USDA announces new appointments to Softwood Lumber Board

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced the appointment of six members and four alternates to serve on the Softwood Lumber Board. The three regional alternate seats and public member and alternate seats are new for 2026.

The appointed Board members are:

· Richard K. Stanley, T.R. Miller Mill Co. (U.S. South, Small, second term).

· Sonja Neiman, Neiman Enterprises (U.S. West, Small).

· Alden Robbins, Robbins Lumber (U.S. Northeast and Lake States).

· Sean Peter McLaren, West Fraser (Canada West, Large).

· Brian K. Chaney, Weyerhaeuser (U.S. South, Large, filling vacant seat through December 31, 2026).

Newly appointed regional alternate members are:

· Mark Alan Richardson, The Westervelt Company (U.S. South alternate, initial term 2 years).

· Steven Hofer, Western Forest Products (U.S. West alternate, initial term 3 years).

· Thomas Alexander Mende, Binderholz Timber (Importer, initial term 4 years).

Newly appointed public members are:

· Troy Harris, Jamestown (Public member).

· Derek Ratchford, SmartLam (Public member alternate).

The intent of the public member seat is to include a person with experience in architecture, engineering, construction, development, or other related sectors that would bring supply chain perspective to the Board. The new industry alternate appointees will serve staggered terms, and the remaining appointees will serve three-year terms beginning January 1, 2026, and ending December 31, 2028.

“The Softwood Lumber Board applauds Secretary Rollins on her appointment of an accomplished group of directors who reflect the full scope of the softwood lumber industry,” said Cees de Jager, SLB president and CEO. “Their collective experience and regional insights will be invaluable as the SLB continues its work to strengthen and broaden demand for softwood lumber across the United States.”

Courtesy: www.woodworkingnetwork.com