Species Guide Walnut Jump to Species The Basics Species Overview Walnut is one of the most sought-after species in markets across the world and is unique to North America. The sapwood of walnut is creamy white, whereas the heartwood is light brown to dark chocolate brown, making the difference in color quite distinct. Occasionally the heartwood has dark, even purple, streaks. The wood of walnut is generally straight grained, although sometimes with wavy or curly grain that produces its characteristic and attractive figure, sought after by designers. Scientific Name Juglans nigra Avg. Board Length 6’ – 12’ Common Thicknesses 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4, 10/4 Also Known As Black Walnut Avg. Board Width 4” – 8” Avg. Dried Weight 3.2 lbs/bdft Where It Comes From Growth Distribution Walnut trees grow very widely across the eastern USA in mixed hardwood forests and on farms, concentrated in central states but spread from Texas to the eastern seaboard. The trees are one of the few hardwood species planted as well as occurring and regenerated naturally. They grow relatively tall and straight with few lower branches. FIA data shows U.S. walnut growing stock is 137.8 million m3, 0.9% of total U.S. hardwood growing stock. American walnut is growing 4.8 million m3 per year while the harvest is 1.9 million m3 per year. The net volume (after harvest) is increasing 2.9 million m3 each year. U.S. walnut growth exceeds harvest in all major supplying states except Michigan. Walnut from the USA is available as sawn lumber and as veneer. The lumber is generally sold un-steamed and unselected for colour. Specialist producers may offer steamed walnut intended to darken the sapwood and thus reduce the colour difference between heartwood and sapwood. Recent years have seen huge global demand for this species. NHLA Grading Rules are modified for walnut, allowing smaller specifications and smaller clear cuttings and sapwood is admitted without limit. Consultation with suppliers is recommended. 0-4K 4-8K 8-12K 12-16K 16-20K 20-24K Volume of live trees on forest land, 1000 m³ Uses Common Applications Walnut is considered one of the supreme species for high end furniture, cabinets, doors and interior joinery. It is used for flooring and panelling and it is widely used to contrast with other hardwoods. Cabinets Doors Flooring Furniture Panelling

Learn about the Inspector Training School Education Foundation (ITSEF), how it supports NHA students through scholarships, and how you can contribute. Education Foundation Empowering the next generation of hardwood professionals. The Inspector Training School Education Foundation (ITSEF) exists to strengthen the future of the hardwood industry by removing financial barriers to quality education. As a nonprofit foundation, ITSEF provides direct support to students enrolled in the National Hardwood Academy’s flagship programs. Supporting the Next Generation Through generous donor contributions, ITSEF helps: Fund scholarships for aspiring lumber inspectors and industry professionals Expand access to NHA’s hands-on, career-focused training Promote long-term workforce development within the hardwood industry Support initiatives that build leadership and expertise across generations When you give to ITSEF, you’re investing in people — and in the enduring success of the hardwood supply chain. The ITSEF Scholarship Scholarships that Change Lives The ITSEF Scholarship helps eliminate financial obstacles for students committed to careers in the hardwood industry. Available to applicants of the NHA Inspector Training School and select short courses, this scholarship program supports individuals who show passion, potential, and need. Click below to complete the ITSEF Scholarship Application form. Applicants may be asked to provide a short essay, references, and basic financial information. Who Qualifies? Individuals accepted into the NHA Inspector Training School New entrants and career changers seeking formal training in hardwood grading Students demonstrating financial need and industry commitment Apply for ITSEF Scholarship Fundraising to Support Future Students Throughout the year, ITSEF hosts a variety of fundraising events that bring the hardwood community together in support of education and workforce development. From our annual golf tournament to networking socials and industry raffles, each event helps fund scholarships and expand opportunities for deserving students. View Upcoming Fundraisers Upcoming Fundraisers There are currently no upcoming fundraisers. Please check back soon. Load More Your Support Builds Futures Every dollar donated to ITSEF creates opportunities for individuals ready to lead in the hardwood industry — they just need the chance to get started. Join us in shaping the future by supporting scholarships, training, and long-term success. Donate Now

Explore rewarding careers in the hardwood industry, from lumber inspection to production management. See where an NHA education can take you. Career Opportunities Start your hardwood lumber industry career here. The hardwood lumber industry drives the U.S. economy, with strong demand for skilled professionals in sawmills, manufacturing, and beyond. Companies seek workers who understand lumber quality, grading, and production. National Hardwood Academy graduates are job-ready, equipped with hands-on skills respected worldwide, unlocking lasting career opportunities in a growing industry. Hardwood Industry Careers with Strong Growth Potential Vital to the U.S. Economy : Ongoing demand for skilled professionals in lumber grading, production, and manufacturing. Industry Needs : Sawmills and manufacturing companies require workers trained in lumber quality, NHLA grading rules, and production efficiency. Job-Ready Graduates : National Hardwood Academy graduates are equipped with skills recognized nationwide and internationally. Graduate Testimonials  “We feel it is extremely important to hire NHLA certified inspectors/graders. Not only did I get my start by attending Inspector Training School, but my youngest son did as well. Graduates know the rules and know what our customers are expecting. Since they understand this, our customers are always happy. When I am ready to send an employee to Inspector Training School, I look for a problem solver. Someone that is ambitious, reliable, and looking to better themselves. Lumber inspectors are revered in this industry, and ITS is a fantastic way to create a great career for yourself. ITS gave me the opportunity to grow in this industry. I have applied the education I got from there throughout my life, and it has been the most important thing that contributed to my success." Bucky Pescaglia President MO PAC Lumber Company  Career Paths Hardwood Lumber Grading Become an expert in evaluating and classifying hardwood lumber. Graders play a vital role in ensuring quality and consistency—skills that are in high demand across sawmills, distribution yards, and manufacturing facilities. Learn More RSVP Hardwood Lumber Sales Build lasting relationships and connect customers with the right products. Sales professionals combine product knowledge and communication skills to help drive growth for mills, distributors, and manufacturers worldwide. Learn More RSVP Production Management Lead teams, improve efficiency, and oversee every stage of the hardwood production process. Production managers play a key role in maintaining safety, quality, and profitability within modern manufacturing operations. Learn More RSVP Launch Your Career with the National Hardwood Academy Take the first step toward a stable, high-demand career in the hardwood industry. Our hands-on, industry-approved programs prepare you for success as a certified lumber grader, quality control professional, or production expert. Apply Now

Job Opening Detail Project Manager ICD, Ivan C. Dutterer Project Manager ICD, Ivan C. Dutterer Hanover, PA Position Description The Project Manager leads and actively participates in the timely and profitable execution of individual projects as assigned. He or she must understand and deliver jobs on time and within budget, while delivering the highest level of customer satisfaction. The most qualified applicant has at least two years of increasingly responsible project management experience. A college degree in a related field is preferred and formal Project Management training and/or certification and previous experience in the Lumber or related Industry is preferred. Excellent time management skills are required for this position. The position is based in Hanover, PA, with some travel required. Responsibilities: Manage projects through all phases: Contract review, Estimating, Bidding, Product Delivery. Ability to read, dissect and refine project documents and plans, including blueprints. Assist with purchasing, procurement, and subcontract management. Assist with field estimating and change orders. Develop and maintain schedules for multiple projects. Attend planning and coordination meetings. Build strong client relationships as well as maintain positive relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and co-workers. Required Skills & Experience The ideal candidate will be a self-motivated, reliable individual with a desire for growth in commercial cabinets, architectural millwork and/or construction trades. The experienced individual will possess excellent communication skills, a keen eye for detail, and problem-solving capabilities with the ability to be self-sufficient and switch environments rapidly. Minimum Requirements: Production environment experience is strongly preferred. Experience with cabinet building process. Prior experience working closely with Estimators, Salespersons, Engineering and Production staff to understand initial job requirements, manage the original scope of the job, change orders and additions. Must have a minimum of 2 years’ experience in project management. Ability to work under pressure in a highly productive and competitive environment. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Outlook), and related spreadsheet, database, and project management software. Salary & Benefits $75,000-$85,000 range plus bonus Benefits Include: Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off, Sick Leave, 401k, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: bsysantos@mcilvain.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Quality Control Manager Position Summary: The Quality Control Manager for Moldings and Millwork is responsible for inspecting materials, finished products, and production processes to ensure all moldings, trim, and custom millwork meet company standards, customer specifications, and workmanship expectations. This position plays a key role in identifying defects, maintaining consistency, reducing rework, and supporting a... September 3, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP National Inspector - AI Grader Supervisor The National Inspector – AI Grader Supervisor will support the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology used in hardwood lumber grading. This position combines the technical expertise of an NHLA National Inspector with responsibility for coordinating AI grader operations, hardwood lumber image annotation, quality control, training, and collaboration with AI grader manufacturers. September 1, 2026 National Hardwood Lumber Association Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP Sawmill Manager Supervisor sawmill operation and manage production reporting. August 27, 2026 V&B International, Inc. Port Gibson, MS Learn More RSVP

Job Opening Detail Saw Filers and Head Sawyers Edwards Wood Products, Inc. Saw Filers and Head Sawyers Edwards Wood Products, Inc. Marshville, Laurinburg & Liberty NC Position Description Email for details Required Skills & Experience 1-year previous experience Salary & Benefits Email for details How To Apply Please send all questions, resumes & applications to: bradvinson@ewpi.com Other Job Opportunities Lumber Quality Control Manager Position Summary: The Quality Control Manager for Moldings and Millwork is responsible for inspecting materials, finished products, and production processes to ensure all moldings, trim, and custom millwork meet company standards, customer specifications, and workmanship expectations. This position plays a key role in identifying defects, maintaining consistency, reducing rework, and supporting a... September 3, 2026 J. Gibson McIlvain White Marsh, MD Learn More RSVP National Inspector - AI Grader Supervisor The National Inspector – AI Grader Supervisor will support the National Hardwood Lumber Association’s development and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology used in hardwood lumber grading. This position combines the technical expertise of an NHLA National Inspector with responsibility for coordinating AI grader operations, hardwood lumber image annotation, quality control, training, and collaboration with AI grader manufacturers. September 1, 2026 National Hardwood Lumber Association Memphis, TN Learn More RSVP Sawmill Manager Supervisor sawmill operation and manage production reporting. August 27, 2026 V&B International, Inc. Port Gibson, MS Learn More RSVP

Species Guide Hackberry Jump to Species The Basics Species Overview Scientific Name Avg. Board Length Common Thicknesses Also Known As Avg. Board Width Avg. Dried Weight Where It Comes From Growth Distribution 0-4K 4-8K 8-12K 12-16K 16-20K 20-24K Volume of live trees on forest land, 1000 m³ Uses Common Applications

Species Guide Sassafras Jump to Species The Basics Species Overview Scientific Name Avg. Board Length Common Thicknesses Also Known As Avg. Board Width Avg. Dried Weight Where It Comes From Growth Distribution 0-4K 4-8K 8-12K 12-16K 16-20K 20-24K Volume of live trees on forest land, 1000 m³ Uses Common Applications

Discover NHLA’s role in supporting the Real American Hardwood Coalition—promoting the sustainability, beauty, and performance of American hardwood products. Real American Hardwood Celebrating the beauty. Sharing the story. Growing the demand. The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) is proud to be a founding partner of the Real American Hardwood Coalition (RAHC)—a nationwide effort to inspire architects, designers, builders, and consumers to choose genuine American hardwood for their homes, projects, and products. A United Industry Voice for North American Hardwoods The Real American Hardwood Coalition is a collaborative, industry-wide initiative that aims to increase awareness and drive demand for real hardwood products, including flooring, cabinetry, furniture, millwork, and more. Through consumer education, digital marketing, and storytelling, the coalition highlights the unmatched beauty, sustainability, and authenticity of American hardwoods. As a founding member, NHLA is deeply invested in the mission and momentum of the RAHC—supporting content development, industry engagement, and the promotion of hardwood as the natural choice in a competitive market. Learn More and Get Involved Want to see the movement in action? Visit the official Real American Hardwood website to explore engaging videos, educational resources, and content you can share to help spread the word. Together, we can ensure the next generation understands the value of choosing real. RealAmericanHardwood.com Built for Consumers RealAmericanHardwood.pro Built for Professionals

Secure your spot at the NHLA Annual Convention. View registration pricing, early bird deadlines, and register online for the hardwood industry’s top event. Convention Registration Attend the 2026 NHLA Convention - September 16th - 18th in Cleveland, OH. Join hundreds of hardwood industry professionals for three days of learning, networking, and growth at the largest and longest-running hardwood industry gathering in North America. September 16th - 18th, we’re heading to Cleveland, OH - the Rock ‘n Roll Capital of the World. Everything You Need to Know About Convention Registration Registration for the NHLA Annual Convention is now open! Whether you're a member, non-member, exhibitor, or guest, we offer a range of registration options to fit your needs. Take advantage of early bird pricing and discounted group rates. All registrations include access to: • Educational sessions and panels • Trade show exhibit hall • Networking receptions and social events Bringing your team to the 2026 NHLA Convention & Exhibit Showcase? Take advantage of our group registration discounts and experience the hardwood industry’s premier event together while saving on registration costs. Groups of 5 - 9 attendees receive 10% off each registration, and groups of 10 or more receive 20% off each registration. Contact our team at registration@nhla.com for assistance with group registration and planning your convention experience. See Who's Attending Convention Registration Pricing Member Registration  Welcome reception with appetizers & open bar  Full breakfast buffet on Thursday & Friday  Lunch buffet on Thursday & Friday  Keynote speaker on Thursday & Friday General Session  Exhibit Showcase entry on Thursday & Friday  Educational sessions on Hardwood Industry-Specific Topics Registration Includes: Register Now Cancellation Policy : Full Refund: Cancellations made before July 31, 2026. 50% Refund: Cancellations between August 1 and August 14, 2026. No Refund: Cancellations after August 15, 2026. $800 (Member Guest: $575) Non-Member Registration  Welcome reception with appetizers & open bar  Full breakfast buffet on Thursday & Friday  Lunch buffet on Thursday & Friday  Keynote speaker on Thursday & Friday General Session  Exhibit Showcase entry on Thursday & Friday  Educational sessions on Hardwood Industry-Specific Topics Registration Includes: Register Now Cancellation Policy : Full Refund: Cancellations made before July 31, 2026. 50% Refund: Cancellations between August 1 and August 14, 2026. No Refund: Cancellations after August 15, 2026. $1,600 (Non-Member Guest: $1,150) One Day Pass  Only valid on Thursday, September 17, 2026  Full breakfast buffet on Thursday  Lunch buffet on Thursday  Keynote speaker on Thursday  Exhibit Showcase entry on Thursday  Educational sessions on Hardwood Industry-Specific Topics Registration Includes: Register Now Cancellation Policy : Full Refund: Cancellations made before July 31, 2026. 50% Refund: Cancellations between August 1 and August 14, 2026. No Refund: Cancellations after August 15, 2026. $450 (Non-Member: $900) Sessions Available for Add-On ITSEF Golf Tournament: $250 Opening Jam Welcome Reception (Spouse/Guest ONLY Sessions & 1-Day Pass): $50 Better Together Reception at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: $25 (for everyone) Encore Celebration: $100 for all full registrations, $150 for Spouse/Guest ONLY Sessions Spouse Lunch Cruise: $150 Have Questions About Convention Registration? We’re here to help. Whether you’re a first-time attendee, a returning exhibitor, or looking to sponsor an event, our team is happy to assist. Contact John

Stay current with the latest hardwood industry news, member highlights, and NHLA announcements. Submit your story and stay connected. Industry News Your trusted source for the latest hardwood industry updates. Stay informed with the most recent market trends, regulatory updates, member milestones, and association announcements shaping the hardwood lumber industry. The NHLA Industry News page is your go-to destination for timely and relevant information representing every sector of that hardwood industry. Industry News September 2, 2026 Where Hardwood is Losing Value Hardwood markets are under pressure. Explore how mills can improve yield, recover more value and adapt as demand, trade and costs shift. Read More View Website September 2, 2026 Know Your Numbers. Strengthen Your Mill | Sawmill Benchmarking See how confidential sawmill benchmarking can help hardwood mills compare production, recovery, labor, costs, energy use, safety and more. Read More View Website September 2, 2026 Economic Impacts of the U.S. -Iranian War on the Hardwood Industry Explore the 2026 hardwood lumber market outlook as energy costs, mortgage rates, housing, remodeling and global trade reshape demand. Read More View Website September 1, 2026 Level the Playing Field NHLA explores government procurement of American hardwood products as a way to grow domestic demand and support U.S. manufacturers. Read More View Website September 2, 2026 From the Mill Floor to the National Conversation | Crossroads Strategies Initiative EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin visits a Virginia hardwood mill as NHLA connects environmental policy, manufacturing and American hardwood. Read More View Website September 1, 2026 From the Field: Marty Westeen NHLA National Inspector Marty Westeen shares what hardwood lumber inspection really involves and how grading expertise helps mills improve. Read More View Website September 1, 2026 Farm Bill Debate Continues to Drag On See how the 2026 Farm Bill could impact hardwood and forestry through workforce funding, Wood Innovation Grants, biomass policy and more. Read More View Website August 5, 2026 Building Relationships that Support American Hardwood Learn how NHLA and Crossroads Strategies are advancing American hardwood through federal procurement, policy engagement, and support for domestic manufacturing. Read More View Website August 4, 2026 Taking Hardwoods' Story Directly to the Decision Makers: American Hardwood In Architecture See how Real American Hardwood is reaching architects, designers, builders, and specifiers to increase American hardwood use in sustainable design. Read More View Website August 4, 2026 Growing Through Challenge: American Hardwood Industry Explore how NHLA is investing in advocacy, hardwood promotion, mill optimization, AI grading, and new markets to strengthen the American hardwood industry. Read More View Website August 4, 2026 From the Field: Can Lumber Inspection Go Viral? Discover what an NHLA lumber inspector really does, from solving costly sawmill problems and improving lumber yield to introducing a new generation to hardwood careers. Read More View Website August 4, 2026 Red Maple Moves Toward Structural Markets New research explores red maple lumber for structural applications, grading, engineered wood products, and new construction markets for U.S. hardwoods. Read More View Website First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last

Learn how NHLA advocates for the hardwood industry on critical issues like sustainability, global trade, grading standards, and workforce development. 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. Visit the Hardwood Federation Get Involved in Industry Advocacy When the industry speaks together, it makes a lasting impact. Join NHLA to support collective advocacy efforts, receive legislative updates, and take part in shaping the future of the hardwood lumber industry. Contact Our Policy Team

Explore Spanish-language training courses offered by the National Hardwood Academy. Learn about hardwood grading, kiln drying, and more. Clases en Español Capacitación profesional en la industria de la madera dura, impartida completamente en español. La Academia Nacional de Madera Dura se enorgullece de ofrecer cursos selectos completamente en español para apoyar al creciente número de profesionales hispanohablantes en la industria de la madera dura. Formación Profesional Accesible para Todos Las clases en español están dirigidas a trabajadores de aserraderos, operadores de hornos, inspectores de madera, y supervisores que desean aprender las reglas de clasificación NHLA o mejorar sus habilidades laborales. Los cursos son impartidos por instructores bilingües con experiencia de campo y se imparten con el mismo rigor y reconocimiento que nuestros programas en inglés. Ver próximas clases Próximas clases Actualmente no hay clases programadas. Vuelva a consultar pronto. Load More ¿Desea Otro Curso en Español? ¿Tiene un equipo que necesita capacitación en un tema específico? Podemos ayudar. Comuníquese con nuestro equipo para discutir opciones personalizadas de capacitación en español. Contacta con nosotros