules Change Ballot Results for 2015 by Dana Spessert
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NHLA Kiln Drying Certificate Replaces USDA Phytosanitary
CONTENTS W W W. N H L A .CO M
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March 2014 ▪ Issue 143 National Hardwood Lumber Association PO Box 34518 ▪ Memphis, TN 38184-0518 901-377-1818 ▪ 901-382-6419 (fax) info@nhla.com ▪ www.nhla.com
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
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
EXECuTIVE COMMITTEE
MISSION LEADERS
scott heidler Heidler Hardwood Lumber Co. President
skip holmes Thomas & Proetz Lumber Co. Unique Services
pem Jenkins Turn Bull Lumber Co. Vice President
charlie netterville Fred Netterville Lumber Co. Industry Advocacy & Promotion
dave redmond Highland Hardwood Sales, Inc. Past President 2010–2012
Greg patenaude Péladeau Lumber, Inc. Membership & Marketing
mark a. Barford, cae Executive Director
Brent stief Huron Forest Products Structure
NHLA STAff
Gary swaner Swaner Hardwood Co. Rules
mark a. Barford, cae Executive Director m.barford@nhla.com
public/private policy issues; and providing a platform for networking opportunities.
david George Creative Director d.george@nhla.com renee hornsby Director of Communications/Editor r.hornsby@nhla.com
■■■ rich hascher Inspector Training School Instructor
The views of contributions do not necessarily reflect the positions of NHLA. All advertisements for Hardwood Matters are accepted and published with the understanding that the advertiser and/or advertising agency are authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The advertiser and/or advertising agency will defend, indemnify and hold any claims or lawsuits for libel violations or right of privacy or publicity, plagiarisms, copyright or trademark infringement and any other claims or lawsuits that may arise out of publication of such advertisement. NHLA neither endorses nor makes any representation or guarantee as to the quality of goods and services advertised in Hardwood Matters. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
John hester Director of Membership dana spessert Chief Inspector denise stewart Director of Finance/CAO
COMMITTEE CHAIRS Jeff durst Hull Forest Products Inspection Services orn Gudmundsson, Jr. Northland Corporation Communications & Marketing/Finance mark mah Upper Canada Forest Products Hardwood Advocacy darwin murray McClain Forest Products Continuing Education Jim reader Downes & Reader Hardwood Co. Membership Joe snyder Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc. Rules Jim steen Pike Lumber Co., Inc. Inspector Training School kim Vollinger W. M. Cramer Lumber Co. Convention
For advertising inquiries: Contact John Hester, Director of Membership at j.hester@nhla.com or 901-399-7558.
ADVERTISER INDEX 21 13 14 5
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Augusta Lumber Company, Inc. Brunner-Hildebrand Dunavant Global Logistics Group The Jacobs Team
bc NHLA Convention 15, ibc NHLA Inspector Training School 3 Pennsylvania & Indiana Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Companies
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Pike Lumber Company, Inc. U•C Coatings Corporation Wood-Mizer Products, Inc.
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M A R C H 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
THE CHECK OFF The Hardwood Check Off has created a lot of controversy in our industry, and rightfully so. Regardless of your stance on the issue, I want to remind everyone of what makes trading hardwood lumber for a living such a pleasure. When I entered the industry in the mid 80’s, I was amazed how friendly and accepting everyone was at the regional and national meetings. People that did not know me, not only accepted me, but made me feel welcome. As the years went by I had the chance to return the favor to those newcomers who were fresh into this great industry. As I became more involved and started to donate my personal and corporate time back to the industry through association involvement, the experience was enhanced. I found myself sitting at the table, next to a competitor as we worked together, trying to come up with solutions to problems in our industry; putting aside our competitive nature for the betterment of our industry. We would then walk away from the table, roll up our sleeves and compete the following day! I have spoken with many individuals about the Check Off. There is a lot of misinformation floating around and I hope through various regional meetings, the NHLA Blog (www.nhla. com/blog), or even attending the NHLA Open Forum to be held once the USDA releases the Final Order, that all your questions will be answered. I personally believe everyone has the right, that’s the beauty of living in America, to not only have an opinion but to express it. NHLA has been accused of being behind the creation of the Check Off due to the involvement of many past and current leaders being part of the BRC. I want to remind everyone that many of those involved on the BRC end up running so many of our industry associations because they are the ones willing to put in personal time and money for the betterment of our industry. I am glad that many other individuals are now becoming active on both sides of this issue, and my hope is that after the Check Off is decided, people will remain involved with the industry and not put their heads back down! The NHLA board of managers has also been criticized for not taking a formal stance on the Check Off. I would like to remind all members that the focus of NHLA is the grading Rules for hardwood lumber and all that support those Rules. The board voted to disseminate information and be a forum for our members concerning the Check Off, and nothing more! NHLA is different than many smaller regional associations, as we have members in all areas of the world and all aspects of manufacturing from raw material to finished goods. NHLA wants to continue the commitment to our entire membership by continuing to support and promote the grading Rules for the manufacturing and trade of hardwood lumber. Taking a stance on either side of this issue will not only upset some portion of our membership, it will not promote, educate, or enhance the Rules for the inspection and trade of hardwood lumber. The individuals that donated their personal time and money to create the Check Off Order have upset a lot of companies and people. I don’t believe any of them had an individual competitive advantage in mind when they devoted their time to come up with a collaborative vehicle to help promote hardwoods to the end consumer in order to increase national consumption of the greenest building product in our country. They came up with a plan that was outside the box from the normal industry approach, and many are upset with them personally for this. I hope, no matter how this plays out, that we will embrace and thank them for the attempt to once again better our industry through thankless devotion.
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M A R C H 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
NHLA wants to continue the commitment to our entire membership by continuing to support and promote the grading Rules for the manufacturing and trade of hardwood lumber. Whether the Check Off passes or not, I hope it does not fragment and polarize the greatest industry in the world. We are people who compete on Monday and then come together on Tuesday to solve problems for the betterment of the entire industry! Respectfully,
scott heidler heidler hardwood Lumber co.
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EXECuTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
INSPECTOR TRAINING SCHOOL TAKES CENTER STAGE Myself, along with Chief Inspector Dana Spessert; Director of Communications Renee Hornsby; newly named Director of Membership John Hester and National Inspector Barry Kibbey attended the Indiana Hardwood Lumber Association Convention in early February. The big staff turnout was on hand to help promote the NHLA Inspector Training School as a whole and three specific upcoming programs Unveiled in Indianapolis was the new Inspector Training School promotional video, professionally produced by Running Pony Studios in Memphis, Tenn. The video will be displayed at industry events and shared with other industry associations. It will also be available on social media outlets including YouTube, so the general public can learn the career opportunities available by joining our wonderful industry. The video is a collection of information and interviews presented in an easy to follow script of how attending the School can advance your career and prepare you for a future in the hardwood industry. During the annual meeting, IHLA attendees were invited to participate in one of three ITS classes that will be offered during 2014. The first program will be somewhat unique, as it will be held with special support from the State of Michigan. The State of Michigan will recruit students for the class, cover the instructor’s expenses and guarantee a minimum number of students in attendance as part of the Michigan Works training program. The class begins on March 10 and will be held at the Frederic Township Offices in Frederic, Michigan. Although promoted by the state of Michigan, this course is open to anyone who wants to attend. The Michigan class will be taught by veteran NHLA National Inspector Barry Kibbey who will utilize the same curriculum that is followed in Memphis. Barry will expand his extensive experience in teaching short courses and individual training to lead this class. Inspector Training School Instructor Rich Hascher will also be participating on a limited basis to insure the same high level of instruction that students receive in Memphis. The second program to be held this summer will be a Bilingual Spanish Inspector Training School. In addition to Spanish speaking employees of North American members, interested parties from Mexico and other Latin American countries are invited to attend. Rich Hascher will be leading the class along with strong assistance by a Spanish translation team. Class begins June 2 and graduation will be held August 8. The third class is the traditional fall program that will be held at NHLA Headquarters in Memphis, Tenn. beginning on September 3. The fall 2013 program graduated 29 students, the largest class since 2008, and the 2014 fall program is already building in interest. During the recently completed Strategic Planning meeting, participants agreed that the top three strengths of NHLA are the Grading Rules, Convention/ Networking and the Inspector Training School.
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M A R C H 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
2014 is well on its way to being a banner year for the Inspector Training School.
2014 is well on its way to being a banner year for the Inspector Training School. Ask yourself, “Is it time to send one of your employees to the School in order to prepare for the expanding markets ahead?” Just asking. Sincerely,
mark Barford, cae, executive director national hardwood Lumber association www.nhla.com
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
A BETTER PLAN? As everyone reading this knows, the USDA, at the request of a 15-member industry group, has published a proposed Order to create a hardwood lumber and hardwood plywood cooperative research and promotion program generally referred to as the Hardwood Check Off. Many in the hardwood lumber industry have concerns regarding this program including the following areas: • • • • •
What is the plan? What are the expected benefits of the proposal? What are the risks of the proposal? What is the government role in the proposed plan? Hardwood plywood in the proposed plan?
Let us examine each of these areas of concern.
WHAT IS THE PLAN? At various information presentations by proponents of the Check Off, the program goal set forth is “…to strengthen the position of hardwood lumber and hardwood products…”. No one would argue with a goal to make things better, but this statement is so vague that it is not very useful in the context of developing a plan whose success can be readily evaluated. There are no other details upon which to formulate expectations for this proposal. Does “strengthen” refer to pricing expectations, volume expectations, profitability expectations, or something else? If the initial proposal were to be adopted, our industry would be tasked with evaluating the performance of the program, and subsequent referenda to continue the program will depend upon this evaluation. A viable proposal should set forth a set of goals acceptable to the industry in order to gain initial approval as well as providing a basis for evaluating the outcome. Just as the information sessions have omitted the specific goals for this program, they have also passed over any discussions of strategies to accomplish a set of objectives. The proponents should be expected to present a proposed plan defining at least preliminary strategies and related action steps to be employed to achieve the stated goals. The industry should expect the plan to address how promotion and research dollars will be allocated across the very diverse range of products from industrial items such as rail ties, pallet material and crane mats to consumer oriented items such as flooring, furniture and cabinetry. A comprehensive credible plan would also address the wide range of grades and species as well as dealing with regional differences in our products. Many hardwood lumber producers believe that the proponents should offer a vision of where we might expect this plan to take us and how we expect to get there. They also believe the dynamics of our markets (products, species, grades, etc.) complicate an overall single thrust approach to promotion and research.
WHAT ARE THE EXPECTED BENEFITS? In the various information sessions, the proponents offered up examples of Check Offs that have been implemented by agricultural commodity producers. Many hardwood lumber producers believe their products are different in nature than commodities such as milk or cotton and cannot be effectively promoted in the same fashion. The breadth of commercially produced hardwood species, (more than 25 separate species reported weekly by the industry publications) does not appear to lend itself to simple commodity style promotional opportunities. Further, there are three or more grades traded in most of these species and production may be further divided across four or more thicknesses. This vast array of production items is sold across a similarly vast array of markets to customers literally scattered around the world. We believe any proposal to promote our products should clarify what benefits we can expect for our individual companies from the efforts. The plan should also clarify how those benefits will accrue across the vast range of products, market segments and the geographical distribution of our customer base.
RISKS TO OUR INDUSTRY? This proposed Order presents a number of risks to existing industry organizations and institutions. Research on various hardwood uses and issues is currently conducted by several major universities in their Wood Products Departments. For example, Virginia Tech developed the “Pallet Design System” (PDS). This system is widely used for designing pallets in the industry and has resulted in pallet designs to meet specific needs while improving wood utilization efficiencies, improving safety for shippers and warehouses, and improving distribution systems across the country and around the world. Funding for this research has been underwritten by the industry through its trade group, National Wood Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA). NWPCA is also currently involved in promotion of the products of its members, funding for which is likely to suffer with the adoption of this order. It should be noted that the NWPCA posted a comment with the USDA expressing numerous concerns with this proposal. Similarly the Railway Tie Association conducts research on treatment methods and utilization practices for wooden rail ties. The RTA also gathers market data and works to promote the products of its members. Also note that RTA has officially opposed the proposed order. We believe this proposed Check Off jeopardizes the voluntary contributions being made by the industry to these organizations and expect that some industrial hardwood producers will reduce their association contributions and even discontinue association participation in order to pay the mandatory assessments proposed under this order. Further, the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) has developed and maintained a hardwood lumber grading system for more than 115 years, which has greatly facilitated the trade of U.S. hardwoods domestically and internationally. We believe many producers will reduce CONTINUED
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M A R C H 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
A BETTER PLAN?
CONTINUED
their contributions to or discontinue their memberships in the NHLA if this order is adopted. The reaction we have heard from many members is that they will no longer need to support the NHLA if they are required to pay this assessment. We strongly believe and fear this would jeopardize the very existence of this organization and ultimately its widely used grading system.
GOVERNMENT ROLE? In various information sessions, the Check Off proponents have emphasized that this is not a government program. Their position seems to be that the day-to-day operations will be the responsibility of a twenty-eight member board of industry volunteers and therefore it isn’t really a government program. It is suggested that the government’s role in this program is essentially simple oversight of this committee by USDA representatives. The government’s role in this process goes beyond oversight from a distance of the Board’s activities. For starters, the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture has the sole power to appoint the members of the Board. They are recommended by the industry (note the order requires the initial board to be nominated by the fifteen proponents). The Secretary also has the sole power to dismiss board members. Perhaps more importantly, the government plays a key role in the assessment collection. The proposed assessment is mandatory, and enforcement of this collection process will be the responsibility of our government. Many of our industry will pay this assessment, not because of the value they believe is accruing to them but because it is a law. Our government clearly has a role in this proposed program. Another point offered by the proponents is that a government role may be acceptable if we as an industry simply hold our committee members and our government accountable for performance. As stated earlier, at this time there is no standard of expected performance established for which these parties can be held accountable. Further, the mechanics of accountability for two bodies, one government and one volunteer, which are neither elected nor hired nor paid is an open question.
HARDWOOD PLYWOOD IN THE PROPOSED PLAN? We have been told that we should view the plywood producers as our allies. Since they also depend upon harvesting trees, it has been suggested that we are in the same industry and that we should focus on our commonalities and work together to maximize the common opportunities. Many in the lumber industry struggle to view plywood producers as allies when plywood producers compete with lumber producers for their raw materials. This same concern shows up on the marketing and sales side of our business. Many hardwood producers have seen plywood offered as a substitute for their solid lumber when selling into the cabinet, furniture, and flooring markets. Plywood is marketed as an alternative to solid hardwood. One of the best indications of this is the Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association website which specifically recommends hardwood plywood as an alternative to solid hardwood lumber 8
M A R C H 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
SUBMIT A LETTER Letters to the Editor should be sent to Renee Hornsby, Director of Communications/Editor of Hardwood Matters at r.hornsby@nhla.com, by fax at 901-382-6419 or by mail to NHLA, Attention Renee Hornsby | PO Box 34518 | Memphis, TN 38184 Comments are also accepted at www.nhla.com/nhlablog The letters which appear are the opinions of the authors and do not represent the opinions of the Association. Letters to the Editor is continued on page 24.
A review of the Hardwood Plywood and Veneer Association website shows no category for solid hardwood lumber producers, nor does their membership list appear to include any hardwood lumber producers. HPVA does report that ninety percent of the hardwood plywood panel stock and veneer produced in North America is produced by its members. While NHLA allows plywood producers as members, only one of the HPVA members appears in the NHLA membership directory and even that company lists their business type as “manufacturing, other”. They do not list plywood as either their primary or secondary product. NHLA members who list plywood as a product appear to be largely limited to distribution members. This is further evidence that these two industries have historically not functioned as a single industry and in fact are separate and distinct industries. Many of us believe that hardwood plywood should not be part of a single promotional and research program alongside solid hardwood lumber. To conclude, the fact that neither this Check Off proposal, nor the proponent information sessions at various industry gatherings have presented a credible business proposition including objectives, action steps, and outcome expectations for this program is alone justification to reject this order. The fact that potential benefits remain unquantified making it impossible to establish and evaluate a cost/benefits ratio also justifies rejection. The risks to existing industry organizations are troublesome, as is the combination of two distinct industries in a single promotion and research program. Finally, additional government participation, even at this level, is troublesome. Based upon these concerns, I believe the hardwood lumber producers of our industry should reject this proposed Order. I would like to express my appreciation to the NHLA for the opportunity to express these views and beliefs in respect to this proposed Order. Best Regards, Steve Johnson General Manager, Thompson Hardwoods Inc. NHLA member since 1968 Founding Member U.S. Hardwood Lumber Coalition Past Sawmill Owner W W W. N H L A .CO M
INSIDE NHLA
NHLA REPRESENTS AT IHLA ANNuAL CONVENTION
HARDWOOD fEDERATION WINTER bOARD MEETING
The NHLA staff recently participated at the IHLA Annual Convention & Exposition, representing the NHLA Inspection Services department and the Inspector Training School. IHLA reported great attendance and the exhibit hall was full.
NHLA President Scott Heidler and Executive Director Mark Barford led a team of NHLA participants at the winter board meeting of the Hardwood Federation and the Hardwood Federation Political Action Committee.(HFPAC) The business meeting went smoothly with Hardwood Federation Executive Director Dana Lee Cole reporting that the Federation finished the year with a slight budget surplus and anticipate doing the same in 2014. A good part of the meeting was spent reviewing and prioritizing issues for the HF staff, along with a summary of their success.
During the General Session, NHLA Executive Director, Mark Barford, unveiled the new Inspector Training School video and updates to the NHLA KD Certification Program to the audience. The presentations led to Chief Inspector Dana Spessert receiving numerous enrollees into the KD Certification Program and National Inspector Barry Kibbey reported receiving multiple new short course opportunities around the country as well as considerable interest in the Inspector Training School.
“At the end of the meeting several participants visited the office of Senator James E. Risch from Idaho who is the only certified forester serving in Congress,” Barford reported. “It was encouraging to hear his hopes for some new coalitions that are forming to further the management of the national forests especially in regards to reducing fire risk.” SAVE THE DATE for The Hardwood Federations fall Fly-In September 8–10
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12/6/13 3:51 PM
NATIONAL HARDWOOD LUMBER ASSOCIATION RULES CHANGE BALLOT RESULTS FOR 2015 BY DANA SPESSERT, NHLA CHIEF INSPECTOR
Every four years NHLA asks for Rules change proposals from the membership to be considered. The submittals are first collected by the Chief Inspector and a list is compiled for the meeting of the Rules Committee. The list is sent to the Rules Committee for review prior to the Rules Committee meeting at the NHLA oďŹƒce in Memphis, Tenn. The Rules Committee consists of a Chairman that is appointed by the NHLA President, a minimum of 11 members of various segments of the industry and the Chief Inspector. Before the Rules change submissions are vetted at the Rules Committee meeting, the industry has an opportunity to be present at the beginning of the meeting to explain the reason for the change or to state a case against any proposed change. After the industry representatives have an opportunity to address the committee, the meeting is then closed and the vetting process begins. The Rules change proposals that make it through this process are then discussed at the NHLA Annual Convention and afterwards sent to the Active members on a ballot for a vote. Any submitted Rules change proposal receiving a favorable 2/3 majority vote of the ballots cast shall be added to the next Rules book. In January 2014, NHLA successfully fulfilled its mission of maintaining the Rules for the Inspection of Hardwood Lumber through the Rules change process. All of the following Rules changes will take eect as of January 1, 2015, so please read carefully all of the approved Rules changes for the upcoming 2015 NHLA Rules Book.
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#1
INSPECTION Of SuRfACED LuMbER
PASSED – 80 IN fAVOR 12 AGAINST – 87% Page 58, Replace current “Surfaced Lumber Hit or Miss” rule with the following. surFaced LumBer hit or miss
Lumber surfaced two sides to a thickness greater than standard surfaced thickness and specified “hit or miss”, shall allow skip, chips, or torn grain without limit provided that the cutting area is sufficiently thick to permit surfacing to standard surfaced thickness and conform to the rules for lumber surfaced to standard surfaced thickness.
#2
TALLyING ON 12 fT. bASIS
PASSED – 72 IN fAVOR 14 AGAINST – 84% Page 8 add to paragraph 21 Note: End Tally refers to the method of board footage measurement where lumber is tallied on a 12 Ft. basis as described in paragraph 21 except all width measurements are taken from the ends of boards after the lumber has been stacked in bundles. It is recognized that there will be some minor differences in end tally measurement from “board measure” method. In cases of footage dispute caused by the use of both measurement methods, the footage as determined by “board measure” will supersede.”
#3
PACIfIC COAST RED ALDER
Passed – 53 in favor 16 against – 77% Pages 30 and 31 replace all rules All Pacific Coast Red Alder lumber is sold and specified “Pin knots no defect”, knots or their equivalent, not exceeding 1/4" in their greatest dimension, sound or containing unsound centers not over 1/8" in diameter, shall be admitted in the cuttings. General Instructions and Standard Grades (Pages 6–19) shall govern the measurement and inspection of all commercial hardwoods indigenous to the Northwest hardwood belt, with the exceptions as set forth under the respective species. These rules shall apply to green, dry, rough or surfaced lumber. The better face of boards in all thicknesses shall yield not less than the minimum percentage of cuttings required for the grade, unless otherwise specified; the reverse side of the cuttings in all thicknesses shall be sound as defined in “SOUND CUTTING,” or better, unless otherwise specified. No exception shall be made to these rules unless agreed to by the seller and the buyer and specifically stated in the purchase order. superiors
Widths: 4" & Wider Lengths: 6' & longer Minimum Size Cuttings (face): 4" wide by 3' long, or 3" wide by 6' long. Minimum Size Cuttings (reverse): 4" wide by 2' long or 3" wide by 3' long. There is no limit to the number of cuttings.
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Admits pieces of 2' and over surface measure that will not yield less than 83 1/3% (10/12) on the better face with the reverse side grading not below Cabinet grade (66 2/3% or 8/12). The reverse side of the cuttings in both the Superiors and Cabinet grade face is not required to be sound. Pith: No piece shall be admitted which contains pith, boxed or showing, exceeding in the aggregate in inches in length twice the surface measure in feet. Splits: No piece shall be admitted which contains splits exceeding in the aggregate in inches in length twice the surface measure of the piece in feet. Wane: On the face side of Superiors, wane or its equivalent shall be limited to 1/2 the length in the aggregate on either edge or 1/12 the surface measure of the piece. On the reverse or Cabinet side, wane or its equivalent shall not exceed one fourth the width by three-fourths the length in the aggregate, or pieces may alternately have wane one-third the width by one-half the length in the aggregate. Width of the wane may be divided and show on both edges. Side bend: No piece shall be admitted which contains side bend exceeding 5/8". There is no 1st Lineal Foot Rule or restriction to knot size outside the cutting area. caBinet Gr ade
Widths: 4" and wider, of which 5% of 3" width is admitted. Lengths: 6' and longer There is no limit to the number of cuttings. Minimum Size Cuttings: 4" wide by 2' long or 3" wide by 3' long. The grade shall be determined from the worst face of the board. Admits pieces of 1' and over surface measure that will not yield less than 66 2/3% (8/12) clear-two-face cuttings. custom shop Gr ade
Widths: 4" and wider, of which 5% of 3" width is admitted. Lengths: 6’ and longer There is no limit to the number of cuttings. Minimum Size Cuttings: 4" wide by 2' long or 3" wide by 3' long. The grade shall be determined from the better face of the board. Admits pieces of 1' and over surface measure that will not yield less than 66 2/3% (8/12) clear-face cuttings with the reverse side of the cuttings sound as defined in “Sound Cutting”. com-shop
Widths: 4" and wider, of which 5% of 3" width is admitted. Lengths: 5' and longer There is no limit to the number of cuttings. Minimum Size Cuttings: 3" wide by 2' long. The grade shall be determined from the better face of the board. Admits pieces of 1' and over surface measure that will not yield less than 50% (6/12) clear-face cuttings with the reverse side of the cuttings sound as defined in “Sound Cutting”. M A R C H 2 0 1 4 H A R D W O O D M AT T E R S
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Knotty Alder: Premium/Rustic/Character (Grade) Widths: 4" and wider
#3 / Econo Fr ame Gr ade
Lengths: 7' and longer
Widths: 4" and wider
There is no limit to the number of cuttings.
Lengths: 5' and longer
Min. Size Cuttings (face): 4" wide by 2' long with a minimum of one 4" wide by 7' long cutting in each piece.
Minimum Size Cutting: 3" wide by 2' long There is no limit to the number of cuttings. Yield: 33 1/3% structurally sound cuttings.
Min. Size Cuttings (reverse): 4" wide by 2' long. Best Face Yield: 83 1/3% structurally sound yield.
Cuttings will admit stain, season checks, slight surface shake, bark pockets, firm tight pith, worm holes, and sound knots that do not exceed in their greatest dimension one-half the width of the cutting.
Worst Face Yield: 66 2/3% structurally sound yield to grade not below Frame Grade. The cuttings will admit slight season checks, bark pockets, firm tight pith, worm holes, sound knots, star checked knots and unsound knots. Wane shall not exceed one-fourth the width or one half the length of the piece. Width of wane may be divided and shown on both edges. Grades may be selected and packaged individually or combined together as to the manufacturer’s specifications. Pith: Admitted without limitation. Splits: No piece shall be admitted which contains splits exceeding in the aggregate in inches in length twice the surface measure of the piece in feet. Side bend: No piece shall be admitted which contains side bend exceeding 5/8" in 3/8 to 5/4 or 1" in 6/4 to 24/4. Knots: Unsound knots that go through the piece are not admitted. Maximum Premium Knot Size (face): 1" unsound & 1 ½" sound. Maximum Rustic/Character Knot Size (face): 1 ½" unsound & 3" sound. Each required cutting must contain a minimum of one character for each 8 units. Fr ame Gr ade
Widths: 4" and wider Lengths: 6' and longer There is no limit to the number of cuttings. Yield: 66 2/3% structurally sound yield from worst face of the board with the reverse side sound. Minimum Size Cutting: 4" wide by 2' long except that each piece must contain at least one cutting 4" wide by 6' long. The cuttings will admit stain, season checks, slight surface shake, bark pockets, firm tight pith, worm holes, and sound knots that do not exceed in their greatest dimension one-half the width of the cutting. Other holes and unsound knots that do not exceed in their greatest dimension 1 ½" in 4" to 5" wide cuttings and 2" in 6" and wider cuttings are admitted. Wane shall not exceed one-fourth the width or one-half the length of the piece. Width of wane may be divided and shown on both edges. Length of wane allowed both edges. Other defects are admitted if they do not impair the strength of the cuttings.
Other holes and unsound knots that do not exceed in their greatest dimension 1½" in 4" to 5" wide cuttings and 2" in 6"and wider cuttings are admitted. Other defects are admitted if they do not impair the strength of the cuttings.
#4 Inspection of Cypress Lumber Passed – 57 in favor 9 against – 86% Page 40, paragraph 11 replace with: Moisture Contents
Kiln dried moisture contents by weight 5/4 and under 11% to 15% 6/4 and over 13% to 18% Air dried moisture content not to exceed 18%
#5 Inspection of Cypress Lumber Passed – 59 in favor 7 against – 89% Page 40, add new paragraph Standard Thicknesses
Standard thicknesses for rough lumber are: 1", 1-1/4", 1-1/2", 1-3/4", 2", 2-1/2", 3", 3-1/2", 4", 4-1/2", 5", 5-1/2", and 6". Thicknesses may also be expressed in quarter inches as follows: 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 7/4, 8/4, 10/4, 12/4, 14/4, 16/4, 18/4, 20/4, 22/4 and 24/4. Thickness in rough sawn lumber must be 1/16" to 1/8" over nominal thickness. When dry, lumber must be full thickness allowing 10% 1/16" scant. Measurement and Tally Page 40, paragraph 9 (Added to above paragraph) Remove: Thickness in rough sawn lumber must be 1/16" to 1/8" over nominal thickness. When dry, lumber must be full thickness allowing 10% 1/16" scant.
#6 Inspection of Cypress Lumber Passed – 59 in favor 8 against – 88% Page 40, add new paragraph Warp and Cup
Entire board must be flat enough to surface both sides at 1/4" less than nominal thickness, no skip allowed.
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#7 Inspection of Cypress Lumber
#9 Inspection of Cypress Lumber
Passed – 56 in favor 8 against – 88%
Passed – 58 in favor 7 against – 89%
Pages 46 and 47 change
Page 48
Selects & Better – paragraph 86 under “Defects which can be substituted for 1 medium knot”
No. 2 Common
Remove: Fine shake (Par. 64) equal to the width of the board Remove: 3 Medium Surface Checks – 1 medium surface check is 4–10" long and 1/32" wide” Selects & Better – paragraph 86 Add: Season checks that can be removed by surfacing to 1/4" under standard thickness shall be admitted.
#8 Inspection of Cypress Lumber Passed – 57 in favor 8 against – 88%
Remove: Grade same as No. 1 Common except admits: unlimited diameter sound or (unsound knots), pith knots, slight peck, shake and checks. Add: Grade same as No. 1 Common except admits: unlimited diameter sound or (unsound knots), pith knots and slight peck. Add: Checks not extending through the piece shall be admitted without limit providing they do not impair the strength of the piece. Add: Shake is limited to one face only and no more than 10% of the length of the piece in the aggregate.
Pages 47 and 48 change
#10 Standard Inspection by species
No. 1 Common
Passed – 68 in favor 8 against – 89%
Add (page 47): Admits any number of the following or equivalent: checks not extending through the piece and not impairing the strength of the piece, stain, slight peck, and pin worm holes. Add (page 48): Will admit split equal to the width of board in the aggregate. Remove: Shake that does not go through, stain, splits that do not exceed the width of the board in inches.
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Page 34 ungroup Aspen from “Sap Gum, Cottonwood, BlackGum, Tupelo, Magnolia, Willow and Aspen (Popple)” Aspen
FAS, F1F, Select and No.1 Common: Standard No. 2A Common: Standard except stain is admitted No. 2B Common: Standard No. 3A Common: Standard, except: Cuttings to be sound as defined in “Sound Cutting.” No. 3B Common: Standard.
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#11 MISCuT LuMbER Passed – 65 in favor 25 against – 72% Page 5 replace existing rule with: Rough lumber shall be categorized for Standard Thickness by the measurement taken at the thinnest cutting used in establishing the grade. If there is a greater variation in thickness over the entire length of the piece than shown in the following table, the board shall be classed miscut. 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", and 3/4" 4/4" and 5/4" 6/4" and 7/4" 8/4", 10/4" and 12/4" 14/4" to 24/4"
minus 0" / plus 3/16" minus 0" / plus 1/4" minus 0" / plus 3/8" minus 0" / plus 1/2" minus 0" / plus 5/8"
A special thanks to all of the loyal and dedicated members who took the time to vote! Please feel free to contact Chief Inspector Dana Spessert with any questions about these Rules changes. Dana Spessert can be reached at 901-399-7551 or d.spessert@nhla.com.
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DUNAVANT.COM
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¿HAbLAS ESPAÑOL?
NHLA is Proud to Announce the Inspector Training School bilingual Spanish 175th Class This summer, NHLA will host a bilingual Spanish Inspector Training School Class at NHLA headquarters in Memphis, TN – June 2 to August 8 with the use of Spanish language interpreters. Class hours will be 8am to 4pm, Monday through friday. Students of the program will also participate in scheduled NHLA member company visits and have the opportunity to network with North American suppliers. Space is limited, enroll early! NHLA would like to encourage domestic members with Spanish speaking employees to participate and share this information with their Spanish language lumber buyers or overseas agents/employees. Register online at nhla.com or contact NHLA Chief Inspector Dana Spessert for more information at 901-399-7551 or email d.spessert@nhla.com National Hardwood Lumber Association www.nhla.com
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NHLA KILN DRYING CERTIFICATE REPLACES USDA PHYTOSANITARY NHLA is happy to report that NHLA member company, Emporium Hardwoods has successfully shipped to the European Union solely with the NHLA Kiln Drying Certificate. Emporium Hardwoods, a division of Rossi Group, shipped hardwood lumber containers to the United Kingdom on January 8 with no incident. On December 18, 2013 the European Union implemented the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between NHLA and the USDA APHIS as the NHLA KD Certificate replaces the need for a Phytosanitary Certificate (PC). Six years ago, NHLA entered into the agreement with the USDA APHIS for the substitution of the APHIS Phytosanitary Certificate. The NHLA program achieves the same goals as the APHIS Phytosanitary Certificate but a less cost to both APHIS and the U.S. hardwood industry. The Program involves regular inspections of subscribing hardwood facilities in the U.S. by both NHLA contracted inspectors and APHIS inspector to ensure continuing conformance to the Kiln Drying Sawn Hardwood Standard. The current countries that accept the NHLA KD Certificate as an equivalent to the PHYTO are listed in the side bar. The European Union countries accepted hardwoods are: oaks, sycamore, Hard Maple and Pacific Coast Maple, not ash.
COUNTRIES ACCEPTING NHLA KD CERTIFICATE Australia Brazil Austria Belgium Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Hungary Ireland Italy
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Latvia Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden United Kingdom Venezuela Vietnam
China and Mexico are currently reviewing acceptance of the NHLA KD Certificate. Information will be released on additional country acceptance as NHLA is notified. If your company is interested in learning more about the program or would like to join, contact Chief Inspector Dana Spessert at 901-399-7551 or by email at d.spessert@nhla.com.
NHLA would like to thank former NHLA President Ted Rossi for the hard work and dedication he has shown through his leadership and tenacity in obtaining the acceptance of the NHLA KD CertiďŹ cation Program in several countries; most recently in to the European union. Mr. Rossi travelled to many countries on behalf of NHLA, tirelessly speaking with foreign Plant Protection and Quarantine boards to explain and deliver the message of the NHLA cost saving program. Thank you Mr. Rossi.
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INSuRANCE CORNER
IN bEETLE-KILL AREAS, PREPARATION IS THE KEy TO WILDfIRE SAfETy by ben Peetz, ASP CfPS, Senior Loss Prevention Specialist, Lumbermen’s underwriting Alliance Destructive wildfires are again attacking parts of the country with a vengeance. Certain areas affected by beetle kill are especially prone to wildfires because of the high volume of excessively dry fuels. When dry weather and low humidity conditions hit your area, being properly prepared can greatly reduce your losses and overall risk from a wildfire situation. Wildfires are called wild for a reason – they are often uncontrollable and devastating. What is controllable, however, is the preparation you can do to protect your property from damage and losses when a wildfire threatens. Ultimately, the difference between survival and destruction is whether some part of the building catches fire. To properly fight wildfires, we must first understand conditions that can affect them. Fuel, wind, and topography all play the biggest roles in the damage caused by wildfires. Of these factors, the control of fuel around our properties is the easiest and most logical approach. In areas especially prone to wildfire, this should actually be considered in every decision that is made for exterior areas. There are two primary areas of concern when it comes to fuel considerations and limiting ignition from exposure to a wildfire. 1.
2.
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A number of features, materials and design details of the structures themselves can make them vulnerable to a wildfire. Assess building construction, including roofing and siding materials, and determine where the highest risk of ignition exists. Look at construction aspects that could trap or encourage embers to settle and cause ignition. Other key risk factors include vents that can allow embers to enter the building, as well as debris that collects in gutters and in various locations along the roof and wall lines.Assess the amount of other combustibles near the buildings. Fences, decks, outside storage and other structures could collect combustible debris, or may be combustible themselves, which could contribute to a fire loss by bringing a fire right up to the building. Additionally, be sure to assess the dangers to outside fuel storage, like firewood piles and propane or motor fuel tanks. Proper management of the yard areas and the surrounding wildlands and vegetation can reduce the risk of an approaching wildfire getting close enough for flames to touch the structures or stock, or for radiant energy to preheat or ignite your values. Even embers from a fire a mile away may fall onto the structure or log decks and cause a fire.
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Consider using a “class A foam” additive to extend the available water. By using this surfactant you can increase the effectiveness of the water as it is applied. When mixed in correct proportions with water, the substance actually changes properties of the water to make it “wetter”. The additive will increase wetting effectiveness by reducing the surface tension, which allows for greater penetration into class A fuels, such as wood and fiber products. It also gives water a slight foaming ability, which allows water to remain on surfaces longer and cling to vertical and horizontal surfaces without run off. This allows the water to absorb more heat and prolong potential ignition from radiant hear. By adding just a small quantity of a class “A” foam concentrate into a water supply, the effectiveness of the water can be increased up to 5 times. Outdoor yard maintenance is also of the utmost importance. Keeping the grass and other vegetation around your property cut short and wellwatered will cut down on dry fuel that could be easily ignited. Examine areas around the yard to determine if any “ladder fuels” should be removed. Ladder fuels include trees, shrubs, or other combustibles that could allow fire to climb to higher elevations and then jump or rain down on structures and other fuels. Overall, the most important thing you can do to reduce losses from wildfire is to assess all aspects of your particular situation and properly prepare ahead of time. For more information on any of these recommendations, contact your LUA representative, or visit www.firewise.org
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fOuNDATION fOCuS
TREE EDuCATION TAKES THE STAGE IN VEGAS by Crystal Oldham, Executive Director – Hardwood forest foundation The Hardwood Forest Foundation’s Truth About Trees program recently took center stage at the International Surfaces Event, held at Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, as 50 local schoolchildren from Thomas J. O’Roarke Elementary School learned the benefits of properly harvesting trees. This educational experience was the result of a partnership with National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) and National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA). “To be asked to present Truth About Trees at a show as large as Surfaces is truly an opportunity that the Foundation was excited about. There is no better way to show folks the importance of the Foundation’s work than to bring in children and allow adults to witness their wheels turn,” said Emmy Nominated Foundation Spokesperson Tommy MacDonald. “I guarantee if you walk into any classroom in North America and ask the students how many of them think that it is ‘bad’ to cut down a tree, most every child will raise their hand, as will most teachers. The Foundation works hard to change this image of the forest products industry through education and partnerships allow it to do it on a much grander scale,” MacDonald added.
Children were bussed into the convention center where they learned the benefits of properly harvesting as a means to obtain all of the necessary items we use in our everyday lives. In addition, they were treated with a pizza lunch and had the opportunity to chat with some of the most successful professionals in the hardwood lumber industry. “Upon attending a similar event at the recent NHLA Annual Convention & Exhibit Showcase in Ft. Worth, TX, I knew NWFA needed to host the Foundation and its educational program, Truth About Trees at Surfaces. It’s amazing what this program can teach young people in a short period of time through keeping them engaged with scientific resources and everyday common sense learning,” said Michael Martin, President and CEO of NWFA.
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LEGISLATIVE LOG
THE fARM bILL by Dana Lee Cole, Executive Director – Hardwood federation After two years of debate, close calls and frustrating delays, we have a five-year Farm Bill! On February 7, 2014, President Obama signed the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act of 2013 (better known as the Farm Bill) at Michigan State University. The Farm Bill includes a number of provisions that are very important to the Hardwood Industry. The Hardwood Federation has been a vocal proponent for five-year authorization and focused much of our time and energy on communicating this priority to Members of Congress and the Administration. The bill offers long term certainty to vital programming and important codification of environmental best practices that have been continually challenged in the courts. Highlights of the bill include: trade promotion: The Farm Bill includes full authorized annual funding of $200 million for Market Access Program (MAP) and $34.5 million for Foreign Market Development program (FMD) through 2018. The Hardwood Federation’s attention now turns to making sure these dollars start flowing to the American Hardwood Export Council in an efficient and expeditious manner. Forest roads designation: Compromise language in the bill provides forest landowners with a comfortable level of regulatory certainty that harvesting operations will not require costly and burdensome point source water quality permits. The language allows EPA authority to take measures regarding these activities if future circumstances demonstrate the need to address adverse impacts to water quality caused by discharges of storm water from silvicultural activities. Bio-based Labeling and procurement program: Language in the bill clarifies that forest products are eligible for the USDA’s Biobased Labeling and Procurement program if they have bio-based content and “apply innovative approaches in the growing, harvesting, sourcing, procuring, and manufacturing of the product.” Proponents of this measure, including the Hardwood Federation, believe that the overwhelming majority of forest products meet this standard. The provision also provides $3 million per year to implement the program.
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Forestry: The Farm Bill contains several forestry provisions of interest, including: • Good Neighbor Authority – The program is expanded to all 50 states under the Farm Bill. The Good Neighbor program allows for better coordination between federal and state officials in promoting healthy state forests. • Stewardship Contracting – The bill permanently authorizes stewardship contracting on federal lands. There is also language which provides the same fire liability provisions utilized under the current timber sales program to be available for Stewardship Contracts. • Insect and Disease Infestation on Public Lands – The bill designates treatment areas (as part of an insect and disease treatment program) in at least one National forest in each state. The program would be applied on a landscape scale and treatment areas would enjoy categorical exclusions from NEPA as long as they are less than 3,000 acres and comply with some other conditions. renewable energy: Renewable energy programs supporting thermal energy from biomass were reauthorized and provided mandatory funding by the Farm Bill. These include: • The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which helps finance efficiency upgrades for biomass boilers. The bill provides $50 million in mandatory funding each year. • The Bio-energy Program for Advanced Bio-fuels, which provides direct payments to advanced bio-fuel producers. Program eligibility currently includes densified biomass fuel (pellets) and sawdust. This program will receive $15 million per year in mandatory funding. • Encourages research on wood as a green building material as well as life cycle assessment (LCA). Research will be conducted through the Forest Products Laboratory. The bill also calls for an annual progress report on the research and investments.
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CALENDAR
WH ERE IN THE WOR LD IS N H LA?
EDUCATION & TRAIN I NG
HMA 2014 National Conference & Expo
Inspector Training School 174th Class
Savannah, GA | March 12–14 Attending: Mark Barford, CAE, Executive Director
Frederic, MI | March 10 – May 15 Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569
Interzum
Graduation ITS 173rd Class
Guangzhou, China | March 28–April 1 Participating: Dana Spessert, Chief Inspector
NWFA Flooring Expo Music City Center | Nashville, TN | April 16–19 Participating: Mark Barford, CAE, Executive Director
Memphis, TN | March 28 NHLA Headquarters 8am Open House | 9am Commencement
Flex-Day Lumber Grading Short Course
Sandstone, VA | May 16–17 Attending: John Hester, Director of Membership
Memphis, TN | April 7–11 NHLA Headquarters Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
IWF 2014
International Marketing for Forest Products Industries
Expo Richmond 2014
Atlanta, GA | August 20–23 Participating: John Hester, Director of Membership
I N DUSTRY EVENTS 2014 AHMI Annual Meeting
Ecobuild
Boca Raton Resort Club Boca Raton, FL | February 26–March 2
London | March 4–6
Memphis, TN | May 7 NHLA Headquarters Instructor: Dr. Henry Quesada Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
Bilingual Spanish Inspector Training School 175th Class Memphis, TN | June 2–August 8 NHLA Headquarters Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course Millersburg, OH | June 9–12 Yoder Lumber Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector Contact: Gayla Fleming | 614-497-9580
4-Day Lumber Grading Short Course Randolph, NY | June 23–26 Raber’s Mill Instructor: Barry Kibbey, NHLA National Inspector Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.com
Flex-Day Lumber Grading Short Course Memphis, TN | August 18–22 NHLA Headquarters Instructor: Rich Hascher, NHLA ITS Instructor Contact: Becky Miller | 901-399-7569 | b.miller@nhla.coM Visit www.nhla.com/calendar for more updates.
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JOB BOARD
Lumber Inspector
Wieland & Sons Lumber Co., located between Dubuque & Waterloo, Iowa is currently seeking a lumber inspector for the Planing departments. Willing to train to the right candidate. Great benefits package including health, life, 401k, profit sharing & much more. Salary is negotiable. To apply send resume to mpporter@netins.net Wieland & Sons Lumber Co. 644 220th St. | Winthrop, IA 50682 319-935-3936 | 319-935-3916 (fax) www.wlumber.com
Hardwood Lumber Procurement Representative
Hartzell Hardwoods is seeking a hardwood lumber procurement representative for the Missouri, Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin Region (Remote location). The basic function of this position is to develop a working knowledge of company procurement program for hardwood lumber; maintain and develop new hardwood vendors and procure lumber from MO, IA, IL, and WI areas. Qualifications and Required Skills: 1. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in procurement of hardwood lumber 2. Bachelor’s degree in business a plus 3. Must have excellent negotiation skills 4. Good understanding of hardwood market prices and NHLA rules 5. Must have an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Office products. 6. Experience with ERP systems a plus 7. Excellent math and analytical skills 8. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team environment 9. Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Lumber Inspector
Kane Hardwood Division/Collins Companies is looking for a graduate of the NHLA Inspector Training School, preferably with some experience, but not necessary. Candidates should be familiar with grading green & kiln dried lumber. The position offers competitive wages (dependent upon experience), monthly bonuses available for production, attendance & safety, 401K, and good benefits including dental, medical, vision and prescription. The Collins companies are a stable, family owned business having more than 150 years in business. The sawmill is presently in its 39th year and we have extensive land holdings where most of the logs come. We mostly process Cherry, Soft Maple, Red Oak, Hard Maple and Poplar, cutting around 16 million board feet per year and dry around 12 million. Applicants should send resumes to the company info below by mail, fax or email to Henry Feikls at HFeikls@Collinsco.com. Kane Hardwood Division/Collins Companies 95 Hardwood Dr. | Kane, PA 16735 814-837-6941 | 814-837-8401 (fax)
Lumber Inspector
Masco Cabinetry operates lumber sorting equipment that requires strong attention to detail & hand-eye coordination along with ability to tolerate heights & all types of weather. The lumber inspector is responsible for accurate measure of lumber based on NHLA grading Rules. Qualified candidates will demonstrate a commitment to safety and have at least 3 years of experience grading hardwood lumber and/or a degree from a certified hardwood inspector school. Must have the ability to lift 50 lbs. & work in a fast-paced environment. This is a 2nd shift position. The position offers attractive benefits package & compensation. To apply mail resume to: Human Resources Masco Cabinetry 217 Lamoka Rd. Sayre, PA 18840 or email This position is a remote location allowing an individual to work from home. to: sayrejobs@mascocabinetry.com To apply visit www.hartzell.com Masco Cabinetry 217 Lamoka Rd. | Sayre, PA 18840 Product Procurement Manager Hartzell Hardwoods is seeking a Product Procurement Manager. Basic Functions of this position are: Develops a working knowledge of company procurement program for hardwood lumber. Directs and coordinates activities of procurement team including two employees working off site; assists in retention and development of new hardwood vendors; manages the procurement of hardwood lumber while controlling inventory levels to achieve inventory turn objectives. Qualifications and Required Skills: 1. Minimum of 5 years’ of management experience ideally in a procurement, sales, or purchasing department 2. Bachelor’s degree in business related field 3. Experience in process improvement initiatives 4. Must have excellent negotiation skills 5. Must have an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Office products. 6.Experience with ERP systems a plus 7. Excellent math and analytical skills. 8. Strong team working and interpersonal skills. 9.Excellent written and verbal communication To apply visit www.hartzell.com Hartzell Hardwoods 1025 S. Roosevelt Ave. | Piqua, OH
Lumber Inspector
Midwest Hardwood Corporation is seeking a lumber inspector with the ability to grade dry and green lumber in a modern, heated production oriented facility. NHLA graduate or experienced inspector is preferred. The position will be based in Reedsburg, Wisconsin. Salary is based upon experience and a full benefit package is available. To apply contact Doug Hilber by email at: doughilber@midwesthardwood.com or call 608-524-2422 ext. 16; or fax: 608-524-2040 Midwest Hardwood Corporation 1580 Laukant St | Reedsburgs, WI 53959
Dry Kiln Operator
Devereaux Sawmill is seeking a dry kiln operator. Duties involve properly drying and conditioning of all hardwood lumber to achieve maximum value and yield. Candidates with prior experience in drying all thicknesses of hardwood lumber with special emphasis on white woods are preferred. Candidates with at least 5 years of kiln drying experience are also preferred. The ideal person will be able to dry high value items such as rift and quarter hard maple, walnut, and cherry in different thicknesses. Also must show knowledge in drying thick red oak and white oak properly. Salary is based upon experience and benefits include: health insurance, paid vacation and 401K. To apply contact todd@devereauxsawmill.com Devereaux Sawmill 2872 N Hubbardston Rd. | Pewamo, MI 48873 989-593-2552 | www.devereauxsawmill.com
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JOB BOARD
B.Y. Lumber Company is seeking a lumber inspector for a hardwood sawmill in Southern Maryland. The position is open to new NHLA graduates or experienced inspectors. Salary is based upon years of experience. B.Y. Lumber offers a friendly environment and has been in business since 1979. To apply by phone call 301-870-2110; by fax at 301-932-2129 or by email at: bylumber@hotmail.com B.Y. Lumber Company 4770 Crain Highway P.O. Box 442 White Plains, MD 20695 301-870-2110 | 301-932-2129 (fax)
Lumber Inspector
Gutchess Hardwoods is seeking a lumber inspector to inspect incoming and outgoing lumber according to NHLA Rules at the assigned grading deck and to saw list requirements. The position will visually inspect lumber according to species, grade, and dimension and will use NHLA lumber grading Rules to inspect lumber. Qualified candidates will have a high school diploma or higher with experience providing skills suitable for this position, with NHLA grading Rules training. Benefits include: Employee Stock Ownership; Life, Health & Dental Insurance; Profit Sharing; 401k Deposit Matching and competitive pay. Gutchess Hardwoods offers competitive pay and a superior benefits package. If you share our vision of excellence, then we invite you to join our winning team! To apply email: jlortiz@gutchess.com. Gutchess Hardwoods 185 Devereux Rd. | Latrobe, PA 15650 724-537-6447 | 607-428-8097 (fax) www.gutchess.com
Lumber Inspector
Parton Lumber Company is seeking a NHLA certified lumber inspector with the ability to grade at a high paced planer mill. Parton Lumber is a stable company with competitive pay. Salary is dependent upon experience. To apply contact Dupey Harris at 828-442-5125 Parton Lumber Company 251 Parton Rd. | Rutherfordton, NC 28139 828-287-9669 | 828-287-9423 (fax) www.partonlumber.com
Lumber Inspector
White River Hardwoods,Inc 42162 Co Hwy E | Mason, WI 54856 715-278-3993 | 715-278-3994 (fax)
Lumber Inspector
Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods is searching for an NHLA-certified lumber inspector for its green sawmill in Huntland, TN. Send resumes to lauraann@thompsonappalachian.com with subject line - NHLA Job Posting Thompson Appalachian Hardwoods 100 Harless Dr. | Huntland, TN 37345 931-469-7272 | 931-469-7269 (fax) www.thompsonappalachian.com
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To view currernt job postings or to post a job, visit www.nhla.com/jobboard.
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®
White River Hardwoods,Inc is seeking a NHLA certified lumber inspector. The position will rotate with other inspectors doing various jobs in a heated mill. The salary is negotiable. To apply send resume via email to: wrhi@ cheqnet.net or call.
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
HARDWOOD CHECKOFF NEEDED FOR RESEARCH, PUBLIC EDUCATION AND PROMOTION My name is Jim Howard, owner of Atlanta Hardwood Corporation, and a supporter of the hardwood Check Off. I would like to share my perspective on why I believe a Check Off is imperative for the long-term health of our industry. For ten years prior, I served on the Hardwood Council, two years as the co-chairman. This predecessor organization was charged with our industry-wide domestic hardwood promotion effort. Our target audience was specifiers, architects and pro-sumers. We solicited donations from the various industry associations and private companies. The majority of the funding came from two industry trade associations, HMA and NHLA. Sue Reagan, who served as executive director, had an advertising and marketing background and initiated numerous programs. Sadly, our number one challenge was lack of consistent funding. During this ten year period, our annual budget averaged under $250,000/year and we never received donations from more than fifty individual companies in a given year. Although we had talented, creative advertising consultants, with minimal revenues it proved impossible to move the needle. I personally don’t believe you will ever achieve a sufficient promotion revenue stream relying on voluntary contributions. Raising revenue for needed research (i.e. life cycle analysis or public education on forestry issues) is even more difficult. My experience as an industry CEO has been it is virtually impossible for our fragmented industry to coalesce and collectively invest in research, promotion or education. During the late 1990’s, the hardwood industry exceeded 12 billion board feet of production, yet despite billions in revenue and a profitable business climate, we have never invested sufficient resources in research, public education or promotion. Today, the various hardwood trade associations lack the budget resources for promotion and consequently the Hardwood Council was sunset. Traditionally as an industry, we’ve only marketed to ourselves. Even a million dollar advertising budget is insufficient. It would take a long-term multi-million dollar campaign to change consumer behavior. Despite hardwoods’ overwhelming green credentials such as low embedded energy and low carbon impact and sustainability, many believe using wood is detrimental to the environment. How can we tell our story without funding? The genesis of the Check Off originated at the August 2010 Hardwood Leaders Forum in Charlotte, North Carolina, a program sponsored by the USDA Forest Service and George Barrett’s Hardwood Publishing Co., Inc. The consensus #1 issue from the Hardwood Leaders Forum was the need for promotion and sustainable funding. The hardwood attendees included broad 24
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representation from 25 different hardwood industry segments and numerous trade associations including officers of many of the affiliated associations. The idea of a Check Off came from this meeting. The compelling questions is should we stay the course and forgo industry-wide promotion, research and public education? Or alternatively do we collectively allocate approximately 1/10 penny per board foot sold toward industry vetted programs for promotion, research and education? To me, the definition of insanity is to do nothing and continue to allow our market share to erode. The steel industry has spent millions to promote steel studs, luxury vinyl flooring is eroding traditional flooring markets, and composite products are widely used in furniture and cabinetry. The Check Off draft Order has been published for public comment. As drafted, the legal document creating the Hardwood Check Off requires third party audits to track performance and a follow-up Check Off referendum in four years. If in the future Check Off board members are not good stewards of our finances, we can rescind the Check Off Order. The USDA and other Check Off boards have a long-term track record of success. I can personally accept the risk. It’s a long-term investment in my family’s future. I hope you will keep an open mind and participate in the Check Off vote. I look forward to a prosperous and healthy future in the hardwood industry for my kids and our employees. From my perspective, the Check Off is a wise insurance policy. Sincerely, Jim Howard CEO, Atlanta Hardwood Corporation jhoward@hardwoodweb.com www.hardwoodweb.com
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR As a means of creating open dialogue on hardwood industry topics, NHLA has openly solicited Letters to the Editor. In the January/February edition of Hardwood Matters, one Letter to the Editor was received and published. This month, two letters were received and published. The letters which appear are the opinions of the authors and do not represent the opinions of the Association. The Letters to the Editor section is limited in page count and letters must be submitted by the editorial deadline of the 7th of the month for consideration. Letters to the Editor should be sent to Renee Hornsby, Director of Communications/Editor of Hardwood Matters at r.hornsby@nhla.com. The NHLA Blog is also an area for open discussion. The Blog is located on the homepage of nhla.com.
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