Jones Saw Tools announces the latest addition to their very efficient line of Saw Sharpening Tools.  Their Model 7DC 12 volt DC Grinder quickly sharpens edgers through headsaws.  For more information, call Randy Jones at 812-789-3448

BATTLE CREEK, MICH — Opticom Tech, a leader in industrial video monitoring solutions, announced today a groundbreaking advancement in industrial camera technology. Opticom's cameras now offer the unprecedented ability to deliver 10 simultaneous video streams from a single camera, setting a new industry standard.

Opticom Tech cameras can now pull 10 video streams from a single unit—a significant leap from the industry standard of three streams. This capability is a game-changer for industrial facilities, allowing multiple stakeholders—such as operators, managers, supervisors, and security personnel—to access real-time footage simultaneously without having to access the software. Each team member can monitor critical areas without any delay or interruption.

“We are incredibly proud to introduce this innovative feature that our customers have been asking for,” said Heidi Schmidt, Global Sales Manager at Opticom Tech. “Our new 10-stream capability not only enhances security and operational efficiency but also demonstrates our dedication to hearing feedback from customers and developing products based on their needs. This advancement will undoubtedly set a new benchmark in the industry.”

Opticom’s cameras are designed to meet the rigorous demands of industrial environments, providing reliable and high-quality surveillance. This new feature will be available across all Opticom camera models, ensuring that every customer can benefit from enhanced functionality and improved operational oversight.

For more information about Opticom's new 10-stream capability and other advanced video monitoring solutions, visit www.OpticomTech.com. 

About Opticom Tech

Founded in 1973, Opticom Tech provides integrated video monitoring solutions for industrial applications, including sawmills, mines, food processing facilities, and more. Built to withstand harsh environments, Opticom’s rugged cameras and equipment stand the test of time. For more information, visit www.opticomtech.com. 

Spring Hill, TN (July 16, 2024): WINTERSTEIGER Woodtech is proud to announce a series of strategic expansions for the division designed to meet the growing demand for its industry-leading wood processing solutions across North America. Offering innovative solutions for wood processing, their expertise includes precise thin-cutting saws, in-house engineered blades, automation solutions, mobile/stationary sawmills, and cutting solutions for various materials. Known throughout the world for state-of-the-art thin-cutting technology used in lamella production, maximizing efficiency and accuracy.

Expanded Footprint: In 2023, the Woodtech division relocated to a new, state-of-the-art facility in Spring Hill, Tennessee, at 1031 Parkway Drive. This move doubled the division's footprint. The increased space allows for improved efficiency, streamlined operations, and ample room for future growth.

Enhanced Service Capabilities: To further support its growing customer base, Wintersteiger Woodtech has welcomed two highly skilled technicians to its team in 2024. Nathan Pigford joins the division as a Sales and Service Technician, while Kevin Alambatin takes on the role of Service Technician. These additions, alongside existing Service Technician Jason Buttery, Customer Service Jeff DeHart, and the Saw Blade Maintenance Technicians bolster the division's service capabilities and ensure prompt and expert support for all Wintersteiger Woodtech machinery and Serra sawmills.

Expert Support, Nationwide Reach: The Wintersteiger Woodtech team, including Sales and Service Manager Jason Fry, operates without designated sales territories. This flexible structure allows them to provide comprehensive support – from sales and technical consultations to installation, training, and ongoing service for both Wintersteiger and Serra equipment – to customers across the entire North American market.

Commitment to Blade Sharpening: The new Spring Hill facility features a dedicated blade sharpening area, offering customers convenient access to Wintersteiger's sharpening expertise. Additionally, Wintersteiger continues to provide blade sharpening services at its Salt Lake City location, ensuring a nationwide network of sharpening solutions.

“We're thrilled with these strategic expansions,” says Jason Fry, Head of Sales Wintersteiger, Inc. Woodtech. “The new facility provides us with the space and resources to deliver exceptional service to our growing customer base, while our expanded team boasts the expertise and dedication to keep our customers' operations running smoothly. We're committed to being the number one partner for all things Woodtech in North America.”

About Wintersteiger

Wintersteiger is a leading provider of innovative solutions for the wood processing industry. WINTERSTEIGER combines five product areas for the timber industry into Division WOODTECH: precise thin-cutting and surface repair of wood (WINTERSTEIGER), saw blades engineered and produced in-house (WINTERSTEIGER Sägen GmbH), mobile and stationary sawmill technology (SERRA), automation solutions (VAP-WINTERSTEIGER), and cutting solutions for a range of materials, including lightweight materials (HEMA). WINTERSTEIGER is known for its state-of-the-art thin-cutting technology, which is used worldwide in lamella production. The product range includes thin-cutting frame saws and thin-cutting band saws, and upstream and downstream processing. The thin kerf, highest accuracy, ready-to-glue surface, and processing of the lamellas without additional steps are key benefits for users. TRC ("Timber Repair & Cosmetics") machines for semi- and fully automatic wood surface repair complement this product area. For more information, please visit https://www.wintersteiger.com/us/Group

Contact:

Tracy Beers

Wintersteiger, Inc.

Marketing Manager North America

Tracy.beers@wintersteiger.com

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE: The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) in partnership with the Real American Hardwood Coalition (RAHC), is excited to announce the launch of a new website: RealAmericanHardwood.pro.

In 2023, NHLA was awarded a noncompetitive $500,000 matching grant from the U.S. Forest Services with the objective to grow and stabilize the hardwood lumber market and industry.Goals to accomplish this objective were outlined as 1) create online content on hardwood information for architects, specifiers, designers, structural engineers, and other hardwood users and 2) distribute content to architects, specifiers, designers, structural engineers, and other hardwood users in person and online.
Dallin Brooks, Executive Director of NHLA, emphasized the importance of this initiative in supporting the industry. The launch of RealAmericanHardwood.pro marks a significant milestone in our mission to grow and stabilize the hardwood lumber market and industry. There are many different factors that are important to consider when designing a space for people to gather. This new platform will serve as a valuable resource for architects, specifiers, designers, structural engineers, and other hardwood users, providing them with comprehensive information and tools to make informed decisions about using American hardwoods. This website will help designers and architects have the information they need to create a positive impact on both people within design spaces and on the environment outside. We are excited about the opportunities this website will create for expanding the reach and impact of our industry, thanks to the support of the U.S. Forest Services grant.

Linda Jovanovich, chair of the Real American Hardwood Coalition, also highlighted the strategic role of the new website. As the RAHC begins strategically working with and educating architects, designers, specifiers and students, RealAmericanHardwood.pro is a valuable resource to serve and educate those communities. I am looking forward to adding it to our marketing toolbox and putting it to work for our industry.
Key features of the website include:
Why Hardwood: In the "Why Hardwood" section, visitors will discover the numerous benefits of choosing hardwood. They will learn that hardwood is environmentally friendly due to its carbon-negative properties and appreciate its durability and long-term investment value. The section will highlight the natural beauty and timeless appeal of hardwood, as well as its lifetime usability. Additionally, visitors will find that hardwood is a healthy choice, free from harmful chemicals and allergens. Lastly, this section will also compare hardwood with alternative products, clearly demonstrating its superiority in terms of sustainability, longevity, and overall value.
Featured Projects: This section showcases the endless possibilities of creating functional and beautiful designs with Real American Hardwood®. Highlighting a diverse range of commercial buildings, furniture, and unique designs, these featured projects are meant to inspire and motivate others to build with hardwood. Visitors can also submit their own projects for a chance to be featured on the site, fostering a community of creativity and innovation.
Real American Hardwood Species Guide: Visitors can delve into the detailed physical properties and growth patterns of 14 commonly used U.S. hardwood species. The guide also includes information on common applications and alternative species, offering a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in American hardwood.
Hardwood Grading Guide: This section offers a comprehensive understanding of Hardwood Lumber Grading through the NHLA Rules Book and video illustrations. Architects, designers, and specifiers will find valuable insights to help them select the appropriate hardwood grade for their projects, ensuring the desired quality, functionality, and aesthetic outcome. This guide empowers professionals to make informed decisions tailored to their specific needs and goals.

About the National Hardwood Lumber Association: The world's largest and oldest hardwood industry association, NHLA represents more than 700 companies that produce, use, and sell North American hardwood lumber, or provide equipment, supplies or services to the hardwood industry. It was founded in 1898 to establish a uniform system of grading rules for the measurement and inspection of hardwood lumber. Since 1979, its headquarters have been in Memphis. To learn more about NHLA, please visit www.nhla.com.
About the Real American Hardwood Coalition:Representing companies from every sector of the industry and every hardwood producing state in the country, the RAHC seeks to inspire and educate consumers and professionals on the uses and benefits of real American hardwood products.

Gaylord, MI – June 13, 2024 – The Michigan Association of Timbermen is excited to announce the first biennial Michigan Forest Products Show, set to take place on August 9-10, 2024, at The Ellison Place in Gaylord, Michigan. This premier event will bring together hundreds of vendors, equipment dealers, and industry experts for two action-packed days dedicated to showcasing the best in the forestry industry.

Vaughn West, President of the Michigan Association of Timbermen said, “As many of you have seen and heard, the Forest Products Show is fast approaching.  We at the Timbermen are very excited about providing our industry an opportunity to showcase equipment, and for industry members to see the latest and the greatest on the market from a wide variety of manufacturers. We are also enthused to welcome the general public so they can see the work we do on a daily basis.”

The Michigan Forest Products Show promises a comprehensive experience with a wide array of industry exhibits, the latest in logging equipment, milling innovations, and emerging technology. This event is designed to cater to professionals in the forestry industry as well as provide entertainment, food, and fun for the whole family.

Michigan Association of Timbermen Executive Director Justin Knepper said, “This is a can’t miss event for Michiganders and folks across the Great Lakes region. If you’re a logger, trucker, mill operator, landowner, or anyone in between, we want you at our show! Mark your calendars for August 9-10 and get ready to make your way up to Gaylord, Michigan!”

Event Highlights:

Industry Exhibits: Explore a diverse range of products and services from leading companies in the forestry sector.

Logging Equipment: Discover the latest advancements and cutting-edge machinery in logging technology.

Milling Innovations: Visit milling equipment specialists servicing all aspects of the industry, from portable milling to large, established sawmills, and learn about new methods and innovations in milling processes.

Emerging Technology: Stay ahead of the curve with insights into the future of forestry technology.

Entertainment, Food & Fun: Enjoy a lively atmosphere with activities and attractions suitable for all ages, including a Kid’s Zone, complete with lumberjack-themed bouncy inflatables!

Exhibitor Information:

Exhibitor spaces are filling up fast!

Indoor Space (10'x10'): $425

Outdoor Space (30'x50'): $625

Don't miss this unique opportunity to network with industry leaders, discover new products and technologies, and enjoy a vibrant community event. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a family looking for a fun and educational outing, the Michigan Forest Products Show has something for everyone.

For more information on attending or exhibiting at the Michigan Forest Products Show, please visit www.michigantimbermen.com/show or contact the Michigan Association of Timbermen at (906)293-3236 or email jknepper@timbermen.org/msears@timbermen.org.

Join us in celebrating and advancing the forestry industry in Michigan! Special thanks to our show sponsors:

• Forest/Loggers/Mauck Insurance Agencies (www.forestinsurancecenter.com)
• MATSIF (www.matsif.com)
• AIS Forestry Division (www.aisequip.com)
• Northern Energy (www.northern-energy.com)
• Team Wieland Truck & Trailer (www.wielandtrucks.com)
• Royal Truck & Trailer (www.royaltrailersales.com)
• Ponsse (www.ponsse.com)
• Crosstrac (www.crosstrac.net)
• Greenstone Farm Credit Services (www.greenstonefcs.com)
• Louisiana Pacific (www.lpcorp.com)
• McCoy Construction & Forestry (www.mccoycf.com)
• Michigan Kenworth (www.csmtruck.com)
• Roland Machinery Co. (www.rolandmachinery.com)
• Runnin’ Gears Inc. (www.runningearsinc.com)
• Weyerhaeuser (www.weyerhaeuser.com)

About the Michigan Association of Timbermen

The Michigan Association of Timbermen is dedicated to representing and supporting the timber industry in Michigan. Through advocacy, education, and events like the Michigan Forest Products Show, the Association is focused on promoting sustainable forestry practices and the growth of the timber industry.

April 2024 – Wood-Mizer introduces the versatile, robust, and powerful WM2500 industrial sawmill. Engineered for peak production and starting at $124,995 USD, the WM2500 includes advanced features to ensure precision, stability, and operational efficiency. The WM2500 industrial sawmill joins the established and growing Wood-Mizer range of industrial-level sawmill equipment that includes sawmills, resaws, edgers, material handling equipment, and complete sawmilling systems.

High-Quality & High-Production Features

Combining a powerful electric 30HP motor with a maximum log diameter of 41” and maximum cut width of 33”, the WM2500 industrial sawmill operates seamlessly as a standalone primary headrig to saw pallet boards, grade or dimensional lumber or as a vital component of a complete sawmilling system. In addition, simple, cost-effective material handling can be added before and after the WM2500 t[BZ1] o enhance productivity. 

Advanced features including heavy-duty construction, user-friendly controls, and high-production hydraulic log handling capabilities make this sawmill a versatile, robust, and powerful solution. The standalone operator stand is accompanied by an operator control console which includes joystick controls, presets, setworks, and independent hydraulic controls, making operation fast, easy, and efficient.

The high-speed head up/down servo drive reduces saw head positioning time so more time can be spent sawing lumber. In addition, the high-performance blade wheel belt system minimizes vibration and sawdust interference to extend blade life. The WM2500 industrial sawmill is also equipped with a hydraulic pump unit, standalone central electric box, and pantograph which ensures that cabling is secure and dust-free while minimizing cable wear during operation.

Industrial-Level Sawmilling at a Budget Price

The WM2500 industrial sawmill provides a comprehensive solution to maximize log yield and optimize log breakdown in industrial settings.

"I called the Wood-Mizer team and explained what I was looking for. They mentioned the new WM2500. It has all the upgraded features we were looking for in a mill, fast hydraulics, heavy-duty bed, off-feed conveyor, and at a price point we could afford. The WM2500 was exactly what we were looking for," shared Corey White, H&H Sawmill Owner. 

"Wood-Mizer is committed to providing premium quality sawmill equipment for all levels of production throughout the world,” said Colin Campbell, Wood-Mizer Industrial Sawmill Specialist. “The all new WM2500 sawmill provides pallet, grade, and lumber operations with a high-quality, high-production mill at a great price to scale their business.”

Market Availability and Ordering

The WM2500 industrial sawmill is now available to order in North America. For more information or to order, visit woodmizer.com or contact your local Wood-Mizer representative. 

About Wood-Mizer 

Since 1982, Wood-Mizer has earned the reputation as a world-leading wood processing equipment  manufacturer with a strong legacy from its innovative sawmilling products. Serving more than 100,000 customers throughout the world From Forest to Final Form®, Wood-Mizer offers an extensive line of  equipment including narrowband portable and industrial sawmills, wideband sawmilling equipment,  band resaws, board edgers, wood kilns, planer/moulders, firewood processing equipment, pallet  recycling equipment, material handling equipment, sawmill blades, and blade maintenance equipment  for woodworking and forestry hobbyists and professionals all over the world. Visit woodmizer.com for more information

Aitkin, MN – Northern Automation is proud to announce the newest addition to their line of automation solutions, the NA/48-12 Lumber Stacker.  This simple, yet highly advanced modular unit offers sawmills and pallet operations the flexibility to handle a wide ranger of products and dimensions.  From ¾” - 4” thick, 8’ to 12’ lengths are standard, although units to handle lengths from 48” to 16’ are also available.   According to Chief Engineer, Nick Stueven, the first dozen NA/48-12 stackers have proven to be virtually trouble free, very simple to operate, programable for custom or standard thicknesses and lengths and effectively run themselves.  

Based on the success of the long test run of multiple units, Northern Automation CEO, David Burgstaler, said “We’re so confident that you’ll love this stacker, that if you don’t, we’ll buy it back.  You pay only rigging & trucking”.  

For more information on the NA/48-12 Lumber Stacker, Custom Stackers to fit your operation and other sawmill solutions from Northern Automation, visit northernautomation.com or call 218-670-0315.

Akkuslar a 50 year manufacturer of sawmill machinery in Istanbul Turkey and well known throughout the world has chosen Kittrell Sawmill Brokers as their Dealer in the United States. Family and generations are important to the Akkus family this is only one reason why the sought out Kittrell.  The other is the knowledge and expertise that Kittrell has accumulated and still accumulates in their every day business as sawmill equipment appraisers. Landing over 4,000 appraisal assignments in different manufacturing and remanufacturing facilities has given Kittrell the experience they need to help individuals with this new line of machinery.  Kittrell gives options to the industry that will set them up for diversification without major expenditures. . they process 3.5 logs per minute in rail ties, square timbers, dimension lumber and in pallet cants. Sideboards are produced with every cut and can be processed up to with the standard machine with extensions available. The Gang saws from are ready to breakdown cants into grade or industrial lumber. Turkish engineering and hospitality are second to none throughout the world. Their goal is your expectations meet the excellence they provide in their machine construction and service.Visit the YouTube Channel Kittrell Akkuslar for lots of videos

Exciting news! Nolts Power Equipment, based in Shippensburg, PA, is now an authorized dealer of the Vortex by DYNA brush chippers. This month, they received their first chipper, ready to enhance your wood chipping needs. Curious to find your nearest dealer? Reach out to us today for more information!

CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION!
989-823-6200

BATTLE CREEK, MICH — Opticom Tech, a leader in industrial video monitoring solutions, announced today its new CC04-IP5MV3 camera, an upgrade to the CC04-IP3MV camera.

The new CC04 camera offers a higher resolution than its predecessor—5 megapixel compared to 3 MP. It also supports artificial intelligence (AI) functions such as object detection, intrusion detection, line crossing, object counting, and more.

“We’re excited to offer these upgrades to new and existing customers,” said Heidi Schmidt, Global Sales Manager at Opticom. “High-resolution video is vital for operations monitoring and security in industrial facilities. And AI is becoming a reality of our world, so having cameras equipped to support that emerging technology puts facilities ahead of their competition.”

The CC04 camera is NDAA compliant, utilizes the ONVIF protocol and can withstand high-vibration, hazardous and controlled environments. It can also withstand direct hits by logs, boards, rocks, and other objects, making it an ideal video monitoring solution for industrial facilities.

For more information, visit www.OpticomTech.com.

About Opticom Tech

Founded in 1973, Opticom Tech provides integrated video monitoring solutions for industrial applications, including sawmills, mines, food processing facilities, and more. Built to withstand harsh environments, Opticom’s rugged cameras and equipment stand the test of time. For more information, visit www.opticomtech.com.

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March 2024 – Capturing the growing interest of the professional woodworker movement, Wood-Mizer introduces the versatile MP280 4-Sided Planer/Moulder. Starting at $17,995 USD, the MP280 is a perfect choice for entrepreneurs who need a universal, efficient, precise, and affordable woodworking machine. The MP280 Planer/Moulder joins the established Wood-Mizer range of woodworking products that includes jointer/planers, two-sided planer/moulders, four-sided planer/moulders, slab flattening machines, dust collection systems, planer blades, moulder knives, table saws, and more. 

Premium Quality Features, Entry-Level Price 

The MP280 is a versatile and compact machine for professional woodworkers that planes and moulds material on all four sides at one time. This all-in-one machine is a perfect solution that is easy to use and produces premium wood products. Made of a cast iron table, robust steel frame and high-quality components, the MP280 includes 1 horizontal top cutter, 1 horizontal bottom cutter, and 2 vertical side cutters for planing and moulding on the top, bottom, and sides of material at the same time with each pass. All four cutters can be fitted with planing knives or moulding profile knives to produce flooring, planed boards, crown moulding, cabinet trim, paneling, door and window frames, furniture components, and more. 

“Wood-Mizer is committed to providing our customers with the equipment necessary to process material from forest to final form. With its exceptional value and premium components, the MP280 is perfect for woodworkers who value precision, affordability, and the versatility to complete projects from trim and flooring to furniture,” said Chad Sanders, Wood-Mizer Woodworking Product Specialist. 

Market Availability and Ordering

The MP280 Planer/Moulder is now available to order worldwide. For more information or to order, visit woodmizer.com or contact your local Wood-Mizer representative. 

About Wood-Mizer 

Since 1982, Wood-Mizer has earned the reputation as a world-leading wood processing equipment? manufacturer with a strong legacy from its innovative sawmilling products. Serving more than 100,000 customers throughout the world From Forest to Final Form®, Wood-Mizer offers an extensive line of? equipment including narrowband portable and industrial sawmills, wideband sawmilling equipment,? band resaws, board edgers, wood kilns, planer/moulders, firewood processing equipment, pallet? recycling equipment, material handling equipment, sawmill blades, and blade maintenance equipment? for woodworking and forestry hobbyists and professionals all over the world. Visit woodmizer.com for more information. 

Under warm and sunny skies (in February!), the 86^th Annual Oregon Logging Conference (OLC) attracted record numbers of industry professionals, families, friends, and members of the public. 

The entire Lane Events Center and Fairgrounds in Eugene was packed to the brim with over 10 acres of millions of dollars of equipment in the outside area and more than 150,000 square feet of indoor exhibits, educational seminars and events, and social activities. 

“I was very pleased with the turnout, the weather and the speakers,” 86^th Annual OLC President Steve Henson said. “The OLC team did a great job putting on a first-class conference,” he added. 

The Oregon Logging Conference is a significant economic boost to the local economy, and while figures are not available for this year, last year the OLC contributed nearly $9 million to the local economy. This year that amount is expected to be higher than last year, based on increased participation and attendance at the conference.

Keynote Speaker, U.S. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore

Logging and wildfire were two subjects addressed by 86^th Annual OLC keynote speaker Randy Moore. Moore is the Chief of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). Chief Moore talked about forming partnerships to address the critical impacts of wildfires. 86^th Annual OLC President Steve Henson said, “We need to aggressively step into the partnerships that the USFS Chief laid out and hold the USFS accountable to work with the logging industry to save our forests.” Chief Moore also fielded questions from the audience, critical of Forest Service response to recent wildfires, and indicated a willingness to open a dialogue between the Forest Service and those impacted by Forest Service decisions. 

20^th Annual Desserts for Dreams Luncheon Fundraiser Proceeds Benefit PAVE, Paws Assisting Veterans

At this time more than $20,000 was raised at this event for PAVE, Paws Assisting Veterans, an organization that provides highly trained service dogs to veterans, at no cost, to enhance quality of life. The numbers are still being tallied and the total amount raised is expected to increase. PAVE Lead Trainer and Client Advisor Cheryl Mulick talked about the program at the luncheon and also demonstrated the training. 

Veteran Shelley Corteville, with her service dog Patton, told those gathered how the PAVE program changed her life. 

Future Forestry Workers Career Day

More than 860 high school students and teachers from nearly three dozen Oregon schools attended the 6^th Annual Future Forestry Workers Career Day, held in conjunction with the OLC, in the Livestock Arena on the Lane County Fairgrounds. Industry professionals at this hands-on career day provided students information and the tools they need for entering the logging, forestry, heavy equipment operation, diesel mechanics, wildland firefighting and other related fields. Students learned about both current and future job opportunities. “It was fantastic to see so many young ladies and men from high schools attend this event,” OLC President Henson said. This event is sponsored by the Oregon Logging Conference Foundation.

A high school forestry skills relay was included in the Future Forestry Workers Career Day where students from eight high school forestry clubs competed in activities including cable splicing, choker setting, crosscut and single buck sawing, compass and pacing, tool identification, log scaling, and axe throwing. This skills relay has been part of the Oregon Logging Conference for more than 25 years. 

Waldport High School teams took first, second and fourth places, and third place was Philomath High School. 

Oregon Logging Conference Foundation Auction

More than $28,000 was raised during the Thursday and Friday auction at the Oregon Logging Conference. This money will be deposited in the Oregon Logging Conference Foundation scholarship program. OLCF expressed its appreciation to all donors, winning bidders, auctioneer Jaime Yraguen of Basco Logging, and Will Garrett and other volunteers from Radiator Supply House. 

Log Loader Competition

18 people participated and the first-place winner of the Oregon Logging Conference log loader competition is a familiar name. Zane Bryant, owner/operator of Bryant Logging in Beavercreek, OR claimed the top spot with a time of 3:09:98. Second place was Bryant Logging shovel operator Jeremy Staats with a time of 3:12:25 and 3^rd place was Chuck Walker, of Elk Hill in Florence, OR with a time of 3:32:94.

This popular outdoor event tests the skills of log loader operators, as they demonstrate speed, skill, and efficiency. Operating a Link-Belt log loader, contestants have seven minutes to stack log blocks end-to-end, matching numbers or colors on predetermined marks on the ground.

This event is sponsored by Triad Machinery and Link-Belt.

Guess the Net Scale – Two Loads of Logs and Two Winners

Along with the traditional guess the net scale load of logs, again this year there was a load of chip and saw logs testing the guesser’s scaling abilities.

There were three correct guesses for the net board feet of the load of chip and saw logs, which was 4,250, All three names were put into a hat and the winner drawn was 13-year-old Wyatt Wurzer, whose family owns Wurzer Tree Farms in Molalla, OR.

Tiffany Silbernagel of Little Acre Logging from Lyons, OR was the closest guess to the net board feet of the other load of logs. Her guess was 5,872 and the actual net scale was 5,870.

Wurzer and Silbernagel each received a $250 Cabela's gift card.

Seminars and Panel Discussions 

Topics of current interest were discussed at the 86^th Annual Oregon Logging Conference, while many of those attending earned Professional Logger credits to stay certified and up to date on several issues. 

Subjects addressed included scaling and quality of lesser log species, steep slope logging, updates of the Private Forest Accord, the Washington Forest Practices Act, and how to influence unelected boards and commissions. 

“The Oregon Logging Conference was packed with unique opportunities for forestry and natural resource professionals to network and learn more about their trades,” said OLC Manager Rikki Wellman.

Family Day

Hammering noises were constant just outside the Wheeler Pavilion as the building of wooden bird houses was taking place. Inside the pavilion was live wildlife, face painting and numerous other tree-related activities, as well as free tree seedlings being given away. Family Day is the final day of the Oregon Logging Conference and provides opportunities for industry and non-industry families to learn about and meet industry professionals. 

Oregon Women in Timber Dinner/Auction

The Talk About Trees dinner/auction was a huge success with a sellout crowd of 480 people in attendance. The dinner/auction’s gross proceeds of $143,000 will help support OWIT’s Talk About Trees forest education program, which is offered free to pre-Kindergarten through 8^th grade students. 

Mark Your Calendars for the 87^h Annual Oregon Logging Conference

The dates are set for the 87^th Annual Oregon Logging Conference. Plan to attend the OLC February 20 – 22, 2025 at the Lane Event Center and Fairgrounds in Eugene, OR.