Wood utilization

Forest Products Team Assists With Industry Workshops

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By Scott Lyon, Wisconsin DNR Forest Products Team Leader

The Wood Industry Teacher Camp took place at the Northcentral Technical College (NTC) Wood Technology Center of Excellence in Antigo, Wisconsin, on July 29 and 30. This two-day event immersed five tech-ed teachers in a hands-on professional development experience designed to connect K–12 educators and administrators with the forest products industry. The program highlighted the many steps and career opportunities within the wood industry, from log evaluation and lumber manufacturing to lumber drying and the production of finished wood products.

teacher working at a logging equipment simulator

A technical education teacher operating the head-rig opening the log for further processing. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

Participants operated commercial-scale equipment, including the state-of-the-art training sawmill. In addition to the hands-on experience, participants learned about resources they could take back to their classrooms and participated in an industry tour to gain further insight into the field.

Alex Anderson and Scott Lyon from the DNR Forest Products team provided guidance on operating the various sawmill equipment and shared information about the forest products industry. Their responsibilities included operating the various stations within the mill, covering safe machine operation, and allowing attendees to operate each station. Sawmill stations included the optimized headsaw, resaw, resaw pre-turner, optimized edger, trim saw and green chain/stacking area.

Outside of the sawmill, the teachers loaded the lumber they had just milled into a dry kiln and spent time learning about kiln operation and lumber drying. Participants also learned about the basics of log scaling, lumber grading, sawmill safety, saw sharpening and maintenance, primary and secondary forest product markets and much more.

Kiln drying course students stack basswood lumber to be dried in the steam kiln. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

In addition, Scott Lyon, forest products team leader, assisted in teaching the Great Lakes Kiln Drying Association’s Lumber Dry Kiln Short Course at NTC during the week of Aug. 10. The group included 10 attendees from companies across the Great Lakes states and a forest products cooperative extension specialist from the University of Alaska in Fairbanks. This nationally recognized lumber drying course draws attendees from across the nation.

During the course, attendees gained a deeper understanding of the principles and practices involved in producing quality kiln-dried lumber. Topics included kiln operation, the lumber drying process, moisture control, drying schedules and factors that influence lumber quality during drying. The hands-on instruction helped participants better understand how to operate and manage a dry kiln, troubleshoot common drying challenges, and produce properly dried lumber while minimizing defects and maintaining product quality.

 

Forest Products Highlighted At The Wisconsin State Fair

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By Brian C. Cole, Wisconsin DNR Forest Product Specialist

person at the control of a piece of heavy equipment.

Photo Credit: Wisconsin Forestry Center

At this year’s Wisconsin State Fair, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Forest Products Services program, in conjunction with the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point Wisconsin Forestry Center, showcased the economic importance of Wisconsin’s forest products industry.

This included pulp and paper, lumber and non-timber forest products like maple syrup, as well as advanced forest products like biochar and sustainable aviation fuel. Wisconsin’s $27 billion forest products sector is leading the way in forest products development and sustainable forest management.

Along with forest products, fairgoers learned about forest health issues, invasive species, Wisconsin’s forest trees and tree identification. The big attraction was the Ponsse North America harvester simulator. Fairgoers had a chance to virtually operate a Ponsse Scorpion dangle head harvester and take part in a virtual, sustainable, cut-to-length harvest. Fairgoers learned about modern-day logging and why a sustainable harvest is needed for forest management.

Extending The Health Benefits Of Urban Trees

Posted on by akabelowsky

By Dwayne Sperber, President, Wudeward Urban Forest Products, and Founding Member, Urban Wood Network

fallen logs

Photo Credit: Dwayne Sperber

Wisconsin’s 2020 Statewide Forest Action Plan recognizes urban and community forests as essential tools for achieving economic, environmental, social and public health goals. To advance those goals, the plan encourages multi-sector partnerships, engagement with new audiences and the use of urban wood. A recent project at the Medical College of Wisconsin illustrates how these priorities can be realized when those who manage urban and community forests are connected with established higher-use utilization pathways and the professionals committed to recognized industry standards who support them.

During site preparation for new student housing at the Medical College of Wisconsin, trees designated for removal were evaluated to determine their highest and best use. Logs suitable for higher-use applications were preserved and directed into a standardized urban wood utilization pathway where they can ultimately become durable wood products.

How Can The Benefits Of Urban Trees Continue After Removal Becomes Necessary?

The health benefits of urban and community trees are well documented and continue to be advanced through DNR initiatives, the Wisconsin Urban Forestry Council’s Public Health & Trees Issue Group, the Arbor Day Foundation’s Tree Campus Healthcare program and a growing body of research examining the relationship between nature, the built environment and human well-being.

While preserving healthy trees remains the priority, removal is an inevitable part of managing urban and community forests. Sustainable urban forestry recognizes that the environmental, economic and public health benefits of trees need not end when their standing life has. The answer depends not only on how urban and community forests are managed, but on partnerships with organizations and professionals committed to recognized industry standards and higher-use utilization.

Across Wisconsin, municipalities, developers, healthcare organizations, educational institutions and professionals who influence the built environment are increasingly recognizing removed trees as renewable natural resources. Working with Urban Wood Network members and other industry partners committed to recognized standards helps connect those who manage urban and community forests with established utilization pathways and manufacturers seeking sustainable, renewable materials. Without awareness of these pathways and the professionals who make them possible, many trees suitable for higher-use applications would continue to be managed as low-value material or waste.

Recognizing that long-term success depends on industry standards, utilization pathways and market awareness, the Urban Wood Network (UWN) was established to connect those who manage urban and community forests with the professionals and organizations committed to the responsible use of urban wood. Supported by the U.S. Forest Service and acknowledged by the DNR, Wisconsin Council on Forestry and other partners, UWN helps strengthen the relationships that move removed trees into consistent, higher-use applications.

This collaborative approach reflects nationally recognized sustainable urban forestry practices that encourage organizations to work with urban wood professionals, support recognized industry standards and build long-term utilization partnerships.

 

woman sitting in front of sign

Photo Credit: Dwayne Sperber

Research supporting biophilic design continues to demonstrate that stronger connections to nature within the built environment can reduce stress, improve well-being and support healing. These evidence-based design principles are increasingly influencing healthier and more sustainable buildings and are reflected in initiatives led by the American Institute of Architects.

The Medical College of Wisconsin project demonstrates how collaboration between a developer, those who manage urban and community forests, industry partners and public agencies can transform necessary tree removals into opportunities that benefit people well beyond the project site. Trees removed during one project can continue serving communities for decades through the buildings, products and spaces where they are ultimately used.

As communities pursue public health, sustainability, resilience and carbon reduction goals, urban forestry is increasingly positioned to contribute to each of these priorities. By connecting those who manage urban and community forests with recognized standards, qualified professionals and established utilization pathways, Wisconsin can continue advancing the vision outlined in its Statewide Forest Action Plan, ensuring that the benefits of urban trees continue long after their standing life has ended.

New Report Series Tracks Post-Pandemic Footprint Of Northeast-Midwest Forest Products Industry

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By Ram Dahal, Wisconsin DNR Forest Economist

The Department of Forestry at Michigan State University, on behalf of the Northeast-Midwest State Foresters Alliance Forest Markets & Utilization Committee, has released a new, USDA-supported report series detailing the economic contributions of the forest products sector. This project consists of one comprehensive regional report and 20 state-specific reports.

The study utilized 2023 IMPLAN (Impact Analysis for Planning) data, the latest data available at the time of the analysis and compared it to the previous benchmark study completed in 2020 which relied on 2017 data. Looking at these timelines side by side, the reports show how the forest products sector reacted to COVID-19 supply chain issues and give us an updated look at its current post-pandemic health.

By assessing core economic indicators including employment, output, labor income and value-added, this series provides metrics that state agencies and industry leaders can use to monitor forest resource economic health, justify strategic capacity-building investments, target local workforce development, and shape regional forest management policies to actively strengthen the sector.

In the Northeast-Midwest region, the forest products industry acts as a $203 billion industry, directly supporting over 514,000 jobs. When accounting for the ripple effects throughout supply chains and household spending, the sector’s total footprint grows to a massive $387 billion and over 1.28 million jobs. This shows a substantial increase from the 2017 report, which recorded a $327 billion total footprint, highlighting the sector’s long-term growth and its powerful ability to support wider employment.

Compared to 2017, the Northeast-Midwest region’s forest products sector saw a 5.1% decline in direct employment and a 2.9% drop in gross output. Despite this, the industry showed resilience with a 1.7% net gain in value-added wealth, reaching $63 billion, while individual worker productivity increased to $395.27 thousand in output per job.

The report also reveals distinct manufacturing and labor patterns across individual states. Pennsylvania leads the region in direct employment, followed by Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan. However, when measuring value of production, Wisconsin takes the top spot, followed by Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan and Indiana. Ultimately, these rankings demonstrate that while some states serve as major labor hubs, others excel in high-value, high-output production, providing each state agency with targeted insights to strengthen their specific local advantages.

These state and regional reports provide a clear, reliable guide for anyone looking to support the regional forest economy. This analysis helps state agencies, industry groups, and investors track sector health and create better workforce and marketing strategies. The complete series of state and regional reports is now available through the Michigan State University FERM Lab Forest Product Industry portal.

Wisconsin Forest Products Industry Navigates Challenging Market Conditions

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By Elle Soderberg, Wisconsin DNR Forest Products Specialist

Wisconsin’s forest products industry continues to navigate a challenging market environment as mills, loggers and other industry partners respond to changing demand, limited pulpwood markets and broader economic uncertainty.

The Wisconsin DNR Forest Products Services team regularly connects with forest industry partners throughout the state to better understand regional and statewide market conditions. Recent conversations indicate that while portions of the industry remain stable, pressure continues across several key markets.

One of the most significant challenges remains Wisconsin’s pulp and paper sector. Recent mill closures have reduced available outlets for pulpwood and disrupted traditional fiber flows. The Ahlstrom mill in Kaukauna has resumed purchasing wood, but volumes remain limited as the market continues to adjust following the closure of Ahlstrom’s pulp mill in Mosinee. Suppliers with established contracts have generally experienced typical seasonal fluctuations, while those displaced by mill closures have faced greater difficulty finding new markets.

Conditions in the hardwood lumber market also remain difficult. Timber is generally available, but mills report that log costs remain high relative to finished lumber prices. Weak housing and construction activity has further reduced demand for hardwood products traditionally used in flooring, cabinetry and trim. White oak has been particularly affected, with green 4/4 FAS white oak prices falling nearly 24% over the past year and approximately 30% compared with two years ago.

Logging operations continue to feel the effects of these market conditions. Limited pulpwood outlets, changing weather patterns, increased fuel prices, and workforce availability remain persistent concerns. Wisconsin has ample harvestable timber, but some landowners are finding it increasingly difficult to secure logging contractors, while reduced demand is limiting economically viable markets for harvested material.

There are, however, some positive market signals. Industry contacts reported stronger demand for hickory, cherry and hard maple, while some Wisconsin and Lake States producers have experienced improved export opportunities. Strong demand from European and Asian markets has helped certain producers offset weakness elsewhere in the market.

Other wood markets remain mixed. Hardwood pallet production continues to lose market share to softwood, creating concern about the stability of low-grade markets. Railroad tie demand is also expected to soften, with the Railroad Tie Association forecasting demand of approximately 19.7 million ties in 2026 and 19.2 million in 2027.

Looking ahead, Wisconsin’s forest products industry is expected to remain cautious. While some sectors are showing signs of stability or growth, overall activity remains below full capacity. Future conditions will depend heavily on pulpwood market adjustments, housing and construction activity, broader economic conditions and the industry’s ability to adapt to changing markets.

Calendar of Events

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  • Forest Products Week: Statewide in Wisconsin. Oct. 18-24, 2026. Tours and special events will be hosted throughout the week at various locations, including logging sites, sawmills, paper manufacturers, secondary and urban wood manufacturers. Learn about events being held across the state.
  • The Great Lakes Kiln Drying Association Fall Meeting: Appleton, Wisconsin, Nov. 12-13, 2026. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour local secondary wood manufacturing facilities. Additionally, Friday’s sessions will feature several informative presentations on the lumber industry. Learn more about this opportunity and register.
  • The Lakes States Lumber Association’s Annual Winter Meeting: Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Jan. 20-21, 2027. Find more information and register.

Extending The Health Benefits Of Urban Trees

Posted on by janness

By Dwayne Sperber, President, Wudeward Urban Forest Products & Founding Member, Urban Wood Network

felled trees near a construction site

Photo Credit: Dwayne Sperber

Wisconsin’s 2020 Statewide Forest Action Plan recognizes urban and community forests as essential tools for achieving economic, environmental, social and public health goals. To advance those goals, the plan encourages multi-sector partnerships, engagement with new audiences and the use of urban wood. A recent project at the Medical College of Wisconsin illustrates how these priorities can be realized when those who manage urban and community forests are connected with established higher-use utilization pathways and the professionals committed to recognized industry standards who support them.

During site preparation for new student housing at the Medical College of Wisconsin, trees designated for removal were evaluated to determine their highest and best use. Logs suitable for higher-use applications were preserved and directed into a standardized urban wood utilization pathway where they can ultimately become durable wood products. Continue reading “Extending The Health Benefits Of Urban Trees” →

Funding Opportunities

Posted on by janness
rain coming down on path lined with trees

Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

DNR 2027 Surface Water Grant Preapplications Due Sept. 15, 2026

The DNR Surface Water Grant Program funds rivers, lakes and Aquatic Invasive Species subgrants for planning and management. The surface water grant program provides cost-sharing grants for surface water protection and restoration. Funding is available for education, ecological assessments, planning, implementation and aquatic invasive species prevention and control. With many different projects eligible for grant funding, you can support surface water management at any stage: from organization capacity development to project implementation. Funding may be used for vegetation management as it relates to improving the health of our waters. Pre-applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 15, 2026. Final applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 16, 2026.

Visit the DNR’s Surface Water Grant webpage for more information.

National Urban And Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share Grants Due Oct. 12, 2026

The intent of the National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost Share grant program is to advance solutions to the economic, health and environmental challenges faced by communities. This year’s program focuses on advancing community tree resource utilization, which can reduce waste and create value by turning wood generated from pruning, removals, storm events and pest or disease outbreaks into useful products. These products may include lumber, slabs, furniture, flooring, biochar or other materials that strengthen local economies, reduce disposal costs and improve community resilience.

The program seeks practical, creative and replicable projects that help communities establish or expand wood‑utilization efforts. Competitive proposals will demonstrate how the project supports existing community forestry plans, applies industry‑recognized safety and tree‑care standards and delivers clear economic, environmental or workforce benefits. Projects should outline anticipated wood products, partnerships with professional or industry organizations and opportunities for job creation, training, or certification.

This program is intended for communities and their partners seeking to improve the management and use of their urban and community forests. Eligible applicants include state, local and tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and other community‑based partners. Additional information and requirements may be found by searching funding opportunity number USDA-FS-UCF-01-2026 on Grants.gov.

Community Forest and Open Space Due Oct. 13, 2026

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Forest Service, State, Private & Tribal Forestry, is requesting applications for the Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program (Community Forest Program or CFP). CFP is a competitive grant program that provides financial assistance to Indian Tribes, local governments and qualified conservation non-profit organizations to establish community forests through the fee simple acquisition of private forest land. The purpose of the program is to establish community forests by protecting forestland from conversion to non-forest uses and provide community benefits including public recreation, environmental and economic benefits and forest-based educational programs. Public access is required for all projects.

Applications are not submitted electronically via Grants.gov. The full Notice of Funding Opportunity and supporting documents (including scoring guidance and FAQs) are available under the ‘Related Documents’ tab of the listing and can be downloaded.

See the US Forest Service Community Forest website for more information about the program.

Additional information and requirements may be found by searching funding opportunity number USDA-FS-2026-CFP on Grants.gov.

Lake Superior Basin Community Forest Grants Due Dec. 8, 2026

The U.S. Forest Service is offering Great Lakes Restoration Initiative grants through the Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program. Working with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, we expect to make about $3.5 million available to help communities purchase private forestland and establish community forests. Funding is open to projects in Michigan and Wisconsin within the Lake Superior basin in areas identified as a priority conservation area for the connectivity of wildlife habitat.

The Great Lakes form the world’s largest surface freshwater system and are the source of drinking water for more than 30 million people. Launched in 2010, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative strategically targets the biggest threats to the Great Lakes ecosystem and accelerates progress toward long-term restoration goals.

Eligible applicants include federally recognized Tribes, local government entities and nonprofit organization that are qualified to acquire and manage land. Applicants may request up to $1 million through this opportunity, which must be matched by non-federal funds at a 1:1 rate. Additional information and requirements may be found by searching funding opportunity number USDA-FS-2026-GLRI-CFP on Grants.gov.

Oregon Adopts Local-Use Lumber Grading

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Two men in front of a PowerPoint main slide

Scott Lyon, left, Wisconsin DNR Forest Products Services team leader, and Scott Leavengood, director of Oregon Wood Innovation Center. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR

By Brian Cole, Wisconsin DNR Forest Product Specialist

On Wednesday, April 1, at the Fitchburg Service Center, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Forest Product Services team held its first Wisconsin Local Use Dimension Lumber Grading (WLUDLG) class for 2026.

Along with 10 Wisconsin students, we had the pleasure of hosting Scott Leavengood. Scott is the director of the Oregon Wood Innovation Center (OWIC) and has worked in Wood Products Extension with Oregon State University (OSU) since 1994.

Continue reading “Oregon Adopts Local-Use Lumber Grading” →