Information That Moves the Hardwood Industry Forward

One of the many benefits of NHLA membership is receiving Hardwood Matters at your location eleven times each year (with a combined January/February issue to start the year). Each edition is filled with compelling articles on a wide range of industry-focused topics—from emerging technologies and legislative updates to domestic and international trade insights and member spotlights. You’ll also find monthly messages from Executive Director Dallin Brooks, Chief Development Officer John Hester, Chief Inspector Dana Spessert, and the current NHLA Chairman. The pages highlight advertisers from across the supply chain—lumber suppliers, logistics companies, equipment manufacturers, insurance providers, and more—as well as valuable monthly updates from trusted partners such as Hardwood Review, Hardwood Market Report, the Rail-way Tie Association, the National Hardwood Flooring Association, and AHEC(American Hardwood Export Council).

As I reflected on the value Hardwood Matters brings to our members, I began thinking about the other excellent resources our industry is fortunate to have—some available by subscription, others completely free. Together, these publications form a robust network of information that keeps us connected, informed, and equipped to make better decisions.

Founded in 1927, Miller Wood Trade Publications offers a diverse suite of industry resources, including the Hardwood Purchasing Handbook, Forest Products Export Directory, Hardwood Market-

ing Directory, National Hardwood Magazine, and Import/Export Wood Purchasing News. The Miller team logs tens of thousands of miles each year attending local, state, and national industry events, capturing stories and photos that help tell the broader story of

our industry. Their monthly magazine and newspaper highlight hardwood producers, equipment manufacturers, and consumers, and—like Hardwood Matters—feature a wide range of advertisers. Their publications provide comprehensive updates from organizations including NHLA and RAHC (Real American Hardwood Coalition), along with sections dedicated to industry news, U.S. and Canadian trends, a Who’s Who of purchasing executives, and an In Memoriam honoring industry members we’ve lost. Their handbooks and directories remain some of the most extensive reference tools available on every facet of the hardwood trade.

We are also fortunate to have long-standing weekly pricing publications that anchor our understanding of market conditions. The Hardwood Market Report, established in 1922, and Hardwood Review, founded in 1985, have each played a vital role in providing accurate, regionally reported pricing for most hardwood species in both green and kiln-dried markets. They also track pricing for cants, railroad ties, hardwood flooring, framestock, and board road. Their commentary—both broad and species-specific—draws on extensive conversations with suppliers and consumers across the country. Each publication offers helpful charts, graphs, and historical data that support deeper market analysis, as well as advertising platforms for suppliers to showcase their inventories. Additional products, such as HMR Executive and various buyer’s guides, further expand their value. The editorials and forecasts from Hardwood Review are often among the most insightful and educational pieces available in our industry. Beyond their publications, the owners and staff of both organizations actively participate in NHLA roundtables, task forces, and seminars throughout the year.

Our industry also benefits from academic and governmental programs that contribute research, data, and technical expertise to support product development, sustainable forest management, and broader market analysis. Their work strengthens the foundation upon which our businesses operate.

Like many modern publications, most of these resources are avail-able in both print and digital formats. Personally, I’ve kept boxes of older editions, which I revisit both for reference and for the occasional trip down memory lane. In a world often focused on what’s missing, I wanted to pause and appreciate what we do have. As a smaller NHLA member, I could never gather all of this information on my own. I’m grateful for the access these publications provide and deeply appreciate the services they offer our industry.

Bucky Pescaglia

NHLA Chairman | Missouri-Pacific Lumber Co., Inc.