Timber Talk 6/16/2026

Jenna Reese
Jun 16
10 min read

OFA Update

Paul Bunyan Show Opportunities are Knocking

The 2026 Paul Bunyan Show planning season is well underway, and it's time for our members to get involved. All OFA members are encouraged to advertise in the show guide, become a show sponsor, or exhibit at show show. This is your chance to promote your business to 1300+ industry staff members and management, plus 15,000+ show attendees! Please click each of those links to get signed up as an exhibitor, sponsor, or show guide advertiser. Ad design services are also available for those who need extra assistance creating a digital ad. Please email us at info@ohioforest.org for more info.

Hardwood Federation Fly-In Recap

Last week, Adam and Raleigh Conway of Superior Hardwoods (Wellston), Bryan Kuchta of Better Meadows and Woodlands (Avon Lake), Tony Machamer of Koppers (Canal Winchester), and OFA Executive Director Jenna Reese (Columbus) traveled to Washington D.C. and advocated for the hardwood industry. The Hardwood Federation fly-in agenda was jam-packed with opportunities to engage Ohio's members of Congress.

Kicking off the fly-in included an opportunity for OFA members to support

Congresswoman Shontel Brown's (D-Cleveland) campaign. Many in the group were given a tour of the Capitol and treated to a view from the Speaker's Balcony by their congressman, Troy Balderson (R-Zanesville). The group shared with eight Congressional offices about the extreme challenges facing the hardwood industry and primariliy focused on supporting emerging markets like woody feedstocks for use in aviation fuel and opposing impossible regulations like the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

Sign up for our July Kiln Drying Course

Registration is open on the OFA events page for Summer short courses available at discounted rates for OFA members. We are asking all interested members to register ASAP and help spread the word so that these courses do not have to be cancelled and we can keep offering them in the future.. All classes are multi-day events that run until 4pm each day at Yoder Lumber in Millersburg, Ohio. View the calendar to see full details and to get registered. Email OFA's Director of Forestry Programs, William Ray, at william@ohioforest.org if you have additional questions.

OFA EVENTS

Market Update

HardwoodReview Forecasting

Low-demand, weak buyer confidence, and low production—due to producer caution and continued attrition—continue to define the big picture. Q1 exports were on par with 2025 volumes, but still the lowest since 2010. Chinese demand rose a bit in Feb and Mar, but still remained 20% below the 2024 monthly average, before the 2025 trade disputes. Log exports and faltering low-grade markets are of growing concern to domestic sawmills. China’s demand for logs has rebounded back to late-2024 levels and Vietnamese demand showed no sign of abating through Mar. And, log exports will no longer be just a Walnut issue for long; Q1 exports of every U.S. hardwood species were up year-over-year, most by double-digit percentages. In addition to quotas, which have been in place for quite a while, buyers are now reducing prices to control rising tie inventories.

Though not universal, scattered reports indicate pallet cant and crane mat demand may be slowing, as well.

In effect, the conflict with Iran has negated the demand boost that was anticipated following the easing of tariff and trade tensions. On the upside, global markets appear ready to surge once the Iran conflict finds resolution, as evidenced by the “classic relief rally” we saw in April when the temporary U.S.-Iran truce was announced (Charles Schwab).

Legislative Update

The following is brought to us by our national partner, the Forest Resources Association (FRA)

Guestworker Visas

The House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee released draft text of its Fiscal Year 2027 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bill this week. The measure includes Certified Seasonal Employer (CSE) H-2B cap relief language supported by FRA and a larger H-2B Workforce Coalition.

Inclusion of the CSE provision represents an important step forward for forestry employers and other seasonal industries that rely on the H-2B program to meet workforce needs. FRA has long advocated for reforms that provide greater certainty and predictability for employers seeking to hire seasonal workers.

Following consideration by the House Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, the legislation will advance to the full House Appropriations Committee for markup on June 10.

Wood Innovation Grants

Yesterday, the House Appropriations Committee approved the Fiscal Year 2027 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies appropriations bill. The vote was 35-27. The committee-passed measure includes $30 million for the Wood Innovation Grant (WIG) program, which funds cutting-edge wood manufacturing projects around the country. FRA was part of a coalition advocating for a “plus up” to $40 million, but we are pleased with this number and the committee’s recognition that WIG is an important program necessary to spur markets for wood products. The measure also includes $18 million for the Community Wood Energy program, a $3 million increase over the current funding level. Community Wood also provides money for wood manufacturing, but its emphasis is on biomass heating and power projects. This program is critical for building markets for sawmill residuals. One final notable in this bill is language reauthorizing the FRA-supported provision directing the Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Energy to recognize forest-based biomass fuels and energy as “carbon neutral” in any environmental or energy policymaking.

Farm Bill

Indications are that the Senate Agriculture Committee is poised to release text of a Farm Bill reauthorization measure sometime next week. If a committee draft does emerge in the coming days, we will promptly prepare a summary and make that available. Recall that the House approved its version of a Farm Bill reauthorization measure at the end of April on a 224-200 vote. We remain hopeful that the Senate will act expeditiously and that Congress delivers a final product to the President before the August recess.

GAO Report: Forest Service Opportunities Exist to Improve Timber Sale Management

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) conducted a review of the Forest Service to determine why the agency fell short of meeting its timber sale targets by an average of 10% from 2014 to 2024. The GAO determined that staff shortages and legal challenges contributed to the reduction in timber sales during that period. The GAO identified multiple opportunities to improve timber sales, including 1) expansion of practices to more effectively use staff, partners, and stakeholders, along with new and improved technology to address agency staffing challenges, and 2) improving frequency and consistency of communication with stakeholders and the public.

In order to achieve these goals, the GAO recommended four concrete actions for the Forest Service to take to improve timber sales:

Conduct strategic workforce planning to address skills and knowledge gaps in timber sale management. The report found that the low number of forestry specialists and technicians limited their ability to design, mark, and monitor timber sales.
Take steps to frequently and consistently communicate information about timber sales to industry, other stakeholders, and the public to make it easier for purchasers to do business with the agency. One suggestion was to design timber sales to improve economic viability by including some higher-value trees.
Develop additional performance goals to measure the effects of timber sales on the agency’s multiple-use mission. By developing additional performance goals tied to long-term outcomes and measuring progress towards those goals, the Forest Service would better understand the effects of timber sales on the agency’s overall mission.
Assess the current operating environment and identify opportunities for the Forest Service to improve timber sales management and institutionalize them across the agency (e.g., a guidebook for agency staff).

The entire report can be found at the following link: Forest Service: Opportunities Exist to Improve Timber Sale Management.

Safety Update

Sedgwick Safety Services

Ladder Safety at Work

Ladders are common, useful tools in many workplaces, including construction sites, warehouses, offices, retail spaces and maintenance environments. While ladders may seem simple and harmless, they are involved in many workplace injuries every year. Falls from ladders can result in serious injuries such as fractures, head injuries and even fatalities. So, it is important to practice proper ladder safety which is essential for creating a safe work environment and preventing avoidable accidents. OSHA has Standards on ladder safety for General Industry (29 CFR 1910.23) and Construction (29 CFR 1926.1053).

Common Causes of Ladder Accidents

Many ladder-related injuries occur due to improper use. Common causes from improper use include using the wrong type of ladder for the task, placing ladders on unstable surfaces, climbing while carrying tools, overreaching and failing to maintain three points of contact. Additionally, lack of training and rushing to complete tasks also increase the risk of falls. Employers should take the time to train employees on these actions and how they can cause injuries.

Choosing the Right Ladder

A critical component of ladder safety is selecting the appropriate ladder for the job. There are several types of ladders, including step ladders, extension ladders, and fixed ladders, each designed for specific uses. For example, it is important to choose a ladder that is tall enough to reach the working height without standing on the top rung or step or in some cases the top two steps. Ladders must also be rated to support the worker’s weight plus any tools or materials being carried. Weight ratings, often labeled as “duty ratings”, should always be checked before use. Also, ladders should be made of materials suitable for the anticipated work environment. For example, nonconductive fiberglass ladders should be used when working near electrical sources, as metal ladders can conduct electricity and increase the risk of electrocution.

Inspecting Ladders Before Use

Before using a ladder, workers should perform a thorough inspection. This includes checking for cracks, dents, loose or missing rungs, damaged rails, faulty locking mechanisms as well as areas on the ladder that may cause a slip (grease, water, oils, etc.). Step ladders should open fully with spreaders locked in place, and extension ladders should have secure rope, pulleys and rung locks. Any ladder that shows signs of damage must be taken out of service immediately and repaired or replaced, otherwise, it could result in an injury.

Proper Ladder Setup

Proper ladder placement is essential for stability and for the safety of the employees using them. Ensure ladders are placed on firm, level surfaces. If a ladder must be used on uneven ground, use the appropriate leveling equipment, never use improvised solutions like bricks or boards. For extension ladders, a general rule is to place the base one foot away from the wall for every four feet of ladder height. The top of the ladder should extend at least three feet above the landing surface when used to access roofs or elevated work platforms.

Ladders should never be placed in front of doors that are not locked or guarded, as unexpected opening can cause the ladder to fall. Barricades or warning signs should be used when ladders are set up in high-traffic areas.

Safe Climbing and Working Practices

When climbing a ladder, workers should always maintain three points of contact. Three points of contact is where the employee places either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder at all times. It is very important to face the ladder while climbing and descending as this will help maintain balance and control. Tools and materials should be carried using either tool belts or hoisted with a rope, as ascending or descending a ladder while holding equipment can result in a fall. Finally, never have more than one person on a ladder as this could stress the maximum capacity of the ladder and could result in instability, unless the ladder is designed for multiple users.

Training and Awareness

Effective ladder safety requires proper training and reinforcement. Employees should be trained on items such as ladder selection, inspection, setup and safe use. Regular safety talks and refresher training are great ways to keep safety at the forefront of workers’ minds. Employers also play a key role in ladder safety by setting clear expectations, correcting unsafe behaviors consistently and ensuring ladders are used appropriately.

Conclusion

Ladder safety is a critical component of workplace safety and should never be overlooked. By choosing the right ladder, inspecting it before use, setting it up correctly and following safe climbing practices, workers can significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries. Employers and employees share responsibility for ensuring ladder safety through proper training, awareness and adherence to safety guidelines. Taking the time to use ladders safely protects not only individual workers but also the overall health and productivity of the workplace.

If you would like to know more about Sedgwick’s safety services or would like to schedule a confidential consultation, please contact Andy Sawan at andrew.sawan@sedgwick.com or 330-819-4728.

Safety Short Updates by Patrick Donnelly

When we were young and bullet proof we could jump, bend over, and contort our bodies in ways that when we look back as we have gotten older may make us cringe. The rules that have been put in place to do the simplest of tasks can only help us and not hinder on our day to day on a logging job. Three points of contact when getting into and out of any piece of equipment on your job is a perfect example. Using two hands and a foot, both feet and a hand gives you good control as you ascend or descend from your skidder, loader, dozer, or cutter. Make it a part of what you and your crew do every day and each time. It will make a difference!

Additional News and Links

ODNR Forestry Day

The ODNR Division of Forestry invites you to the 2026 Ohio Forestry Reception hosted in the Natural Resources Park at the Ohio State Fairgrounds during the Ohio State Fair on July 31. Tickets and parking will be provided.

This reception is an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments, partnerships, and progress made throughout the proud history of forestry in Ohio and to talk about our current initiatives. It will also be a chance to connect with forestry professionals, partners, and supporters from across the state. The evening will include a featured speaker, as well as food and refreshments from Schmidt’s Sausage Haus.

RSVP HERE

Hardwood Product Buyers Mission- Registration ends TODAY, June 16th!

Food Export Association will be hosting their first Hardwood Product Buyers Mission on Tuesday July 14^th in Clearfield, PA. This is an in-person event connecting U.S. hardwood companies with pre-qualified international buyers from key markets including South Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, Chile, Egypt, France, and India.

Engage in one-on-one meetings with vetted buyers, gain insight into your products’ export potential, and build valuable face-to-face relationships that can lead to qualified export sales.This is a cost-effective way to explore new global markets without leaving the United States. Reach out to the FEA directly before the end of the day to get registered.

If you are interested in growing your export business, click here to learn more and register through Food Export.