From its inception, the MSR Workshop has brought together members of the entire lumber supply chain, from production and grading to sales and distribution to end users. Each year, that tradition inspires a great variety of educational topics and a unique opportunity for participants to gain a broader perspective on the MSR market and opportunities for growth.
“I have found the workshops to be valuable for the purposes of education, networking, and applicable tours,” says Sean Kelly, owner of Automated Products Inc. “It is a very relaxed environment that has proven to be a good tool in helping me manage my business.”
John Bryant, a lumber buyer at Stark Forest Products, calls the MSR Workshop an invaluable resource. “From powerful and informative sessions to strengthening key relationships, I believe the information and contacts gleaned from those few days has helped improve my knowledge and network in the MSR segment of the business,” says John. “If you are a manufacturer, buyer, or user of MSR products, this is the can’t-miss event of the year.”
On April 27–29, the 2022 Workshop in Salt Lake City will once again deliver a lineup of educational sessions tailored to what attendees do every day:
A Technical Perspective on MSR & MEL
Linda Brown of the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau will provide a valuable overview of how machine graded lumber is produced, including information on lumber grading, the difference between visual and machine grading, and the advantages of using MSR/MEL. She will also discuss design values and how engineers design with wood.
Analyzing the True Cost of Lumber Culling
Dennis Westhoff of Lumber Specialties-US LBM LLC will provide a component manufacturer’s viewpoint on the importance of understanding all of the costs associated with using different types of lumber – and the potential savings to be realized with MSR.
Shifting Dynamics of N. American Lumber Markets
Would you like to have a stronger grasp of the lumber markets that affect your business every day? Francois Robichaud of Forest Economic Advisors (FEA) will take a closer look at consolidation within the industry and consider the vision for the future. Specifically, he will discuss the growth of the Southern Pine industry and the impact of European wood on the market.
What Lumber Should I Be Using?
Brandon Condratow and Tony Bruzzese from Canadian Engineered Wood Products will help you gain a better understanding of what MSR grades and lengths to inventory (spoiler alert: Less is more!). They will cover how to interchange MSR grades and species to maximize flexibility in your operations.
Summarizing the Effects of COVID on the Lumber Industry
Canfor’s Director of Market Intelligence, Chris Leftis, will reflect on past pandemics and their effects on lumber pricing, examine housing affordability trends, and consider the list of current pandemic supply disruptions, including labor markets, absenteeism, and curtailments. He will conclude with a look forward as the industry navigates out of the pandemic and faces new challenges.
Analyzing Trends in the 2021 MSR Production Survey
Since the MSR Lumber Producers Council began tracking the progress of the Machine Stress Rated lumber industry in 1994, this annual production survey has been a tool for monitoring the progress of the industry in North America and promoting the use of MSR lumber worldwide. Join FEA’s Francois Robichaud for a deep dive into the most recent MSR Production Survey.
Softwood Lumber Agreement Update
This session will bring the group up to speed on the ongoing issues regarding softwood lumber. The session will include an overview of the history of the trade dispute and an update on admin reviews and other current activities relevant to the SLA.
“Each MSR Workshop I have attended has increased my knowledge and awareness of many lumber industry topics,” says Greg Martin, Mill Sales Manager at Vaagen Brothers Lumber/Wildwood Trading Group. “The seminars cover a variety of issues, from labor to allowable harvest to trucking, and more. I really enjoy the roundtable format, which allows all attendees to actively discuss topics from their perspective. Out of all of the events and shows I attend, the MSR Workshop is always the most bang for the buck.”
There is still room for you to join us at the 2022 MSR Workshop in Salt Lake City! Register here.