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Commonsense Wildfire Solutions Start With Active Forest Management
The Subcommittee on Federal Lands held a legislative hearing promoting solutions to address the catastrophic wildfires that plague American forests. Subcommittee Chairman Tom Tiffany issued the following statement in response:
"America desperately needs solutions to the catastrophic wildfire and forest health crisis decimating our federal lands and forests year after year. The four forestry bills the Federal Lands Subcommittee held a hearing on today will cut red tape, put an end to frivolous litigation, address the Biden border crisis by cutting off illegal marijuana cultivation from cartels on our federal lands, and save lives and land through wildfire prevention. Republicans remain committed to advancing real, concrete, and scientific solutions to better manage our federal forests."
The Subcommittee on Federal Lands had a hearing on four bills:
H.R. 200 (Rep. Rosendale), “Forest Information Reform (FIR) Act”
H.R. 1473 (Rep. Peters), “Targeting and Offsetting Existing Illegal Contaminants Act”
H.R. 1567 (Rep. Tiffany), “Accurately Counting Risk Elimination Solutions (ACRES) Act”
H.R. 1586 (Rep. LaMalfa), “Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act of 2023”
BACKGROUND
Congressman Tom Tiffany (WI) and Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR) at the 76th Annual Great Lakes Timber Association Logging Expo in Green Bay.
Due to burdensome regulation, frivolous litigation and unnecessary red tape, national forests and public lands face historically devastating fire seasons yearly.
Forest Information Reform Act: The Cottonwood Environmental Law Center v. U.S. Forest Service decision has caused unnecessary and burdensome bureaucratic hurdles, ultimately resulting in the weaponization of the legal system by environmental activists. Delays on land management projects due to this decision have had devastating impacts, including the Hermits Peak Fire in New Mexico, the largest and most destructive wildfire in the state’s history. The Forest Information Reform Act will create a permanent solution to problems created by the Cottonwood decision.
Targeting and Offsetting Illegal Containments Act: Illegal cannabis cultivation sites result in significant environmental degradation, harm to wildlife, increased crime and catastrophic wildfires. The Targeting and Offsetting Illegal Containments Act aims to eliminate the environmental destruction from illegal cannabis growing operations in federal forests.
Accurately Counting Risk Elimination Solutions (ACRES) Act: The three worst wildfire seasons on record all occurred in the last decade, with each burning more than 10 million acres. Unfortunately, the Forest Service only treats approximately 2 million acres a year, largely due to inaccurate reporting and a lack of transparency. The Accurately Counting Risk Elimination Solutions (ACRES) Act provides a way to hold federal land management agencies accountable, to see the work they are doing to reduce the amount of fuel for wildfires on our public lands and determine the effectiveness of the fuel reduction work.
Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act of 2023: As America faces a wildfire crisis and rapidly intensifying fire seasons, it's increasingly important for firefighters to have the tools they need to effectively fight wildfires. Serial litigation is threatening the use of fire retardant, in use since the 1950s and approved by the EPA, a critical tool for those putting their lives on the line to fight fires. The Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act of 2023 ensures the brave men and women protecting public lands can retain access to this important tool in their firefighting arsenal.
SOURCE: WWW.NATURALRESOURCES.HOUSE.GOV
MEDIA CONTACT: REBEKAH HOSHIKO (202) 225-2761
Log-A-Load For Kids raised $3.6 Million Dollars in 2022 supporting over 70 Children's Miracle Network Hospitals
Thank you to all Log-A-Load For Kids sponsors across America. Thanks to you, the total raised in 2022 from 30 states supporting over 70 Children's Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) was over $3.6 MILLION.
Each of the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals relies on partners like Log-A-Load For Kids Foundation to keep the doors open to create miracles for sick and injured kids in our communities. By donating or helping with fundraisers, you are helping your neighbors, family members, and community friends.
Since 1988, the Log-A-Load for Kids program has spread to over 30 states and raised more than $49 million for 70+ member hospitals.
Happy 35th Anniversary Log-A-Load For Kids!
Spanberger, Gallagher Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support America’s Trucking Industry, Address Ongoing Supply Chain Challenges
Their Bipartisan Bill Would Create a Refundable Income Tax Credit for America’s Commercial Truck Drivers to Tackle a Chronic Workforce Shortage.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07) and Mike Gallagher (R-WI-08) today reintroduced their bipartisan legislation to help address America’s truck driver shortage by establishing a refundable income tax credit for qualified commercial truck drivers.
In 2021, American trucking companies experienced a record deficit of approximately 80,000 drivers due to hiring and retention challenges. In Virginia and Wisconsin, many trucking companies have struggled to hire drivers without offering bonuses or increased wages to qualified drivers. And to further compound this shortage, the median age of U.S. truck drivers now sits between 51 and 52-years old. This shortage has impacted all American consumers through more expensive shipping costs and delays.
The bipartisan Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act would provide a short-term, fast, and straightforward incentive to attract and retain new drivers. Specifically, the Spanberger-Gallagher bill would create a two-year refundable tax credit of up to $7,500 for truck drivers holding a valid Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) who drive at least 1,900 hours in the year. Additionally, it would help get more Americans on the road by establishing new incentives for Americans to enter registered trucking apprenticeships.
“During the pandemic, truckers didn’t have any remote options — yet they went to work every single day to keep our economy moving and our communities strong. Our country needs to step up and recognize their hard work — and we need to encourage more Americans to enter this industry,” said Spanberger. “Throughout Virginia, I hear about the need to address our chronic truck driver shortage. Our bipartisan bill would help bring more drivers into the fold, keep them on the highway, and reward them for their loyalty. I want to thank Congressman Gallagher for his continued partnership on this legislation, and I look forward to seeing more young Americans hop in the driver’s seat.”
“The truck driving industry is facing a massive workforce shortage that’s disrupting nearly every aspect of our supply chains,” said Gallagher. “We need to encourage more young men and women to join this career path, and this bipartisan bill is a common sense way to recruit and retain more drivers to keep our shelves stocked and our economy moving.”
Spanberger and Gallagher first introduced their bipartisan bill in April 2022.
The Spanberger-Gallagher legislation is endorsed by the American Trucking Associations, American Loggers Council, Virginia Trucking Association, Virginia Farm Bureau, Virginia Loggers Association, Virginia Agribusiness Council, National Grocers Association, International Foodservice Distributors Association, American Building Materials Alliance, Forest Resources Association, Hardwood Federation, Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America, Third Way, and National Pork Producers Council.
“Reducing the nationwide shortage of qualified truck drivers will require investment in developing the next generation of trucking talent. Even as driver pay continues to rise at a historic clip, the Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act will provide even more incentive for those considering a career in trucking but by providing substantial tax credits to reduce their federal tax liabilities. The bill also would provide relief for Americans currently driving trucks, helping the industry retain these essential workers. This bipartisan legislation will make a meaningful difference in the lives of new truckers, helping them move into one of the few professions in today’s economy that can provide a middle-class lifestyle without the time and expense of a four-year college degree. ATA thanks Reps. Abigail Spanberger and Mike Gallagher for their leadership on this critical issue and for being strong advocates for America’s truck drivers,” said Chris Spear, President & CEO, American Trucking Associations.
“Raw material transportation is the weak link in the forest products industry supply chain. These challenges are compounded by a lack of drivers, escalating fuel prices, crisis level insurance premiums, unique operational conditions, and demographics. It is imperative that actions be taken to improve the opportunities to attract truck drivers into the industry. Without drivers nothing moves. Therefore, the American Loggers Council strongly supports the bipartisan Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act sponsored by Representatives Abigail Spanberger and Mike Gallagher. This legislation will provide the necessary incentives to support the ‘pipeline’ of drivers,” said Scott Dane, Executive Director, American Loggers Council.
“The pandemic and supply chain issues have shown us the importance of having an adequate supply of qualified truck drivers. The trucking industry currently has a shortage of nearly 80,000 drivers and the Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act provides a short-term, fast, and straightforward incentive to retain and attract new and former drivers. We applaud Reps. Spanberger and Gallagher for this effort to enhance trucking’s workforce and the efficiency of our nation’s supply chain,” said P. Dale Bennett, President & CEO, Virginia Trucking Association.
“The Virginia Loggers Association strongly supports the reintroduction of the Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act legislation in the 118th Congress. We believe that Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger and Congressman Mike Gallagher understand the needs of the forest products industry and the many other industries that depend upon commercial hauling. Virginia forest logging businesses are reporting a major shortage of qualified commercial drivers, and this is also occurring across America,” said Ron Jenkins, Executive Director, Virginia Loggers Association.
“The ongoing labor shortage has hit the agricultural supply chain hard, especially when it comes to finding enough long-haul drivers to transport farm inputs, commodities and food products. Of course, agriculture is no stranger to worker shortages, and if we’re going to ensure the stability of our nation’s food supply in the long-term, we must provide short-term, fast, and straightforward incentives to attract and retain drivers. The Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act will help ensure farms can continue producing food, fiber and fuel sustainably and that those products can make it out the farm gate to processing facilities and consumers,” said Wayne F. Pryor, President, Virginia Farm Bureau.
“Our members continue to face supply chain challenges, especially in transporting agricultural and silvicultural materials. The Virginia Agribusiness Council supports the Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act as an important tool for attracting and retaining qualified truck drivers,” said Cliff Williamson, Executive Director, Virginia Agribusiness Council.
Specifically, the Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act would:
Create a new refundable tax credit of up to $7,500 for truck drivers holding a valid Class A CDL who drive at least 1,900 hours in the year. This tax credit would last for two years (2023 and 2024).
Create a new refundable tax credit of up to $10,000 for new truck drivers or individuals enrolled in a registered trucking apprenticeship. This tax credit would also last for two years.
Allow new truck drivers to be eligible for the credit if they did not drive a commercial truck in the previous year or drive for at least 1,420 hours in the current year. They may receive a proportion of the credit if they drive less than 1,420 hours in the year, but drove at least an average of 40 hours a week upon starting to drive.
Click here for full bill text.
The Roaring Twenties - 1923 vs. 2023
The American Loggers Council, because of who we are (you) and what we represent, is widely recognized and respected. That is why the American Loggers Council was invited to attend the Coolidge Foundation centennial celebration of the Presidency of Calvin Coolidge.
Coincidentally, when Calvin Coolidge was Vice President he lived at the Willard Hotel, the same place that the American Loggers Council will be hosting the 2023 DC Fly-In and where the Council office is. The path of the American Loggers Council and the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation were destined to intersect.
The conference, hosted at the Library of Congress, explored the political philosophy of economic prosperity (roaring 20s) through less government and lower tax rates.
“Of all the forms of government, those administered by bureaus are the least satisfactory.” -President Colidge
These policies were proven successful in lowering unemployment, reversing severe inflation, reducing the national debt, increasing tax revenue, and generating the last government budget surplus.
“The collection of any taxes which are not absolutely required, which do not beyond reasonable doubt contribute to the public welfare, is only a species of legalized larceny.” -President Coolidge
An unmatched portfolio of economic experts (Steve Forbes) conservative political leaders (Vice President Pence, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, New Hampshire Governor and White House Chief of Staff John Sununu, Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels, and Arkansas Congressman French Hill), many other notable dignitaries and historian’s framed the Coolidge years as being under-credited for the decade long impact of technological development (cars, electricity, modern plumbing, radio, movies) and economic prosperity.
The parallels between America 100 years ago and today are remarkable; the end of a pandemic; high inflation; deficit spending; war (WWI) debt; political division; and civil strife. But unlike 100 years ago, America today does not have political leadership that looks at history, learns from it, uses what proved successful, and put the greater good first.
It was said by Winston Churchill that those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it. History may be a source of learning that can allow those that “learn from history” to benefit from the successes demonstrated by prior events and responses.
Oh, for our elected officials' days of principled public service leadership. We like to imagine that over the past 100 years, we’ve evolved into a greater republic led by more enlightened leaders. But the statesmen of yesteryear are mere historical figures, scarce in today’s halls of Congress or residence of the White House. The greatness of America was built by those before us. It is our responsibility to preserve it, not dismantle it.
The very essence of President Coolidge’s common man values is reflective of the values shared by the men and women of the American logging and timber occupation. The philosophy of hard work and self-reliance, which they epitomize, was reflected in President Coolidge’s quote, “Self-Governance means Self-Support.” This concept is absent in today’s teachings, which question, and cast doubt on the hard work and self-determination character of the men and women who work in the woods. President Coolidge’s reduction in governmental regulation, under which today has heaped such a burden upon the logger that they struggle to shoulder it and still provide for their family and business, would be welcome 100 years later.
President Coolidge served the U.S. and the American people selflessly, and when he came to the point that he felt he had done all he could for his country and countrymen as an instrument of Devine Providence “of which I am but one” he stepped aside. He knew to whom he was entrusted with honor and responsibility: “no pledge except to serve them.” Perhaps he knew that many “self-made men all too often fall prey to worshipping their maker.”
“It is a great advantage to a President, and a major source of safety to the country, for him to know that he is not a great man.” President Coolidge said upon his decision and announcement that he would not be seeking another term. However, he was widely assumed to have been elected.
A new generation of civic leaders will determine the future of the United States. Fortunately, 100 of the best and brightest college students, Coolidge Senators, were in attendance and participated in this reflection on how a reluctant public servant, President Calvin Coolidge, embraced the challenges of his time with the conviction and wherewithal to make complex, albeit not always popular, decisions based on moral convictions, with the good of all over the good of few, as his compass. Perhaps one of these Coolidge Senators will embrace the Coolidge philosophy and lead the United States back to a period of prosperity, peace, and progress.
The Coolidge Presidency provided a model for prosperity. We can replicate it or suffer from the Hoover Presidency economic model.
REVEALED: Russian “conflict timber” worth over $1-BILLION sold in the US
Ukrainian activists say America’s business in Russian wood, banned in the EU and Britain is helping to fuel Putin’s invasion and further enrich his cronies. Here are the key findings:
US business in “conflict timber” banned in the EU and Britain is helping fund Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and further enrich powerful oligarchs, Earthsight can reveal.
Our investigation, published today to coincide with the first anniversary of Putin’s aggression, found punitive American tariffs against Moscow have failed to halt imports of Russian wood.
More than 260,000 cubic metres of Russian ‘Baltic birch’ plywood (with an estimated retail value of $1.2bn) has landed at US ports since the conflict began, customs records show. EU officials say it is “impossible” to know where this wood really originates – and therefore who profits from it. The suspect plywood is being sold across the United States, including by one of its largest home improvement retail chains, Menards.
Earthsight found one of the top suppliers of the sought-after construction and furniture materials is a company part-owned by a billionaire Kremlin crony who met with Putin on the day of the invasion. Earthsight estimates he has made $44m from his stake since the invasion.
What’s more, Russia’s military owns an area of forest twice the size of New Jersey, Earthsight has discovered. More than a million cubic metres of logs are harvested there each year. US importers cannot be sure their products are not directly fuelling the Russian war machine.
Meanwhile, International Paper, the world’s largest forest products maker, earned $203m in the 10 months following the invasion from a Siberian business it co-owns with two Putin allies. Though it has recently announced a deal to sell its stake, for a paper loss, it has yet to be completed.
The Memphis-registered pulp and paper giant’s Ilim Group, we found, had in the meantime continued to purchase timber from logging firms fined millions for rampant illegal logging.
Responding to our findings, Ukrainian activists again urged Washington to sanction Russian wood supplies, calling the continued profits we exposed “blood money”.
SOURCE: Earthsight is a non-profit organisation that uses in-depth investigations to expose environmental and social crime, injustice and the links to global consumption.
www.earthsight.org
Risch, King, Golden, Thompson Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Future Logging Careers Act
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Angus King (I-Maine) and U.S. Representatives Jared Golden (D-Maine) and Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) reintroduced the Future Logging Careers Act. This legislation would allow teenage members of logging families to gain experience in the logging trade under parental supervision so they may carry on the family business. The Future Logging Careers Act would amend the Fair Labor Standards Act to allow 16 and 17-year-olds to work in certain mechanized logging operations under parental supervision.
“Idaho’s logging industry has long been a family trade, but current law is hampering its future by preventing young men and women from working in their family’s businesses,” said Risch. “The Future Logging Careers Act would give timber families the same opportunity to pass down their trade that is allotted to family farmers. With the logging industry facing a decline in labor and an aging workforce, we must empower the next generation of loggers who are vital for properly managing our forests, supporting rural economies, and maintaining family businesses. I am proud to introduce this legislation that does just that.”
“Logging has been fundamental to the success of our state for centuries – creating good jobs, supporting working families, and providing essential economic activity across rural areas," said King. “As a new generation of Maine people consider careers in logging, we should be providing opportunities to explore the exciting field in a safe, managed way. The bipartisan Future Logging Careers Act would give young Maine people the option to jumpstart their career, get invaluable hands-on experience, and begin training by logging with their parents or grandparents. It’s a commonsense effort to strengthen our state’s long forest heritage and expand job opportunities.”
“Family-owned businesses are a tradition of Maine’s forest economy and their ability to pass down the trade to future generations is a priority,” said Golden. “This is a commonsense solution to workforce shortages and to the current law which prevents young Mainers from working in the family business. Our bipartisan bill will allow young Mainers to get an early start learning the family trade and lay the foundation of a good living in the woods.”
“I have the great privilege of representing numerous family-owned logging businesses, that operate on private lands, state forests and in Pennsylvania’s only National Forest, the Allegheny. For years, younger people were able to learn the family business through the guidance and comfort of their own family members,” said Thompson. “This commonsense legislation brings the logging industry in-line with the standards of other agri-businesses and allows the next generation to learn the trade and obtain vital knowledge through hands-on, skills-based learning. I am proud to support this effort."
Additional cosponsors of the legislation include Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Congressmen Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho) and Chellie Pingree (D-Maine).
The Future Logging Careers Act has received support from the American Loggers Council and the Associated Logging Contractors of Idaho.
“The timber industry is traditionally a multi-generational business where the skills and knowledge are passed on from one generation to the next. This succession process is critical to ensuring that the timber industry infrastructure remains viable to support public and private healthy forest management, rural jobs, wildfire mitigation, and U.S. made forest products. The Future Logging Careers Act will afford the timber industry sector of the agricultural economy the same opportunities and benefits currently extended to the family farm. Workforce development is critical to maintaining the resources necessary to provide the forest management services required to meet the U.S. sustainable healthy forests objectives for today and the future. The American Loggers Council appreciates the bipartisan/bicameral sponsorship of Senator Risch (ID) and Senator King (ME), and Representative Golden (ME) and Representative Thompson (PA), of the Future Logging Careers Act and their continued support of the American timber industry,” said Scott Dane, Executive Director of the American Loggers Council.
“This legislation will extend to logging families the same opportunities that farming families enjoy that allow their 16 and 17 year old family members to work in today's modern logging equipment. Taking this step will enable logging families to pass on the skills and their businesses to the next generation. This helps ensure the professional, safe, harvesting of the raw material for the wood and paper products we use every day will continue into the future,” said Shawn Keough, Executive Director of the Associated Logging Contractors of Idaho.
John Deere Introduces New Mid-Size Model to Its Line-Up of Crawler Log Loaders
MOLINE, Ill. (Feb. 20, 2023) — Designed for logging contractors of all sizes, John Deere is excited to introduce the new 2956G. The 2956G crawler log loader is an ideal solution for customers looking for a machine that provides the best combination of engine horsepower and hydraulics capability, while maintaining a machine weight of less than 90,000 lbs.
“We are always listening to customer feedback to bring ideal solutions and technologies to the forestry industry,” said Jarvis de Groot, global product marketing manager, forestry swing machines, John Deere. “The new 2956G crawler log loader machine not only provides optimal power and hydraulic capabilities but is still easy to transport due to its excellent width and weight combination.”
Aimed to help ease transportation, the 2956G crawler log loader features an overall shipping width of less than 11’6” and a 90,000 lbs operating weight. As machine weights and widths increase, so do costs associated with transportation. The design on the 2956G not only helps simplify transportability, but also helps save on costs relating to transport due to its less restrictive transportation requirements. In addition, the new mounting of the log deflector adds additional strength to the right-front corner of the machine and the new, clean, and simple design of the hood profile, aligned with counterweight, helps to enhance debris shedding.
The 2956G crawler log loader machine features excellent engine power for a machine of this size. When combined, the engine power and hydraulic flow significantly boost loading capability, speed, and the capacity to run the Waratah 624. Also, customers looking to increase efficiency in roadside processing can expect improved productivity when running the Waratah 624 head as compared to the 2654G.
Visibility enhancements have also been prioritized in the design of the new 2956G. Enabling additional visibility to the right track, as well as reduce overall impact, the RH front corner log deflector has been strategically moved to the back on the machine. This improves operator visibility to avoid obstacles and impact, reducing potential damage and downtime. Lastly, a rearview camera, light and JDLink antennas have been integrated into the counterweight for additional protection.
Offering ease of serviceability, the 2956G features strategic service access to the machine’s filters and checkpoints. With exceptional access to filters, maintenance points, and the cooling package, operators can stay up and running on the job for longer. These machines are also easy to inspect and change filters with wide open access, helping simplify daily inspections and routine maintenance.
To learn more about 2656G crawler log loader, as well as the full line-up of John Deere forestry solutions, contact an authorized John Deere dealer or visit www.JohnDeere.com/forestry.
About John Deere
Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, turf, construction, and forestry equipment. We help our customers push the boundaries of what’s possible in ways that are more productive and sustainable to help life leap forward. Our technology-enabled products including John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor, See & Spray™, and E-Power Backhoe are just some of the ways we help meet the world's increasing need for food, shelter, and infrastructure. Deere & Company also provides financial services through John Deere Financial.
For more information on Deere & Company, visit us at www.deere.com/en/news/.
America’s Happiest (and Deadliest?) Job - Southern Loggin' Times By: David Abbot Southern
Are you a logger, or otherwise employed in something that’s at least tangentially connected to this noble profession? I’m gonna go out on a limb here (pun intended, sorry) and say probably so, since you’re reading Southern Loggin’ Times. Well, get this: if you are a logger, you’re among the happiest people on earth, according to a recent (1-6-2023) article in the Washington Post. Congratulations!
The article’s author, one Andrew Van Dam, advises the reader to: “Envy the lumberjacks, for they perform the happiest, most meaningful work on earth. Or at least they think they do. Farmers, too. Agriculture, logging and forestry have the highest levels of self-reported happiness— and lowest levels of self-reported stress—of any major industry category, according to our analysis of…the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ American Time Use Survey.”
Basically, it appears that the government surveyed a bunch of people over the last decade or so and asked them how happy or sad, stressed, frustrated, or fulfilled, their various activities made them feel.
Van Dam goes on to say that “Additional reporting sharpened our focus on lumberjacks and foresters, but almost everyone who works on farms or in forests stands out.” Well, hey Andy, I could have told you that. Loggers, farmers, and foresters have always been standouts in my book.
On one hand, this really shouldn’t come as any surprise to me or any of you. Of course working in agriculture and/or forestry makes people happy. They sure don’t do it for the money! But you’re in the great outdoors, growing, and harvesting renewable natural resources that we all need. Working in the woods, or in the fields, breathing fresh air, absorbing the smells and the sounds unique to a logging job or a cattle ranch or a farm…you fall in love with it.
Van Dam seems to get it, writing: “Researchers across the social and medical sciences have found a strong link between mental health and…being outdoors. Even seeing a tree out your window can help you recover from illness faster. So imagine the boost you get from being right next to said tree—even if, like our friend the lumberjack, you’re in the process of chopping it down.”
Chopping it down, I should point out, generally, to plant more, in a never-ending cycle of renewability. But his point remains valid. Most loggers usually like being in the woods. How many people get the same vibe from a factory assembly line or an office?
Logging is hard work, yes, but it’s fun, and it’s fulfilling (if not always financially viable). It’s not just a job; it becomes an identity. It’s in your blood; it’s your family, your community, your culture, your lifestyle.
And moreover, you know that what you’re doing matters; it’s meaningful. You know you’re part of a tradition, leaving a legacy that will outlive you. You plant trees you’ll never harvest, and harvest trees planted by others before you, hauling logs that will become lumber in some family’s home, where someone you’ll never meet will live and love, raise their kids and grow old, in a house that may stand for generations after we’re all gone.
True, yours is different from the important work done by more high profile public servants like healthcare workers, teachers, police officers, fire fighters, and those brave souls who serve in the military. But it’s just as vital. Those in the rural professions provide goods and services that are not only essential to society but fundamental to survival. The basics are food and shelter, right? Farmers provide food, and loggers provide the materials needed to build shelter, among other things, including comforts like toilet paper and diapers. Arguably those are not “essential,” strictly speaking, but think back three years ago to the pandemic-panicked shortages in the TP aisle and ask how many folks are real enthusiastic to do without some Charmin or Angel Soft.
Still, on the other hand, I was very surprised when my friend in Washington forwarded me this article. Logging ranks as the happiest job? Really? Loggers love logging, sure, no surprise there, and it’s great to be outside in the sunshine and the smell of pinesap and fresh sawdust. But there are just so many difficulties that go with the job. And this is where Van Dam kind of loses me. He writes, “…our friends the lumberjacks and farmers do the least-stressful work…”
Do what now? The least stressful what?
I’ve never actually been a logger, but I seem to recall Abbott Logging Company having my parents pretty well stressed out a lot in the ’80s and ’90s. I heard from a logging family just this very evening who told me rain has kept them from working for the last seven weeks straight. Seven weeks! That’s seven weeks with no income. If you can’t produce, or you can’t haul, then you don’t get paid. But the bills...the equipment payments, the insurance, not to mention your house note, your utilities, your groceries…yeah those bills just keep on piling up; they don’t take a break just because the ground is wet or the mills on quota. That ain’t stressful?
See, you gotta remember this is based on what people self-reported. White collar jobs report more stress than blue collar jobs, according to the article. Lawyer ranks as the most stressful profession. In other words, lawyers think they’re more stressed than others. So maybe it’s just that loggers and farmers don’t whine about their stress as much.
Read the article if you can: The happiest, least stressful, most meaningful jobs in America - The Washington Post
Van Dam talks to and about some pretty interesting folks in there, like timber sports world champion Alissa Wetherbee of the Axe Women Loggers of Maine and Dana Chandler of South Carolina’s Family Tree Forestry.
Van Dam briefly notes that logging is a “particularly perilous” profession. This is supported by an article that ran on the Fox Business web site on 12-22-22. Link to Article: Deadliest jobs in America revealed: These industries are 'dangerous and difficult' | Fox Business. Greg Norman writes, “The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ national census of fatal occupation injuries revealed that the logging industry has a fatal work injury rate of 82 per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers in 2021.”
Norman quotes American Loggers Council’s Scott Dane, who points out that while the risk is a badge of honor for some loggers, most take professional pride in focusing on safety.
Bottom line: survey says that farming and forestry, despite being difficult, dangerous, and not generally among the highest paying professions, produce the happiest lifestyles overall. Sure, it’s not for everyone…not everyone can do it, not everyone wants to do it, not everyone really has what it takes to do it…but those who do choose to do it are generally happier than those who don’t.
What about you? Does this reflect your experience? Do you love what you do? Do you feel like you’re the happiest people you know? I hope you can answer yes to all. Till next time…Excelsior!
Mammoth Canadian Company, West Fraser Wins: American-based Huber forced to pull the plug on Minnesota project
The following comments were submitted a year ago (February 2022) by the ALC regarding public comments ON the new OSB mill. The comments proved prophetic. West Fraser and other mills succeeded in driving any competition out of the state OF MINNESOTA by obstructing, delaying, and instigating opposition to the biggest development in the timber industry in nearly 40 years. Minnesota’s loss will be someone else’s gain:
The American Loggers Council, represents 30 State Logging Associations, including the Associated Contract Loggers and Truckers of Minnesota. Every one of those states would and will bend backward for the opportunity that Minnesota has to have a new $440 million mill built in their state.
As I have traveled to 20 states in the last 8 months, I am seeing forest products mills welcomed with open arms when they reopen mills and build new mills. Minnesota is not living up to its “Minnesota Nice” reputation due to the vocal minority’s misinformed, false, and unfounded opposition to the proposed Huber Engineered Woods mill. Huber Engineered Woods is an American family-owned business with operations in Maine, Georgia, Oklahoma, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. When visiting those states and speaking to the timber industry representatives there, they only have the highest regard for Huber Engineered Woods corporate citizenship and business integrity.
When considering that the primary source of the vocal minority opposition, Canadian-based West Fraser (one of the largest lumber and OSB manufacturers in the world), is a potential competitor, the legitimacy of their motives is obviously suspect. Furthermore, the claims from West Fraser represent a conflict of interest from a company that has already expressed its objection to the Huber Engineered Woods plant when the legislature was considering supporting the project.
The feigned concerns for West Fraser’s objection and request are based upon manufactured and unsubstantiated false premises.
First, their accusation that the City of Cohasset is biased based on their prior expressed support of the project is a moot point when considering West Fraser’s prior documented opposition to the project.
Second, West Fraser’s claim that there is insufficient timber resource available to support the projected 400,000 cords of annual timber consumption is not legitimate. Over the past 14 years, Minnesota has lost six primary mills, many utilizing similar timber species proposed for the Huber Engineered Woods mill. Those mills, and the remaining mills, existed at the same time. At that time Minnesota harvested 4 million cords of timber annually and now harvests 2.7 million. The Huber Engineered Woods mill utilization will only be compared to one of those mills. So, based on historic timber harvest volumes, the amount of timber required to support the Huber Engineered Woods is sustainable.
Additionally, the MNDNR Forest Stand Inventory has identified 10 million cords of over-rotation (mature) Aspen on private lands. Private timber lands in Minnesota represent 46% of land ownership.
Aspen utilization was developed in the 1980s due to the abundant resource availability. Multiple mills were constructed in the 1980s and utilized this initial harvest rotation. As a result, 40-50 years later the age rotation cycle is primed for a second harvest. The timing is perfect for developing additional consuming markets.
West Fraser has expressed concern regarding the impact of additional demand and competition on the price of raw materials. This is transparently indicative of the actual premise of their opposition. However, this type of concern and interference could be a direct violation of anti-trust business competitive restrictions that are not permitted.
Third, the request for a full EIS based on air quality and emissions is designed to delay the project and increase costs with the objective of cancellation of the project.
In considering Green House Gas (GHG) emissions, they must be factored against the full lifecycle of carbon sequestration. In fact, West Fraser’s website touts its carbon negative footprint. This is based on their statement.
“As wood is the main component of West Fraser’s products, carbon is sequestered and locked up for the board’s lifetime…… West Fraser’s net carbon-negative status benefits specifiers and users of the company’s engineered wood panel products. When used in construction, these products can help tip a project’s carbon count in the right direction.”
Their claim and calculation must therefore give similar credit to Huber Engineered Woods timber utilization, production, and carbon capture/storage. Additionally, younger forests absorb 2/3’s more carbon than older forests. Silvicultural practices (managing forests) ensure a diversity of age classes and contributes to healthy forests. Based on the MNDNR Forest Stand Inventory, increased forest management will be sustainable and necessary to achieve the public and private healthy forest objectives. Therefore, the projected volume necessary for the Huber Engineered Woods plant will positively support forest management and carbon sequestration.
In conclusion, the arguments presented by West Fraser have no merit or legitimacy. They represent false arguments that are contradictory to the facts presented. The objective of their request is merely an attempt to obstruct, delay, add costs and prevent competition.
Scott Dane, Executive Director, American Loggers Council
The project is designed to help replace lost jobs and tax base as Boswell winds down or converts TO non-coal sources. Boswell currently accounts for 55% of Cohasset's tax base, 29% of Itasca County's tax base and 16% of the Cohasset School District's tax base.
A Great Void - Carbon Credits and Proper Silviculture - Troy Brown, GLTPA President
This country prospers due to land ownership and the rights a landowner can exercise with the deed they possess. If a landowner decides to sell carbon credits from their land, so be it. There are various reasons a landowner may choose to sell carbon credits. One may be economics. Another may be preservation. At any rate, it is their choice as the landowner.
It has been two years since I heard that forest carbon credits exist. At first glance, I dismissed it as a west coast environmental extremist initiative to prevent timber harvesting. Naively, I thought it would stay out west and not affect our eastern forest area. Then, six months later, I was part of a presentation given by employees of a specific carbon exchange program. The program is available to small landowners. My initial reaction was emotional, and I was convinced carbon credits were a conspiracy to destroy the timber industry. Since then, a cooler head has prevailed, and I am now on a mission to understand forest carbon credits as well as I can. Then I will make a judgment.
What is a forest carbon credit? A forest carbon credit is a sale a forest landowner makes to a carbon exchange company where the landowner promises to sequester more carbon in their forest over a future period of time. In most cases, this means not harvesting existing timber on their property or meeting the harvesting parameters set forth by the exchange company. The carbon exchange company then sells this landowner promise to, in most cases, another company that, through its business practices, emits carbon into the air. The carbon emitters either directly release carbon into the atmosphere by burning fossil fuels or have operations that use large amounts of energy generated by burning fossil fuels. By purchasing the carbon credit, the emitter uses the exchange company’s mathematical calculation to determine how much carbon has been sequestered on the property from which the credit was obtained.
In the two years I’ve spent learning about carbon credits, none of the accrediting organizations give credit for performing proper silviculture. Helm (1998) and U.S. Forest Service (2004) state that “silviculture is the art and science of controlling the establishment, growth, composition, health, and quality of forests and woodlands to meet the diverse needs and values of landowners and society on a sustainable basis.” Industrial forester Andy Roelse defines silviculture as “giving the site what it wants while considering the land, soil, and current stand conditions to dictate silvicultural practices to be utilized.” Reading these definitions of silviculture says that when it is practiced, we promote a healthy forest. Science has proven that healthy young forests have increased carbon sequestration over old, forested timber lots. Also, a well-managed forest is converted into high-quality products that are placed in homes where the carbon is forever sequestered.
In the hardwood lumber industry, we compete against imitation wood products like laminated vinyl tile (LVT), ceramic tile, plastic, melamine, and others that emit carbon into the atmosphere during manufacturing. I suspect that some entities purchasing carbon credits are the same groups manufacturing imitation wood products.
Closing this article, I do not know everything there is to know about carbon credits, -however, I haven’t found a carbon exchange that encourages good forestry practices. Wouldn’t it be more logical to incent active forest landowners and the log and timber industry to continue harvesting timber the way we have been? Scientifically, our method will prove time and again that it will sequester more carbon than letting trees become old, suppress young timber, and eventually die.
Troy Brown, GLTPA President