The Softwood Forest Products Buyer - March/April 2024

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Vol. 39 No. 2 The Softwood Industry’s Only Newspaper...Now Reaching 36,187 firms (20,000 per issue) March/April 2024 

IBS/KBIS Enjoys Impressive Growth In 2024 

Photos By Zach Miller 

Music City Welcomes Thousands to 

FenceTech 2024 

By Zach Miller 

Grant Cowx and Brian Clarke, Fraser Specialty Products Ltd., Edmundston, NB; Robert 

Ramson, The Ramson Company, Alexandria, VA; and Morgan Wellens, Nicholson 

and Cates Limited, Burlington, ON 

The Las Vegas (NV) Convention Center recently welcomed the National Association 

of Home Builders (NAHB) International Builders' Show (IBS) and the 

National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Kitchen & Bath Industry Show 

(KBIS). This year marked the biggest IBS in 15 years with 1,700+ exhibitors, of 

which 45 percent were new. 

Continued on page 28 

Jeff Law and Chris Armanini, Tolko Industries Ltd., Vernon, BC; and Ashley Kay, Lawrence 

Newton and Dustin Warren, Specialty Building Products, Duluth, GA 

Additional photos on page 10 

Gib Gibor, Alta Forest Products LLC, Chehalis, WA; Jameson Craig and Gary Gill, 

Fraserview Cedar Products Ltd., Surrey, BC; Dave Cochenour, Alta Forest Products 

LLC; Cory Dalos, Boise Cascade Company, Boise, ID; Paul Mackie, WRCLA, Langley, 

WA; Morgan Kelley, James Venters, Monte McLean and Matt Poquette, Alta Forest 

Products LLC 

Nashville, TN, recently welcomed members and guests of the American 

Fence Association (AFA) to that organization's annual convention and trade 

show – FenceTech 2024. 

Considered the premier annual trade event for manufacturers and suppliers 

to the fence, gate, perimeter security and metal working industries, it attracted 

7,020 attendees this year, which was a significant growth in attendance according 

to the show's organizers. 

FenceTech provides ample opportunity to attend educational, networking and 

business opportunities. 

The educational lineup of the event includes a wide array of topics meant to 

be innovative and informative for fence and access control contractors nationwide. 

These sessions cover the latest trends, installation techniques and best 

practices from industry experts and peers. 

AFA is the largest professional association representing the fence industry 

with members in every U.S. state, Canada and 18 other countries outside of 

North America. 

Learn more at www.americanfenceassociation.com. n 

PRSRT STD 

U.S. POSTAGE PAID 

DALLAS,TX 

PERMIT 3886 

Change Service Requested 

The Softwood Forest Products Buyer 

P.O. Box 34908 

Memphis, TN 38184-0908 

Michiru Nakagawa, Master Halco, Dallas, TX; and Adam Hazelwood, and Andy Johal, 

San Group Inc., Langley, BC 

Additional photos on page 8

Anthony Muck is the head of business development 

for DMSi, an Omaha-based software company. DMSi 

develops software exclusively for the building materials 

industry. The company is a member of the North American 

Wholesale Lumber Association, the National Hardwood 

Lumber Association, the Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen's 

Association and the North American Building Material 

Distribution Association. 

Muck began his career in the forest products industry 

Anthony Muck 

over 15 years ago when he joined DMSi. He has held 

leadership roles in customer support as well as sales and marketing and now 

Who’s Who in Softwoods 


Addison Ross is the Oceania and Specialties Sales Manager 

at San Group, located in Langley, BC. San Group is 

a vertically integrated forest products company that sells 

globally. 

San Group has three sawmills and two remanufacturing facilities 

that produce both traditional and engineered products 

in all coastal species. Their state of the art remanufacturing 

facilities enable them to offer a wide array of engineered 

Addison Ross products such as their San Signature CVG T&G, FJ-EG 

boards/bevel and laminated timbers. 

Ross has been in the forest products industry for 11 years, where he had his first 

job at Skana Forest Products. He has been with San Group for eight years. 


Paw Taw John Services, Inc. (PTJ), located in Rathdrum, 

ID, recently welcomed David Quane as outside sales and 

marketing. PTJ is a machine systems integrator, distributor 

and repair center. They are the only repair facility and the 

largest stocking distributor of Temposonics® in the United 

States. They maintain a deep inventory in support hardware 

such as cables, magnets and connector assemblies. Probe 

lengths on the shelf are in 6-inch increments from 6 inch to 

72 inch with some special lengths used by machine manufacturers. 

PTJ also distributes Encoder Products encoders and David Quane 

Conexus laser products. This keeps PTJ uniquely centered in 

the wood products industry control system world and the cutting edge of technol- 


Nicole Cappetta is a wholesale lumber sales representative 

at Robbins Lumber Sanford, LLC, located in 

Sanford, ME, who also oversees the planer mill schedule, 

completes orders, and books trucking. Robbins Lumber is a 

vertically integrated forest products firm, with timberland, 

manufacturing and finishing facilities, as well as warehousing 

and local distribution. While Robbins Lumber’s core 

business is throughout the state of Maine and New England, 

they can ship all over the U.S. and export overseas. 

Nicole Cappetta 

Robbins Lumber produces 75 million board feet from 

their four locations, which include, Searsmont, East Baldwin, Sanford and 

Downeast. They offer Eastern White Pine boards with five total moulders, custom 


AWC Releases New Standards Used to 

Design & Build U.S. Wood Structures 

Table of Contents 

FEATURES 

IBS/KBIS ........................................1 

FenceTech......................................1 

Prime Forest Products..................4 

Miller Lumber Sales......................5 

Delta Forestry Group....................6 

Lumber Shipping Trends..............7 

DEPARTMENTS 

Who's Who in Softwoods.............2 

AWC News......................................2 

APA News.......................................2 

NAWLA News.................................2 

SLB News.......................................2 

Washington Report.....................18 

Retail Review...............................20 

Northeast Bus. Trends................22 

Inland West Bus. Trends.............22 

Midwest Bus. Trends...................... 24 

West Coast Bus. Trends...............24 

Southeast Bus.Trends...................26 

Ont./Quebec Bus. Trends...........26 

Stock Exchange......................60-63 

Industry News..............................64 

Calendar.......................................69 

Classified Opportunities.............70 

Index of Advertisers....................70 

WE REMEMBER OUR 

100-YEAR LEGACY, 

AND LOOK FORWARD TO 

BUILDING THE 

NEXT 100. 

Why A Diversified Demand Base Is Key To Lasting 

Demand For Wood Products 

By: Jackson Morrill 

President & CEO of the American Wood Council 

Lumber demand from single-family home construction and remodeling is volatile—the 

last few years alone have seen major swings from the COVID pandemic 

in 2020 to high interest rates last year. To minimize the impact of that volatility 

on the wood products industry, the work of the Softwood Lumber Board to 

expand and diversify Softwood lumber demand into commercial construction is 

significant. 

The SLB continues to defend share of market in single-family and outdoor applications 

while pursuing new market opportunities in non-residential and multifamily 

construction. To maximize those opportunities, the SLB invests in Education, 

the American Wood Council, Think Wood, and WoodWorks to influence key 

decision makers for these building types and convert more projects to wood. 

A strategy of engaging design and construction’s key decision 

makers 

SLB’s Education initiatives focus on on educating design and and construction profes- 


APA Names New Chair, Vice Chair, Chair Of 

Finance, Trustees Join APA Board 

Matthew Brown has been promoted to the newly 

created position – director of energy policy and code, 

effective December 18, 2023. 

With over 15 years of experience in the construction 

industry, Brown brings a wealth of knowledge and 

expertise to APA. His career began with a prominent 

regional production builder and progressed through 

roles at an energy rating and engineering firm before 

joining APA in 2014. Brown's deep understanding of 

energy efficiency and sustainability in wood construction 

makes him exceptionally qualified to educate 

Matthew Brown 

stakeholders, including raters, code officials, designers 

and builders, on behalf of the industry. 


The American Wood Council (AWC) has just 

released three new 2024 wood design standards: the 

Jackson Morrill National Design Specification® for Wood Construction 

(NDS®), Wood Frame Construction Manual (WFCM) 

for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, and Fire Design Specification for Wood 

Construction (FDS). 

These publications are the result of five years of work by AWC staff and committees 

to update standards and codes to ensure the safety and stability of woodbased 

buildings. The AWC design standard process includes regular meetings of 

AWC’s Wood Design Standards Committee, comprised of interested parties, who 

review and vote on change proposals to AWC's design standards in compliance 

with the American National Standards Institute’s (ANSI) consensus process. 

AWC’s design standards represent the minimum requirements for building 

structural systems for residential and commercial buildings in the United States, 

meaning that to properly design and build a wood structure in the United States, 

Bringing NAWLA Education To You 

The NAWLA Editor 


For over 130 years, the North American Wholesale Lumber Association 

(NAWLA) has been the uniting bond from one end of the supply chain to the 

other, helping the industry grow by helping NAWLA members grow. The vision 

for 2024 is no different. If anything, NAWLA and the NAWLA Board of Directors 

are looking to help NAWLA members grow even more this year by strengthening 

the relationship each member has with the association, particularly through 

educational opportunities. 

To do this, NAWLA will once again be hosting seven regional meetings 

throughout 2024. Intended to be opportunities for industry professionals in the 

United States and Canada to network and learn on a localized level, the meetings 

allow NAWLA members to come together for a day to discuss new solutions 

for issues impacting their regions, hear from top-notch speakers on an array of 


A Bi-Monthly newspaper serving 

North America’s Softwood Forest Products Buyers 

Published by 

Softwood Trade Publications, Inc. 

P. O. Box 34908 

Memphis, Tenn. 38134 

Tel. (901) 372-8280 FAX (901) 373-6180 

Web Site: www.softwoodbuyer.com 

E-Mail Addresses: 

Advertising: apryll@millerwoodtradepub.com 

Editorial: editor@millerwoodtradepub.com 

Subscriptions: circ@millerwoodtradepub.com 

Terry Miller - President/Publisher 

Zachary Miller - Sales Representative 

Paul J. Miller Jr. - Vice President 

Apryll Cosby - Advertising Manager 

Sue Putnam - Editorial Director 

Cadance Hanson - Staff Writer 

Cadance Hanson - Who's Who Coordinator 

Rachael Stokes - Production/Graphic Artist 

Camille Campbell - Graphic Artist 

Lisa Carpenter - Circulation Manager 

Canadian Correspondents: Toronto, Ontario, Vancouver, 

B.C. 

The Softwood Forest Products Buyer is the product 

of a company and its affiliates that have been in the 

publishing business for over 94 years. 

Other publications edited for specialized markets and 

distributed worldwide include: 

National Hardwood Magazine • Hardwood Purchasing 

Handbook • Import/Export Wood Purchasing News 

• North American Forest Products Export Directory 

• Imported Wood Purchasing Guide • Green Book’s 

Hardwood Marketing Directory • Green Book’s Softwood 

Marketing Directory 

Subscriptions: U.S. and Canada: $65 (U.S. dollars) 

- 1 year; $75 - 2 years; $90 - 3 years; Foreign (airmail) 

$140 - 1 year; $235 - 2 years. Canadian and foreign 

orders must be paid by check drawn on U.S. bank or by 

wire transfer. Fax for more information. 

Send address changes to: 

Softwood Forest Products Buyer 

P.O. Box 34908, Memphis, TN 38184-0908 

The Publisher reserves the right to 

accept or reject editorial content and 

Advertisements at the staff’s discretion. 

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Page 2 Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024 Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024 Page 3

Lumberyard Owner At Miller Lumber Sales Attributes Growth 

to Competitive Prices, Knowledgeable Staff 

By Matthew Breazeale 

Toyota forklifts unload a truck of 2x6 Southern Yellow Pine. Miller Lumber owner Alan Walters carries Pine and Spruce materials, plywood, OSB treated lumber, 

Cedar, Cypress, and pattern Pine material. 

Prime Forest Products, Growing In the Right Direction 


"It's going to place us on the map. Companies and lumber professionals will look at us more seriously, knowing that we 

possess our own iron and steel, as they say in the sawmilling business. Our lumber partners appreciate that we're heavily 

invested in our industry, and they want to align themselves with us." 

While aiming for a larger share of the wood industry's market, Prime Forest 

Products intends to remain faithful to its core values of sustainability, quality 

control, longevity, and fostering close relationships with customers, suppliers, and 

vendors. 

Last December, the Beaverton-based company, which specializes in customized 

industrial millwork markets, acquired Rainier Custom Remanufacturing in Sweet 

Home, OR; a facility Prime Forest has utilized for 15-plus years for its custom 

manufacturing. The 22-acre remanufacturing operation has been renamed Prime 

Forest Remanufacturing (PFR) under the umbrella of Prime Forest Products. In 

addition, Prime Forest also operates a cut stock facility in Springfield, OR. 

With the new acquisition, Prime now positions itself as a major manufacturer of 

high-grade Softwood. 

Brad Rodakowski, President of Prime Forest Companies, states that the merger 

"opens up unprecedented possibilities" for industrial lumber manufacturing. "Our 

existing customers want to grow and do more business with us because they like 

the quality and variety of our products and want to see Prime Forest Products expanding 

and thriving," said Brad, who has worked in the lumber industry for more 

than 47 years. “We are now positioned to control and tailor the production, sizing, 

drying and grading for our industrial customers. Our objective is to optimize 

production and strive for efficiency as much as possible.” 

Brad explained that the acquisition was primarily made to better serve their customer 

base, as Prime Forest was already utilizing the Sweet Home plant to process 

wood long before the purchase was made. "We want to ensure that the wood is 

dried correctly," he said. "Our customers inspect our lumber and conduct a prong 

test to ensure that the moisture content on the outside matches that in the core. The 

Sweet Home operation is the only place we have been able to have good success 

drying lumber," he continued. "We've been processing our wood at this facility for 

the past 15-plus years and the owner wanted to sell the operation. The opportunity 

allows us to create a solid foundation for the next generation in the industry." 

Another reason for acquiring the Sweet Home facility was to diversify the 

Prime Forest has positioned itself as a major manufacturer of high-grade Softwood. 

– Brad Rodakowski, President, Prime Forest Products 

“Our objective is to optimize production and strive for efficiency as much as possible,” 

said Prime Forest Products President, Brad Rodakowski. 

company’s offerings. "It's going to place us on the map. Companies and lumber 

professionals will look at us more seriously, knowing that we possess our own 

iron and steel, as they say in the sawmilling business. Our lumber partners appreciate 

that we are heavily invested in the industry and our products and customers 

want to align themselves with us. This growth is going to require more creativity 

and innovation and we are excited about the future,” Brad said. 

"When we engage with new potential customers we have a lot more to offer," 

he added. "This sets us apart now that we control all aspects of production." 

Prime Forest Products manufactures 22 million board feet annually of beveled 


Located in the Jackson metro area 

in Mississippi, Miller Lumber Sales, 

LLC boasts hard-working leadership 

and staff in operating a full-service 

lumberyard. Through building relationships 

one handshake at a time 

for over 70 years, Miller Lumber 

Sales, LLC supplies both common 

and hard-to-find Cedar, Cypress and 

Pine lumber. 

Owner Alan Walters took the reins 

in his leadership position for the 

nine-employee company in 2020. 

His leadership team includes, Tracy 

Kirkpatrick, administrative assistant, 

Jim Jones and Mike Anderson, both 

inside sales. 

Charlie Miller, who at the time 

had created a niche in the market by 

representing the Potlatch Corporation, 

founded the company in 1953. 

He ran operations until the early 

90s when Mark Windham bought 

it. Mark sold the business to John 

Behan in March of 2019. John unexpectedly 

passed away in February of 

2020 and for the remainder of that 

year, Walters ran the business for 

Behan’s family and bought the business 

from them at the end of 2020. 

“I enjoy interacting 

with the people, we have 

a lot of retail walk-in 

business. I'm still very 

much a part of that. I 

sit at the counter and 

greet people just like the 

other two sales guys do, 

in addition to my other 

responsibilities.” 

– Alan Walters, 

Sales/Owner, Miller Lumber 


Reliable . Focused . Committed 

WE WANT TO BE YOUR 

PREFFERED SUPPLIER 

We've got you covered from 38 distribution locations. 

Save time with one-stop shopping from a broad and deep line of lumber, 

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are closest to our customers. Access local experts with up-to-the-minute 

market information so you can make smart purchasing decisions with 

confidence, and grow your business. 

bc.com/distribution 

© 2023 Boise Cascade Company. All rights reserved. 


Delta Forestry Group Continues To Thrive In A Changing Landscape 

Lumber Shipping Companies Are Cautiously Optimistic As Traditional Trends Return 


“While the trees aren’t going away, there is going 

to be less of them with the changing landscape and 

our company is still going to thrive, with our size, 

management and decision-making style. We will 

do well in the long term as we continue to operate 

like a family sized business rather than a big 

corporation.” 

– Dean Garofano, President and 

COO, Delta Forestry Group 

Lumber shipping companies saw that their trends year over year have begun 

to revert back to how traditional markets have been in the past, but they hold a 

cautious optimism as geopolitical factors can easily affect the supply chain strategies. 

One shipper noted, “We slowly saw the industry normalize over the last 12 

months and it is back to pre-pandemic levels. I do not foresee any substantial 

increases in our export shipments over the next 12 months.” 

Despite seeing their markets slowly return to the traditional trends, a lumber 

shipper remarked, “Asking me to predict shipping volumes in the first quarter of 

2024 is akin to throwing spaghetti at the wall and seeing ‘what sticks.’” 

A shipper stated, “The only constant across all industries is that margins are 

being squeezed. Going into the New Year, we can all be hopeful that the economy 

starts to pick back up, but I am not sure that is what we will see.” 

The October figure was still 15 percentage points below 2019 levels, and with no 

sign of improvement since May, according to Sea-Intelligence Maritime Analysis. 

To manage the impact of overcapacity primarily driven by the influx of newly 

ordered vessels entering the market, carriers are pulling out all the tricks to absorb 

capacity. They have many tools at their disposal, whether it’s blank sailings, 

cancelling or suspending entire service loops, further slow steaming, laying up 

ships or taking longer routes. While all that will combine to help carriers weather 

a rough patch of unfavorable supply-demand economics, it undermines schedule 

integrity and service reliability. 

The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the fragility of 

global supply chains. In response, the ocean transportation industry is focusing 

on building resilience. This involves diversifying supply chain sources, adopting 

agile logistics strategies, and investing in redundant systems to mitigate risks and 

ensure the uninterrupted flow of goods. The maritime industry is embracing digitalization 

at an unprecedented pace. From smart containers with real-time tracking 

capabilities to blockchain-based documentation, technology is streamlining operations, 

reducing inefficiencies, and enhancing overall transparency. 

2023 was also marked by longshore labor disruption. The International Longshore 

and Warehouse Union (ILWU) flexed 


Rick Harris, Delta Forestry Group’s new Director of Strategic Development. 

Delta Forestry Group has moved their headquarters from their Delta Cedar 

Sawmill location in Delta, BC, to Pitt Meadows, BC, where their Halo Sawmill 

is located. Dean Garofano, President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), stated 

this move has been beneficial for the company, “Not only are our current employees 

happy to have a less stressful commute to work but we’ve also found that the 

move has been nice for attracting new employees because if they live in the area 

surrounding the new headquarters, they won’t have to drive through heavy traffic.” 

Delta’s website has also made a transition as it highlights the Delta Forestry 

Group and its four companies: Delta Cedar Sawmill, Halo Sawmill, Delta Cedar 

Specialties and Delta Timber. Each of these companies that the Delta Forestry 

Group is comprised of brings a different and important value-added aspect to 

one another. “The website is able to show our integrated offerings to our customers 

and how we are able to go from forest floor to finished product,” explained 

Garofano. “We are able to buy and harvest timber, manufacture it into rough cut 

lumber, remanufacture it into a value-added product and sell it to our customers.” 

Delta Cedar Specialties is the sales and marketing arm of the Delta Forestry 

Group, which handles all of the products that come out of the Delta and Halo 

Sawmills. The Delta and Halo Sawmills are run independently and while they are 

cutting their own logs, they also provide custom cutting services. “Our customers 

continue to come to us for custom cuts as they know the experience and credibility 

that we have in the industry for not only doing a good job but for being 

trustworthy as well,” Garofano stated. 

Delta Timber is the timber division from which the Delta Forestry Group is 

able to source fiber. Delta Cedar Specialties then cuts the logs in one of their sawmills 

and then remanufactures the rough-cut lumber into finished products. 

“We have partners that we work with to manage our remanufacturing,” Garo- 

Delta Forestry Group recently completed construction on this 80-bin sorter. 

fano said. “Even though we have a few different facilities that our remanufacturing 

is done at, we have a quality control program that allows us to maintain 

consistency. Our production managers are always on site and make sure that 

everything is consistent and is done according to our grades and that the fiber 

looks presentable.” 

Delta is able to continue to provide these integrated services to their customers 

through the capital investments that they are continuously making to their 

facilities. “We just finished a project here at the Halo Sawmill, where we added 

a Raptor Trim Line and an 80-bin sorter behind it, which replaced our old green 

chain,” Garofano said. “This is going to help us with our mill production and will 

allow us to send lumber through the trim line at a faster speed when we ramp up 

production on a specific cut. We are also not having to rely on employees pulling 

the lumber off the green chain during this period where it is difficult to get laborers 

who are willing to do such physical work.” 

Delta offers Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, Alaskan Yellow Cedar and Hemlock. 

“While we offer the four species, most of our focus has been on producing 

Western Red Cedar in past years,” Garofano stated, adding that he believes that 

there will be a shift in this focus as the fiber basket continues to be altered by 

natural disasters and old growth deferrals. “Trying to grow our Cedar business 

has been challenging with climate changes and government policies impacting 

our fiber supply, it is getting harder to find the timber that we need, especially 

Cedar. Delta is now focusing on growing their Hemlock program while maintaining 

their cedar volumes. 

“The industry is in a transitionary period and it is going to be turbulent over the 

next several years and I think that our company is set up for a very bright future 

when we look past some of the obstacles that we will have to overcome,” Garo- 

The Delta and Halo Sawmills are run independently and while they are cutting 

their own logs, they also provide custom cutting services. 


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Page 6 Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024 Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024 Page 7 

Peter Lovett 

Peter Lovett 

King City Forwarding USA, Inc. 

Chesapeake, VA 

As we sail into 2024, the ocean 

transportation industry is experiencing 

a sea change in trends that 

are reshaping the way goods are 

moved across the globe. These 

shifts are not only altering the 

dynamics of maritime commerce 

but also necessitating innovative 

strategies to address supply chain 

challenges. I would characterize 

2023 as the “correction” year in 

the ocean freight market where we 

saw significant reductions in export 

and import freight rates across all 

trades. There was an overall decline 

in ocean freight demand globally 

caused by a slower economy, 

as governments across the world 

managed inflation. Overall, the 

supply chain experienced better 

fluidity in 2023, with the alleviation 

of port congestion on the East 

and West coast, which resulted in 

more reliable shipping schedules. 

Even with ports clear of congestion, 

service reliability remains 

an issue, not having reverted to 

pre-COVID levels. Due to overcapacity 

and carriers’ aggressive 

response, it will likely not return 

to normal levels in 2024. Global 

container ship scheduled reliability 

stood at 64.4 percent in October, up 

from 51.8 percent a year earlier and 

approximately 35 percent in 2021.

FenceTech – Continued from page 1 

NATURAL LIVE EDGE SIDING 

Mandy Bain, Gopher Wood Lumber, Alexandria, TN; Trent Gustafson, 

Hampton Lumber Sales Company, Portland, OR; Daniel Bain, Gopher 

Wood Lumber; and Jason Brommenschenkel, Integrity Fencing & 

Supply Co., Englewood, CO 

Zach Miller, The Softwood Forest Products 

Buyer, Memphis, TN; and Cory Dalos, 

Boise Cascade Company, Boise, ID 

Al Gans, Hampton Lumber, Portland, OR; Ian Gordon, 

Montana Fence/Idaho Fence, Kalispell, MT; 

and Trent Gustafson, Hampton Lumber 

PERFECTED BY NATURE. PRODUCED BY ROBBINS LUMBER. 

Lori McCutcheon and Dyan McCall, VEKA Inc., Fombell, PA; and Mark 

Kobylinski, Capital Forest Products Inc., Annapolis, MD 

Will Davis and Brandt Layhew, Cedar Direct LLC, Chapel Hill, TN; Kent Allin and Jim Dunse, Mill 

& Timber Products Ltd., Surrey, BC; and Tom Corrigan, Midwest Fence & Mfg. Co., South St. 

Paul, MN 

Give your projects a unique rugged appearance 

with natural live edge siding from Robbins Lumber. 

A look that’s sure to stand out, whether used as 

an accent or an entire siding job. Our siding is kiln 

dried 100% Eastern White Pine and features a fresh 

band sawn face, tapered bevel, and a bold natural 

live edge profile. 

DIMENSIONS 

AVAILABLE 

• Thickness: 3/4” 

• Width: Averages 12” 

Produced in standard and 

better grades 12” wide. In 

place, it shows approximately 

9” to the weather. 

Dawn Phillips, Master Halco, Dallas, TX; Paul Mackie, WRCLA, Langley, WA; and 

Dakota Leuzinger and Jake Thronson, Cedar Direct LLC, Dodgeville, WI 

Monte McLean, Alta Forest Products LLC, Chehalis, WA; Ashley Duncan, Fencing 

Supply Group, Atlanta, GA; Dave Cochenour, Alta Forest Products LLC; Donna 

Provolish, Fencing Supply Group; and James Venters, Alta Forest Products LLC 

WE PROUDLY SELL THROUGH HIGH QUALITY DISTRIBUTORS AND 

RETAILERS THROUGHOUT THE US AND CANADA. 

Phil Schumock and Matt Wittschiebe, Stella-Jones Corp., Tacoma, WA; Teri Boose, Prolink Supply, 

Lakewood, WA; and Doug Lortie and Neil Archibald, Rainier Fencing & Decking, Auburn, WA 

John Fuchs, Forrest Fence Company, Felton, DE; Bill Benford, Jonathan 

Cochran and Tyler Hyde, Mill Creek Lumber Products Inc., 

Haleyville, AL 

SEARSMONT 

EAST BALDWIN 

SANFORD 

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Grayson Miller, Dean Coleman and Jamie White, PPG Industries Inc., 

Strongsville, OH 

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.RLCO.COM OR CALL (207) 342-5221 


IBS/KBIS– Continued from page 1 

Mike Pidlisecky, Woodtone, Chilliwack, BC; Thomas Rockwell, 

Sumitomo Forestry America Inc., Addison, TX; and Tim Folster, 

Woodtone 

Chris Bouchard, BPWood Ltd., Penticton, BC; Louis 

Vorhees, Tidewater Lumber and Moulding Inc., Greers, SC; 

and Mike Lemahieu, Lemahieu Group LDCwood, Ostend, 

Belgium 

Jay Poppe, WRCLA, Vancouver, BC; 

and Butch Bernhardt, Western Wood 

Preservers Institute, Vancouver, WA 

Michael Hanigan, Gamut Capital Management, New York, NY; Peter Graul, Woodpecker-European 

Timber Framing Ltd., Canmore, AB; and Ted Dergousoff, Lily 

Chamberlin and Michael McInnes, C2M Professional Services Inc., Sun City West, 

AZ 

Dave Batterson Jr., Springville Door 

& Window Inc., Springville, NY; and 

Saint Bishop, Pacific Pride Doors, 

Sumner, WA 

Michael McInnes, Restoration Forest Products 

LLC, Sun City West, AZ; Adam Cooley, 

Rick Mueller, Restoration Forest Products 

LLC, Mesa, AZ 

Andrea Tereault, Ryan Williams and Andrew Hess, Freres Engineered Wood, Lyons, 

OR; Scott MacLellan, Gurnet Point LLC, San Francisco, CA; and Tyler Freres, 

Freres Engineered Wood 

Danielle Lyle and Nick Kelly, Universal 

Forest Products Inc., Windsor, CO 

Halison Scoz, Roberto 

Nejm Junior 

and Manoel Marchetti 

S.A., Ibirama, Santa 

Catarina, Brazil; and 

Guilherme Hatschbach, 

Madesp Mouldings 

USA, St. Louis, 

MO 

Wayne Cornwell, Simpson Door Company, 

Long Island, NY; Gary Durham, Simpson 

Door Company, Ione, CA; and Josh 

Kirschner, Simpson Door Company, Chapel 

Hill, NC 

Katie Gerfen, Softwood Lumber Board/Think Wood, Philadelphia, PA; Lauren 

Sandbulte, Giant Voices Inc., Duluth, MN; and Samantha Hanson, Giant Voices 

Inc., Minneapolis, MN 

Christian Moises, Southern 

Forest Products Association, 

New Orleans, 

LA; and Kim Drew and Jeff 

Easterling, NELMA, Cumberland 

Center, ME 


Page 10 Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024

IBS/KBIS– Continued from page 10 

nordic.ca 

Jeff Morin, Lexington Manufacturing Inc., Minneapolis, MN; Ankush 

Prasher, RK Doors Inc., Toronto, ON; Mike Dillon, Lexington 

Manufacturing Inc., Brainerd, MN; and Ankit Prasher, RK Doors 

Inc. 

Chris Brandt and Brian Harrington, Boise Cascade Company, 

Boise, ID; Mitchell Gough, Boise Cascade Company, 

Nashville, TN; and James Abbott, 84 Lumber, Nashville, TN 

Shawn Dewitz, Boise Cascade Company, 

Seattle, WA; and Terry Thompson, 

Boise Cascade Company, Bloomington, 

MN 

Zach Castro and Sarah Nguyen, Maverick, Austin, TX; and Todd 

Roberts, US Lumber Brokers, Del Valle, TX 

Arthur Spicer, Art’s Projects LLC, Byron Center, MI; C.J. 

Roberts, Weyerhaeuser, West Chester, PA; and Brent Opiela, 

Art’s Projects LLC 

Dave Cline, 84 Lumber, Toledo, OH; 

and Asa Blake, 84 Lumber, Cleveland, 

TN 

Kara Watkins, Clopay Corporation, Troy, OH; Justin Evans, Clopay 

Corporation, Mason, OH; and Danielle Reed, Clopay Corporation, 

Troy, OH 

Brian Williams, Silvercreek Exteriors LLC, Republic, MO; 

Brian Rose, Marwood Ltd./Cape Cod Siding, Halifax, NS; 

and Ryan Green, Silvercreek Exteriors LLC 

Jon Torres and Elizabeth Covarrubias, 

NGY Group Inc., Chino, CA 

WE TRANSFORM 

WHAT WE GROW 

Stephen Butler, Thermory USA, Delta, CO; Matt Stansell, Thermory 

USA, Durham, NC; and Tim Baird, Alturas Homes LLC, Eagle, ID 

Marieve Laflamme, Art Massif Structure de bois, Saint-Jean- 

Port-Joli, QC; and Eli Gould, Quebec Wood Export Bureau, 

Quebec City, QC 

Chris Boyd and Sang Lee, CANTUF, 

Vancouver, BC 

Ryan Kline, Disdero Lumber 

Co., Vancouver, WA; 

Josh DeGuire, Specialty 

Wood Products Inc., Aurora, 

CO; and Danny Trebelhorn, 

Sierra Forest Products/UCS 

Forest Group/ 

Accoya, Portland, OR 

Andy Dalzell, Timothy Faust and Matt Pryor, Bingaman & Son Lumber Inc., Kreamer, PA; 

and Garth Leavens, Deck Supply Warehouse, Healdsburg, CA Continued on page 14 

Page 12 Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024 

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Jeff Brinkhaus, Chelsie Beard and Daniel Libolt, Timber Products 

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Kalayna Crook and Cam Stevens, Patrick 

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Parm Binning and Mark Robitaille, Jazz Forest 

Products Ltd., Abbotsford, BC 

Andy Johal and Adam Hazelwood, San Group Inc., Langley, BC; and 

Dave Farley, BC Wood Specialties Group, Vancouver, BC 

Gloria Cabanas, FV Design Studio LLC, Tijuana, Baja, CA; Erik Sahakyan, Bragi Home, Los Angeles, 

CA; Fernando Velasco, FV Design Studio LLC, CA; Anakar Enacosta, FV Kitchen Design, 

San Antonio, TX; Vahan Shahinyan, Bragi Home, Los Angeles, CA; and David Felix, FV Design 

Studio LLC, Tijuana, Baja, CA 

Brad Rodakowski and Lucas 

Rodakowski, Prime Forest 

Products, Beaverton, OR 

Mark Rutledge, Shakertown 1992 Inc., Winlock, 

WA; and Zach Miller, The Softwood Forest Products 

Buyer, Memphis, TN 

Anthony Muck, DMSi Software, Omaha, NE; John DeRoche, CrossRoads Building 

Supply Inc., Oakbrook Terrace, IL; Tim Hovious, CrossRoads Building Supply Inc., 

Indian Trail, NC; and Scott Green, DMSi Software 

Matthew Wittschiebe and Phil 

Schumock, Stella-Jones Corp., Tacoma, 

WA 

Kevin Vandervoort, BPWood Ltd., 

Penticton, BC; and Dave Farley, BC 

Wood Specialties Group, Vancouver, 

BC 

Parm Binning, Mark Robitaille and Gulraj Binning, Jazz Forest Products Ltd., Abbotsford, 

BC 

Rodney Felder, Edmund Allen Lumber Company, 

Momence, IL; and Paul Bouchard, BP- 

Wood Ltd., Penticton, BC 

Richard Ahlstrom, U-C Coatings LLC, 

Kenosha, WI; and George Meeker, U-C 

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TAYLOR—Working at Hancock Lumber has helped 

me grow as a person. When there was an opening 

for a promotion, everyone here on my team was 

encouraging and motivated me to apply. Working here 

has been a huge game-changer for my life and I really 

appreciate all that Hancock Lumber has done for me. 

2014–2023 

CAIN—I started not knowing a thing about sawmills 

and they’ve worked with me every step of the way. 

The culture is extremely professional yet laid back, 

and it’s a big shift in dynamic (that I hadn’t experienced 

before) where your family life can come first. 

Phoenix, AZ 

*Renewed Advertisers in Blue 

*New Advertisers in Red 

*AGL Group, The 

*Elk Creek Forest Products, LLC 

*NELMA 

*Southern Forest Products Assoc. (SFPA) 

*AHC Hardwood Group 

*Empire Lumber Co. 

Nicholson and Cates Ltd. Bldg Prod. 

South Coast Lumber Co. & Pacific Wood 

*Air Systems Mfg. of Lenoir, Inc. Fraserview Cedar 

*Nicholson Manufacturing 

Laminates 

*Alta Forest Products 

Furtado Forest Products Ltd. 

*Nordic Structures 

*Southern Forest Products Assoc. 

*American Wood Technology, LLC *Gates Milling 

*Nyle Dry Kilns 

*Specialty Building Products 

*Automation & Electronics USA LLC Goodfellow, Inc. 

*Pacific Western Wood Works Ltd. 

*Stella-Jones Corporation 

*Baillie Lumber Co. 

*Hancock Lumber Co. 

Partap Forest Products 

*Stiles, A.W., Contractors, Inc. 

*Bennett Lumber Products, Inc. 

Hood Industries 

*Patrick Lumber Company 

Sundher Group 

*BID Group 

*Humboldt Sawmill 

*Paw Taw John Services 

Taylor Machine Works, Inc. 

*Biolube 

*Hurst Boiler & Welding Company, Inc. *Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Teal Jones Group 

*Boise Cascade BMD 

*Huscroft, J.H., Ltd. 

Co. 

*Thompson River Lumber 

Boise Cascade EWP 

*Idaho Forest Group 

*PotlatchDeltic Corp. 

*Timber Products Co. 

*Bowers Forest Products 

*Idaho Timber 

PPG Industrial Coatings 

*Tolko 

*BPWood Ltd. 

*Irving Forest Products 

*Prime Forest Products 

*TS Manufacturing 

*Brunette Machinery 

Jazz Forest Products 

Quebec Wood Export Bureau 

*TUFF-STIK LLC 

*Brunner Hildebrand Lumber Dry Kiln *King City Forwarding USA, Inc. 

Real Performance Machinery 

*U-C Coatings 

C&D Lumber 

Kop-Coat Inc. 

Restoration Forest Products 

*USNR 

*Cersosimo Lumber Co., Inc. 

*LaSalle Lumber Company 

*Richardson Timbers 

*Vaagen Bros. 

*Cleereman Industries 

Legna Software, Inc. 

*Robbins Lumber, Inc. 

*Valutec 

*Collins 

Leslie Forest Products 

Rosboro 

*Warren Trask Company 

*Continental Underwriters 

*Lewis Controls, Inc. 

RoyOMartin 

*West Bay Forest Products & Mfg. Ltd. 

Cooper Machine Company, Inc. 

Lumber Blue Book Services 

*San Group, Inc. 

Western Forest Products 

*Corley Manufacturing Co. 

*Mars Hill 

*Seaboard International 

Western Red Cedar Lumber Assoc. 

*Culpeper Wood Preservers 

*McDonough Manufacturing Co. 

Shaver Wood Products, Inc. Reload Div. Westervelt Lumber 

*Delta Cedar Specialties 

McGinnis Lumber Co., The 

*Shelton Lam & Deck 

Weston Forest Products 

*Diorio Forest Products 

Messersmith Manufacturing 

*SII Dry Kilns 

*Wholesale Wood Products 

*DiPrizio Pine Sales 

*MiCROTEC 

*Silvaris Corporation 

*Woodgrain Lumber 

*DMSi 

*NAWLA 

*Skana Forest Products, Ltd. 

*Wood-Mizer 


*Durgin and Crowell Lumber Co. *Neiman Enterprises 

*Smith, Gilbert Forest Products 

Zip-O-Laminators, LLC 


ANDY—We all work as a team and we all are very interested in seeing Hancock Lumber be 

successful. We are successful because of that Team Hancock philosophy that we have. Like 

anything else, if you put the time in and you want to work, you can move on. It’s really up to 

the individual. If they want to do a job that they’re not qualified for yet, they need to just work 

towards that. Usually, in fact most of the time, that opportunity will be provided. 

JOIN TEAM HANCOCK! 

NOW HIRING: Seasoned Sales Representative, Eastern White Pine Products 

For more information, contact Kevin Raven kraven@hancocklumber.com 

ABBY—When I came in, I’d never been in a manufacturing environment before. The people 

here give you so much support. I started off with basic packaging and from there, I was able to 

learn how to operate a forklift, get grade certified, help with mill inventory, and help with the 

moulder line. Everyone here has your back—if you want to grow they are there to help you the 

entire way. There are many opportunities here and the support system really helps motivate 

you to grow as an employee.

(The following article was first published in www.newsweek.com. 

All data cited is the most current at press time for this publication.) 

WASHINGTON REPORT 

Housing Market May Be Headed For A Shift 

By Omar Mohammed 

FENCES THAT 

STAND FOR 

SOMETHING. 

At Alta Forest Products, our fences stand just a little bit taller. Craftsmanship, 

sustainability and American-grown Western Red Cedar are at the core of who we 

are. We value relationships more than anything, and believe in giving our partners 

the right tools to get the job done. 

A strong U.S. economy will be a boon for the housing market, Mortgage Bankers 

Association's (MBA) chief economist said (recently), as it will buoy demand 

and as inflation continues to fall, mortgage rates will decline as well making 

home loans more affordable for buyers. 

The U.S. economy accelerated at a faster-than-expected clip in the fourth 

quarter of 2023 at 3.3 percent, the Commerce Department's Bureau of Economic 

Analysis revealed. 

Meanwhile, the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index—the 

Federal Reserve's preferred measurement of inflation's progress—jumped by 1.7 

percent during the quarter. Core PCE, which excludes the often volatile food and 

energy prices, increased by 2 percent. 

These dynamics bode well for the housing market that has been struggling under 

the weight of record-high mortgage rates, sparked in part by the Fed's hiking 

of rates is at the most aggressive clip since the 1980s to fight soaring inflation. 

The Fed's funds rate (at the time of this article's writing) sits at 5.25 to 5.5 

percent—the highest they have been in two decades—and policymakers have 

signaled that they will slash rates should inflation come down to their 2 percent 

target. 

But an economy that may avoid a recession as inflation moderates without the 

Fed's tight monetary policy doing too much damage to the jobs market would 

help the housing sector. 

"Stronger economic growth will benefit the housing market, keeping demand 

robust," Mike Fratantoni, MBA's chief economist, said in a statement shared with 

Newsweek. "Moreover, today's report also showed further reductions in inflation, 

which will enable the Federal Reserve to cut rates later this year—as they have 

been hinting." 

Mortgage rates ticked up slightly for the week ending January 25, Freddie Mac 

said at the time of this article's 

writing, with the 30-year fixed 

rate averaging 6.69 percent. 

"The 30-year fixed-rate has 

remained within a very narrow 

range over the last month, settling 

in at 6.69 percent this week," Sam 

Khater, Freddie Mac's chief economist, 

said in a statement. 

Rates look to have stabilized, 

Khater suggested, encouraging 

buyers to jump off the fence. 

"Despite persistent inventory 

challenges, we anticipate a busier 

spring homebuying season than 

2023, with home prices continuing 

to increase at a steady 

pace," he said. 

A slowdown in rates could 

have a negative impact on home 

buyers, some analysts say. 

A decline in the cost of home 

loans would encourage more 

purchases, and this increase in 

demand will spark competition 

at a time when there is a limited 

supply of homes for sale. 

More buyers who can afford 

mortgages entering the market 

will push up prices, analysts from 

Goldman Sachs said this week. 

The investment bank's experts 

www.altafp.com 800-599-5596 

project prices to soar by 5 percent 

in 2024, a marked revision from 

their earlier expectation of a 2 

percent jump. That trend will 

continue through next year when 

prices are forecast to increase 

by nearly 4 percent, which is 

also a change from a previously 

estimated increase of close to 3 

percent. 

Amid the price increases, Goldman 

Sachs analysts anticipate 

that rates will fall to 6.63 percent 

for the year. This drop in rates 

from the near 8 percent highs of 

November 2023, will make house 

loans more affordable, sparking 

more demand for properties. 

"We have very low inventory 



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Retail Review 

Bliffert, Portage Lumber Merger Will Deliver More Building Support, 

Products To Central Wisconsin Market 

Bliffert Lumber, headquartered in Milwaukee, has merged with Portage Lumber 

Do-It-Best in Portage, WI. 

Portage Lumber was founded in 1953 and has offered building materials, 

hardware and home decor in the Portage market for the majority of its 70 years in 

business. 

Portage Lumber Do-It-Best attributes its strong position in the market to its 

focus on customer service. Kimberly Dorn, the general manager of Portage Lumber, 

represents the third generation of the Dorn family’s ownership and management 

and will continue to run this branch. 

“We believe that merging with the Bliffert family of companies allows us to 

continue to serve our customers and community for generations to come,” said 

Dennis Dorn, CEO of Portage Lumber. 

Bliffert Lumber, which sells Douglas Fir, Hemlock and White Fir, and 

Knotty and Yellow Pine, among other Softwoods, has served contractors and 

homeowners in southeastern Wisconsin for over 120 years. 

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“We are always looking to merge in other great lumber families like the Dorn’s 

that share our values,” said Eli Bliffert, vice-president of Bliffert Lumber. “We 

are very excited to extend our reach into Central Wisconsin and beyond. We are 

stronger together.” 

For more information, go to www.bliffertlumber.com. 

Hayward Lumber Acquires Economy Lumber 

Hayward Lumber, the Campbell, CA-based pro-dealer, has announced that it 

recently acquired Economy Lumber. 

The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed. Economy Lumber is 

also located in Campbell. 

Following the acquisition, Hayward Lumber’s expanded footprint will include 

eight lumberyards, six design centers, a pro tool and repair shop, one truss plant, 

four rail yards, and a combined workforce of approximately 270 employees 

across California. Across these locations, they are able to offer species such as, 

Cedar, Douglas Fir, Fir, Green Douglas Fir, Hemlock-fir, Pine, Ponderosa Pine, 

Redwood, Southern Yellow Pine, Spruce, Spruce-Pine-Fir, Sugar Pine and White 

Fir. 

Hayward Lumber officials 

said the union of the two “local, 

family-owned businesses is a 

significant step forward for the 

companies and their communities.” 

Founded in 1936, Economy 

Lumber is the first lumberyard 

in the unincorporated district of 

Santa Clara County, known as 

Burbank. It carries solid sawn 

framing lumber in common sizes 

and grades. 

The company later relocated to 

Campbell. Under the leadership of 

John Saunders, the third-generation 

president and CEO, Economy 

Lumber has played a “vital role in 

the region’s construction industry,” 

according to sources. 

Both companies are members 

of LMC, the Wayne, PA-based 

forest products and building materials 

buying group. 

The pro-dealers also noted 

that in addition to their business 

initiatives, Hayward Lumber and 

Economy Lumber are “actively 

involved in community projects.” 

For more information, go to 

www.haywarddlumber.com. 

84 Lumber Opens New Component 

Plant In Florida 

84 Lumber, among the nation’s 

largest privately held building 

materials supplier, announced the 

opening of its new component 

plant in Winter Haven, FL. 

The company’s primary 

component plant in the state of 

Florida, was scheduled to open its 

doors for operation by the end of 

January. 

Florida has historically been a 

strong market for 84 Lumber and 

the “component element will remain 

a priority moving forward.” 

“This location will not only 

generate new business but will 



Northeast Business Trends 

We source our wood 

primarly from New 

Hampshire and Vermont, 

and the majority come 

within a 50-mile radius, 

By Cadance Hanson 

Staff Writer 

While two out of three lumber sources in the Northeastern 

states agreed that business was “soft” in the first quarter 

of 2024 thanks to wintry weather, all three lumbermen 

were optimistic when looking toward the future. 

As of press time, a Massachusetts source, who sells 

Douglas Fir, Eastern White and Idaho White Pine and 

Hem-Fir, among other Softwood species, compared the 

“sideways” lumber market to car sales. 

“If you had a car that you wanted to sell,” he analogized, “is it going to sell on 

a real snowy day? Or is putting it out there on the front lawn when it is nice and 

shiny out probably better? Right now, we are not on shiny days yet. We must get 

through winter.” 

He added that the market could improve before the season. 

“People might anticipate something,” he said. “And they don’t want to miss 

getting a good deal. I’ve got a feeling, the way things have been the last few years 

with production being sort of limited, people are going to try to come through the 

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Inland West Business Trends 

By Terry Miller 

President 

The mindsets of lumbermen in the Inland West region 

were conflicting as they looked to the future when interviewed 

for this publication. 

While one Utah source noted that he’s seen enough 

orders coming down the pike to give him confidence in 

2024, a Colorado source remained unsure about the U.S. 

economy. 

“Interest rates, student loans, credit card debt…” said 

the Colorado distributor, “I’m just a little conflicted.” 

Noting that many of his peers shared a sense of “unbridled optimism” about the 

market, he said that affordability remains to be an issue for many Americans. 

“The prices are on an escalator here,” he said. “We’ve turned into mini-California.” 

Noting that multi-and-single-family houses are being built in an ample manner, 

the distributor noted that “inventory is overpriced.” 

He specializes in Hemlock, Hem-Fir and Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF) in 2” thickness 

for framing lumber. 

He added that the mountain 

homes usually require “front 

range” lumber and then the quality 

of wood goes down from production 

builders to multi-family 

housing. 

When asked if the winter 

storms in mid-January resulted in 

discouraging sales projections, he 

said that the “short stint” of bad 

weather did not affect his region. 

“I was pleasantly surprised by 

January,” he said. “The weather 

was really no excuse. Folks don’t 

run for the exits around here during 

winter. They just get it done.” 

A Utah source said he expects 

the industry to return to familiar 

ways this year. 

“The outlook is an average year 

in 2024,” he said. “Depending on 

some scenarios. The momentum 

through the end of December 

didn’t carry through to January, 

which leveled off. But weather 

was an issue in mid-January. 

“The latter half of this year 

could be pretty good once the 

balance of supply and demand 

aligns,” he continued. “Inventory 

levels seem to be fairly ample. A 

lot of things are coming when the 

weather improves.” 

Specializing in Douglas Fir No. 

2 and up, the source also works 

with some structural grades in 

Western, Eastern and European 

Spruce, Pine and Fir. 

For dimensional products, his 

company offers thicknesses of 2x4 

to 2x12. His primary clients are 

national stocking distributors and 

small independent yards. 

“There is a lot of activity brewing,” 

he said. “We are doing a lot 

of job quotes.” 

He added that there is “promise 

at the end of the first quarter 

and the beginning of the second 

quarter.” 

“Interest rates are dropping and 



Midwest Business Trends 

West Coast Business Trends 

By Paul Miller Jr. 

Vice President 

Throughout the Midwest region lumber suppliers noted 

that their sales were doing well and that their markets were 

active, at the time of this writing. 

In South Dakota, a lumber spokesman said, “Our 

markets are active right now. I think that this is due to 

the warming temperatures after it being so cold for a few 

weeks.” He also said that they are doing better than they 

were six months ago. 

His company offers Ponderosa Pine boards. “All of our boards are 3/4 and 1 

inch thick and we carry those in grades Nos. 2, 3 and 4 Common,” he added. 

He sells to distribution yards and mentioned that they have said their sales are 

starting to pick up and it has reflected in their orders. 

“Right now I think that everyone is optimistic,” he stated. “As we get further 

into the year people are getting used to the interest rates being at six to seven 

percentage points instead of two to three, and so we will continue to see better 

business and more activity the more that this sinks in.” 

Bert and Bud Vaagen founded Vaagen 

Brothers lumber in the early 1950’s. 

Today, the company continues as a 

closely held corporation owned by 

members of the Vaagen family. This 

continuity of management, vision, and 

leadership has helped guide the 

company for more than half a century. 

Creating a culture of innovation, 

integrity, and cooperation that’s 

fueled Vaagen’s advancement, evolution 

and growth over the years. 

Vaagen Bros. Lumber 

565 W. 5TH Ave 

Colville, Wa 99114 

Sales - 509-684-5072 

www.vaagenbros.com 



At the time of this writing, the North American Lumber 

market, relative to this time of year, can best be described 

as idle. That said, there appears to be some optimism 

that buying will begin to accelerate as spring nears and 

inventories will need to be built. Even with the current 

mild demand of most products, West Coast producers are 

dealing with obstacles such as log supply and weatherrelated 

disruptions. On top of that the U.S. just announced 

its intention to raise the Softwood lumber duties from 

8.05 percent to 13.86 percent creating uncertainty and confusion on how this will 

affect market conditions. The following is what a few West Coast manufactures 

had to say on the current climate: 

Dean Garofano of Delta Forestry Group, Delta, BC said, “What a start to 

2024! The extreme cold and snow that hit us in January had a significant impact 

on Delta Forestry Group and most of the coastal industry. The unusually frigid 

temperatures and frozen logs severely impacted production in the sawmills and 

reman process, consequently delaying the runs and shipments. With weather 

returning to normal, Coastal log 

supply is currently Delta Forestry 

Groups biggest concern.” 

Garofano continued, “Economics 

and policies continue to restrict 

the harvest and Cedar volumes 

continue to decline. That same 

supply concern does not appear 

to resonate with buyers who are 

reluctant to take on inventory during 

these winter months. I suspect 

that once the spring weather arrives 

and buyers look to ramp up 

purchases, they will have a hard 

time sourcing enough volume on 

certain Cedar items. These factors 

have led to Cedar gang and chipn-saw 

log prices climbing and 

merchandise staying stubbornly 

firm. These log price increases, 

along with stagnant Cedar lumber 

prices, have resulted in manufacturing 

margins being squeezed or 

diminished. BCTS Timber sales, 

year to date, have averaged only 9 

percent Cedar content. Any sales 

with a healthy Cedar content are 

being bid and won with unbelievably 

high evaluations, which 

suggests that future Cedar log 

appreciation is being built into the 

bids. All the factors above, as well 

as the recent news of the duty rate 

increase coming later this year, 

point to the likelihood that Cedar 

lumber prices will be increasing.” 

Garofano finished with this, “On 

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a positive note, there does appear 

to be some optimism for demand 

once the winter weather breaks, 

interest rates have likely peaked, 

inflation is near target levels and 

an election year in the U.S.A. 

Should this North American 

optimism become reality through 

2024, and the export markets perk 

up, it will be welcome news for 

Cedar manufacturers.” 

Leslie Southwick of C&D 

Lumber, Riddle, OR said, “Supply 

is currently outpacing demand 



Southeast Business Trends 

Ontario/Quebec Business Trends 

By Sue Putnam 

Editor 

Across the Southeastern region while all lumber sources 

agreed that their sales were slow, they each believe it is 

for a different reason. 

In Alabama, a lumberman said that while his sales 

have been steady, they have been impacted by the weather. 

“I expect to bounce back as soon as the weather issues are 

out of the way.” 

He noted that his sales are better than they were six 

months ago. “The economy is continuing to roll along, 

and the interest rates didn’t put the brakes on sales like we thought they would, as 

people’s inventories are low, and they are being forced back into the market.” 

His company offers Southern Yellow Pine in thicknesses of 11/32 to 3/4 inch 

and in grades A, B and C, as well as rated sheathing. He mentioned that he will 

sell to anyone that wants to buy from him. 

When asked how he thinks the market will continue to fare over the next several 

months, he said, “Hopefully it will continue to rock along, and we will be pleas- 


By Richard Lipman 

Guest Writer 

Noted an SPF manufacturer in Quebec, “Both Ontario 

and Quebec are still very difficult. Now that the weather is 

improving in Ontario, we're starting to see a little bit more 

activity there, but in Quebec, it's still very slow and that's 

a function of probably the economy as well. The lumber 

markets are much stronger in the US right now. They're 

about to turn around, to the positive, finally. Typically 

what would happen is our market areas would follow, but 

Canada is in worse shape economically than the US. I'm 

not sure how much it's going to step up. We anticipate that most of the sales and 

the growth, the price increases in the market, will come from the US sales at this 

point in time”. 

An Ontario producer reported that “regarding various grades, there's nothing 

that's lagging at the moment. Everything is moving well, so that is a positive. We 

are not necessarily concerned about the countervailing duty announcement, but it 

changes the strategy a little bit. In the mill’s mind, since the taxes will increase in 

August, again, they might as well hold off a bit. Most mills in Canada are losing 

money, a lot of money, so what we 

need to do is make sure that we 

get the best value possible for our 

production." 

A Quebec wholesaler suggested 

that “mills might try to limit their 

sales somewhat right now and try 

maybe to increase the volume of 

production a little bit closer to the 

springtime, meaning March and 

April and May, and closer to the 

duty change as well in August. 

This will be done to ensure that 

they track some better pricing, 

which is going to happen with the 

duties that are coming in the fall. 

An Ontario wholesaler felt that 

“what's going to happen with 

all the mills before that date in 

August is that whatever isn't sold 

is going to be moved in the US 

ahead of the tax hike. It is going 

be moved in reloads and yards 

and so on, to be able to offset the 

potential costs, the additional costs 

in a very difficult market in terms 

of profits for the mills right now." 

According to a Quebec manufacturer, 

“I would say that with 

the production decreases in SPF, 

especially on the Canadian side, 

with influence from the west and 

east, there's a bit better balance in 

the marketplace and as the year 

goes on, and the fact that it's a 

US election year as well, I think 

there's going to be less barriers 

to business. I think they'll want 

to control interest rates in the US 

better. Maybe not that they're going 

to decrease, because it's probably 

dangerous to do that now, 

inflation is not yet under control, 

but they're going to want to make 

sure that they create opportunity 

for everybody for houses. There's 

a deficit in housing in the US as 

it is in Canada and they'll want 

to address that if they can. So I 

think we're going to have a very 

good year, and the lumber markets 



IBS STORY —Continued from page 1 

The two events co-located during Design & Construction Week and represented 

the largest annual gathering of residential construction and design industry professionals. 

Thousands attend each year. 

The IBS provides attendees ample networking opportunities and this year more 

than 100 education sessions. These cover a broad range of topics on housing industry 

concerns, including economic trends, business opportunities and new markets, 

technology, high performance building, sales and marketing, construction 

methods, business management, legal issues, government regulation, architecture, 

design, community planning and more. 

New this year was the segmentation of exhibitors by product they represented. 

Six distinct product segments were available at this year's IBS/KBIS. 

These included: 

• Building materials 

• Interior finishings and home living 

• Business management and professional services 

• Global products 

• Construction tools, systems, equipment and safety 

• Outdoor living, leisure and modular structures. 

The event also features yearly multiple awards by KBIS as well as IBS, learning 

labs, demo zones and guest speakers. 

Next year's show dates are Feb. 25-27, 2025, also in Las Vegas. In 2026, the 

event moves to Orlando, FL to be held Feb. 17-19 at the Orange County Convention 

Center. 

Learn more at www.buildersshow.com. n 

like and follow us 

on social media! 

@millerwoodtradepub 

In today’s complex world 

at least one thing is plain and simple. 

At Cersosimo we provide you with the 

largest and most consistent supply of 

quality Eastern White Pine and 

hardwood – from the heart of New 

England forests. We’ve been doing it 

for over 75 years. You’ve come to count 

on us to be there and deliver the best – 

and do it consistently. 

It’s straight talk from folks who are 

easy to talk to, who know the business 

inside and out – and whose integrity 

is as solid as the lumber we provide. 

www.cersosimolumber.com 


WHO'S WHO - MUCK 

Continued from page 2 

heads DMSi’s biennial customer conference, PartnerConnect. He is active in the 

North American Wholesale Lumber Association as a member of committees and 

“10 groups.” 

Muck is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He and his wife, 

Katie Muck, have two sons, Sebastian and Oliver and two daughters, Laila and 

Stella. In his free time, Muck enjoys golf, hockey and cheering on his kids at all of 

their games and competitions. 

For more information visit www.dmsi.com. n 

WHO'S WHO - QUANE 


ogy advancements. 

Quane was recently brought on board at PTJ after spending 25 years in the 

commercial business sector. His most recent position before joining PTJ was at 

REC Silicon, located in Moses Lake, WA, a polysilicon manufacturing company. 

Quane graduated from the University of Idaho as an electrical engineer and 

went on to practice at engineering technology companies for 15 years before moving 

into the commercial business sector. 

d 

#1 Inventory Management Profit Strategy:. 

Stock No More Than Needed to Properly Service Demand 

This practice is crucial to profitability. Here’s why: 

• Every 

• Every day day that that excess inventory is is owned, it it is is either either costing costing interest on on borrowed money, money, which which 

increases expense, or or it it is is preventing the the earning of of interest on on owned owned money, money, which which decreases 

income. Whether capital is is borrowed or or owned, excess inventory is is always eroding profitability. 

• Let’s say a yard has sales volume of 110,000 BF/month. If brought in all at once by car, the inventory 

• Let’s say yard has sales volume of 110,000 BF/month. If brought in all at once by car, the inventory 

can 

will 

turn 

turn 

once 

once 

a month 

month. 

if 

But 

needs 

if metered 

are correctly 

in by truck 

projected. 

in 27,500 

But if 

BF 

metered 

increments 

in by 

at 

truck 

one load 

in 27,500 

per week 

BF 

as 

increments at one load per week as actually needed, that inventory will turn 4 times per month – 

actually needed, that inventory will turn 4 times per month – and tie up only 1/4 as much cash. 

and tie up only 1/4 as much cash. 

• Now suppose this yard pays for a car 10 days after it ships and it takes 3 weeks to deliver. It paid for 

• Now suppose this yard pays for the car 10 days after shipment and delivery takes 3 weeks. It paid for 

times the inventory it needed, and won’t see any of it for 11 more days. But if it buys by truck with 

4 times the inventory it needed, and won’t see any of it for 11 more days. But if it buys by truck with 

quick delivery, every stick can be sold before the invoice even comes due. In fact, three truckloads 

quick delivery, every stick could be sold before the invoice even comes due. In fact, three truckloads 

would be sold this way before the car could even have arrived, and using only 1/4 as much cash. 

could be sold this way before the car could even have arrived, again using only 1/4 the capital. 

• This strategy dependably multiplies turns and GMROI, dramatically improves cashflow, cuts carrying 

• This strategy dependably multiplies turns and GMROI, dramatically improves cashflow, cuts carrying 

costs 

costs 

and 

and 

frees 

frees 

up 

up 

both 

both 

capital 

capital 

and 

and 

space 

space 

for 

for 

more 

more 

profitable 

profitable 

use. 

use. 

Margins 

Margins 

are 

are 

maintained 

maintained 

through 

and 

market 

downside 

moves 

risk is 

and 

virtually 

downside 

eliminated 

risk is significantly 

regardless of 

reduced 

market 

because 

moves because 

the inventory 

the inventory 

is turning 

turns 

faster 

faster 

than 

price 

than price 

changes 

changes 

can affect 

can affect 

its value. 

its value. 

There’s 

There’s 

less inventory 

less inventory 

to count, 

to count, 

and stock 

and stock 

stays 

stays 

fresher, 

fresher, 

too. 

too. 

Maximize your profit with this safe and efficient strategy. 

Call Idaho Timber for highly-mixed trucks and just-in-time delivery. 

Quane and his wife, Jill, live on a homestead where they garden and keep 

bees. He also enjoys woodworking and making furniture. Quane and his wife 

have three children, Austin, Audrey and Lauren. 

For more information, visit www.pawtaw.com, email david@pawtaw.com or 

call 208-449-4950. n 

WHO'S WHO - ROSS 


Ross attended the University of British Columbia where he studied Wood Products 

Processing. 

Ross enjoys hockey and golf. He has been married for four years to Tripti. 

San Group is a member of Western Red Cedar Lumber Association, North 

American Wholesale Lumber Association, BC Wood and the Program for the 

Endorsement of Forest Certification. 

For more information, call Ross at 604-355-6548, email addison@sangroupinc.com 

or visit www.sangroupinc.com. n 

WHO'S WHO - CAPPETTA 


profiles and a custom coatings facility, in a variety of thicknesses and lengths 

or ripped to custom specifications. They also offer other species: Southern Yellow 

Pine, Western Red Cedar, European 

Spruce and Incense Cedar. 

All of the EWP that they offer is 

provided in NELMA grades and 

patterns, along with many proprietary 

and custom grades. 

Robbins Lumber offers 

endmatching, pre-finished/primed 

products, HT capacity, clean 

bandsawn/fresh resawn, various 

rougherheads (including original 

rustic), live edge siding and log 

siding. 

Cappetta has been with Robbins 

Lumber since May 2023 and 

has been in the lumber industry 

since 2015. Her first job in the 

industry was administrative sales 

support with Pleasant River 

Lumber, where she entered Spruce 

and Pine orders. When Pleasant 

River Lumber’s Pine mills were 

acquired by Robbins Lumber, she 

stayed on in the wholesale Pine 

sales. 

Robbins Lumber is a member 

of Northeastern Lumber Manufacturers 

Association, North American 

Wholesale Lumber Association, 

Northeastern Retail Lumber 

Association and Maine Forest 

Products Association. 

For more information, call 207- 

206-7350, email ncappetta@rlco. 

com or visit www.rlco.com. n 

A PRIMARY PRODUCER OF PREMIUM 

PRODUCTS FROM LOG TO LUMBER 

Partap Forest Products now operates both sawmilling and reman facilities to produce the 

highest quality Western Red Cedar and Pacific Hem-Fir products available. As a primary 

producer we control all aspects of production to ensure the highest value is extracted from log 

to lumber, producing more than 110 million board feet annually. 

(800) 654-8110 

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR FULL 

RANGE OF PREMIUM PRODUCTS, CONTACT 

P: (604) 463-1525 

E: sales@partap.ca 

PARTAP.CA 


SLB COLUMN —Continued from page 2 

Think Wood featured a project profile of Amazon’s HQ2, which includes 

an event center built with cross-laminated timber and glulam to 

create a warm, appealing space for employees that was also quicker 

to construct. Photo credit: Magda Biernat 

A.W. Stiles Contractors, Inc. 

A.W. Stiles provides a full line of Modern Day Equipment serving both Softwood and Hardwood markets. New Installations 

and Complete Rebuilds on Existing Equipment: High Temp Track Kilns, Hardwood Package Kilns, Predryers, Walnut Steamers 

(Right) Charles Ingram Lumber in Effingham, SC. A.W. 

Stiles Contractors fabricated and installed a patent pending 

dual path kiln consisting of a 60’ center chamber and 40’ 

extension chambers. The engineering firm over the project 

was Tinsley Consulting Group of Hot Springs, AR. 

Complete Rebuilds Including: 

• Roof Replacements/Complete Reskins 

• Heating Coils and Complete Steam Systems 

• Energy Efficient Upgrades - 

controls, insulation additions, wind flow, 

heating capacity, door seals, etc. 

(Left) T. R. Miller Mill Co. in 

Brewton, AL. A.W. Stiles Contractors 

fabricated and installed two 

steam-heated patented dual path 

kilns each kiln consisting of 94’ 

center chambers and 62’ extension 

chambers. The engineering firm over 

the project was Tinsley Consulting 

Group of Hot Springs, AR. 

• Doors and Carriers 

• Structural Repairs 

• Protective Coatings 

• Complete line of replacement parts 

Lee Stiles Cell: (931) 409-0144 

Email: lee@awscontractorsinc.com 

Glenn Thompson Cell: (615) 372-4261 

Email: glenn@awscontractorsinc.com 

Casey Miller Cell: (931) 607-7451 

Email: casey@awscontractorsinc.com 

Office: (931) 668-8768 • Fax: (931) 668-7327 

286 Bass Lane, McMinnville, TN 37110 

awscontractorsinc.com 

sionals on wood topics ranging from sustainable forestry to building codes, as 

well as expanding wood design instruction in postsecondary architecture and engineering 

programs. For example, the SLB funded three faculty workshops in 2023, 

training 52 faculty on how to integrate education about wood systems into their 

own academic programs. These investments help to inspire the next generation of 

design professionals to build with wood. 

The American Wood Council is the industry’s program for the development of 

codes, standards and regulations, design tools, and guidelines for wood construction. 

By identifying obstacles to wood specification and opportunities where new 

design standards would expand the market, the AWC can provide research and 

expertise to ensure codes and standards remain favorable to wood. The AWC has 

helped to integrate tall mass timber code provisions into building codes in 28 

states including, most recently, Ohio, where the AWC was a regular participant in 

the Ohio Building Codes Committee meetings supporting the development of the 

approved code package. 

WoodWorks supports and influences wood projects by working directly with 

design and construction teams, with the goal of facilitating a shift toward wood 

within firms. The program provides free one-on-one project assistance on commercial 

and multifamily wood building design, with WoodWorks design professionals 

serving as trusted assets to minimize the learning curve on unfamiliar designs 

or overcome hurdles with local building authorities. WoodWorks also hosts 

events/educational events that help build relationships with design professionals. 

For example, WoodWorks hosted 

or spoke at 129 events in 2023 

featuring innovative light-frame 

topics that attracted a total of 

13,143 attendees, propelling 

the program to a total of nearly 

80,000 education hours. 

Think Wood is a marketing 

and communications program 

that builds interest and intent to 

specify wood in those audiences, 

and it has evolved in recent 

years to become a sought-after 

educational resource for the 

design and construction industry. 

Design and construction are 

fields where innovation involves 

“early bird” risk, so professionals 

need reassuring examples of 

successful wood projects that 

inform and demystify building 

with wood. For example, retail 

giant Amazon’s new headquarters 

in Arlington, Virginia, was 

covered by major media outlets 

like Bloomberg, Fortune, and 

the Washington Post—but those 

articles overlooked the project’s 

use of wood. Think Wood filled 

the gap to show how the architect 

used cross-laminated timber and 

glulam to create a warm, appealing 

space for employees that was 

also quicker to construct. 

What does it take to 

change a market? 

Coordination between these 

programs and with other industry 

partners can move markets 

to embrace wood. In New York 

City, for example, the SLB 

is supporting an accelerator 

program called the NYC Mass 

Timber Studio that will help increase 

the use of wood products 

in the city with the goal of reducing 

the embodied carbon in new 

construction. The project is a 

collaboration with the New York 



SLB COLUMN —Continued from page 32 

funds from the USDA Forest Service’s Wood Innovations Grants and other organizations, 

leveraging the impact of the SLB’s $50,000 investment in the $500,000 

overall project. 

The accelerator also builds on the efforts of each of the SLB’s programs in New 

York City, where mass timber is now beginning to break through. Think Wood 

has featured projects such as the High Line–Moynihan Connector, a mass timber 

bridge from architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill that demonstrates the 

potential for wood products in new construction types. WoodWorks has provided 

technical assistance on projects such as 320 & 360 Wythe Ave., a ground-breaking, 

117,000-square-foot mixed-use project in Brooklyn that used nail-laminated 

timber floor systems and glulam columns and beams. And the city cleared the way 

for more mass timber projects by approving the use of CLT for buildings up to 85 

feet tall in 2021. 

Building on success 

Industry veterans have much to be excited about when they consider the evolving 

wood products market. There’s a striking degree of consensus among designers, 

builders, owners, governments, and environmental professionals who 

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consider wood viable—even critical—for building more economically and sustainably. 

Trade and mainstream coverage about wood is positive and enthusiastic, 

and project teams are eager to build more projects and taller projects with wood. 

Warehouses and offices are being designed to showcase their wood interiors to 

lure back workers with more appealing environments. 

To make the most of this opportunity, our industry is investing in its own 

operations and in the SLB. The SLB’s investments have generated 12.6 billion 

board feet of incremental lumber demand since inception. That amount of lumber 

represents an equivalent of 32.3 million metric tons of avoided and sequestered 

carbon—an important secondary benefit for the sustainable building community 

and some governments. With industry’s steady support, the SLB will continue to 

create a diverse, growing demand base for wood products in the years ahead—a 

future that holds an incremental opportunity of 3.39 billion board feet through 

2035. 

1 

1 

business topics and connect one-on-one with regional and international NAWLA 

leaders. 

Registration for select regional meetings is now open on the NAWLA website 

(nawla.org/Events/Regional-Meetings) and details for summer and fall meetings 

will be shared in the coming months. NAWLA encourages all members to re- 

Forest Economic Advisors 2024 U.S. Outlook for the Softwood Lumber Board n 

AWC COLUMN —Continued from page 2 

Email Jamie Moulton 

jmoulton@lavalleys.com 

AWC’s design standards will be 

used. 

The three publications each 

have key updates to their provisions: 

• The 2024 NDS, which serves 

as the primary design standard 

for wood structures, includes 

updates to shear design provisions 

for bending members, multi-ply 

connections, and fire design provisions. 

• The updates to the 2024 

WFCM were to align the manual 

with the updated wind and snow 

loading provisions in ASCE 7-22 

for various wood structural elements 

like sawn lumber, structural 

glued laminated timber, wood 

structural panel sheathing, structural 

composite lumber, wood 

I-joists, and wood trusses. 

• The 2024 FDS is an update to the 

2022 version. The 2024 changes include 

calculation procedures to determine 

structural fire resistance, thermal separation, 

and burn-through resistance of 

protected and unprotected wood members. 

In addition, new provisions were 

added to address the added fire resistance 

and thermal protection provided by the 

addition of wood cover, gypsum panels, 

and insulation. 

Both the 2024 NDS and WFCM are 

referenced in the International Code 

Council’s (ICC) 2024 International 

Building Code and 2024 International 

Residential Code. The 2024 FDS is not yet referenced in the building codes, 

however, AWC has introduced a series of code change proposals for the 2027 ICC 

model code development process to include a reference to the 2024 FDS. The 

2027 I-code development process will continue for the next three years. 

To supplement the 2024 standards, AWC has also released two design publications, 

the 2024 Span Tables for Joists & Rafters (STJR) and 2024 Design Values 

for Joists & Rafters (DVJR). These 

two publications assist in quickly 

determining the live or dead load 

combinations for floors, ceilings 

and rafters. AWC also has a tutorial 

to help users understand the structural 

principles of loads to better 

use the span tables. 

Currently, AWC is in the process 

of compiling Commentaries on 

the recently released publications 

to further aid in the accessibility 

and adoption of wood construction. 

AWC has also completed 

two phases of testing of a wood 

structural panel (WSP) shear wall 

system, and the results could be 

included in the upcoming Special 

Design Provisions for Wind and 

Seismic (SDPWS), which will be 

published in 2027. The current 

results suggest the WSP shear wall 

system could become a powerful 

new tool for designers as they attempt 

to meet ever-increasing seismic 

load requirements. The results 

of the testing will be presented to 

the AWC Wood Design Standards 

Committee, which will determine 

its inclusion. 

All three 2024 standards as well 

as the STJR and DVJR are available 

for free viewing on the AWC 

website. A printed or electronic 

version of the 2024 NDS and 2024 

WFCM will be available for purchase 

once the Commentaries are 

added later this year. n 

APA — 


In his new role, Brown will 

serve as a key advisor and advocate 

for APA and its members on 

energy, code and sustainability 

policy issues. He will spearhead the 

development and implementation 

of strategic energy and sustainability 

initiatives, coordinating with 

internal and external stakeholders 

on behalf of the industry. As director of energy policy and code, he will help educate 

the public and policymakers on how to leverage engineered wood's natural 

R-value and low embodied carbon properties. 

Brown holds a degree in construction management engineering technology 

(CMET) from Purdue University Northwest, is a certified green professional, and 

has exceptional expertise in energy policy as it applies to wood-frame construction. 

Outside of his professional life, Brown enjoys barbequing and sharing his 

culinary skills with others. 

“We are thrilled to have Matt in this new role,” said APA President Mark Tibbetts. 

“His skills in managing operations, problem-solving and building relationships 

align perfectly with APA's mission-driven approach. We know he will make 

significant contributions to advance energy efficiency and sustainability in wood 

construction.” n 

NAWLA COLUMN —Continued from page 2 



NAWLA COLUMN —Continued from page 35 

view the list of regional meetings below and to reach out to NAWLA HQ should 

they have any questions on their specific region’s meeting. 

• Montreal: April 9, 2024 

• Montreal: April 9, 2024 

• Vancouver: May 22, 2024 

• Vancouver: May 22, 2024 

• 

• 

Portland: 

Portland: 

June 

June 

6, 

6, 

2024 

2024 

• • Southeast: Southeast: Summer Summer 2024 2024 

• • Minneapolis: Summer 2024 2024 

• • Texas: Fall Fall 2024 2024 

• • Northeast: Fall Fall 2024 

NAWLA will also be hosting multiple in-person, international-level events 

this year, including the Wood Basics courses. An opportunity for companies 

and employees to invest in their future, this four-day immersion class includes 

both classroom and field operation training in a small cohort-style setting on the 

topics of negotiations, product segmentation, logistics and transportation, and 

forest management and operations. Whether a new employee just starting out 

in wholesale lumber or a veteran who is moving into a new segment, industry 

professionals of all experience levels are encouraged to join NAWLA this spring 

in Corvallis, Oregon, or this fall in Peachtree City, Georgia, for this intimately 

tailored learning experience. 

Save the date! Join NAWLA May 6-10 in Corvallis, Oregon, for the 

2024 Spring Wood Basics course. Watch the NAWLA website for 

registration information. 

In addition to hosting regional and international events, NAWLA will continue 

to bring education directly to members’ fingertips through webinars. Working in 

an ever-evolving industry, NAWLA recognizes its members and the industry as 

a whole are looking for ways to learn about current issues, stay on the pulse of 

changes and address new trends. From brand building and hiring to operations 

best practices, NAWLA webinars will continue to bring the information our members 

need to stay up to date on it all. 

If you are not a member yet, now is a great time to join NAWLA. Members 

receive exclusive benefits, including discounts on event registrations, exclusive 

access to webinars and networking opportunities, and more. Reach out to us today 

at info@nawla.org to learn more about our various membership offerings. n 

RETAIL REVIEW — Continued from page 20 

also offer customers increased service options,” according to 84 Lumber Vice 

President of Installed Sales and Manufacturing Ken Kucera. 

The 80,000-square-foot facility features new, state-of-the-art roof and floor 

truss building equipment and will employ a staff of more than 80 associates. The 

plant will cover the central Florida market, including Tampa and Orlando, as well 

as the surrounding areas. 

In addition to this new plant, 84 Lumber recently opened truss plants near Atlanta, 

GA and Columbia, SC; a new door shop in Denver, CO and is opening new 

stores in the state of California. 

For more information, go to www.84lumber.com. 

Gulfeagle Supply Acquires Banning Lumber & Millwork 

Banning Lumber & Millwork of Largo, FL has been sold to Gulfeagle Supply. 

Terry and Marc Banning founded Banning Lumber & Millwork in 1990. The 

company is a fully stocked lumberyard offering an extensive selection of building 

products including but not limited to millwork, doors, windows, mouldings, stair 

parts and exterior siding. 

Banning is a wholesaler that sells exclusively to the trade. The company is one 

of the largest and most successful such businesses in the region. 

Banning Lumber and Millwork’s 

Lumber Department offers a 

variety of framing lumber, including 

Doug and Hem Fir, Southern 

Yellow Pine and Spruce Pine Fir. 

One of America’s premier roofing 

and building products distributors, 

Gulfeagle Supply specializes 

in servicing the professional 

roofing contractor and provides a 

variety of products and services to 

the homeowner, building owner, 

architect and general contractor. 

Founded in 1973, Gulfeagle 

Supply opened its first location in 

Tampa, FL. Today, Gulfeagle has 

grown to 118 branches across the 

United States, with Banning Lumber 

& Millwork being the most 

recent acquisition. 


www.gulfeaglesupply.com. 

Matt’s Building Materials currently operates three locations, employs more 

than 170 people, has a fleet of over 25 delivery vehicles and is a “local leader in 

many product categories.” 

Matt’s already operates locations in Pharr, Palmview and San Benito, TX. 

For more information, go to www.mattsbuildingmaterials.com. 

Stine Lumber Acquires Bossier City Assets Of Cassity Jones Lumber 

Stine Lumber is bringing its lumber and building materials to Bossier City and 

the surrounding communities. 

Stine CEO Dennis Stine announced that the Sulphur, LA-based company has 

acquired the Bossier City assets of Cassity Jones Lumber, which sells Southern 

Yellow Pine, Spruce and Fir. 

“We’re excited to locate in the Bossier/Shreveport region, a community we’ve 

been serving peripherally from our Natchitoches facility,” said Stine. 

It is the12th Stine location in the state of Louisiana. 

Stine is Louisiana’s largest family-owned building materials dealer and employs 

more than 800 associates in 12 stores across the state of Louisiana, with 

one store in Natchez, MS. 

The sale to Stine Lumber involves the only Cassity Jones Lumber facility that 

was located outside of Texas. 

The executive team of Cassity Jones Lumber elected to focus the growth of the 


It’s more than an 

insurance policy. 

Patrick Lumber Company 

Over 100 Years in Business 

Est 1915 

Premier Landscaping Acquires 

75-Year-Old Lumberyard 

Johnson True Value Lumber, 

Wickenburg, AZ, has been sold to 

a local entrepreneur after nearly 75 

years of family ownership. 

Jesus “Chuey” Gonzalez, the 

owner of Premier Landscaping, 

Premier Moving and Premier Hay, 

has purchased the lumberyard, 

now dubbed Premier True Value 

& Lumber, and sells a variety of 

framing lumber. 

He noted that he hopes to retain 

all current employees. 


www.premierwickenburg.com. 

Texas Lumberyard To Open 

Fourth Location 

Matt’s Building Materials 

has announced that it will add a 

17,000-square-foot retail operation 

and lumberyard in Harlingen, TX. 

The new store is expected to 

open in January 2025 and will sell 

Spruce, Pine and Hem Fir, along 

with Southern Yellow Pine. 

Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company (PLM) goes beyond providing 

coverages with an emphasis on preventing and reducing losses to safeguard our customers' 

operations. Our Loss Control Representatives are experts in all aspects of risk management, 

especially in the lumber and wood industry. They partner with our customers through 

consultative services, helpful recommendations, and custom training plans to help mitigate 

areas of risk and build safer and more resilient lumber businesses. 

Risk 

Management 

Get more from your insurance 

policy with PLM’s Loss 

Control Representatives who 

are committed to the safety 

of your business. 

Request a quote at 

www.plmins.com/SB. 


TRANSPORTATION SURVEY —Continued from page 7 

its power on the West Coast of both the U.S. and Canada. Montreal port workers 

and employers have hit an impasse in contract negotiations, bringing back memories 

of a five-day strike in 2021 and a 19-day strike in 2020 at Canada’s secondlargest 

port. And the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) has already 

DEDICATED TO 

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location near you. 

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LANCASTER, MA 

SHELBYVILLE, IN 

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BRANCHVILLE, SC 

raised the prospect of a strike at U.S. East and Gulf coast ports after its contract 

expires at the end of September 2024, the first time that would happen since 1977. 

Sustainability has taken center stage in the maritime sector. With increasing 

awareness of environmental issues, there is a growing emphasis on adopting 

eco-friendly practices. Shipowners are investing in green technologies, including 

alternative fuels, wind-assisted propulsion, and energy-efficient designs, to reduce 

the carbon footprint of ocean transportation. Regulatory bodies are also tightening 

environmental standards, pushing the industry towards more sustainable practices. 

The push for sustainable shipping practices is expected to gain even more 

momentum in 2024. Governments, consumers and industry players are likely to 

collaborate further to implement stricter environmental regulations. The adoption 

of alternative fuels, such as hydrogen and ammonia, is expected to increase, and 

more vessels will incorporate green technologies to meet evolving sustainability 

standards, such as the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) surcharges from 

carriers. 

Looking ahead to 2024, the industry is poised for further transformation, driven 

by a collective commitment to efficiency, sustainability and adaptability. The key 

to success lies in embracing change, leveraging technology, and forging strategic 

partnerships to sail through the challenges and opportunities that lie on the 

horizon. 

I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone in our industry a healthy 

and prosperous 2024. Thank you all for your continued support through out the 

years. 

As we bring in 2024 a little 

advice on progress from Mr. 

Lincoln: “I’m a slow walker but I 

never walk backwards.” 

CULPEPER, VA 

FREDERICKSBURG, VA 

ATHENS, NY 

BELCHERTOWN, MA 

FEDERALSBURG, MD 

COLERIDGE, NC 

COVE CITY, NC 

ORANGEBURG, SC 

SWEETWATER, TN 

Stephen A. Zambo 

Stephen A. Zambo 

The AGL Group 

Jacksonville, FL 

2023 was a very interesting 

year. There are trends within the 

marketplace that we see year over 

year, decade over decade. The 

trends may have some variability, 

think COVID, but outside of that, 

trends have remained relatively 

spot on over the long term. In 

2023, we saw the first quarter 

buck normal export trends. We 

typically see a slow January and 

February with freight picking up 

in March. This past year we saw a 

very strong first and second quarter. 

Export volumes took a large 

hit from June all the way through 

about October in 2023. That is 

more in line with how traditional 

markets have been in the past. 

In 2023, the supply chain issues 

were nothing in comparison to 

2021 and 2022. 2023 has been 

stable. Trucking availability has 

been a non-issue and steamship 

lines on most lanes have availability. 

Of course, this fluctuates 

from time to time, but rarely is a 

booking more than two weeks out 

as it stands. One item to keep an 

eye on is a potential strike on the 

East Coast sometime in 2024. After 

negotiating record deals on the 

West Coast, the union on the East 

Coast is saying that it will hold firm 

by striking in 2024 if there is not 

a new deal negotiated. That would 

be a very large issue for the forest 

products industry as 80 percent of 

hardwood exports are routed via the 

East Coast. Until there is more concrete 

information and the date of 

strike approaches, this is something 

to monitor. 

A very important topic no one 

talks about when looking forward 

at freight rates is the amount of 

steamship line capacity coming 

onto the market in the next 18 

months. On average there are about 

375,000 containers worth of new 

space entering the market annually. 

In 2024 alone there is north of 

1,200,000 containers worth of new 

ship builds coming online. Unit 

economics lead us to the obvious 

conclusion of continued cheap 

freight rates. More space with the 

same demand equals low freight 

rates. More space with less demand 

equals low freight rates. I am 

confused as to what the steamship 

line carriers are doing from a unit 

economics standpoint. 

At the end of 2023, we were 

back to enjoying historically low 

freight rate levels. The rates have 

no where to go but up. I do not 

believe we will see large increases, 

10-15 percent over the course of 

2024 on the ocean carrier side. 

Trucking companies on the other 

hand are having a very challenging 

time. There is less freight both on 

the export and import side, with 

more trucking capacity leading to 

reduced trucking rates over the last 

six months. I believe you will see 

some companies reduce fleet size, 

close their doors or start to increase 

prices. They do not have an option. 

Containers are readily available at the ports and are not readily available at 

some inland locations. I expect this trend to remain as it typically does. The cost 

of containers are stable for now, and may increase over the next year or so by 

about 10-15 percent. 

Shipping volumes in the fourth quarter were higher than what we forecasted 

based off of the second quarter and the third quarter. Economists and banks are 

calling for around 2 percent global growth in 2024. If that actually happens, we 

will see modest gains in export volumes, however, I am not so certain that we will 

actually see 2 percent growth. Asking me to predict shipping volumes in the first 

quarter of 2024 is akin to throwing spaghetti at the wall and seeing “what sticks.” 

Where the economy goes is anyone’s guess. We are heading into an election 

year with much uncertainty. There are currently multiple wars globally, interest 

rates have been elevated compared to the last decade and inflation has been 

a major issue. The only constant across all industries is that margins are being 

squeezed. Going into the New Year, we can all be hopeful that the economy starts 

to pick back up, but I am not sure that is what we will see. 

read every issue online 


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TRANSPORTATION SURVEY —Continued from page 39 

Curtis Struyk 

TMX Shipping Co., Inc. 

Morehead City, NC 

Even though the pressures and bottlenecks that 

the transportation industry was experiencing in 2022 

have subsided, our export numbers have decreased. 

Our lumber and log shipments overall are down 20 

percent year over year. 

We slowly saw the industry normalize over the 

last 12 months and it is back to pre-pandemic levels. 

Curtis Struyk I do not foresee any substantial increases in our 

export shipments over the next 12 months. Ongoing 

changes in global trade dynamics, regulations and geopolitical situations can 

influence supply chain strategies. Business may need to stay agile and adapt to 

evolving trade environments. 

Transportation rates are back to the levels we saw in 2019 and I do not see anything 

in the near future that is going to change that other than some global event 

such as natural disasters, geopolitical issues or pandemics. 

We are not currently seeing any real shortages in ocean containers at the major 

ports but we are seeing spotty shortages at some of our inland locations because of 

the decrease in imports replenishing those container pools. 

We saw a little uptick in shipments in the fourth quarter over the third quarter 

since the log season got off to a 

decent start. All indications are we 

should have a good log season that 

will carry into late spring 2024. 

The U.S. Federal Reserve plays 

a crucial role in managing inflation 

and interest rates. Changes in these 

factors can influence borrowing 

costs, spending and investment. 

Consumer spending is a significant 

driver of the U.S. economy. Factors 

such as consumer confidence, 

household income and access to 

credit can impact spending patterns. 

The interconnectedness of global 

economy means that international 

events, trade relations and geopolitical 

tensions can have repercussions 

for the U.S. economy and U.S. 

exports. China still accounts for 

50 percent of our lumber and log 

exports. When half of our business 

is reliant on China and given the 

current tensions between the two 

countries, it makes us very concerned 

about our future. • 

RETAIL REVIEW — Continued from page 37 

company in Texas, where it has five locations, with a sixth location in west Fort 

Worth to be opened next month. 

Wendy Stine, president of Stine, explained that all Cassity Jones Bossier City 

employees have accepted jobs with Stine. 

There will be no interruption of service and customers may continue to interact 

with the same employees with whom they have built relationships. 

Initial plans for the lumber yard include expanding product selection for the 

builder customer. 

In addition to Bossier City, Stine Louisiana locations include Sulphur, Lake 

Charles, Iowa, DeRidder, Natchitoches, Pineville, Eunice, Jennings, Crowley, 

Broussard and Walker. 

Stine began in Sulphur in 1946 and now has 12 locations throughout Louisiana 

and Mississippi. Stine was awarded the 2020 Company of the Year, greater than 

100 employees, by the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry. 

To learn more about Stine, visit www.stinehome.com. 

Westcap Invests In Timber-Tech Truss 

Westcap Mgt. Ltd. of Saskatchewan, Canada has made an investment in Timber-Tech 

Truss Limited Partnership, which is the third buyout fund focused on 

succession and growth opportunities in Western Canada. 

Timber-Tech is a provider of 

engineered truss systems and engineered 

wood products, servicing 

customers throughout Western 

Canada. 

Founded in 1980, in Lethbridge, 

Alberta, the company has four 

decades of experience and has 

grown to operate three manufacturing 

facilities, which are located in 

Lethbridge, Calgary and Medicine 

Hat. 

With 52,000 square feet of 

combined manufacturing space and 

an employee base of 100, Timber-Tech 

can produce over 44,000 

board feet per day. The company's 

ability to meet product demand on 

time through all cycles has earned 

Timber-Tech a long-standing 

reputation of credibility and reliability 

with the top builders across 

Western Canada. 

Timber-Tech has a wide range 

of customers across a large geographical 

region with a focus on 

servicing large, tract home builders 

in the Calgary region that require 

standard roof and floor trusses as 

well as engineered wood products. 

The company's products from the 

Medicine Hat and Lethbridge facilities 

are sold through a vast dealer 

network ranging from Southeastern 

British Columbia to Southwestern 

Saskatchewan. 

Between 2020 and 2023, 

Timber-Tech increased board foot 

production by 26 percent despite 

industry supply chain challenges 

and volatile commodity pricing by 

focusing on strategic growth in the 

Calgary region including the acquisition 

of a new facility in Calgary 

in 2018. 

This will continue the trend of 

interprovincial and international 

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2 x 3 

2 x 4 

2 x 6 

2 x 8 

2 x 10 

2 x 12 

For more information, go to www.timbertech.com. • 

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PRIME FOREST PRODUCTS —Continued from page 4 

WOOD TRADE PUBLICATIONS 

EST 1927 

Prime Forest exports to the United Kingdom, Belgium, Holland, Northern Africa 

and Japan, as well as importing Radiata and Taeda Pine out of South America and 

New Zealand. 

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866646665254 

Prime Forest has positioned themselves to control and tailor the production, sizing, 

drying and grading for all of their industrial customers. 

As a fourth-generation, family-owned operation, we 

bring a legacy of excellence for high-quality pine 

boards, paneling, shop, and studs. 

Our steadfast dedication to providing exceptional 

customer service and maintaining the highest 

standards of quality makes us a reliable choice. Elevate 

your standards – where heritage, quality, and business 

reliability have taken root. 

siding, tongue and groove, pattern 

stock, molding, ship lap siding, cut 

stock and core block using Douglas 

Fir, Hemlock, Western Red Cedar 

and Ponderosa and Sugar Pine. 

Grades are shop through clear 

industrial lumber, and thicknesses 

include 1x2 – 1x12, 2x2 – 2x12, 

3x3 and wider, 4x4 and wider and 

up to 12x12 and wider. Products 

are sold green or kiln-dried to 12 

percent moisture or less – rough, 

surfaced or patterned. 

They also supply stock for the 

door and window market, vertical 

grain Douglas Fir finger joint 

blanks, engineered style blanks, 

pattern stocks, flooring, paneling, 

ceilings, and custom patterns according 

to customer specifications. 

Prime Forest exports to the 

United Kingdom, Belgium, Holland, 

Northern Africa and Japan, 

as well as importing Radiata and 

Taeda Pine out of South America 

and New Zealand. "We added a 

new salesperson who focuses on 

imports of Radiata and Taeda Pine 

from South America and New 

Zealand." 

At the Sweet Home mill, Prime 

Forest Products now employs 30 

workers, and the Beaverton and 

Springfield locations have an additional 

20 employees combined. 

The business has retained all mill 

employees since the acquisition. 

"Every employee has remained 

with us," Brad said. "I’ve talked 

with each of them, listened to their 

feedback and have made improvements 

so they know we care and 

are invested. They are all very enthusiastic 

about the developments 

here, and they want to continue 

growing. Many of the employees 

reside in Sweet Home, a small 

community of about 10,000 people. 

It's a good fit. 

"We hope to foster an environment 

where word spreads about 

"We want to ensure that the wood is dried correctly. Our customers inspect our 

lumber and conduct a prong test to ensure that the moisture content on the outside 

matches that in the core. The Sweet Home operation is the only place we have 

been able to have good success drying lumber," said Brad Rodakowski, president 

of Prime Forest Products, based in Beaverton, OR. 

Prime Forest Remanufacturing, about what we do with the facility and how we 

give back to our employees. We want people to know we care, and this is a great 

place to work." 

Regarding the company’s growing efforts to improve sustainable initiatives, 


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PRIME FOREST PRODUCTS —Continued from page 43 

Prime Forest’s partners appreciate that they are heavily invested in the industry 

and their products and customers want to align themselves with the company. 

The grades that Prime Forest offers are shop through clear industrial lumber, and 

thicknesses include 1x2 – 1x12, 2x2 – 2x12, 3x3 and wider, 4x4 and wider and up 

to 12x12 and wider. Products are sold green or kiln-dried to 12 percent moisture 

or less – rough, surfaced or patterned. 

Lucas Rodakowski, Vice President and Marketing Director of Prime Forest Products, 

said that the company is working with tree planting organizations, as well as 

indigenous cultures to replant twice as many trees as those harvested. “Reforestation 

and responsibly managed forests are important to our company culture and 

for the future of the industry”. 

“Every year we donate money to organizations to replant two trees of the same 

species in the same region as the tree that was originally harvested,” he added. 

“We are giving back to the communities and to the environment,” he said. “Sustainability 

and regeneration of people, as well as the planet is important.” 

Prime Forest Products sets itself apart by emphasizing sustainability for the 

Prime Forest Products also supplies stock for the door and window market, vertical 

grain Douglas Fir finger joint blanks, engineered style blanks, pattern stocks, 

flooring, paneling, ceilings and custom patterns according to customer specifications. 

long-haul – “for the health of people, planet and win-win partnerships,” said Terree 

Rodakowski, Sustainability Director. “To be a responsible business partner in 

the value chain for our customers, suppliers, and for the long-term benefit of our 

vendors, we have made the decision to accept the call to action to adapt our business 

model to better align with a thriving planet and humanity.” 

Established in 2012 in Brad's garage, Prime Forest Products has evolved into a 

company with multiple facilities and an expanding workforce. 

“I worked in the garage for two years, and then I hired an assistant, and soon 

after, another salesperson. We really started to branch out in 2014 and by 2016 

Prime Forest Products manufactures 22 million board feet annually of beveled 

siding, tongue and groove, pattern stock, molding, ship lap siding, cut stock and 

core block using Douglas Fir, Hemlock, Western Red Cedar and Ponderosa and 

Sugar Pine. 

we started to add more team members. We have done well because we are 

family-owned and operated with talented team members. When we make a commitment, 

we stand by our word. Our word is gold.” 

Prime Forest Products is a member of the North American Wholesale Lumber 

Association, Forest Stewardship Council, Program for the Endorsement of Forest 

Certification, and they participate in events organized by the Portland Wholesale 

Lumber Association, along with other industry events like the Global Buyers Mission. 

Learn more at www.primeforest.com. • 

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DELTA CEDAR —Continued from page 6 

Delta Forestry Group is headquartered in Pitt Meadows, BC, where their Halo Sawmill 

is located. 

fano continued. “While the trees aren’t going away, there is going to be less of 

them with the changing landscape and our company is still going to thrive, with 

our size, management and decision-making style, we will do well in the long term 

as we continue to operate like a family sized business rather than a big corporation. 

Getting through the next few years during the industry transition will be the 

difficult part.” 

Dean DeCraene, a sales representative who has been with the company for 

Delta Forestry Group offers Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, Alaskan Yellow Cedar 

and Hemlock. 

38 years, said, “Delta has put itself in a great position to grow. We have a young 

ownership group where they have some good plans for getting bigger and better 

and they are always looking for the next step forward. They are not just going to 

sit by and be idle, there is always an opportunity out there and the train of thought 

in this company has been to grow it.” 


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DELTA CEDAR —Continued from page 47 

WASHINGTON REPORT —Continued from page 18 

"If mortgage rates fall below 6 [percent] in 2024, more owners will feel comfortable 

listing their homes for sale, alleviating some of the shortages, but not 

enough to close the supply gap," Maleyev said. 

Construction Workforce Shortage Tops 500,000 

By Zachary Russell 

Delta Forestry Group’s new Raptor Trim Line and 80-bin sorter, at their Halo sawmill, 

replaced their green chain, enabling the sawmill to ramp up production. 



Pictured is the new bin sorter building construction at Delta Forestry Group’s Halo 

Sawmill. 

It isn’t just the president and COO and longtime employees that share in the 

hope and optimism of the future of Delta, but new employees such as Rick Harris, 

who has spent 30 years in the forest products industry and was just recently 

brought on board, that recognizes the future that Delta has. “Delta has a very 

successful reputation and brand in and of itself and while the security of the fiber 

basket in British Columbia is changing, they are taking on this new landscape and 

continuing to grow and expand into different markets and species.” 

Delta Forestry Group is a member of BC Wood, North American Wholesale 

Lumber Association and Truck Loggers Association. 

For more information visit, www.deltaforesterygroup.com. • 

of houses for sale, which is generally supportive of prices, along with generally 

stable demand that is coming from things like household formation," Roger 

Ashworth, senior strategist on the structured credit team at Goldman Sachs, said 

this week. 

When this story was first reported, new home sales climbed up by 8 percent in 

December, according to government data, while prices declined to two-year lows. 

The fall in prices and a rise in sales was partly due to builders offering inducements 

to buyers, according to Yelena Maleyev, a senior economist at KPMG. 

"Builders have pivoted to building smaller homes and offering more discounts 

and concessions, such as mortgage rate buydowns, to bring in buyers sidelined 

by rising mortgage rates," she said in a note shared with Newsweek. 

But the data from the U.S. Census Bureau also showed that inventory of newly 

built homes fell last month after going up the previous months. There were 

453,000 houses available for sale at the end of December, which accounts for 8.2 

months' worth of supply. 

This constituted a 3.5 percent decline from the same time a year ago, Maleyev 

pointed out. 

The lack of inventory also comes at a time when the used homes market has 

struggled. Sales are down in that segment amid a lack of supply of homes as 

sellers are reluctant to give up their low rates for new home loans hovering in the 

mid-6 percent. 

This lack of supply will be key to how prices shake out and the outlook for the 

year is not encouraging. 

(The following article was first published by www.chainstoreage. 

com. The Associated Builders and Contractors says its model uses 

the historical relationship between inflation-adjusted construction 

spending growth, sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Value of 

Construction Put in Place Survey, and payroll construction employment, 

sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, to convert 

anticipated increases in construction outlays into demand for labor 

at a rate of approximately 3,550 jobs per billion dollars of additional 

spending.) 

The construction industry's labor crunch shows no signs of stopping anytime 

soon. 

The industry will need to attract an estimated 501,000 additional workers on 

top of the normal pace of hiring in 2024 to meet the demand for labor, according 

to a proprietary model developed by Associated Builders and Contractors. 

Looking ahead to 2025, the industry will need to bring in nearly 454,000 new 

workers on top of normal hiring to meet construction demand and that’s presuming 

that construction spending growth slows significantly next year. 

“ABC estimates that the U.S. construction industry needs to attract about a 

half million new workers in 2024 to balance supply and demand,” said Michael 

Bellaman, ABC president and CEO. “Not addressing the shortage through an 

all-of-the-above approach to workforce development will slow improvements 

to our shared built environment, worker productivity, living standards and the 

places where we heal, learn, play, work and gather.” 

The U.S. construction industry unemployment rate averaged 4.6 percent for 

the second straight year in 2023, matching the second-lowest level on record, 

while job openings remained historically elevated at an average of 377,000 per 

month through the first 11 months of 2023. Due to labor shortages, contractors 


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Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 12/7/23 8:48 2024 AM 

Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024 Page 49

WASHINGTON REPORT —Continued from page 49 

laid off workers at a slower rate than in any year between the start of the data 

series in 2000 and 2020. 

“Broadly, there are two factors shaping the interaction between construction 

worker supply and demand,” said ABC chief economist Anirban Basu. “There 

are structural factors, including outsized retirement levels, mega projects in several 

private and public construction segments and cultural factors that encourage 

too few young people to enter the skilled construction trades. There are also 

structural factors, including those related to interest rates, consumer sentiment 

and general economic performance." 

More than one-in-five construction workers are 55 or older, meaning that retirement 

will continue to contract the industry’s workforce. 

"These are the most experienced workers, and their departures are especially 

concerning," Basu noted. 

AWC And AF&PA Respond To EPA’s PM NAAQS Rule 

The American Wood Council (AWC) President and CEO Jackson Morrill and 

American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock 

recently responded to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement 

of an updated National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for 

particulate matter (PM2.5), which lowers the standard to 9 µg/m3. 

“EPA’s rule delivers a devastating blow to U.S. manufacturing and the economy 

while doing nothing to address the largest sources of particulate matter, 

including wildfire smoke. This unworkable air rule undermines President Biden's 

promise to grow and reshore manufacturing jobs. We are very concerned that 

many of the modernization projects in the paper and wood products industry and 

across U.S. manufacturing will no longer be able to move forward." 

"The new rule defies common sense. This Administration has set the PM2.5 

NAAQS at near background levels, ensuring permit gridlock for most manufacturing 

sectors around the country, while failing to address the 84 percent of 

overall PM2.5 emissions. Essential projects that would reduce greenhouse gas 

and other emissions, create high paying jobs and allow us to compete in the global 

economy are now severely at risk. Our industry has demonstrated a continued 

commitment to be a good steward and community partner. We need sustainable 

regulation to make environmental progress and keep vital manufacturing jobs in 

America." 

“AF&PA and AWC joined leaders from over 70 other U.S. manufacturing and 

trade groups urging the Administration to maintain the existing standard. We also 

delivered a joint CEO letter to White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients signed 

by 44 of our members from the paper and wood products industry. These letters 

reflect the importance of this issue not only for our industry but for the economic 

prosperity of America. The EPA must immediately reconsider the PM NAAQS 

and set a 3-year effective date. We want to work with the Biden Administration 

on a practical implementation plan that avoids some of the worst impacts on this 

unsustainable rule." 

The American Wood Council (AWC) represents 87 percent of the structural 

wood products industry and the more than 450,000 men and women working 

family-wage jobs in mills across the country. From dimension lumber to engineered 

wood products, AWC champions the development of data, technology, and 

standards to ensure the best use of wood products and recognition of their unique 

sustainability and carbon-reduction benefits. AWC is among leaders in providing 

education to the design, code and fire official communities who view AWC as a 

trusted and credible resource. 

Learn more at www.awc.org. 

The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) serves to advance U.S. 

paper and wood products manufacturers through fact-based public policy and 

marketplace advocacy. The forest products industry is circular by nature. AF&PA 

member companies make essential products from renewable and recyclable resources, 

generate renewable bioenergy and are committed to continuous improvement 

through the industry’s sustainability initiative — Better Practices, Better 

Planet 2030: Sustainable Products for a Sustainable Future. The forest products 

industry accounts for approximately 5 percent of the total U.S. manufacturing 

GDP, manufactures about $350 billion in products annually and employs about 

925,000 people. The industry meets a payroll of about $65 billion annually and is 

among the top 10 manufacturing sector employers in 43 states. 

Learn more at www.afandpa.org. • 

MILLER LUMBER —Continued from page 5 

Owner Alan Walters is pictured with wife, Anna Walters, who is holding Wise Walters, 

and Fairly Walters. 

“We carry all of your Pine and Spruce materials, plywood, OSB, treated lumber, 

Cedar, Cypress, pattern Pine material,” Walters explained. “Our main focus is our 

treated materials, hard-to-find Cedar, Cypress and pattern Pine.” 

Miller Lumber Sales, LLC stocks a full line of standard Western Red Cedar 

products including 2x4, 2x6, 2x8, 1x4 - 1x12 in No. 2 appearance grade along with 

other specialty Cedar products upon request. Western Red Cedar products are primarily 

procured from the West Coast and the Pacific Northwest regions. 

Annually, Miller Lumber purchases a total of about 10 million board feet, as well 

Owner Alan Walters’ daughter, Fairly, helps out around the office. 


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as various engineered lumber and composite decking. 

The lumberyard sits on five acres with two enclosed warehouses that store their 

Cedar, Cypress and Pine pattern materials: and some free-standing, open sheds to 

house Pine dimensional, Spruce and plywood. The company handles its large inventory 

with three delivery trucks with forklifts attached and three forklifts on the yard. 

“We have a storage capacity of around 600,000 board feet and usually keep an 

inventory of around 400,000 – 500,000 board feet,” Walters said. 

According to Walters, operations are handled by nine employees total who all 

invest in the value of face-to-face business. 

“I enjoy interacting with the people, we have a lot of retail walk-in business,” 

Walters explained. “I'm still very much a part of that. I sit at the counter and greet 

people just like the other two sales guys do, in addition to my other responsibilities. 

So, getting to interact with a variety of people daily, see different people, new 

people and forge relationships is just something we value every day.” 

Miller Lumber’s unique offerings remain a strong sell for their market even if 

competing against tough commodity markets. The company’s focus is to keep a 

larger quantity of Cypress, Cedar, treated Pine and pattern Pine than most of their 

competitors. 

Mills and wholesalers supply Miller Lumber with their inventory which they buy 

From left are Tim Stevens and Frankie Marshall, who deliver materials all over the 

state and pick up material at mills. They are often the only face-to-face interaction 

a customer may have with Miller Lumber. 

Miller Lumber of Jackson, MS has been a family-owned lumber and building materials 

business since 1953. 

From left are Malcom Chaney, Joe Pickering, and Otis Hunt. Pickering leads the 

yard staff with more than 30 years in the building materials industry. 

From left are Jim Jones, inside sales, and Mike Anderson, inside sales manager. 

Miller Lumber owner Alan Walters noted that the company “prides ourselves on 

our sales staff being the friendliest and most knowledgeable in the area.” Anderson 

brings over 30 years of experience in the building materials and hardware 

industry and is well liked by every customer that walks through the door. Jones is 

relatively new to the lumber industry but brings a wealth of knowledge in dealing 

with people from his experience in law enforcement over the years. 

in dimensions of 2x4 through 2x12, up to 24 foot in length of Pine; 1x4 through 

1x12 and 2x4 through 2x12 Cypress; plywood in various grades including threeeighths 

through three-quarter; seven-sixteenths OSB; and 1x4 through 1x12 Pine. 

“We try to be very competitive, price-wise,” Walters explained. “We try and 

make sure we've got good availability, we've always had a very, very good staff 

from both working inside, being knowledgeable and helpful to those guys on the 

outside, our truck drivers to our folks in the yard. The guys we got here working 

now, outside and in the trucks, are extremely knowledgeable, helpful, good with 

people and are going to put forth the extra effort to make sure that everybody that 

comes here has a good positive experience.” 


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New half inch Pine flooring is one of Miller Lumber’s more popular products. The 

company sells around 450,000 board feet a year. Miller Lumber is located in the 

Jackson metro area in Mississippi. 

Miller Lumber’s variety of products include their top selling half-inch new Pine 

flooring mostly for retail sales. Contractors, homeowners, and others continue to be 

Miller Lumber’s top purchasers for new Pine flooring. 

Sales and company growth increased 30 percent during the pandemic. Alan says 

he is proud of the company’s strength to survive COVID. 

“We've been very blessed to weather that storm and the last three years probably 

have been the strongest three years,” Alan said. “I think we're about 23 percent 

growth over last year at this point.” 

A member of the Home Builders Association of Mississippi, Alan credits Miller 

Lumber’s continued success to his core group of guys that strived to carry on operations 

through all challenges. 

“We were at 14 employees before COVID and at one point we got down to six,” 

Alan said. “The guys here never missed a beat, worked their tails off, kept showing 

up every day and doing good work. Without those guys, there's no telling where we 

would be but, we definitely had some guys go above and beyond show their loyalty 

to Miller Lumber and go the extra mile.” 

In the years to come, the company is planning to maximize its land and expand 

storage capacities focusing on a stronger retail model. 

“Being able to expand our warehouse space, expand some storage space, will be 

a big help in allowing us to store more material with less loss,” Alan added. “It will 

make it easier on our guys to pull orders as well as increase our carrying capacity.” 

Alan is expecting a big wave of new orders to come in for 2024. 

Learn more about Miller Lumber Sales, LLC at www.millerlumbersales.com. • 

NORTHEAST TRENDS - Continued from page 22 

door all at once and the market is going to move. It’s called ‘eat what you kill.’ 

What do you do when the market is flat? It is very hard to trade. They start shorting 

the market. That creates the rush through the door.” 

The distributor primarily handles pressure European and Spruce-Pine-Fir, 

treated wood and said now that interest rates have stopped going up the market is 

due for a boost. 

“Interest rates are trickling down now,” he said. “That plays into the overall 

market conditions. People who didn’t qualify for first time home buyers may be 

qualified now on the second go-around.” 

Regarding claims that inventory is heavy, the source said that he was skeptical. 

“It is like a gas tank,” he noted, “You don’t need a full tank to drive around 

on right now. In terms of inventory, you don’t want to have a quarter of a tank. 

So, we really have half a tank and if you need to fuel up a little bit then put some 

more fuel in. 

“I don’t see anyone moving around on full tanks in inventory and having a lot,” 

he added. “They used to do ‘just in time’ buying. Everyone was fishing behind the 

net. ‘We need this now.’ These days, you never know what you can get.” 

A New Hampshire source agreed that January’s weather conditions “slowed 

things down” throughout the country. 

“Business is still fairly steady,” he added, “although not spectacular.” 

He noted that the “prognosis for spring is pretty good.” 

“There is hope on the horizon,” he said. “If the winter weather hadn’t been as 

bad, I think there would have been some more orders for the mills.” 

The distributor, who works primarily with Western and Eastern Spruce, European 

imports, Southern Yellow Pine and Douglas Fir, said he runs the full “gamut 

of commodity framing lumber and structural panels.” 

He further noted that the decline of Western Spruce Pine Fir (WSPF), which is 

logged in Canada, has put Southern Yellow Pine (SYP) “under pressure.” 

He offers SYP “stress grade dimensional lumber, boards and timbers.” 

“We’ve already heard some shutdown announcements from some majors,” he 

said regarding the decade long decrease in WSPF. “That has led to an increase in 

Southern Yellow Pine production. It is the cheapest fiber on the planet from a raw 

material standpoint.” 

The WSPF decline can be traced to an infestation of bark beetles, wildfires and 

policy factors. 

On the other hand, the demand for SYP, which is grown from TX to NC, has 

taken off since 2009. 

A Connecticut lumber distributor and manufacturer said that weather has not 

influenced business yet this year. 

“We are at the end of the business where weather isn’t really going to affect us 

unless we get a deep snow,” he said. “Most of the materials that come to us are 

rough sawn and S4S,” he said. “So, we are always processing.” 

He said that oftentimes wet ground conditions pose a bigger threat than the 

snow itself. 

“Machinery tends to sink,” he said. “No one goes in the forest in the spring unless 

the ground is frozen solid.” 

The source said that he services the retail sector in Connecticut, Rhode Island, 

New York and New Jersey. 

Noting that 2023 was an “off year,” he noticed that January of 2024 was “very 

busy.” 

“I think 2023 was the year after COVID,” he said. “There was a little bit of 

recovery there. A lot of people had overpriced product that they had bought during 

COVID. Everyone has whittled through the majority of that now.” • 

INLAND WEST TRENDS - Continued from page 22 

that will spring some buyers back into the market,” he said. 

According to the source, October through December of 2023 was “tough.” 

“That was an anomaly though for the activity level and sales overall,” he said. 

“It was good to see a slight rebound in January.” 

An Idaho lumberman said that business has been “fair” so far this year. 

He noted that the fourth quarter of 2023 was “the hardest and toughest we’ve 

ever been through.” 

“The weather and the fact that we do a lot with the agricultural business made it 

hard for pricing,” he said. 

Specializing in industrial application, low grade materials, he expects a “gradual 

increase” this year. 


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INLAND WEST TRENDS - Continued from page 55 

“Nothing too crazy,” he said. “But we are optimistic about the Spring.” 

A lumber spokesperson in Arizona noted that his sales and marketplace are 

doing well. “There is demand and customer interest in the products that we have 

started to develop, especially with the relatively new mill that we are bringing 

online.” 

His company offers Ponderosa Pine in 1-and-2-inch thicknesses and in Select 

grades, as well as Nos. 2, 3 and 4 Common. “We are also able to offer some 

proprietary grades, such as, premium fascia, stock Fir, thermal modification, lam 

stock and pattern stock,” he noted. 

He sells to distribution and lumber yards, industrial manufacturers and big box 

stores. He mentioned that his customers seem to be optimistic as they are watching 

their sales move in the right direction, at the time of this writing. 

“We envision that the market will continue to stay steady and start to raise over 

the next six months,” he added. • 

MIDWEST TRENDS - Continued from page 24 

A lumberman in Iowa said that while his market is strong right now, it isn’t doing 

as well as it was six months ago. 

“We carry mainly Pine and some Cedar,” he remarked. They offer these species 

in Common grades, No. 2 and Better and some Clear, and in 1x and 5/4 thickness. 

“We sell to a mixture of customers, some Do-It-Yourselfers and to the contractor 

base,” he said. “The contractors are all busy right now and they are booking 

themselves up.” 

When asked how he thinks the market is going to look over the next several 

months, he said, “I am hoping that the market stays strong; we are optimistic that 

it will. With the amount of quoting that we have done recently it seems to be an 

indication that we have a good opportunity for that to be the case.” 

In Texas a lumberwoman said that her sales have been firming up, but expects 

that as the weather changes, with more rain expected, that there will be another 

lull in her sales. She did note that her sales are worse than they were six months 

ago but accredits this to the time of the year. 

Her company offers Southern Yellow Pine in grades Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4 Common 

and in a MSR2400, all in 2x4. 

She noted that she is currently selling to builders, treaters, wholesalers and pallet 

manufacturers. “It feels like we are getting back into the pre-COVID market. 

The wholesalers that I sell to have the same billing and a lot of my sales representatives 

feel like they have a pretty good spring coming, which is helpful.” • 

WEST COAST TRENDS - Continued from page 24 

in most of our products. Prices have been soft and at times it has been difficult 

to even find a number that a customer will buy lumber at. There definitely hasn’t 

been any real urgency for customers to find volume for current needs or for spring 

buys yet. Customers seem to think that the current slow pace in the market will 

be short lived as builders start to ramp up more for spring. Even with a slow start 

to the year, I think customers are still optimistic that the 2nd and 3rd quarters 

could prove to be better than what we saw last year. I am hopeful for us that Cedar 

markets will improve and there will be increased demand, and that Cedar will be 

needed more this year than last. Prices have settled down to a point that I think 

they are easier to digest at the consumer level.” In regard to challenges C&D are 

facing Southwick said, “I think the weather has played a large factor in keeping 

demand stifled. Ice storms in the Pacific Northwest and flooding in California 

have hampered sales and shipments for us. Transportation costs have remained 

stable, and it is easy to book trucks, which is helpful because when a customer 

places an order they typically want to pick it up quickly.” 

Mark Gray of Patrick Lumber, Portland, OR said, “Overall, lumber supply is 

still tight. Each species has its own story, but I don’t think anyone is swimming in 

wood. We are seeing prices stay consistent and firm.” Gray continued, “Weather 

issues on the West Coast has slowed activity – ice, snow and heavy rains have all 

contributed to slowing business, as well as a tight supply on logs. Nothing has 

really changed from prior months. High-grade logs are still hard to come by (both 

in the U.S.A. and in British Columbia). Logging volumes usually quiet down in 

the winter as well (which it has). We’re not experiencing any labor challenges at 

the moment, but we’re only running one shift.” • 

SOUTHEAST TRENDS - Continued from page 26 

antly surprised.” 

A lumber representative in Mississippi said that his sales and market have been 

a little soft. “It doesn’t seem like the overall demand in the market is keeping up 

with production.” He believes that he is slower than he was six months ago, which 

he said is due to a number of factors including the wetter winter and the economy 

at large. 

His company offers Southern Yellow Pine mainly in 2x4-2x6’s and in grades 

No. 2 and Better and the lower grades. 

He said that he sells into the building markets. “Some of the builders seem to 

be fairly steady and I think that we are seeing a slow-down in the treating market, 

which mainly goes into the retail lumber market.” 

He mentioned that he hopes that the interest rates go down over the next several 

months so that people will have more money in their pockets to build single-family 

homes and to spend more at the retail lumber stores. 

In Louisiana a lumber spokesperson said that their Softwood products are sold 

offshore and they have noticed that these markets have continued to remain slow. 

“We have seen a significant contraction in the last 90 days, about 35 percent.” 

He noted that this contraction is an indication that they are doing worse than they 

were six months ago. 

His company handles Southern Yellow Pine in all grades and all thicknesses. “I 

always tell people, ‘We do everything from the saps to the craps.’” 

He said that he sells direct to some end-users, factories and distribution yards. 

“We have gotten a lot of comments lately about how our customers’ businesses 

have slowed down, and it is evident with them paying their bills late.” 

He mentioned that he believes that the market is over saturated with Southern 

Yellow Pine and this will not be corrected until mills begin to curtail production 

and take some of the older less efficient mills offline. • 

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ONTARIO/QUEBEC TRENDS - Continued from page 26 

are going to be good and the lumber mills are going be quite happy at the end of 

2024. A lot more happy than they were at the end of last year, that's for sure." 

“In the Pine business," noted an Ontario producer, "it's been a quiet winter. 

There has been a lot of excess White Pine being sawn, as the hardwood market 

is in the tank. A lot of those mills have taken on some White Pine and Red Pine. 

Overall, I still think that a lot of the market woes are interest-rate related. It's 

finally filtered down and taken hold. But, if the government would drop the rate a 

couple of times, it would, put some confidence back out there again." 

A Quebec wholesaler figured “with some hardwood mills sawing more Pine, 

there's more lumber on the market. There could be more low-end White Pine in 

the pipeline this year than in other years. I'm not sure just how that's going to play 

out with inventories down the road. In general though, we are thinking with some 

optimism that the markets will open up, maybe in the middle of the month, or the 

end of March and things will start to get going again." 

“In my opinion," according to an Ontario wholesaler, "we need a lot more demand, 

like over the COVID years, because during the pandemic was when people 

were looking for things to do. We are pretty much at pre-pandemic levels right 

now, other than the market slope." 

An Ontario producer said, “There's some pushback on some items on the retail 

end, price wise. But we're maintaining our prices. We're not dropping ours. We're 

not getting any relief at our end, so we're kind of in a bit of a spot anyway. Interest 

rates are still the big unknown, holding them steady for longer, or even dropping 

them, will make for a more certain environment that will give people some hope." 

“I don't know, it could be kind of a funny year perhaps," noted a Quebec 

wholesaler. "When we start seeing some interest rate drops happening, people will 

get a little more confident about the marketplace. Maybe they'll start doing some 

projects and get things back to normal again, but it's been kind of stalled for the 

last four months approximately, I'd say. It's not like there's nothing moving. It's 

just that you're certainly not moving any volume. 

According to a Quebec wholesaler, “The countervailing duties announcement 

does impact the Pine market, at least to some respect. There's not a lot of manufacturers 

that export to their market. Unless they're a bordering mill, where there 

is sometimes a trade-off, they'll exchange logs for finished product. They kind of 

get around that. There's really very few up in our region that export to the US. 

The duty announcement is kind of a non-issue, that is how I tend to think of it." 

“I think things will probably get better in the last two quarters of the year," 

noted a Quebec producer. "Looking ahead, I think we're kind of in a zone right 

now where it's wait and see. Things will obviously pick up a little bit as we come 

into the spring, but I don't think it's going to be the typical spring that we normally 

see. But, I would say that a lot of it has to do with the interest rates out there. If 

we can get a couple of rate cuts going, it will change the dynamics for sure." 

“The weather has certainly been on people’s minds," said an Ontario mill. 

"They are still logging but it's been an unusually warm winter. Usually things are 

frozen up pretty good, but there's not a lot of frost in the ground. We are in good 

shape and a lot of the guys in our area are still okay. But as of late, maybe this past 

week, with the warmer temperatures, the guys will run the roads in the morning, 

but then stay off them in the afternoon. They'd be breaking them up." 

Noted an Ontario wholesaler, “It's really been mild. We've only had a couple 

of cold days all winter, so it's been strange. It hasn't been below minus 10 for 

quite some time. The long and the short of it, I think it's probably going to be an 

early breakup and those that are logging are going to probably try to wrap things 

up a little sooner than later. Usually the half loads come on at the start of March, 

so they try to have everything at least to where they don't have to travel half 

loads. They forward the material to a point so that at least they can get it out. But 

towards the end of February, they're definitely going to be winding it down this 

year." • 

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Page 60 Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024 Softwood E2563 RT Ad.Softwood Forest Products Buyer.1/2 page.indd Buyer • 1 March/April 2024 8/23/18 Page 6:38 AM 61



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HAND SPLIT RESAWN SHAKES 

- 18 and 24 inch lengths 

- #1 and premium grade 

BARN SHAKES 

TAPERSAWN SHAKES 


- Premium #2 and #3 grades 

- 5/8 and 7/8 inch thickness 



SIDEWALL SHINGLES 


- Re-butted and Re-jointed ( R&R ) 

- Natural sanded or grooved face 



Yellow Cedar Timbers - Clears & Decking 

Appearance grade timbers and dimension 

Fine grain industrials, clears, shops 

and flitches 

Export Clears 

Teal Cedar Shake & Shingle 

Teal Cedar Lumber 

Finished products 

Panel and Pattern, siding, decking 

and Fascia/Trim 

Remanufacture blanks – mill run and 

TK Specialties 


CLASSIC BUTT DECORATOR SHINGLES 

- 18 inch length 

- 3.5 and 5 inch widths 

- 10 stock patterns 

- Custom pre-stain available 

TEAL SIDEWALL PRE-FINISH 

- Prime Gray or White 

- Custom colors our specialty 

- Oil stain in semi-trans semi-solid and solid 

- Acrylic latex in 2 and 3 coat application 

- Up to 25 year finish warranty available 

TEAL TONEWOOD 

- Cedar and Spruce Guitar Tops 

- Custom cut soundboards for 

stringed instruments 

BARK MULCH 

- Landscape Mulch 

- Container loads 

SHINGLE HAY 

- Nursery grade 

- Hay Bale packaging 

- Truck loads 

High quality Southern Yellow Pine dimension lumber. 

Now available at four locations. 

• Antlers, OK 150 MMFBM 

2x4, 2x6 / 4x4, 6x6, 4x6 / 1x4, 1.25x6 

8’ - 16’ 

Prime, #1, #2, #3, Decking 

2’-4’ Trim Blocks 

• Liberty, MS 30 MMFBM 

8x8, 10x10, 12x12 

10’ - 30’ 

Custom Sizes, 18' to 24’ 

1x4, 1x8, 1x12, 1.25x6 

6’ - 20’ 

Clears, Export, Rough 


• Martinsville, VA 150 MMFBM 

2x4, 2x6, 2x8, 2x10 / 3.5x6, 3.5x8 

8’ - 24’ 

Prime, #1, #2, #3, Pallet Cants 


• Kinsale, VA 100 Fire Retardant Treatment 

2x4, 2x6 / 4x4, 6x6, 4x6 / 3x8, 4x8 / 1x4, 1.25x6 

8’ - 16’ 

Prime, #1, #2, #3, Decking, Rgh Green 


Westside Enquiries: OK-sypsales@tealjones.com 

Eastside Enquiries: VA-sypsales@tealjones.com 

TEL: 604-587-8700 

Hemlock, D. Fir Lumber, and Sitka Spruce 

Dimension Lumber KD and Green 

MSR, Premium Appearance, #2&btr, #3 

Douglas Fir and Hemlock Timbers 4x4 up to 16x16 

•S4S up to 8x8 

•KD by request 

Appearance, #2&btr Structural 

FOHC Available 

Timbers up to 40’ 

Long Length Finger Joint 


Think quality, think Delta 

DELTA PREMIER APPEARANCE 

TIMBERS and ROUGH DIMENSION 

3x6 thru 12x12 timbers 

2x4 thru 2x12 ¼ off rough dimension 

DELTA SUPREME GREEN S1S2E 

FASCIA and S4S DECKING 

5/4x4 thru 5/4x12 - 2x4 thru 2x12 

S1S2E fascia 

5/4x4, 5/4x6 2x4, 2x6 S4S decking 

DELTA SUPERIOR KILN DRIED S1S2E 

FASCIA and DECKING 

1x4 thru 1x12 – 5/4x4 thru 5/4x12 – 2x4 thru 

2x12 S1S2E fascia 

5/4x4, 5/4x6, 2x4, 2x6 S4S decking 

DELTA SELECT GREEN S1S2E 

NO HOLE BOARDS 

1x4 thru 1x8 

www.deltacedar.com 

Sales at 604-589-9006 

Delivering Quality Timbers to 

Our Dealers Nationwide 

Home for all your timber needs 

Douglas Fir - Sizes to 20”x20” - Lengths to 40’ 

Kiln Dried Douglas Fir - Sizes to 12”x12” - 

Lengths to 24’ 

Cedar - Sizes to 16”x16” - Lengths to 32’ 

Mixed Hardwoods - Sizes to 12”x12” - Lengths to 20’ 

Larger sizes available on special order 

Products and Services include: 

• Corbels, Brackets, Rafter Tails 

• Exclusive and Hand Hewn Surfacing 

• Custom Siding Patterns 

• Surfacing (all sides up to 20”x20”) 

• Material Run to Pattern 

(We Can Make Knives to Your Specs) 

• Trailer Flooring 

• Saw Texture 

• Precision End Trimming 

• Reman Customer Material to Spec 

We offer a full line of Reman Services – 

Special Items or Truck Loads 

Wholesale Only, we sell exclusively through 

our dealer network. 

Locations in Dallas and Bertram, Texas 

214-358-2314 

RichardsonTimbers.com 

REDWOOD 

Uppers available in 1-inch, 2-inch and 4-inch 

dimensions in lengths from 6-20 feet 

Timbers available in 6-inch and larger dimensions, 

up to 12”x24”, and lengths up to 24 feet 

DOUGLAS-FIR 

Joists and planks available in 4-inch 

dimensions in lengths up to 24 feet 

Posts and beams available in 6-inch and 

larger dimensions, up to 12”x24”, and lengths 

up to 24 feet 

To order, please call (707) 764-4450 

GetRedwood.com 

Softwood Forest Products’ 

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C&Btr Poplar Trim Boards 

Red Oak and Yellow Pine S4S 

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Retail (UPC) Labelling 

Ship Lap / T&G Poplar 

Custom Bundle Sizes Available 

Bob Uglow / 407-496-4146 / buglow@baillie.com 

Ryan Brunner / 716-912-3764 / rbrunner@baillie.com 

WWW.BAILLIE.COM/S4S 


INDUSTRY NEWS 

Moulds Named VP Of Business 

Development 

BPWood Ltd. of British Columbia, Canada, recently 

announced the appointment of Bill Moulds to the new 

role of Vice President of Business Development. 

Moulds has centered on startups and the refinement 

of complex offshore wood supply chains. He also 

played a pivotal roll in the early growth at BPWood. 

Moulds created South Fraser Container Services 

(SFCS), which became the foremost container loader 

in the Port of Vancouver serving North American 

Bill Moulds 

Export wholesalers and mill shippers. 

SFCS was acquired in 2012 by the Tokyo Lumber 

Terminal organization. 

Moulds’ depth and wise eye will support BPWood’s trader group with analytics 

and insights, according to a company statement. He will concentrate on increasing 

growth and maintaining the brand of The Nimble Innovators. The group now 

has 25 dedicated BPWoodies and will celebrate 25 years, next year. 

From the first cut of log to its final use case, BPWood delivers sustainable supply 

chains on the periphery of “pure commodity” wood markets. 

BPWood creates, drives, and supports specialty wood businesses, working with 

seasoned North American and carefully nurtured strategic manufacturers, globally. 

To learn more, visit www.bpwood.com. 

J.D. Irving Purchases Biomass Boiler 

J.D. Irving Grand Lake Timber’s Chipman Sawmill in New Brunswick, Canada, 

is celebrating the commission of a new biomass boiler that will significantly 

reduce fossil fuel consumption and contribute to a sustainable future. 

The project marks a step toward an eco-friendlier lumber drying process and 

will allow the mill to substantially reduce its carbon footprint. 

The boiler generates two megawatts of energy, or enough to power around 500 

homes, through a cutting-edge turbine. The 1.47 kilowatts turbine is a central feature 

of the project, and it will provide more than enough power to meet the energy 

demands of the mill. 

More than $36 million was invested in the project, which promises to revolutionize 

the way energy is sourced and utilized at the mill. The new boiler will be 

particularly important during winter months as it will eliminate the need to burn 

extra fuel to produce enough steam for wood processing. 

For more information, go to www.jdirving.com. 

Burns Honored As Lumberman Of The 

Year 

Pat Burns, the former president of Patrick Lumber 

Co. in Portland, OR, was recently honored with the 

prestigious 2023 Lumberperson of the Year Award by 

the Portland Wholesale Lumber Association (PWLA), 

at a recent meeting. 

The accolade recognized Burns’ “exceptional 

leadership, unwavering dedication, and remarkable 

contributions to the Northwest Lumber industry.” 

Pat Burns Gunnar Brinck, chairman of the Lumberperson of 

the Year Committee, outlined the criteria behind the 

recognition by noting that it requires a “commitment to the industry, community 

contributions, and outstanding character and leadership traits.” 

“Pat's lifelong commitment to honesty, integrity and service to others aligns 

seamlessly with these benchmarks,” he added. 

Burns’ career journey began in 1983 after graduating from the University of 

Washington. His work ethic and commitment to building relationships led him to 

carve a niche in the industry. 

As part of a team that acquired Patrick Lumber Company in the late '90s, his 

integrity and core values transformed the business into a “model of success while 

maintaining adaptability in a changing industry landscape.” 

Beyond his professional achievements, Burns’ dedication to mentoring and 

coaching youth in sports demonstrates his commitment to personal growth and 

community service. 

Brinck commended Burns’ care for others, citing numerous instances where 

he went above and beyond to assist colleagues and even strangers without being 

asked, illustrating his commitment to selflessness, and doing what's right. 

The presentation marked a celebration of Burns' outstanding achievements, recognizing 

his role as a luminary in the industry and a true asset to the community. 

His name will be immortalized on the larger recognition board, permanently 

displayed at the World Forestry Center, marking his place among a distinguished 

group of industry leaders. 

Learn more at www.patlbr.com or call 503-222- 9671. 

Boise Cascade Announces Retirement Of Tom Hoffmann 

And A New Door Shop Facility 

Boise Cascade, headquartered in Boise, ID, announced 

the retirement of Tom Hoffmann, Senior Vice 

President of Purchasing, Building Materials Distribution 

(BMD) division, effective March 1, 2024. 

Hoffmann joined Boise Cascade in 1981. He served 

in many key roles and leadership positions over the 

years, including Division Operations Manager, Pacific 

Region Manager and Denver Branch Manager. Hoffmann 

holds a bachelor’s degree in business with a dual 

major in management and marketing from the University 

of Idaho. He was promoted to vice president in 

Tom Hoffmann 2016 and senior vice president in 2021. He currently 

oversees the procurement, safety and transportation 

functions for the BMD division. 

“We have been intentional in planning for this transition considering the experience 

and numerous areas Tom has managed over the years. We are reorganizing 

the functional responsibilities to provide our emerging leaders with the opportunity 

for growth and professional development,” said Jeff Strom, executive vice 

president. “I am personally so grateful for Tom’s leadership, dedication, and many 

contributions to BMD and our entire industry.” 

“I want to thank Tom for 43 years of extraordinary service! His unwavering 

focus on living our values and taking care of our customers, suppliers, and fellow 

associates will leave a lasting imprint on so many people,” said Nate Jorgensen, 

CEO. “We wish him the very best in the next chapter of his journey.” 

In other news, Boise Cascade announced the addition of a door shop in Commerce 

City, CO, a suburb of Denver. The 127,000 square foot millwork facility 

was recently completed and has begun production. 

“We are excited that this new facility will allow us to expand our offering of 

pre-hung doors and other millwork products in one of the country’s fastest growing 

markets,” said Bud Skinner, millwork business development manager. 

“Our new state-of-the-art facility in the Denver market will complement our 

full-line distribution business,” said Jerry Bandel, Denver branch manager. “We 

look forward to providing high service levels and will work to integrate and leverage 

our sales team’s abilities as we ramp up the millwork production capabilities.” 

Boise Cascade Company is one of the largest producers of engineered wood 

products and plywood in North America and a leading U.S. wholesale distributor 

of building products. For more information, please visit www.bc.com. 

Specialty Building Products And TOOLBX Partner To 

Drive eCommerce Growth For LBM Dealers 

Specialty Building Products (SBP) of Duluth, GA, a distributor of specialty 

building products in North America, and TOOLBX, the leading eCommerce platform 

for independent lumber and building supply dealers, announced a strategic 

collaboration to help SBP’s customers capture the growing opportunity in eCommerce. 

The partnership will provide SBP’s extensive network of dealers with access to 

TOOLBX’s comprehensive digital LBM platform, empowering them to enhance 

their online presence, streamline operations, and better service their customers, 

according to a company statement. 

Through this collaboration, SBP dealers will gain: 

Seamless product data: Synchronized product information ensures accurate and 

up-to-date online product listings, leading to improved customer experience and 

sales efficiency. 

Enhanced customer engagement: TOOLBX equips dealers with online ordering, 

customer messaging, quote tools, and a customer portal for account management 

and payments, building trust and convenience for contractors and homeowners 

alike. 

Streamlined business operations: TOOLBX’s platform integrates with existing 

ERP systems, automating complex pricing rules like individual Pro discounts, 

while simplifying inventory management and order processing. 

“We care about our dealer customers’ success. And with e-commerce penetration 

at less than 1 percent amongst the average LBM dealers, we took it upon 

ourselves to bring a best-in-class solution to our customers,” said Jeff McLendon, 

president and CEO of SBP. “A number of our customers are already using TOOL- 

BX and we want to make our product data available to them through TOOLBX.” 

“TOOLBX goes beyond the e-commerce checkbox. Dealers need a comprehensive 

digital solution that truly transforms their business. We provide that with a 

suite of customer-facing tools that enable them to streamline operations, enhance 

customer service, and boost loyalty among their Pro or retail segment,” said Erik 

Bornstein, CEO and cofounder of TOOLBX. “We’re thrilled to partner with a 

leader like SBP and empower their customers with the resources they need to 

thrive online.” 

Those who are customers of SBP and any of its family of brands, such as U.S. 

Lumber, Alexandria Moulding, DW Distribution, Millwork Sales, Reeb or Amerhart, 

can contact SBP representatives for more information or email toolbx@sbp. 

com. 

For more information, visit www.sbp.com. 

Koppers Names James A. Sullivan 

President and Chief Operating Officer 

Koppers Holdings Inc. announced the election of 

James A. Sullivan as President and Chief Operating 

Officer, effective January 1, 2024. Sullivan has been 

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer 

since January 2020. Leroy M. Ball will continue to 

serve as Chief Executive Officer of Koppers. 

As president, Sullivan will have a bigger role in 

the development of Koppers 2030 strategy, which is 

James Sullivan expected to build upon the company’s 2025 Expand 

and Optimize strategy that has consistently produced 

improved safety performance, steady progress in sustainability, and record financial 

results. Ball will continue to apply his leadership to drive shareholder value, 

which includes setting the company’s corporate strategy, advancing its people-first 

culture and building key stakeholder relationships. 

With over 20 years of direct industry experience, Sullivan joined Koppers in 

June 2013 as Vice President of Business Development before advancing into various 

roles of increasing responsibility, culminating in his appointment to Executive 

Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in January 2020. 

Commenting on the change, Ball said, “Jim has contributed so much to the 

evolution of Koppers since he joined the company over 10 years ago. From spearheading 

the restructuring and resurgence of the Carbon Materials and Chemicals 

business, to breaking down business unit silos by uniting operational leadership, 

and advancing our 2025 Expand and Optimize strategic plan, he has driven a culture 

of performance. I am very happy to recognize Jim’s accomplishments in this 

way while also keeping him engaged in the next phase of Koppers evolution.” 

Sullivan added, “It is my honor to accept this new responsibility as President 

of Koppers. I am proud of our team around the world, who has demonstrated the 

power of working together to drive results, improve safety, lead in sustainability, 

and promote our values of People, Planet, and Performance. I look forward to 

continuing to grow our business under Leroy’s leadership.” 

Koppers, with corporate headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA, is an integrated global 

provider of treated wood products, wood treatment chemicals, and carbon compounds. 

Their products and services are used in a variety of niche applications in 

a diverse range of end markets, including the railroad, specialty chemical, utility, 

residential lumber, agriculture, aluminum, steel, rubber and construction industries. 

They serve their customers through a comprehensive global manufacturing 

and distribution network, with facilities located in North America, South America, 

Australasia, and Europe. 

For more information, visit www.koppers.com. 

MiCROTEC Appoints Ofer Heyman As 

New Corvallis CEO 

MiCROTEC, a global leader in innovative scanning 

solutions for the wood products industry, is pleased to 

announce the appointment of Ofer Heyman as its new 

Chief Executive Officer in Corvallis, OR. Heyman 

brings a wealth of experience and a background in 

the industry, making him a valuable addition to the 

MiCROTEC team. 

Prior to returning to MiCROTEC, Heyman served 

Ofer Heyman 

an impressive 17-year tenure at Lucidyne Technologies, 

acquired by MiCROTEC in 2020. Beginning as 

an image processing engineer in 1999, Heyman assumed roles like senior product 

and project manager, director of business development, and ultimately, director of 

operations from 2014 to 2016. 

Frank Jöst, MiCROTEC Group CEO, expressed his enthusiasm about Ofer’s 

return, “We are happy that we convinced Ofer to come back to Corvallis and support 

us as we continue the MiCROTEC vision for the North American Market.” 

MiCROTEC looks forward to leveraging Heyman’s leadership and industry experience 

to further strengthen its position as a pioneer in wood scanning solutions. 

MiCROTEC is a global technology partner for the wood processing industry, 

constantly developing new approaches and solutions to add value to the sawmilling 

and wood processing industry. 

For more information, visit www.microtec.us. 

BID Group Unveils AI-Powered Linear ResawExpert 

Optimizer, Celebrates 100th Anniversary Of Comact 

Brand 

BID Group’s AI-Powered ResawExpert 

BID Group of Mirabel, Quebec has introduced its innovative AI-Powered Linear 

ResawExpert Optimizer with vision. 

According to BID’s representative, this cutting-edge technology redefines wood 

transformation by combining “precision, efficiency and innovation in the pursuit 

of maximizing yield.” 

BID's ResawExpert is a game changer, especially in Softwood and hardwood 

processing, ensuring every inch of raw material is utilized efficiently, resulting in 

superior products and significantly reduced losses. 

Key features of BID’s AI-Powered Linear ResawExpert are as follows: independent 

optimization and grading, rotation validation scanner, optimization by 

units of clear wood, NHLA cutting grades and custom grades, quick and easy 

installation on an existing line and more. 

The innovation doesn't stop here, the resaw optimizer can be initiated in parallel 

with ongoing operations, and activation can occur once tuning is completed, 

minimizing downtime, and ensuring a smooth transition to enhanced results. 

BID Group is currently implementing the first ResawExpert at a hardwood 

flooring producer in Quebec. The project is progressing seamlessly, marking a 

significant milestone. 

"We are thrilled to introduce the AI-Powered ResawExpert, a testament to 

BID's commitment to driving innovation in the industry,” said Simon Potvin, 

President of Wood Processing at BID Group. “This technology not only enhances 

the value of our customer’s products, but also contributes to sustainable practices 

by minimizing waste.” 



INDUSTRY NEWS 


In other news, BID Group which offers wood processing technologies and integrated 

solutions, announced that it is celebrating 100 years of the Comact brand’s 

“performance, innovation and commitment.” 

Comact was founded in 1924 in the Beauce region of Quebec. Since its beginnings, 

it has “pushed the technological boundaries of the wood processing industry, 

elevating customers’ yields, revenues and bottom-line profitability.” 

The company has grown from a small, family-run business to having multiple 

locations serving international markets. 

“The last 100 years have been a testament to the hard work and pragmatic ingenuity 

that are the hallmarks of Comact,” said Alistair Cook, CEO of BID Group. 

“The company’s and brand's growth and longevity in this competitive industry 

reflect its dedication to delivering exceptional, high-performance equipment and a 

reputed steadfast service to its customers.” 

The historic partnership between BID Group and Comact since 2013 highlighted 

the companies' aligned values and visions for the future of wood processing. It 

has been integral to developing cutting-edge solutions that drive productivity and 

cost savings for an ever-growing clientele. 

“When Comact joined forces with BID Group, it was a strategic decision that 

has enabled us to leverage our collective expertise and legacy of operational 

lifecycle excellence,” commented Simon Potvin, president of Wood Processing 

at BID Group. “We are excited to continue this journey, honoring our roots while 

looking forward to executing our ambitious strategies that will shape the next 

century of wood processing.” 

As BID Group leaders said that the partnership “reaffirms its commitment to 

breakthrough transformation, with plans to integrate artificial intelligence and 

other digital technologies to ensure customers’ operations are prepared for the 

decades to come. BID Group is also in an ongoing process to execute a comprehensive 

and progressive sustainability roadmap that will set new benchmarks for 

the wood processing industry.” 

The centennial celebrations will include a series of events designed to engage 

customers, employees and stakeholders. For more information on BID Group's 

centennial celebrations and their impact on the wood processing industry, go to 

www.bidgroup.ca/en/100thanniversary. 

Jon Comber 

Carbotech Group Announces 

Expansion in USA 

Carbotech Group, headquartered in Plessisville, QC, 

continues to expand in the United States with the acquisition 

of a 14,000 square foot plant in Roebuck, SC, 

marking a major milestone in its American expansion. 

With this acquisition, Carbotech Group is strengthening 

its ability to quickly meet the needs of its American 

customers. A new local team of mechanical and 

automation technicians will also be created. Together 

with the plant, this will improve the manufacturing of 

Carbotech Group’s new location in Roebuck, SC. 

Carbotech equipment and enable the storage of spare parts for Autolog and Carbotech 

equipment. 

The plant is strategically located in the heart of the American South. It will 

also be home to a training center to develop expertise on Carbotech and Autolog 

equipment so that it can reach its fullest potential. 

Carbotech Group also recently announced the appointment of Jon Comber as 

Managing Director of U.S. Operations. His extensive knowledge of Carbotech 

and Autolog products, as well as his impressive professional background in the 

sawmilling industry (including experience as a plant manager), make him the 

ideal person for the role. 

Carbotech Group was born of Carbotech’s acquisition of Autolog. Together, the 

two specialists in their fields boast over 70 years of experience in comprehensive 

sawmill solutions for the wood industry. 

For more information, visit www.carbotech.ca. 

Nicholson Manufacturing: Innovating the Forestry 

Industry with Additive Manufacturing 

Nicholson Manufacturing Ltd., a name synonymous with innovation in the 

forestry industry, is once again at the forefront of technological advancement. 

Known for revolutionizing the industry in the 1940s with the introduction of 

lathe and rosser-head-style debarkers, and later, in 1951, with the first whole-log 

mechanical ring-type debarker, Nicholson has continuously set the benchmark for 

efficiency and effectiveness. Today, from their base in Sidney, British Columbia, 

Canada, they design and build ring debarkers that serve lumber facilities worldwide, 

boasting processing speeds exceeding 650 feet per minute. 

Building on their legacy of pioneering progress, Nicholson Manufacturing is 

now embracing additive manufacturing, a cutting-edge form of 3D printing, to 

enhance their wear parts, starting with the innovative MLX knife tips. This 

technological leap marks a significant step forward in customizing products for 

specific applications, offering a blend of precision and versatility previously unattainable. 

The success of their field-tested debarking knife tips has paved the way for 

further advancements. Nicholson plans to extend this technology to other critical 

wear parts. Their goal is simple yet ambitious: to reimagine every part susceptible 

to wear and tear, ensuring enhanced durability and efficiency. 

This move towards additive manufacturing is not just a technological leap; it 

represents Nicholson's commitment to sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The 

benefits of this approach are multifaceted: 

Increased Wear Life: The new parts promise extended durability, although the 

exact lifespan varies by mill. 

Impact Resistance: Enhanced resistance to carbide breakage from unforeseen 

elements like rocks. 

Reduced Maintenance: The frequency of tip changes on debarkers is significantly 

lowered. 

Easier Recycling: Aligning with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) 

standards, the new parts are designed to be more recyclable. 

According to a company representative, the team at Nicholson Manufacturing, 

always quick to spot the 'forest between the trees,' demonstrates a remarkable 

ability to integrate cutting-edge technology into their proven models. By adopting 

additive manufacturing, they not only uphold their reputation as industry leaders 

but also underscore their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and efficiency. 

In a world where adaptation is key, Nicholson Manufacturing stands tall, continuing 

to shape the future of the forestry industry, one groundbreaking innovation 

at a time, stated a spokesperson for the company. 

For more information, visit www.nicholsonmfg.com. 

PPG Appoints New Vice President- 

Elect, Global Sustainability 

PPG, headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, announced 

that Peter Votruba-Drzal will become vice presidentelect, 

global sustainability, effective immediately. 

Diane Kappas, current vice president, global sustainability 

has announced her intention to retire from PPG, 

effective July 1, 2024. 

Votruba-Drzal, who will report to Irene Tasi, PPG 

senior vice president and chief growth officer, will 

Peter Votruba-Drzal collaborate cross-functionally to drive the company’s 

sustainability efforts, including increasing sales of 

sustainably advantaged products, creating increased value for customers, and 

reducing the environmental impact of PPG operations. 

Votruba-Drzal joined PPG in 2005, following a role as a materials researcher 

at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Throughout his tenure at 

PPG, he has held various technical management roles with increasing responsibil- 

ity, including supporting six different businesses with a focus on harnessing 

innovation to drive growth. Since 2022, he has led the technical activities for 

PPG’s architectural coatings and traffic solutions businesses. Prior to this role, 

Votruba-Drzal led the research and product development activities for PPG’s 

mobility initiatives in addition to the Automotive and Industrial Coatings segments. 

“Peter’s diverse experience at PPG will further strengthen our capabilities 

and drive growth in this critical area. We thank Diane for her many important 

contributions in sustainability and in several leadership roles across PPG, 

congratulate her on a successful career, and wish her all the best in her welldeserved 

retirement,” said Tasi. 

Kappas has nearly 40 years of experience at PPG and held general management 

roles, including leading the protective and marine coatings and automotive 

coatings businesses in the Americas region and operational leadership 

roles in sustainability, manufacturing, supply chain, procurement, human 

resources, and environment, health and safety (EHS) during her career. An avid 

believer in diversity, equity and inclusion, Kappas was the founder of PPG’s 

Women’s Leadership Council and a founding member of the LGBTQ Council. 

She was named PPG’s first vice president, global sustainability in 2021. 

Kappas earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering from the 

University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Business Administration degree from 

Duquesne University. 

For more information, visit www.ppg.com. 

TS Manufacturing Acquires Remaining Shares In A&E 

TS Manufacturing, located in Lindsay, ON, is proud to announce the acquisition 

of the remaining shares in A&E. 

As TS enters this new phase with the acquisition of A&E, they are eager to 

share key updates and reassure their valued customers and partners about the 

future of this collaboration. 

According to a company representative, they are proud to announce the purchase 

of the remaining shares from Brian Smith, Managing Director at A&E. 

Smith, and the dedicated teams at A&E, both in New Zealand and the USA, 

have forged deep connections with their customers, developing products that 

are integral to the industry. 

These relationships and innovations are the bedrock of A&E's success and 

will continue to be a focal point for TS as they move forward. 

The commitment that TS has to continuing to service their customers under 

their existing brands remains unwavering. The company wants to assure all 

their clients that the high standards of service and product quality will continue 

as they uphold the unique strengths of both TS Manufacturing and A&E operating 

independently. 

This acquisition symbolizes not just organizational growth but a strengthening 

of their shared dedication to innovation and excellence in customer service. 

TS is optimistic about the future and the myriad of opportunities this partnership 

will continue to bring as they expand their offerings with the enhanced 

breadth of knowledge and expertise available in a team of nearly 150 strong 

capable personnel. 

TS Manufacturing offers a complete line of machinery, controls and software 

to fit your mill. For more information on their complete line of sawmill and 

planer mill offerings, please email them at sales@tsman.com, call at (705) 

324-3762 or visit www.tsman.com. 


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PERFORMANCE • RELIABILITY • RECOVERY 

Page 66 Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024 Softwood Forest Products Buyer • March/April 2024 Page 67 

Andrea Green 

Continental Underwriters Inc. 

Promotes Andrea Green 

Continental Underwriters Inc., located in Richmond, 

VA, recently promoted Andrea Green to 

Risk Assessment and Claims Director of Operations. 

In this new role Green will oversee the 

day-to-day operations of the Risk Assessment and 

Claims Division by evaluating and implementing 

processes throughout the division, while coordinating 

with other divisions throughout Continental 

Underwriters to develop and implement processes

INDUSTRY NEWS 


Two Coat Exterior Prime 

Our two-coat process starts with a sealer to block 

tannin migration, followed by a high performance 

acrylic primer. 

The result: RESERVE quality, inside and out. 

Superior Wood 

Made of quality, clear, finger-jointed Cedar or 

Redwood, these products are naturally designed 

for exterior use both species are ideal for enduring 

extreme weather. 

Surfacing + Sizes 

+ Lengths 

RESERVE products 

come in a 

wide range of 

sizes, lengths and 

finishes. Whether 

the project 

calls for S1S2E 

or S4S, we offer 

lengths ranging 

from 16’ to 

20’. Pattern 

stock is also 

available. 

1x4 1x12 

5/4x4 5/4x12 

2x4 2x12 

The Finest Stock, The Best Coating 

Our Siskiyou Forest Products 

RESERVE line is specially manufactured 

and treated to create the highest quality 

product available. Using state-of-the-art 

application and curing equipment, our 

premium Cedar and Redwood stock is made 

to last for many generations. We are proud to 

offer a beautiful, durable product that is ready 

for installation and final painting the moment it 

reaches the craftsmen. 

that connect all of the company’s divisions and to help their teams operate more 

efficiently. She also manages and oversees all of the claims for Continental 

Underwriters book of business and helps in the recruiting, hiring and onboarding 

process for her division. 

Continental Underwriters Inc. is a Managing General Agency (MGA) and 

wholesaler providing the forest products industry in North America with a broad 

range of insurance and risk management solutions designed to safeguard against 

losses and protect the value of the businesses they insure. Their programs offer 

a portfolio of insurance coverages for the building materials, lumber, forest 

products and woodworking industries. 

Green’s first job in the forest products industry was when she was hired by 

Continental Underwriters in 2019. When she first joined the company, she 

brought over nine years of valuable experience in the insurance industry, primarily 

in claims handling. A company representative said that Green has proven 

to be an excellent addition to their team, as she possesses a strong passion for 

assisting others and is driven to develop her career further by deepening her 

knowledge of the company’s forest products niche. She is dedicated to providing 

top-notch service to Continental Underwriters’ clients, agents and carrier 

partners. 

Green has been married to Bobby Green since 2022 and enjoys spending time 

with family and friends, as well as visiting local wineries and traveling. 

Continental Underwriters is a member of Lake States Lumber Association, 

Indiana Hardwood Lumbermen's Association, Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers, 

National Wood Pallet & Container Association, Hardwood Manufacturers 

Association, North Carolina Forestry Association, Western Wood Products 

Association, Mississippi Lumber Manufacturers Association, Southeastern 

Lumber Manufacturers Association Inc., Great Lakes Timber Association, 

National Hardwood Lumber Association, Virginia Forestry Association, West 

Virginia Forestry Association and Wood Products Manufacturers Association. 

For more information, visit www.contund.com. 

The AGL Group Expands Services To 

U.S.-Mexico Border 

The AGL Group, headquartered in Weymouth, MA, 

an international logistics firm and a leading freight 

forwarder of forest products, has expanded their offerings 

to now offer service to U.S.-Mexico border as 

well as interior Mexico. With offices in Jacksonville, 

FL, Barranquilla, Colombia and a 52,000 square foot 

warehouse in Blakeslee, PA, AGL has a team dedicated 

to cross border shipments. As the US-Mexico 

Stephen A. Zambo trade grows AGL has strategically positioned itself to 

be able to offer service straight through direct to our 

clients Mexican partners. 

“We no longer need to transload at the border, or have multiple entities 

involved. We truly are a one stop shop for all loads going to the border and into 

Mexico,” said Stephen Zambo, CEO. 

To begin shipping with AGL into Mexico, please email Stephen Zambo at 

SAZambo@TheAGLGroup.com, call their main line at 781-544-3970 or visit 

www.theaglgroup.com. 

SFPA Approves Dues Credit To 

Lumber Manufacturer Members 

Southern Forest Products Association’s (SFPA) executive 

committee has approved a credit of $155,000, 

or 51 percent of budgeted dues. With “flexibility” in 

its capital reserves, SFPA will return the excess revenue 

in the form of a dues credit on monthly reported 

Southern Pine lumber shipments. 

“The significant credit demonstrates SFPA’s commitment 

to prudent budgeting and increasing SFPA’s 

Eric Gee value for its members," said Eric Gee, SFPA’s executive 

director. "This ongoing dedication has allowed 

the SFPA, for the third time in its 118-year history, to 

share excess revenue with lumber manufacturer members." 

SFPA of Metairie, LA is a nonprofit trade association that has represented 

manufacturers of Southern Pine lumber since 1915. Today, SFPA is the leading 

source of information about Southern Pine lumber products for design-build 

professionals and consumers. 

“As we move forward into 2024, we remain committed to building on the 

success of our lumber promotion activities, international market development, 

and the Forest Products Machinery and Equipment Exposition,” said Rich 

Mills, chairman of SFPA’s board of directors. 

For more information, go to www.sfpa.org. 

Logging Leader Says Rising Costs 

Hurt The Industry 

By Tom Inman 

The logging industry must increase profitability 

and change public perception to maintain its workforce 

to survive, reports the director of the American 

Loggers Council. 

The remarks came at the recent Greensboro, NC, 

meeting of the Appalachian Lumbermen’s Club. 

Scott Dane, Council executive director, said the 

Scott Dane national organization represents loggers in 38 states 

through local chapters and was formed in 1994 to 

serve as a unified, national voice for professional loggers across the United 

States. 

Dane said the industry is struggling with an aging workforce and low profit 

margins. The average age of a logger in the U.S. is over 55 years and not 

enough young people are considering the profession. 

The Council supports the Future Logging Careers Act legislation which 

proposes to exempt minors of age from employment by their parents in any 

occupation on a job site owned and operated by their parents. Minors 16 and 

older may perform any job, whether hazardous or not, which is similar to the 

Fair Labor Standards Act. 

Dane said logging companies have not been able to raise rates to match the 

rising costs of insurance, equipment, fuel and wages. Dane noted that primary 

and secondary manufacturers were very profitable in 2021 and 2022 when 

demand for products were high. 

“This really was not shared in the logging community,” he said. “Loggers 

did not receive the same increases your companies did.” 

The American Loggers Council is the only national organization solely 

dedicated to representing the rights and interests of independent loggers and 

log truck contractors on a national level. Dane said the Council combines the 

power of its members with state and regional logging associations across the 

country to help the industry by sharing the benefits of education, training, 

networking, research, promotion and legislative advocacy. 

The Council is producing a series of four videos to explain forest management 

and sustainability, promote careers in logging and educate the public. The 

first is available on the group’s website www.amloggers.com. 

CALENDAR 

March 

LMC Annual Mtg., Houston, TX. www.lmc.net. March 5-7. 

NAWLA Leadership Summit, El Conquistador, Tucson, AZ. www.nawla. 

org. March 10-12. 

SLMA/SFPA Spring Mtg & Expo, Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans, LA. 

www.slma.org. March 20-22. 

April 

Montreal Wood Convention, Fairmont the Queen Elizabeth Hotel, Montreal, 

QC. www.montrealwoodconvention.com. April 9-11. 

NAWLA Reg. Mtg., Fairmont the Queen Elizabeth Hotel, Montreal, QC. 

www.nawla.org. April 9. 

Western Wood Products Association, Hotel Indigo Downtown, Vancouver, 

WA. www.wwpa.org. April 14-16. 

Blane 

SANDY NECK 

LUMBER 

EASTERN WHITE PINE 

WESTERN RED CEDAR 

Experience | Trusted | Service 

1-888-726-3963 

SNTraders.com 


OUR CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING WORKS 

800-844-1280 

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 

NOW HIRING 

Seasoned Sales Representative 

Eastern White Pine Products 

For more information, contact Kevin Raven 

kraven@hancocklumber.com 

A Family Business Producing First-Rate Products 

PRODUCING CEDAR 

GRADED ROUGH BLANKS 

FOR REMANUFACTURE 

AND FINISHED PRODUCTS 

FOR DISTRIBUTION 

• OFFERING QUALITY CEDAR 

PRODUCTS THROUGHOUT 

NORTH AMERICA AND OVERSEAS 

• 4TH GENERATION IN TRAINING 

CONTACT: 250-672-9435 

acoyles@GSFPcedar.com 

AGL Group, The.................................. 

AHC Hardwood Group....................44 

Air Systems Mfg. of Lenoir, Inc........... 

Alta Forest Products.......................18 

American Wood Technology LLC....60 

Arxada.............................................43 

Automation & Electronics USA LLC.2 1 

BC Wood Spec./Global Buyers Miss. 

Baillie..............................................62 

Biolube............................................49 

Blue Book Services.........................51 

Boise Cascade BMD LLC.................5 

Boise Cascade EWP LLC................... 

Bowers Forest Prod........................50 

BPWood Ltd....................................26 

Bright Wood....................................41 

Brunette Machinery.........................67 

Cersosimo Lumber Co. Inc.............28 

Continental Underwriters, Inc..........52 

Culpeper Wood Preservers.............38 

DMSi...............................................19 

Delta Cedar.......................................7 

Diorio Forest Products, Inc................. 

DiPrizio Pine Sales.........................34 

Disdero Lumber Co.........................39 

Durgin & Crowell Lumber Co..........22 

Elk Creek Forest Products..............63 

Empire Lumber Co.............................. 

Gates Milling...................................46 

Hancock Lumber Co.......................17 

Humboldt Sawmill........................72 

Hurst Boiler & Welding Co., Inc.......58 

Huscroft, J.H., Ltd............................... 

Idaho Forest Group.........................23 

Idaho Timber...................................30 

Jazz Forest Products......................57 

Keller Lumber Co............................69 

King City Forwarding USA, Inc.......11 

Kop-Coat Protection Prod...............48 

LaSalle/Bienville Lumber Co. LLC..54 

Legna Software...............................47 

Mars Hill, Inc....................................... 

MiCROTEC......................................... 

Neiman Enterprises........................42 

Nicholson & Cates Ltd........................ 

Nicholson Manufacturing................56 

Nordic Structures............................13 

N. Amer. Forest Foundation (NAFF) 

N. Amer. Whls. Lbr. Assoc. (NAWLA) 

N. Eastern Lbr. Mfg. Assoc. (NELMA) 

Nyle Dry Kilns.................................15 

Pacific Western Wood Works Ltd....20 

Partap Forest Prod. Ltd...................31 

Patrick Lumber Company...............36 

Paw Taw John Services, Inc............... 

Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual 

Insurance Co. (PLM).......................37 

Prime Forest Products....................45 

Restoration Forest Products (RFOR) 

........................................................59 

Richardson Timbers........................61 

Robbins Lumber Inc..........................9 

RoyOMartin.......................................3 

SII Dry Kilns....................................25 

San Group.......................................59 

Sandy Neck Traders.......................69 

Shaver Reload.................................... 

Shelton Lam & Deck.......................39 

Silvaris................................................ 

Siskiyou Forest Products................68 

Skana Forest Products...................53 

Southern Forest Prod. Assoc. (SFPA). 

Smith, Gilbert Forest Prod..............71 

Stiles, A.W., Contractors Inc...........32 

TS Manufacturing............................29 

Teal-Jones Group................................ 

Thompson River Lumber................27 

Timber Products Co........................55 

Tolko Industries Ltd............................. 

TUFF-STIK.......................................... 

U-C Coatings..................................40 

U.S. Lumber....................................35 

Vaagen Bros. Lumber.....................24 

Valutec Wood Dryers.......................... 

Warren Trask Co.............................33 

West Bay Forest Products Ltd............ 

Western Forest Products Inc............... 

Woodgrain Lumber & Composites...... 

2014–2023 

Softwood Buyer_Classified_Now Hiring.indd 1 

USED MACHINERY FOR SALE 

USED MACHINERY FOR SALE 

• USNR 4TA30 Top Arbor Three Shifting Saw Edger 

• Infeed Landing Deck 

• USNR – Lunden Cam Unscrambler S/N 41419 

• Even Ending Rolls 

• Queuing Hooks (2) ahead of Scanner 

• Queuing Hooks (2) after Scanner 

• Edger Infeed Model 600 Maximizer S/N 2951-A 

• USNR 4TA30 Edger with 200 HP Arbor Drive Motor 

• Outfeed Belt with Shifting Edging Shears 

• Specs – Hardwood 1” to 4” Thick x 4” to 24” Wide x 6’ to 16’ Long 

• Saw Kerf .160” x Saw Plate .120” 

• Two Hydraulic Units 

• Water Mizer Oil Mist Guide System 

• Set of Babbitt Guide Tools 

• USNR 4TA30 Top Arbor Three Shifting Saw Edger: 200 hp drive motor, 

includes unscrambler, control cab, infeed and outfeed. $95,000. 

Contact: James Robbins Cell: (207) 322-3162 

Email: jarobbins@rlco.com 

CLASSIFIED OPPORTUNITIES 

1/30/24 12:47 PM 

Classified Rates: Display $60.00 per column inch, fractions of an 

inch will be charged as a full inch. 

All classified Ads must be received by the 15th of the preceding 

month. Example: Ads for the January/February 2021 issue must be 

in by December 15th, 2020. 

Also, please specify the number of times Ad is to run. All Ads to be 

inserted on prepaid basis only. 

Classified advertising accepted only for: Position Available, 

Position Wanted, Business Opportunities, Machinery For Sale, 

Machinery Wanted, Wanted To Buy, Service Offered. 

800-844-1280 

www.GSFPcedar.com 

Miller 

These are high grade & low grade 

National Hardwood Magazine buyers listed with their buying 

www.nationalhardwoodmag.com specifications including wholesale 

distributors that buy 100,000 

Hardwood Purchasing Handbook 

www.hardwoodpurchasinghdbk.com board feet or more throughout 

North America! 

publications and online Cedar...............................540 

directories 

Cypress...........................138 

Fir....................................818 

Imported Wood Hemlock..........................147 

Purchasing Guide 

Juniper.................................1 

www.importedwoodpurchasing.com 

Larch.................................35 

Mixed Softwoods.............125 

Import/Export Pine.................................495 

Wood Purchasing News 

www.woodpurchasingnews.com 

Ponderosa Pine...............202 

Radiata Pine......................21 

Greenbook’s Hardwood Marketing Directory 

The Softwood Redwood...........................67 

Forest Products Buyer 



Softwoods..........................83 

SPF.................................805 

Spruce.............................539 

Greenbook’s Softwood Marketing Directory (on-line only) The Softwood Forest Products Buyer 

White Pine.......................438 


Special NAWLA Yellow Edition Pine......................1884 


Oriented Strandboard......453 

Forest Products Export Directory 

Particleboard...................315 

www.forestproductsexport.com 

Forest Products Plywood...........................930 

Stock Exchange (on-line only) 


LEASE ONLINE NOW 

FOR $1,200.00! 

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P.O. Box 34908 Memphis, TN 38184-0908 (800) 844-1280 or (901) 372-8280 Fax: (901) 373-6180 


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REDWOOD 

Uppers available in 1-inch, 2-inch, and 

4-inch dimensions in lengths from 6–20 feet. 

Timbers available in 6-inch and larger 

dimensions, up to 12” x 24”, and lengths 

up to 24 feet. 

DOUGLAS-FIR 


and 4-inch dimensions in lengths up 

to 24 feet. Posts and beams available 

in 6-inch and larger dimensions, up to 

12” x 24”, and lengths up to 24 feet. 

TREATED 

Comprehensive assortment including 

Douglas-fir, Hem fir, and Southern Yellow 

Pine lumber, timbers, and plywood, available 

in a range of treatments and interior 

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REDWOOD 

Uppers available in 1-inch, 2-inch, and 

4-inch dimensions in lengths from 6–20 feet. 

Timbers available in 6-inch and larger 

dimensions, up to 12” x 24”, and lengths 

up to 24 feet. 

DOUGLAS-FIR 


and 4-inch dimensions in lengths up 

to 24 feet. Posts and beams available 

in 6-inch and larger dimensions, up to 

12” x 24”, and lengths up to 24 feet. 

TREATED 

Comprehensive assortment including 

Douglas-fir, Hem fir, and Southern Yellow 

Pine lumber, timbers, and plywood, available 

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From 450,000 acres of timberland, the largest wood treating in the Western USA, three sawmills, 

and ten distribution points — we are your source for quality FSC ® certified redwood and Douglas-fir 

premium lumber and timbers, and your treated needs. 

To order, please call (707) 764-4450 • MendoCo.com

The Softwood Forest Products Buyer - March/April 2024

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