FRA’s Joint National and Lake States Fall Meeting Summary

Date: October 8, 2026
Location: Green Bay, WI
Author: Claire Gedde, FRA Vice President, Operations and Advocacy

Highlights

The FRA’s Joint National and Lake States Region Fall Meeting, held from September 29 to October 1, 2026, brought together members and friends of the wood supply chain in Green Bay, WI. The event featured committee meetings, educational sessions, and networking opportunities.

Keynote Speakers

• Congressman Tom Tiffany (R-WI-07) discussed Wisconsin’s forestry industry, emphasizing the need for active management and highlighting his economic policies.

• Doug Schwartz, President of Billerud North America, outlined industry challenges and opportunities, particularly in sustainable packaging and wood fiber consumption.

• Brent Keefer, CEO of American Forest Management, addressed how market dynamics are influencing timber supply and land management practices.

• Pete Madden, President of the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities, shared initiatives to strengthen markets for small-diameter wood and the importance of maintaining current mill infrastructure.

• Pete Stewart, President of ResourceWise, called for modernization in the U.S. pulp and paper sector to retain competitiveness in the global market.

• Haroon Syed, VP of Schneider, provided insights into transportation challenges impacting the wood supply chain.

Lake States Region Specifics

The Lake States Region meeting featured a panel discussing the state of the industry, focusing on financial pressures and staffing challenges. Scott Suder and Tom Hittle outlined initiatives to develop a strategic roadmap for Wisconsin’s forest industry with state support.

Awards

• Outstanding Logger Award: J&A Logging of Wright, Minnesota, recognized for their legacy and commitment to sustainable practices.

• Technical Writing Award: Scott Bowe and Matthew Bumgardner for their analysis of the hardwood industry.

Networking Events

Attendees enjoyed a social reception at The Alley for bowling and table games, fostering relationships beyond formal sessions. A visit to historic Lambeau Field included a tour, dinner, and exploration of the Packers Hall of Fame.

Future Meeting and Committees

The Board of Directors discussed future events, including the 2027 Annual Meeting in Clearwater Beach, FL. Committees addressed various projects related to safety training, forestry factsheets, and investment in wood market developments.

Conclusion

The FRA continues to advocate for the forest products industry, focusing on workforce development, market challenges, and regulatory issues. Members are encouraged to engage through feedback for future events and initiatives.

For further details on presentations and initiatives discussed, FRA members can log in to the FRA website or contact Vanessa Connelly for access to materials.