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Issues & Advocacy
Championing the issues of the hardwood industry since 1898.
As the voice of the hardwood lumber industry, the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) advocates for policies, standards, and initiatives that promote sustainable growth, fair trade, and economic opportunity. We work to protect the interests of our members and ensure a strong, unified presence in Washington, D.C.
Our Commitment to Industry Representation
For more than a century, NHLA has served as the trusted advocate for hardwood producers, exporters, distributors, and manufacturers. Through direct policy engagement, strategic partnerships, and collaboration with decision-makers, we champion the issues that matter most to the hardwood sector. Our advocacy work allows you to focus on running your business—while we protect your interests.
A United Voice for the Hardwood Industry
NHLA proudly supports national advocacy efforts through our ongoing partnership with the Hardwood Federation (HF). As the main supporter of the Hardwood Federation, NHLA donates 10% of all member dues annually. Over the past five years, NHLA and its members have contributed more than $900,000 to ensure the industry's voice is heard by federal lawmakers, regulatory agencies, and the executive branch.
Building Domestic Demand for American Hardwood
NHLA is working with Crossroads Strategies, a bipartisan government relations firm in Washington, D.C., to strengthen the U.S. hardwood industry’s voice with federal agencies and policymakers. Approved by the NHLA Board of Managers in 2026, this initiative focuses on a long-term goal: increasing domestic demand for U.S.-grown, harvested, milled, and manufactured hardwood products.
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Crossroads helps NHLA advocate for American hardwood in federal purchasing decisions, identify opportunities for hardwood in construction and infrastructure, and address competition from imported substitutes and foreign-processed products. The initiative also brings industry data and firsthand perspectives from NHLA members to the people shaping federal policy.
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