The 88th Annual Oregon Logging Conference drew increased exhibitor participation and attendance during its three-day run Feb. 19-21 at the Lane Events Center and Fairground in Eugene, organizers reported.
This year’s conference carried the theme “Responsible Forestry Today, Healthy Forests Tomorrow.” Jacque Buchanan, U.S. Forest Service regional forester for Region 6 (Oregon and Washington), delivered the keynote address, speaking about partnerships with the timber industry and tools to implement a more streamlined timber harvesting program.
The 22nd Annual Desserts for Dreams luncheon raised more than $32,000 for Compassion Tillamook, a nonprofit that provides medical, dental and other services to those in need through an annual clinic.
Separately, the Oregon Logging Conference Foundation raised more than $26,000 through its two-day auction to support scholarships for students pursuing careers in the timber industry. The foundation has awarded more than $1.5 million in scholarships since 1968.
More than 700 students, educators and industry professionals participated in the eighth annual Future Forestry Workers Career Day on Feb. 20. High school students from more than two dozen Oregon schools took part in hands-on sessions and a forestry skills relay competition.
Jeremy Staats of Bryant Logging in Beavercreek won the 16th annual Log Loader Competition with a time of 3:22.72, edging out teammate Zane Bryant in second and Justin Jakola of Rice Logging in Sweet Home in third.
