Thank You to Our Task Forces

As 2025 comes to a close, NHLA extends its sincere thanks to the dedicated members serving on committees and task forces across the Association. Their work this year has strengthened NHLA’s programs, expanded our reach, and ensured that our collective voice remains strong in a changing marketplace.

These volunteers represent the best of our industry—working together to advance innovation, education, and credibility for North American hardwoods. Here’s a look at what they’ve accomplished this year.

MARKET IMPACTS COMMITTEE Wood Truth Task Force

This group ensures that the voice of the hardwood industry is represented accurately in the media and public discourse. They monitor coverage, respond to misinformation, and provide members with credible information to counter false claims about wood products. This year, the task force began collaborating with the Decorative Hardwoods Association (DHA) to challenge misleading environmental claims by substitute materials manufacturers.

Export Task Force

Focused on the global competitiveness of North American hardwood, this task force examined the balance between lumber exports and growing demand for raw log exports. Their detailed yield study compared NHLA, proprietary, and Chinese grading systems to identify differences in recovery and value. The group also researched subsidies and cost structures in China to help North American mills stay competitive.

MEMBERSHIP & NETWORKING SERVICES COMMITTEE Retention Task Force

This team is identifying ways to improve member engagement and retention across all NHLA programs. Their work ensures that operations of every size experience the full value of membership through greater access to resources, education, and networking opportunities.

INSPECTOR TRAINING SCHOOL & ITSEF COMMITTEE AI Grading Task Force

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the lumber industry, and this task force is helping NHLA prepare. Their focus is ensuring that AI-driven grading meets the same high standards of accuracy, consistency, and quality that define NHLA’s reputation, while also developing training strategies to help members adapt to new technologies.

Inspector Training School Education Foundation (ITSEF) ITSEF continues to champion the future of our industry by supporting students and alumni of the Inspector Training School. This year, they promoted participation in the full eight-week in-person course, helping to sustain the pipeline of trained professionals who keep NHLA standards strong.

LUMBER SERVICES COMMITTEE Kiln Dried Certification – Canada Task Force

This group is working to extend NHLA’s Kiln Dried Certification Program into Canada, allowing Canadian members to export without requiring separate phytosanitary certificates.

Structural Task Force

The Structural Task Force is reintroducing structural grading rules into the NHLA Rules Book and creating strength classes for multiple hardwood species. The goal: to earn recognition from the NDS in the U.S. and the NLGA in Canada, opening new structural markets such as glulam and CLT for lower-grade hardwoods.

Facility Grade Certification Task Force

This team is evaluating and refining the Facility Grade Certification Program to ensure it delivers measurable value for participating members and reflects the realities of modern production.

Thermally Modified Wood Task Force

Working to establish clear standards and certification, this task force is ensuring thermally modified hardwoods meet performance and durability expectations—bringing consistency to a rapidly expanding product category.

A SHARED COMMITMENT

Each committee and task force reflects the same shared purpose: to strengthen the hardwood industry through knowledge, data, and collaboration. NHLA thanks every member who volunteered their time and expertise this year. Your commitment is driving progress, protecting our markets, and ensuring a stronger future for hardwoods.