USDA Names New Appointments to the Softwood Lumber Board
USDA Announces Appointments to the Softwood Lumber Board
On Friday, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the appointment of multiple members, alternates, and public representatives to serve on the Softwood Lumber Board, with most three-terms beginning January 1, 2026, unless otherwise noted.
The USDA said the Softwood Lumber Board currently consists of 14 members—10 domestic manufacturers and four importers—who may serve up to two consecutive three-year terms. Following this nomination cycle, the board will have 15 members and four alternates.
The appointments are as follows:
- US South, small seat: Richard K. Stanley (Brewton, Alabama)
- US South Alternate, any size (two-year term): Mark Alan Richardson (Tuscaloosa, Alabama)
- US West, small seat: Sonja Neiman (Hulett, Wyoming)
- US West Alternate, any size: Steven Hofer (Vancouver, Canada)
- US Northeast and Lake States, any size: Alden Robbins (Searsmont, Maine)
- Canada West, large seat: Sean Peter McLaren (Vancouver, Canada)
- Importer Alternate, any size (four-year term): Thomas Alexander Mende (Atlanta, Georgia)
- Public Member: Troy Harris (Atlanta, Georgia)
- Public Alternate: Derek Ratchford (Dothan, Alabama)
- US South, any size (one-year term): Brian K. Chaney (Seattle, Washington)
The USDA noted that since 1966, Congress has authorized industry-funded research and promotion boards to help agricultural sectors develop markets, strengthen existing demand, and conduct research. The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service provides oversight of 22 such boards, funded through industry assessments.
FEA compiles the Wood Markets News from various 3rd party sources to provide readers with the latest news impacting forest product markets. Opinions or views expressed in these articles do not necessarily represent those of FEA.