WOODLAND, WA AND MENOMINEE, MI. December 2, 2024 - Burton Mill Solutions is excited to announce its acquisition of Menominee Saw & Supply, based in Menominee, Michigan. Menominee specializes in supporting wood processors in the Northern Great Lakes region and across the Midwest by supplying and reconditioning a variety of industrial cutting tools, including machine knives, small- and large-diameter circle saws, and wide and narrow band saws. This acquisition significantly expands Burton's geographic footprint and enhances its technical capabilities, enabling it to provide better service to primary wood producers. With the addition of Menominee, Burton strengthens its already comprehensive technical expertise in wood processing technology, including saws, knives, filing room equipment, technical services, and industrial wear parts.

Chuck Wert, Senior Vice President of Burton, commented, “We are excited to work more closely with the Menominee team. This partnership will allow us to elevate our service offerings and better address the needs of our customers in the Midwest.”
John Brock, General Manager of Menominee, shared his thoughts, saying, “Burton has been important partner for many years, but by joining forces, we’ll be able to significantly expand our network and capabilities. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.”

Dale Brown, CEO of Burton Mill Solutions and sister companies USNR and Mid-South Engineering, added, “this acquisition aligns perfectly with our mission to provide innovative solutions that enhance productivity and efficiency in the wood processing industry.”

Menominee’s Great Lakes location will complement Burton’s existing network of saw and knife reconditioning service centers in Maine, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana.

About Burton Mill Solutions
Burton Mill Solutions is the leading North American manufacturer and supplier of industrial saw blades, machine knives, filing room equipment, cutting tool reconditioning services, and vocational training to the lumber, pulp, and wood biomass industries, with a history dating back to 1832. The Burton family includes industry leading brands like Simonds International, BGR Saws, The Knife Source, Wright Machine, Armstrong, and US Blades. Burton is further extended by sister companies USNR, a global leader in sawmill and panel machinery, and Mid-South Engineering, North America’s oldest and largest professional engineering services firm exclusively serving the wood products industry. Learn more about Burton Mills Solutions at www.burtonmill.com.

About Menominee Saw & Supply
Based in Menominee, Michigan, Menominee Saw & Supply specializes in designing, manufacturing, and reconditioning cutting tools and supplying a variety of related products to the primary and secondary wood products markets in the Northern Great Lakes region, and across the Midwest. Menominee was originally established in 1897 as an offshoot of the Wells Lumber Company, but has since expanded and diversified to become a regional leader helping sawmills and other wood processors across a large geography. With a focus on service, value, and quality, Menominee aims to be a trusted partner for wood processors seeking reliable and efficient cutting solutions.

This year’s show was exceptional due to good weather, solid attendance, the highest number of vendors ever, and excellent volunteers. This show would not be possible without quality exhibitors and the tireless efforts of industry volunteers and staff who dedicate countless hours to this undertaking.

“12,000 people attended the Ohio Forestry Association’s 66th Paul Bunyan Show.”

Training is one of the most important features of the Paul Bunyan Show and is critical to OFA’s mission of supporting the management of Ohio’s forest resources. There were eight Master Loggers who were recertified through training provided on Friday. Landowners were offered seminars throughout the day Saturday and Sunday, and sessions were -well attended. In addition, the public was able to watch safety and technical demonstrations provided by Husqvarna's team throughout the weekend.

Another important aspect of the show is how tangibly it demonstrates the scale of the forest products industry in Ohio. OFA had the opportunity to introduce several partner organizations like the Ohio Department of Agriculture, JobsOhio, Ohio Soybean Association, the Ohio House of Representatives and The Ohio State University Extension to how much forestry offers the State of Ohio. Explaining the $30 billion economic impact of Ohio’s hardwood industry only goes so far, but to see the impact in person makes an indelible impact. Ohio Forestry Association has a compelling story to tell, and we have the unique ability to showcase it at the Paul Bunyan Show.

Results
The winner of the Board Foot Contest was Dean Nisley of Millersburg. Dean guessed 3720 BF and that was exactly what was on the truck. Congratulations Dean! Half of the proceeds will go to the winner and the other half will be used to send a teen to Camp Canopy next summer.

Loader Competition
The top 5 places on Saturday October 5th were:
1. Emanual Hershberger with a score of 85.458 on the Hood
2. Danna Nottingham with a score of 85.234 on the Hood
3. George (Bucky) Post Jr with a score of 85.044 on the Hood
4. Levi Strickland with a score of 84.475 on the Tiger Cat
5. Ron Colvin with a score of 82.356 on the Hood

State Lumberjack Competition Winners
· Horizontal Chop: Robert Freeman
· Open Chainsaw: Robert Freeman
· Axe Throw: Justin Winkler
· Two-Person Cross-Cut: Derek Dusthimer and Grant Foreman
· Jack and Jill Cross-Cut: Grant Foreman and Mandy Foreman

International Lumberjack Competition Winners
· Underhand/Horizontal Chop: Dakota Robarge
· Open Chainsaw: Mike Sullivan
· Axe Throw: Derek Dusthimer
· Standing Block: Dakota Robarge
· Spring Board: Dakota Robarge
· Two-Person Cross-Cut: Jason Lentz and Mark Bouquin
· Jack and Jill Cross-Cut: Jason Lentz and Sidney Krompsky

Save-the-date
Mark your calendar for next year’s Paul Bunyan Show October 3-5, 2025!

Jones Saw Tools announces the latest addition to their very efficient line of Saw Sharpening Tools.  Their Model 7DC 12 volt DC Grinder quickly sharpens edgers through headsaws.  For more information, call Randy Jones at 812-789-3448

BATTLE CREEK, MICH — Opticom Tech, a leader in industrial video monitoring solutions, announced today a groundbreaking advancement in industrial camera technology. Opticom's cameras now offer the unprecedented ability to deliver 10 simultaneous video streams from a single camera, setting a new industry standard.

Opticom Tech cameras can now pull 10 video streams from a single unit—a significant leap from the industry standard of three streams. This capability is a game-changer for industrial facilities, allowing multiple stakeholders—such as operators, managers, supervisors, and security personnel—to access real-time footage simultaneously without having to access the software. Each team member can monitor critical areas without any delay or interruption.

“We are incredibly proud to introduce this innovative feature that our customers have been asking for,” said Heidi Schmidt, Global Sales Manager at Opticom Tech. “Our new 10-stream capability not only enhances security and operational efficiency but also demonstrates our dedication to hearing feedback from customers and developing products based on their needs. This advancement will undoubtedly set a new benchmark in the industry.”

Opticom’s cameras are designed to meet the rigorous demands of industrial environments, providing reliable and high-quality surveillance. This new feature will be available across all Opticom camera models, ensuring that every customer can benefit from enhanced functionality and improved operational oversight.

For more information about Opticom's new 10-stream capability and other advanced video monitoring solutions, visit www.OpticomTech.com. 

About Opticom Tech

Founded in 1973, Opticom Tech provides integrated video monitoring solutions for industrial applications, including sawmills, mines, food processing facilities, and more. Built to withstand harsh environments, Opticom’s rugged cameras and equipment stand the test of time. For more information, visit www.opticomtech.com. 

Spring Hill, TN (July 16, 2024): WINTERSTEIGER Woodtech is proud to announce a series of strategic expansions for the division designed to meet the growing demand for its industry-leading wood processing solutions across North America. Offering innovative solutions for wood processing, their expertise includes precise thin-cutting saws, in-house engineered blades, automation solutions, mobile/stationary sawmills, and cutting solutions for various materials. Known throughout the world for state-of-the-art thin-cutting technology used in lamella production, maximizing efficiency and accuracy.

Expanded Footprint: In 2023, the Woodtech division relocated to a new, state-of-the-art facility in Spring Hill, Tennessee, at 1031 Parkway Drive. This move doubled the division's footprint. The increased space allows for improved efficiency, streamlined operations, and ample room for future growth.

Enhanced Service Capabilities: To further support its growing customer base, Wintersteiger Woodtech has welcomed two highly skilled technicians to its team in 2024. Nathan Pigford joins the division as a Sales and Service Technician, while Kevin Alambatin takes on the role of Service Technician. These additions, alongside existing Service Technician Jason Buttery, Customer Service Jeff DeHart, and the Saw Blade Maintenance Technicians bolster the division's service capabilities and ensure prompt and expert support for all Wintersteiger Woodtech machinery and Serra sawmills.

Expert Support, Nationwide Reach: The Wintersteiger Woodtech team, including Sales and Service Manager Jason Fry, operates without designated sales territories. This flexible structure allows them to provide comprehensive support – from sales and technical consultations to installation, training, and ongoing service for both Wintersteiger and Serra equipment – to customers across the entire North American market.

Commitment to Blade Sharpening: The new Spring Hill facility features a dedicated blade sharpening area, offering customers convenient access to Wintersteiger's sharpening expertise. Additionally, Wintersteiger continues to provide blade sharpening services at its Salt Lake City location, ensuring a nationwide network of sharpening solutions.

“We're thrilled with these strategic expansions,” says Jason Fry, Head of Sales Wintersteiger, Inc. Woodtech. “The new facility provides us with the space and resources to deliver exceptional service to our growing customer base, while our expanded team boasts the expertise and dedication to keep our customers' operations running smoothly. We're committed to being the number one partner for all things Woodtech in North America.”

About Wintersteiger

Wintersteiger is a leading provider of innovative solutions for the wood processing industry. WINTERSTEIGER combines five product areas for the timber industry into Division WOODTECH: precise thin-cutting and surface repair of wood (WINTERSTEIGER), saw blades engineered and produced in-house (WINTERSTEIGER Sägen GmbH), mobile and stationary sawmill technology (SERRA), automation solutions (VAP-WINTERSTEIGER), and cutting solutions for a range of materials, including lightweight materials (HEMA). WINTERSTEIGER is known for its state-of-the-art thin-cutting technology, which is used worldwide in lamella production. The product range includes thin-cutting frame saws and thin-cutting band saws, and upstream and downstream processing. The thin kerf, highest accuracy, ready-to-glue surface, and processing of the lamellas without additional steps are key benefits for users. TRC ("Timber Repair & Cosmetics") machines for semi- and fully automatic wood surface repair complement this product area. For more information, please visit https://www.wintersteiger.com/us/Group

Contact:

Tracy Beers

Wintersteiger, Inc.

Marketing Manager North America

[email protected]

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE: The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) in partnership with the Real American Hardwood Coalition (RAHC), is excited to announce the launch of a new website: RealAmericanHardwood.pro.

In 2023, NHLA was awarded a noncompetitive $500,000 matching grant from the U.S. Forest Services with the objective to grow and stabilize the hardwood lumber market and industry.Goals to accomplish this objective were outlined as 1) create online content on hardwood information for architects, specifiers, designers, structural engineers, and other hardwood users and 2) distribute content to architects, specifiers, designers, structural engineers, and other hardwood users in person and online.
Dallin Brooks, Executive Director of NHLA, emphasized the importance of this initiative in supporting the industry. The launch of RealAmericanHardwood.pro marks a significant milestone in our mission to grow and stabilize the hardwood lumber market and industry. There are many different factors that are important to consider when designing a space for people to gather. This new platform will serve as a valuable resource for architects, specifiers, designers, structural engineers, and other hardwood users, providing them with comprehensive information and tools to make informed decisions about using American hardwoods. This website will help designers and architects have the information they need to create a positive impact on both people within design spaces and on the environment outside. We are excited about the opportunities this website will create for expanding the reach and impact of our industry, thanks to the support of the U.S. Forest Services grant.

Linda Jovanovich, chair of the Real American Hardwood Coalition, also highlighted the strategic role of the new website. As the RAHC begins strategically working with and educating architects, designers, specifiers and students, RealAmericanHardwood.pro is a valuable resource to serve and educate those communities. I am looking forward to adding it to our marketing toolbox and putting it to work for our industry.
Key features of the website include:
Why Hardwood: In the "Why Hardwood" section, visitors will discover the numerous benefits of choosing hardwood. They will learn that hardwood is environmentally friendly due to its carbon-negative properties and appreciate its durability and long-term investment value. The section will highlight the natural beauty and timeless appeal of hardwood, as well as its lifetime usability. Additionally, visitors will find that hardwood is a healthy choice, free from harmful chemicals and allergens. Lastly, this section will also compare hardwood with alternative products, clearly demonstrating its superiority in terms of sustainability, longevity, and overall value.
Featured Projects: This section showcases the endless possibilities of creating functional and beautiful designs with Real American Hardwood®. Highlighting a diverse range of commercial buildings, furniture, and unique designs, these featured projects are meant to inspire and motivate others to build with hardwood. Visitors can also submit their own projects for a chance to be featured on the site, fostering a community of creativity and innovation.
Real American Hardwood Species Guide: Visitors can delve into the detailed physical properties and growth patterns of 14 commonly used U.S. hardwood species. The guide also includes information on common applications and alternative species, offering a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in American hardwood.
Hardwood Grading Guide: This section offers a comprehensive understanding of Hardwood Lumber Grading through the NHLA Rules Book and video illustrations. Architects, designers, and specifiers will find valuable insights to help them select the appropriate hardwood grade for their projects, ensuring the desired quality, functionality, and aesthetic outcome. This guide empowers professionals to make informed decisions tailored to their specific needs and goals.

About the National Hardwood Lumber Association: The world's largest and oldest hardwood industry association, NHLA represents more than 700 companies that produce, use, and sell North American hardwood lumber, or provide equipment, supplies or services to the hardwood industry. It was founded in 1898 to establish a uniform system of grading rules for the measurement and inspection of hardwood lumber. Since 1979, its headquarters have been in Memphis. To learn more about NHLA, please visit www.nhla.com.
About the Real American Hardwood Coalition:Representing companies from every sector of the industry and every hardwood producing state in the country, the RAHC seeks to inspire and educate consumers and professionals on the uses and benefits of real American hardwood products.

Gaylord, MI – June 13, 2024 – The Michigan Association of Timbermen is excited to announce the first biennial Michigan Forest Products Show, set to take place on August 9-10, 2024, at The Ellison Place in Gaylord, Michigan. This premier event will bring together hundreds of vendors, equipment dealers, and industry experts for two action-packed days dedicated to showcasing the best in the forestry industry.

Vaughn West, President of the Michigan Association of Timbermen said, “As many of you have seen and heard, the Forest Products Show is fast approaching.  We at the Timbermen are very excited about providing our industry an opportunity to showcase equipment, and for industry members to see the latest and the greatest on the market from a wide variety of manufacturers. We are also enthused to welcome the general public so they can see the work we do on a daily basis.”

The Michigan Forest Products Show promises a comprehensive experience with a wide array of industry exhibits, the latest in logging equipment, milling innovations, and emerging technology. This event is designed to cater to professionals in the forestry industry as well as provide entertainment, food, and fun for the whole family.

Michigan Association of Timbermen Executive Director Justin Knepper said, “This is a can’t miss event for Michiganders and folks across the Great Lakes region. If you’re a logger, trucker, mill operator, landowner, or anyone in between, we want you at our show! Mark your calendars for August 9-10 and get ready to make your way up to Gaylord, Michigan!”

Event Highlights:

Industry Exhibits: Explore a diverse range of products and services from leading companies in the forestry sector.

Logging Equipment: Discover the latest advancements and cutting-edge machinery in logging technology.

Milling Innovations: Visit milling equipment specialists servicing all aspects of the industry, from portable milling to large, established sawmills, and learn about new methods and innovations in milling processes.

Emerging Technology: Stay ahead of the curve with insights into the future of forestry technology.

Entertainment, Food & Fun: Enjoy a lively atmosphere with activities and attractions suitable for all ages, including a Kid’s Zone, complete with lumberjack-themed bouncy inflatables!

Exhibitor Information:

Exhibitor spaces are filling up fast!

Indoor Space (10'x10'): $425

Outdoor Space (30'x50'): $625

Don't miss this unique opportunity to network with industry leaders, discover new products and technologies, and enjoy a vibrant community event. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a family looking for a fun and educational outing, the Michigan Forest Products Show has something for everyone.

For more information on attending or exhibiting at the Michigan Forest Products Show, please visit www.michigantimbermen.com/show or contact the Michigan Association of Timbermen at (906)293-3236 or email [email protected]/[email protected].

Join us in celebrating and advancing the forestry industry in Michigan! Special thanks to our show sponsors:

• Forest/Loggers/Mauck Insurance Agencies (www.forestinsurancecenter.com)
• MATSIF (www.matsif.com)
• AIS Forestry Division (www.aisequip.com)
• Northern Energy (www.northern-energy.com)
• Team Wieland Truck & Trailer (www.wielandtrucks.com)
• Royal Truck & Trailer (www.royaltrailersales.com)
• Ponsse (www.ponsse.com)
• Crosstrac (www.crosstrac.net)
• Greenstone Farm Credit Services (www.greenstonefcs.com)
• Louisiana Pacific (www.lpcorp.com)
• McCoy Construction & Forestry (www.mccoycf.com)
• Michigan Kenworth (www.csmtruck.com)
• Roland Machinery Co. (www.rolandmachinery.com)
• Runnin’ Gears Inc. (www.runningearsinc.com)
• Weyerhaeuser (www.weyerhaeuser.com)

About the Michigan Association of Timbermen

The Michigan Association of Timbermen is dedicated to representing and supporting the timber industry in Michigan. Through advocacy, education, and events like the Michigan Forest Products Show, the Association is focused on promoting sustainable forestry practices and the growth of the timber industry.

April 2024 – Wood-Mizer introduces the versatile, robust, and powerful WM2500 industrial sawmill. Engineered for peak production and starting at $124,995 USD, the WM2500 includes advanced features to ensure precision, stability, and operational efficiency. The WM2500 industrial sawmill joins the established and growing Wood-Mizer range of industrial-level sawmill equipment that includes sawmills, resaws, edgers, material handling equipment, and complete sawmilling systems.

High-Quality & High-Production Features

Combining a powerful electric 30HP motor with a maximum log diameter of 41” and maximum cut width of 33”, the WM2500 industrial sawmill operates seamlessly as a standalone primary headrig to saw pallet boards, grade or dimensional lumber or as a vital component of a complete sawmilling system. In addition, simple, cost-effective material handling can be added before and after the WM2500 t[BZ1] o enhance productivity. 

Advanced features including heavy-duty construction, user-friendly controls, and high-production hydraulic log handling capabilities make this sawmill a versatile, robust, and powerful solution. The standalone operator stand is accompanied by an operator control console which includes joystick controls, presets, setworks, and independent hydraulic controls, making operation fast, easy, and efficient.

The high-speed head up/down servo drive reduces saw head positioning time so more time can be spent sawing lumber. In addition, the high-performance blade wheel belt system minimizes vibration and sawdust interference to extend blade life. The WM2500 industrial sawmill is also equipped with a hydraulic pump unit, standalone central electric box, and pantograph which ensures that cabling is secure and dust-free while minimizing cable wear during operation.

Industrial-Level Sawmilling at a Budget Price

The WM2500 industrial sawmill provides a comprehensive solution to maximize log yield and optimize log breakdown in industrial settings.

"I called the Wood-Mizer team and explained what I was looking for. They mentioned the new WM2500. It has all the upgraded features we were looking for in a mill, fast hydraulics, heavy-duty bed, off-feed conveyor, and at a price point we could afford. The WM2500 was exactly what we were looking for," shared Corey White, H&H Sawmill Owner. 

"Wood-Mizer is committed to providing premium quality sawmill equipment for all levels of production throughout the world,” said Colin Campbell, Wood-Mizer Industrial Sawmill Specialist. “The all new WM2500 sawmill provides pallet, grade, and lumber operations with a high-quality, high-production mill at a great price to scale their business.”

Market Availability and Ordering

The WM2500 industrial sawmill is now available to order in North America. For more information or to order, visit woodmizer.com or contact your local Wood-Mizer representative. 

About Wood-Mizer 

Since 1982, Wood-Mizer has earned the reputation as a world-leading wood processing equipment  manufacturer with a strong legacy from its innovative sawmilling products. Serving more than 100,000 customers throughout the world From Forest to Final Form®, Wood-Mizer offers an extensive line of  equipment including narrowband portable and industrial sawmills, wideband sawmilling equipment,  band resaws, board edgers, wood kilns, planer/moulders, firewood processing equipment, pallet  recycling equipment, material handling equipment, sawmill blades, and blade maintenance equipment  for woodworking and forestry hobbyists and professionals all over the world. Visit woodmizer.com for more information

Aitkin, MN – Northern Automation is proud to announce the newest addition to their line of automation solutions, the NA/48-12 Lumber Stacker.  This simple, yet highly advanced modular unit offers sawmills and pallet operations the flexibility to handle a wide ranger of products and dimensions.  From ¾” - 4” thick, 8’ to 12’ lengths are standard, although units to handle lengths from 48” to 16’ are also available.   According to Chief Engineer, Nick Stueven, the first dozen NA/48-12 stackers have proven to be virtually trouble free, very simple to operate, programable for custom or standard thicknesses and lengths and effectively run themselves.  

Based on the success of the long test run of multiple units, Northern Automation CEO, David Burgstaler, said “We’re so confident that you’ll love this stacker, that if you don’t, we’ll buy it back.  You pay only rigging & trucking”.  

For more information on the NA/48-12 Lumber Stacker, Custom Stackers to fit your operation and other sawmill solutions from Northern Automation, visit northernautomation.com or call 218-670-0315.

Akkuslar a 50 year manufacturer of sawmill machinery in Istanbul Turkey and well known throughout the world has chosen Kittrell Sawmill Brokers as their Dealer in the United States. Family and generations are important to the Akkus family this is only one reason why the sought out Kittrell.  The other is the knowledge and expertise that Kittrell has accumulated and still accumulates in their every day business as sawmill equipment appraisers. Landing over 4,000 appraisal assignments in different manufacturing and remanufacturing facilities has given Kittrell the experience they need to help individuals with this new line of machinery.  Kittrell gives options to the industry that will set them up for diversification without major expenditures. . they process 3.5 logs per minute in rail ties, square timbers, dimension lumber and in pallet cants. Sideboards are produced with every cut and can be processed up to with the standard machine with extensions available. The Gang saws from are ready to breakdown cants into grade or industrial lumber. Turkish engineering and hospitality are second to none throughout the world. Their goal is your expectations meet the excellence they provide in their machine construction and service.Visit the YouTube Channel Kittrell Akkuslar for lots of videos

Exciting news! Nolts Power Equipment, based in Shippensburg, PA, is now an authorized dealer of the Vortex by DYNA brush chippers. This month, they received their first chipper, ready to enhance your wood chipping needs. Curious to find your nearest dealer? Reach out to us today for more information!

CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION!
989-823-6200

BATTLE CREEK, MICH — Opticom Tech, a leader in industrial video monitoring solutions, announced today its new CC04-IP5MV3 camera, an upgrade to the CC04-IP3MV camera.

The new CC04 camera offers a higher resolution than its predecessor—5 megapixel compared to 3 MP. It also supports artificial intelligence (AI) functions such as object detection, intrusion detection, line crossing, object counting, and more.

“We’re excited to offer these upgrades to new and existing customers,” said Heidi Schmidt, Global Sales Manager at Opticom. “High-resolution video is vital for operations monitoring and security in industrial facilities. And AI is becoming a reality of our world, so having cameras equipped to support that emerging technology puts facilities ahead of their competition.”

The CC04 camera is NDAA compliant, utilizes the ONVIF protocol and can withstand high-vibration, hazardous and controlled environments. It can also withstand direct hits by logs, boards, rocks, and other objects, making it an ideal video monitoring solution for industrial facilities.

For more information, visit www.OpticomTech.com.

About Opticom Tech

Founded in 1973, Opticom Tech provides integrated video monitoring solutions for industrial applications, including sawmills, mines, food processing facilities, and more. Built to withstand harsh environments, Opticom’s rugged cameras and equipment stand the test of time. For more information, visit www.opticomtech.com.

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