COEUR D’ALENE , Idaho — Is it the perfect storm for the nation’s glut of small logs? People are clamoring for alternative energy, the forests are choked with spindly trees contributing to wildfire danger, and rural communities need new jobs. If the timber industry once regarded small logs as a problem, they now see a chance to make lemonade from lemons. The new optimism has evolved especially in conjunction with the Small Log Conference, kicked off in 2004 as a summit to address the challenges of small log utilization.

The fourthSmall Log Conference rolls into Coeur d’Alene, March 25-27 under the banner of “Living Locally, Surviving Globally.” Presented by TimberBuySell.com a division of Montana Community Development Corporation, the conference addresses trends, markets, products and research focusing on small logs. The broad spectrum is a reflection of the Missoula-based agency’s popular website www.TimberBuySell.com. Traditionally, the international gathering has attracted forest industry people, community development specialists, entrepreneurs and conservationists.

“We believe this intimate style conference provides our industry a benefit that is needed for continuous improvement to make us globally competitive,” said HewSaw’s President, Ed Mayer of Canada. Mayer’s company, which is undergoing an expansion, specializes in small log milling equipment. “This conference is the only one I know that brings together various industry-related parties to have constructive presentations and discussions for overall enlightenment.”

According to conference manager Jan Raulin, the Small Log Conference offers ideas beyond the popular woody biomass energy focus. “We still have a need to make lumber and other products, not just alternative energy,” she said. “Our speakers are from all over the world, so we bring a world perspective, yet people take home the information and use it locally.”

The international presentations show actual success stories in small log utilization, as well as new equipment and trends affecting small log handling. Forest health issues drive much of the direction as well, and noted forestry expert Neil Sampson will open the conference with a look at forest conditions.

“Forestry is increasingly more visible, and challenged to satisfy a broader audience than ever before,” said Sampson, who has addressed such topics as forestry and climate change, sustainability, and biomass energy in his presentations. 

“We do things to the forest that are instantly visible, but that have effects that take decades to fully unfold.  The public is increasingly attuned to instant impact news, and that becomes a problem. If a forest harvest looks ragged today, but sets up an emerging forest that will be much better in 30-40 years as a result, how do we survive the instant criticism of the public?  The answer, in my view, lies in our need to increasingly harness science and good communications techniques.” 

With exhibitors showing small-scale logging and mill equipment, community development options and new markets for small logs, the conference is directed toward a broad audience. Those registered for the conference can also participate in a pre-conference tour of the Avista wood waste energy plant at Kettle Falls and the Vaagen Brothers small log mill at Colville. Space is limited for both attendees and exhibitors.

Those wanting to register or learn more can contact Jan Raulin at 406-529-3352 or tenaj@telus.net.