OR-Loggers PAC Fundraiser Vol. 36, No. 9, September 2024 AOL Mainline The
The Mainline is a monthly publication of: Associated Oregon Loggers, Inc. 2015 Madrona Ave SE, Salem, OR 97302 Mailing: PO Box 12339, Salem, OR 97309 503.364.1330 • fax: 503.364.0836 www.oregonloggers.org AOL Staff Team Executive Vice President Rex Storm • [email protected] Business Operations Manager Kathy Ballard • [email protected] Contractor Services Manager/Se habla Español Mathew McCartney • [email protected] Forest Policy Manager Amanda Sullivan-Astor • [email protected] Insurance Group Manager Dave Boyd • [email protected] Safety & Health Manager David Grim • [email protected] IT Director Tyler Teal • [email protected] Fiscal Operation & Publication Coordinator Aletha Henderson • [email protected] Event & Education Coordinator Shanna Lambert • [email protected] Member Services Coordinator Tiffany Lord • [email protected] Sr. Safety Management Consultants Leonard Lulay • [email protected] Mike Weaver • [email protected] Rod Huffman • [email protected] Roger Lulay • [email protected] Garrett Weaver • [email protected] Contract Lobbyist Kevin Campbell • The Victory Group Contract Communicator FPW Media The Mainline Editor Aletha Henderson Advertising & Design Big Red M • www.bigredm.com Design & Layout Juliette Miratsky • [email protected] Advertising Sales Ronnie Jacko • [email protected] Email editorial news, notices, and correspondence: [email protected] Articles in this publication present the informed judgment of AOL staff, and are intended for information purposes only. Content does not represent legal or financial guidance. Copyright 2024 Associated Oregon Loggers, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may be reprinted only with the expressed written permission of AOL. Also Inside 4 From Executive VP 9 News, Events, Reminders 17 Group Benefits, Insurance Discounts 18 Safety & Health 23 Workforce, Human Resources, Labor 24 OPL & Professional Qualification 28 Policymaking & Advocacy 30 Political Action & Elections 34 Business, Contracting, Markets On the Cover OR-Loggers PAC Fundraiser held August 3, 2024 at Mid-Valley Clays in Gervais, Oregon. Page 10 Mainline The 30Election Spotlight A look at legislative and statewide races, and how AOL's State-PAC represents you. 14 A Quiet Leader Remembering industry leader Norbert Schmitz, founder of Schmitz Logging.
U.S. Small Business Sentiment Improving From Main Street: Pro-Growth Tax Policy Is Vital for Small Business (Content is adopted from an article by U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Rachel Ledbetter, July 30, 2024 (uschamber.com) Extending the soon-to-expire 2017 federal tax reforms is critical for future small business growth. When businesses have a competitive federal tax code, employers invest, local economies grow, and workers benefit from higher pay and more jobs. In 2017 during the Trump Administration, Congress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), a comprehensive tax reform that fosters small business. The TCJA significantly reduced and simplified the federal income tax burden for American small business and workers, while modernizing taxation of business income. However, many of the TCJA’s key reforms were temporary and are set to expire at the end of 2025. Recent polling from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce shows that a majority (80%) of voters are concerned that increasing taxes on U.S. businesses will lead to higher consumer prices. Ninety-three percent think American families and businesses already pay enough taxes. The Chamber’s Small Business Council opposes Congress letting the 2017 tax reforms expire in December 2025. What does a competitive tax code mean for small business? A competitive tax code means small businesses like Kaddas Enterprises, a plastic fabrication company in Utah, can invest in their operations and workforce. “For us to make an investment in robotics, it’s over a $1 million investment. That’s substantial for a small business; and having a tax policy that helps us write that off quickly and use accelerated depreciation helps us reinvest back into our organization,” says CEO Natalie Kaddas. The U.S. small business confidence in July jumped to its highest level in over two years, another indication that fears of a recession are likely overblown. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) reported August 13 that its Small Business Optimism Index rose 2.2 points to 93.7 for July, the highest reading since February 2022. The NFIB survey found that businesses continued to worry about inflation impacts. NFIB’s report concurs with an early-August survey from Institute for Supply Management, which showed a rebound in its Purchasing Managers Index, easing prior concerns about the economy beginning a downturn. The NFIB survey said 25% of owners reported that inflation was their single most important problem in business operations, up 4 percentage points from June. That, together with policy uncertainty ahead of November’s presidential election, contributed to keeping the NFIB index below its 50-year average of 98 for the 31st consecutive month. A net 33% of owners reported raising employee compensation. That was the lowest reading since April 2021 and was down 5 points from June. A net 2% of owners planned inventory investment in the months ahead, up 4 points from June. The last time inventory investment rose was October 2022. Although the labor market is slowing, workers remain in short supply, especially in transportation, construction, and retail. The NFIB report noted that job openings in construction were up 4 points from June, and that 55% of construction firms had a vacancy they could not fill. Thirty-eight percent of all business owners reported job openings they could not fill in July, up 1 point from June. • “Owners are heading towards unpredictable months ahead, not knowing how future economic conditions or government policies will impact them,” said NFIB chief economist Bill Dunkelberg. 4 The Mainline From Executive VP Rex Storm Executive Vice President [email protected]
5 September 2024 Traci Tapani, co-president of a sheet metal shop, Wyoming Machine Inc. in Minnesota, says her small business needs a tax code that provides certainty for planning business operations. “I need to plan and know how much money I’m going to be paying the federal government, so I can make decisions about what I can invest in my business,” says Tapani. “As a small manufacturer, I just can’t keep spending to cover unplanned expenses. It makes business harder.” Why should Congress extend the 2017 tax reforms? Larry Kidd, president and CEO of ThinkHire, a staffing agency in Ohio, says taking away the tax reforms would hinder future growth of small business. “I’m concerned about government regulation and overtaxing. Because when they take that away from us, it substantially decreases our ability to grow,” says Kidd. “Some tax reforms have already expired. Our tax liability has gone up by almost 30%, and that limits our ability to invest in additional jobs, make new products, and innovate in new areas of opportunity,” says Kaddas. “I am worried about 2025 and the additional tax cliffs that we’re facing,” if the reforms aren’t made permanent. The 2017 tax reforms created opportunity for growth and investment in U.S. businesses, and owners say that a roll back would hamstring their ability to capitalize on important investments— including manufacturing supply chains. What is the 20% deduction for pass-through businesses and why is it important? In 2017, as part of the TCJA, Congress passed a permanent reduction to the corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%. And to ensure that pass-through businesses like sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S corporations weren’t put at a tax disadvantage relative to C corporations, Congress created a new—but temporary—20% deduction for qualified business income. Unlike the lower corporate rate, the 20% deduction for pass-through business is temporary, and it’s scheduled to expire at From the Executive VP Continued →
6 The Mainline the end of 2025. Small business owners benefit most from this deduction. With higher inflation, interest rates, labor costs, and labor shortages, this is not the time to expire the 20% pass-through deduction. Small businesses are unified to extend and make it permanent. • As a member of the National Federation of Independent Business, AOL’s small business position to make permanent the TCJA’s federal tax reforms are lobbied with the U.S. Congress through NFIB and our other business coalition partners. t From the Executive VP Continued → Rex Storm, AOL Executive VP, leads the association’s team of fifteen professionals and other contracted resources to provide valued service and voice for Oregon’s logging and forest operator sector. He has represented forest contractor success statewide in forest and business policymaking for three decades. He is a Certified Forester, a Certified Family Forest landowner, and lifelong advocate for small business and forestry.
8 The Mainline Seeking Photos for the cover of AOL’s Mainline! Your logging-related photos could be used for the cover or in the photo gallery of an issue of AOL’s Mainline! To submit a photo, email [email protected] or call 503.364.1330 Please provide a name and caption with the submitted photo!
AOL EVENT CALENDAR STATEWIDE AOL PROGRAMS REGISTRATION REQUIRED AOL Fall Board & Committee Meeting Event Friday + Saturday, September 20–21 All members welcome to participate! Meetings of AOL standing committees and Board of Directors. Held at: Brasada Ranch ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������16986 SW Brasada Ranch Rd, Powell Butte 97753 To Register ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������AOL website: www.oregonloggers.org AOL Statewide Safety Conference Saturday, November 2 Save the date and plan to attend; or send a supervisor! Hear current information and learn insights into safe and healthy work in forest operations. Held at: Best Western Plus Boulder Falls Inn & Conference Center �����������������������������������������������������505 Mullins Dr, Lebanon 97355 To Register ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������AOL website: www.oregonloggers.org 55th Annual AOL Convention Friday + Saturday, January 24–25, 2025 Held at: Spirit Mountain Casino, Lodge and Event Center ��������������������������������������27100 SW Salmon River Hwy, Grand Ronde 97347 (Registration will be available closer to the date) OPL PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION CORE COURSES REGISTRATION REQUIRED OPL core courses are scheduled thru 2024–25 in-person course dates, PLUS all courses now available online for your completion on-demand. These OPL core courses are the one-time requirement for individuals seeking to complete the individual qualification for Qualified Professional (QP); and the individual optional qualification for Onsite Supervisor (OS). 2024 OPL Course information and registration is found at: [email protected], www.oregonloggers.org/, or 503.364.1330. • ONLINE OPL AVAILABLE NOW! Courses Online, On-Demand. ALL five of the OPL core courses are now available for your registration: › QP-Sustainable Foresty › QP-Forest Practices › QP-Safety & Technology › QP-Business & Leadership › OS-Onsite Supervisor (optional qualification available to provide crew supervision) • IN-PERSON COURSES: A full-year 2024 listing of OPL in-person courses and their locations is viewable in this Mainline. News, Events, Reminders September 2024 9
10 The Mainline Oregon Loggers PAC Sporting Clays Fundraiser Together We Raised $4,507 This small but mighty fundraiser initiated a new tradition for AOL member support of their OR-Loggers State Political Action Committee (PAC)— through a fun shooting event! Shooting to make a political difference! Four shotgun squads took aim on a beautiful Saturday August 3, competing on a challenging 15-station sporting clay course! AOL shooting players were hosted by Mid-Valley Clays, located near rural Gervais, Oregon (15 miles north of Salem). • Each player received 100 target shots, all ammo, 15 stations, lunch, two candidate speaker talks, and a whole lot of shooting fun! • All monies raised in player fees were donated to AOL’s OR-Loggers State PAC Fund • Six sponsors covered the administrative expenses • A portion of sponsor fees were contributed to the AOL State PAC Inaugural First Annual AOL Sporting Clays PAC Fundraiser Benefitting AOL’s State Political Action Committee and PACs Direct Contributions to Candidates News, Events, Reminders Thank You Shotgun Squads for Participating! A-1 Logging, Inc. Yamhill Modern Machinery Co Eugene, Portland, Boise, Spokane, Rochester, Kent ARE Equipment, LLC Dallas Black Forest, Inc. Cottage Grove Before the shooting began, participants were treated to a BBQ lunch, and guest presentations by two Oregon political candidates who support rural small business: • Will Lathrop, Candidate for Oregon Attorney General (willlathrop.com) • State Senator Fred Girod (R-Stayton, District 9) This successful fundraiser was possible through the great support of sponsors, players, guest speakers, AOL’s lobby team, and Mid-Valley Clays. We appreciate you all! Plan on shooting at next year’s 2nd annual sporting clays PAC fundraiser! Thank You Sponsors for Your Generous Support! MEAL SPONSOR Modern Machinery STATION SPONSORS Allen & Gibbons Logging North American Timber Program Rocking C Ranch LLC Starfire Lumber Co Weyerhaeuser Western Timberlands
11 September 2024 2024 AOL State-PAC Fundraising from Members Thank You AOL Members for Supporting AOL Political Action Award Recognition! News, Events, Reminders BEST SQUAD A-1 Logging— Ben Heesaker, Mike Porter, Jeremy Heesaker BEST SHOOTER Don Cornthwaite, ARE Equipment WORST SHOOTER Katelyn Hawkins, Modern Machinery
12 The Mainline News, Events, Reminders Your AOL-PAC contribution continues our 55-year proud legacy of strong AOL lobby voice! Your contribution combines your business dollars with greater voice of AOL-PAC strategic campaign investments. Your AOL lobby team includes: Amanda Sullivan-Astor, Kevin Campbell, Chloe Haller, and Rex Storm. Do Your Part for Victory at Oregon’s 2024 Legislative Election! Rise-Up to Make a Difference November 5! AOL encourages everyone to get involved in your local legislative races. Here’s how: • Postal mail a contribution check to AOL-PAC: › Make check payable to AOL, with PAC on memo line › All funds go 100% to the AOL-PAC › Mail to: Associated Oregon Loggers; PO Box 12339; Salem, OR 97309 › Either corporate or individual checks are accepted • Online AOL-PAC contribution option: Contribute with credit card by visiting the AOL website; then sign-in using your ‘Member Login’ to access members’ Advocacy-Action Center • Donate dollars to candidate, directly to a business-friendly legislative candidate • Volunteer to help a local campaign with signs or other resources; and/or • Assure voter turnout by all family, friends, neighbours, associates, and employees AOL State Political Action Committee Supports Strong Business Candidates AOL Oregon Loggers PAC annually, and during every general election, wisely invests member dollars in the form of campaign contributions and formal endorsements from your AOL-PAC. • AOL-PAC making more than 38 contributions and 35 endorsements to support business-friendly candidates, in this 2024 State General Election. t • Includes: AOL Dues Renewal Voluntary Contribution; August Sporting Clays Fundraiser; and January Lobby Voice Lunch (as of 8/8/24) • Every member dollar contributed goes to State political candidates AOL-PAC is a Powerful Tool— PAC supports your lobby team’s advocacy at Oregon Legislature • Advocates your business interests for Oregon loggers and forest contract operators • Speaks with a collective and strategic voice on Oregon forest business and employer issues • Creates bipartisan relationships with lawmakers to champion our positions • Improves access, communication and trust with key legislators • Leverages your voice with an amplified coalition community of partners Donate Now! Support AOL’s State Political Action Committee (AOL-PAC) This intelligence shapes AOL’s strategic investments from its State Political Action Committee (PAC), which supports campaigns that optimize legislative advantage both at election-time and during future lawmaking in the Oregon Capitol. 2024 State OR-Loggers PAC Fundraising Goal $24,446 Raised 61% of Goal Donations Received with 2024 AOL-PAC Fundraisers
13 September 2024 Your association produces buying power and a voice for your business, which would be unavailable without AOL. Your association is stronger with its members. Please don’t let your membership expire! Don’t lose your members-only benefits, including: ;SAIF-AOL workers’ comp insurance services and discounts ;Safety management consulting team ;Health Net employee health insurance ;Dividend-paying Liberty property insurance ;OPL qualified professional and supervisor education Don’t Let Your AOL Membership Benefits Expire! Keep Your Association Working for You… Renew Now Before September 30 News, Events, Reminders P lqeuaes set ci oonnst :a5c t0A3 O. 3L6 4w. 1i t3h3a0n, y [email protected]. ;Useful news, technical information, training, and events ;Political action and government affairs giving you voice ;Workforce development, scholarship, and charity ;Reimbursement for first aid training and audio testing ;Discounts in PetroCard fuel and other vendor products Be Part of the AOL Solution— Renew Today! Thank you for keeping your membership active—by renewing no later than September 30. We are beginning a new year delivering services and fighting for Oregon forest contractors and loggers. Please contact AOL with any questions: 503.364.1330; or email: [email protected]. AOL renewal is payable by two options: 1) customary postal-mailed invoice, sent in June; or 2) online by credit card at your company Master Account, accessible at the AOL website, oregonloggers.org/. t
14 The Mainline News, Events, Reminders in 1958. They raised their children, Greg, John, and Sara, living in their Mt. Angel home for 66 years of marriage. Norb was a charitable, fair, honest, and true gentleman. A devout Catholic, he remained a lifelong member of St. Mary Parish, and board of trustees for Mt. Angel Abbey Foundation. A natural athlete, Norb for years continued his love of sports and dancing, and was a proud grandfather of eight. Our thoughts and prayers are with Katherine, Greg, Mary, and the family. Norb’s legacy endures in the forests he shaped and the loggers he mentored. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Mt. Angel Abbey at www. stbenedict.org/ or St. Mary Parish Mt. Angel at: stmarymtangel.org/. Post a message to the Schmitz Family, at https:// www.ungerfuneralchapel.com/obituary/ norbert-schmitz. t board of directors, an officer, and OPL committee chair. As an industry leader, Norb received accolades for outstanding forest stewardship and safe logging. Even into his 80s, Norbert continued to work at Schmitz Timber, leaving a lasting impact among family, workers, customers, partners, and all who visited the operation. Renowned for his mastery in building forest roads and unparalleled skill operating D7 dozers, Norbert worked and witnessed the logging industry’s evolution from horse teams and hand saws to yarders and drones. Raised in a family of 11 on a farm north of Mt. Angel, young Norb was a willing helper with farm chores and the family firewood business, while attending prep school at Mt. Angel Abbey. He served Oregon’s Army National Guard for seven years, and married Katherine Nonneman Norbert Schmitz November 2, 1935–July 15, 2024 Norb Schmitz, founder of Schmitz Logging in 1960 at age 25, passed away in July. Norb and wife Kathy were business partners, who together grew a fine family and built a contract logging business. They ran the company for over 30 years until their son Greg established Schmitz Timber Management—which is still in operation. Norbert was an early Associated Oregon Loggers member and served as chapter chair for several terms. In 2008, Norb, Katherine, and son Greg were together honored as AOL Logger of the Year. Norbert was also on the Oregon Logging Conference board of directors. Norb was proud that his son carried the Schmitz torch by keeping the association strong, with Greg serving as AOL President 2019–2020, as well as on the AOL Remembering a Quiet Leader ›By Rex Storm, Executive Vice President
15 September 2024 News, Events, Reminders Eastern District TimberSync Northwest District CGlaanrnkeMt Nooertes Trucking NT iomr tbhe Ar mP reorgi rc aa mn NL aonr dt hDweevset l Eo px cma ev na tt i Ln Lg C& RS p. Ai n. Ad ennd eTrrsuocnk iGnrgo, uLpL, CL L C ZAagreonsciyn sokf iO- Lreeagvoint t, II nn cs .u r a n c e Southwest District AFonrgeesltlrEyxcavation and BC ai lsl yc aRdeeeCduTt triuncgkSi ne rgvLi cLeCs L L C EMmo rpei nr ea8F8o Lr eLsCt s , L L C RZTaiRndahrocps, RInecforestation Contact us today! Ronnie Jacko, 503-445-2234 [email protected] Advertise to Support Your Association!
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17 September 2024 Group Benefits, Insurance Discounts NEW Health Insurance Available New health coverage is available from Health Net Insurance at very competitive rates—only to AOL members. STATEWIDE COVERAGE Health Net is a statewide PPO network with 21,000 providers, 75+ hospitals, and no network gap in any county. AVAILABLE TO MEET YOUR NEEDS Savings for members on health insurance available for employees, families, and owners—with 13 plan options. GET A QUOTE TODAY Healthcare coverage is the single most important benefit you can offer loyal employees. Let one of our partner agents help you offer that benefit within your budget. To request a quote, contact: quotes@ oregonloggers.org or 503.364.1330. t Several member employers now insure with this AOL-owned health insurance product!
18 The Mainline Safety & Health cleaning routines can prevent the accumulation of many small hazards, which can make one big one. • Tool and Material Storage: Designate specific areas for tools and materials. Use racks, cabinets, and shelves to keep items organized and off the floor. Implement a system where every tool has its place, and ensure workers return tools after use. • Labeling: Clearly label storage areas and containers to prevent confusion and mishandling. Use color-coding and signage to enhance organization and safety. • Spill Control: Address spills immediately using appropriate cleaning materials and techniques. Ensure spill kits are accessible and that workers are trained in their use. Regularly check for leaks and spills, especially in areas where chemicals are stored. Oregon OSHA Standard: Housekeeping requirements are detailed under OAR 437-002-0023. 22. Ensure Proper Use and Maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Importance of PPE Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is necessary for protecting workers from the various hazards present in an equipment Safety in an equipment shop is crucial for forest operators and their employees. The unique hazards present in the shop environment—including heavy machinery, power tools, chemical exposure, fire risk, lifting, and many other exposures—make adherence to best practices even more important. By observing the following guidelines, and complying with Oregon OSHA regulations, forest operators can create a safer and more efficient workspace. This article outlines the top six best practices to ensure equipment shop safety. 11. Implement Rigorous Housekeeping and Organization Importance of Housekeeping Good housekeeping is the foundation of a safe equipment shop. A clean and organized workspace minimizes the risk of accidents such as slips, trips, and falls. It also ensures that tools and materials are easily accessible, reducing the likelihood of injuries caused by clutter and misplaced items. Best Practices • Regular Cleaning: Establish a schedule for regular cleaning of the shop, including sweeping floors, wiping down surfaces, and disposing of waste. Daily Ensuring Equipment Shop Safety Top 6 Best Practices ›By David Grim, Safety & Health Manager shop. Without proper PPE, workers are at risk of injuries ranging from minor cuts and abrasions to severe chemical burns and respiratory issues. Best Practices • Assessment: Conduct a hazard assessment to determine the appropriate PPE for each task. Identify the specific risks associated with different operations and match PPE accordingly. • Training: Provide training on the correct use, care, and maintenance of PPE. Ensure workers understand when and why PPE is necessary. Regularly refresh training to reinforce the importance of PPE. • Availability: Ensure that all required PPE is readily available and in good condition. Stock sufficient quantities to accommodate all workers and have extras on hand. • Inspection and Replacement: Regularly inspect PPE for damage and replace it as needed. Establish a schedule for periodic checks and encourage workers to report any defects immediately. Oregon OSHA Standard: Detailed PPE requirements are outlined in OAR 437- 002-0134. 33. Prioritize Machinery and Tool Safety Importance of Machinery Safety Machinery and tools go hand in hand within equipment shops, but they also pose significant risks if not properly maintained and operated. Ensuring that machinery is in good working order and that workers are trained in its safe use is critical for preventing accidents. Best Practices • Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of all machinery and tools to identify any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction. Keep detailed records of
19 September 2024 Safety & Health Continued → inspections and maintenance activities. Regular checks can prevent small issues from becoming major problems. • Guarding: Ensure that all machinery has appropriate guards in place to protect workers from moving parts and other hazards. Never bypass or remove safety guards. • Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): Implement a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) program to ensure that machinery is properly shut down and cannot be restarted during maintenance or repair work. Train all workers on LOTO procedures and enforce strict adherence. • Training: Provide comprehensive training on the safe operation of machinery and tools, including emergency shutoff procedures. Ensure that only qualified and trained personnel operate specific equipment. Oregon OSHA Standard: Specific regulations regarding machinery and tool safety can be found under OAR 437-002-0260. 44. Maintain Chemical Safety Importance of Chemical Safety Chemical hazards in an equipment shop can lead to long-term worker health issues, including respiratory problems, skin irritation, and chemical burns. Proper handling and storage of chemicals are important to prevent accidents and exposures. Best Practices • Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Ensure that Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals are readily accessible and that workers understand how to read and use them. Conduct regular training on the hazards and safe handling of the chemicals found in your shop. • Labeling: Clearly label all chemical containers with their contents. Ensure that labels are legible and resistant to the conditions in the shop. • Storage: Store chemicals in designated areas away from heat sources and incompatible substances. Use proper containment to prevent spills and leaks. Implement a system for isolating incompatible chemicals to prevent dangerous reactions.
20 The Mainline Safety & Health Continued → • Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in areas where chemicals are used or stored to prevent the buildup of hazardous fumes. Regularly inspect and maintain ventilation systems to ensure their effectiveness. • Emergency Procedures: Develop and communicate clear procedures for dealing with chemical spills and exposures. Ensure that appropriate first aid and emergency equipment are available and accessible. When is the last time you activated the emergency eye wash system to ensure it still works? Oregon OSHA Standard: Guidelines for hazardous chemicals are outlined in OAR 437-002-0360. 55. Establish Fire Safety Measures Importance of Fire Safety Fire hazards in an equipment shop can stem from flammable materials, hot work, and electrical faults. Implementing fire safety measures is key to prevent fires and ensure a quick and effective response if one occurs. Best Practices • Fire Extinguishers: Install appropriate fire extinguishers throughout the shop. Ensure that they are regularly inspected and maintained, and that workers are trained in their use. Different types of fire extinguishers should be available for different types of fires. • Flammable Materials Storage: Store flammable liquids in approved containers and cabinets. Keep these materials away from ignition sources. Use proper ventilation in storage areas to prevent the accumulation of flammable vapors. • Hot Work Permits: Implement a hot work permit system for activities that generate heat, sparks, or flames. Ensure proper fire watches are in place and that hot work areas are clear of flammable materials. • Emergency Exits: Keep emergency exits clear and well-marked. Conduct fire drills to familiarize workers with evacuation procedures. Ensure that exit routes are unobstructed and that emergency lighting is functional. • Electrical Safety: Confirm that all electrical installations comply with safety standards and are regularly inspected. Address any electrical hazards immediately. Use properly rated extension cords and avoid overloading circuits. Oregon OSHA Standard: Fire safety regulations are detailed under OAR 437-002-0187. 66. Additional Considerations Ergonomics Ergonomic practices can help to prevent musculoskeletal injuries by reducing strain and improving posture. Key considerations include: • Training: Educate workers on proper lifting techniques, emphasizing the importance of lifting with their legs, not their back.
21 September 2024 Safety & Health • Ergonomic Tools: Provide tools and equipment designed to minimize strain, such as adjustable workstations and anti-fatigue floor mats. • Breaks: Encourage regular breaks to prevent repetitive strain injuries and fatigue. Implement job rotation to vary tasks and reduce repetitive motion. Emergency Preparedness Being prepared for emergencies can significantly reduce the impact of incidents when they occur. Key elements include: • First Aid: Ensure first aid kits are readily accessible and stocked for the hazards found in your shop. All workers should be trained in basic first aid and CPR. Consider purchasing an AED and mounting in an area that is easily accessible to everyone. • Emergency Contacts: Post emergency contact numbers and procedures in prominent locations. Ensure that all workers are familiar with these procedures. • Incident Reporting: Establish a system for reporting and investigating incidents and near-misses to prevent future occurrences. Use this information to continuously improve safety practices throughout your company. Conclusion Ensuring shop safety requires consistent effort to establish and maintain. In an era where violations can cost a company thousands of dollars, adherence to OR-OSHA regulations is even more important. Forest operators can create a safer shop, with a more productive work environment. Do this by focusing on rigorous housekeeping, proper use and maintenance of PPE, machinery and tool safety, chemical safety, and comprehensive fire safety measures. Prioritizing safety not only protects workers, but it also enhances operational efficiency and compliance with regulatory standards. Is your shop in a safe condition? Reach out to AOL today, we can help! t
22 The Mainline Seeking Photos for the cover of AOL’s Mainline! Your logging-related photos could be used for the cover or in the photo gallery of an issue of AOL’s Mainline! To submit a photo, email [email protected] or call 503.364.1330 Please provide a name and caption with the submitted photo!
23 September 2024 programs, collects workforce participation data, and consults with state and federal agencies to align priorities and understand future needs. The objective is actionable state recommendations that would enhance recruitment. Conclusion These collaborative efforts highlight Associated Oregon Loggers’ proactive approach to workforce development, and our commitment to partnering with state educational institutions and agencies to support the logging and forest operations sector. Through innovative training, safety education, and workforce assessment, we are making beginning steps that contribute to improve a future skilled forestry workforce. AOL members, forest operators, and small businesses can take pride in these initiatives that strengthen our industry and support Oregon’s rural economic vitality. t for age-appropriate safety training. The project brings the forest into the classroom, covering personal protective equipment, safety protocols, and basic first aid procedures in a game-learning environment that seeks to improve safety knowledge and workforce readiness. Statewide Forestry Workforce Study Our third effort is the Statewide Forestry Workforce Study. This targeted Oregon study, overseen by the Workforce and Talent Development Board (WTDB, Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission), is a state-funded comprehensive assessment of Oregon’s forestry workforce. The study will evaluate current workforce demographics, needs, and community benefits, while assessing future capacity requirements and challenges. Completed in 2025, the study identifies existing education and training Associated Oregon Loggers (AOL) is proudly working to enhance the forestry workforce, through three significant collaborative efforts with Oregon State University (OSU), OSU Extension, and the State of Oregon. These initiatives highlight our continued commitment to operator workforce development, fostering new partnerships, and involving the state’s public sector to support logging and forestry small business employment. Future Ready Oregon Workforce Ready Grant Our first is a partnership with OSU’s Mechanized Harvesting Laboratory (MHL) through the Future Ready Oregon Workforce Ready Grant, administered by the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC). This initiative addresses the logging sector’s lack of formal training opportunities, unclear career paths, and technological gaps—by introducing advanced training programs that integrate new technology with hands-on experiential learning. OSU will offer simulator-based education programs, including certificates for technicians, operators, and high school students. This education program would use forest harvesting machine simulators to address overlapping training needs across employment fields. Virtual Reality Safety Training Through OSU Extension The second initiative involves collaboration with OSU Extension. This project aims to enhance the safety and skills of unexperienced logging workers, and other interested forest workers, through an innovative 3-D immersive training program using Virtual Reality (VR). Given the high rate of injuries and fatalities in logging, particularly among young workers, this program addresses a need Commitment to Workforce Development Through Collaborative Efforts ›By Amanda Sullivan-Astor, Forest Policy Manager Workforce, Human Resources, Labor w c o o r n k Tt f r h o ib r r o c u e u te g a h t s o s i en im s n s o p m v r e a o n t v i t v e , e a w t f e r u a a t i u n re r in e m g s, a k s k i a l i l f n e e d g t y b f o e e r d g e i u s n c t n r a i y t n i w o g n o s, t r a e k n p fo d s r tc h e a . t
24 The Mainline OPL & Professional Qualification OPL REVIEW Current News and Educational Opportunities for OPL Qualification September 2024 Oregon Professional Logger (OPL) administered by AOL OPL UPDATES—Latest news about OPL requirements and NEW individual qualification Complete New OPL Qualification ‘Bridge’ by End of 2024 ;To keep OPL status next year, each OPL company must employ an OPL-trained person ;‘BRIDGE’ OPL qualification expires 12/31/24, for individuals not yet completing OPL-QP ;That individual “Qualified Professional” (QP) must complete: Four new core courses, have valid first aid card, and obtain continuing education credits (CE) ;Individual qualification = employed person completes four new courses only one-time ;OPL change requires switch to individual qualification ;WHY the OPL change that began in 2023? OPL-qualified individual employed by each OPL contractor, is now required by SFI-certified mills and landowners WHAT TO DO? • ‘Bridge’ OPL Qualified Companies—No later than December 31, 2024, one employed Qualified Professional (QP) person must complete the following: a) Four new OPL core QP courses (each is one day; available online or in-person class) b) Valid first aid/CPR card c) Continuing Education (CE) 16 credits • Optional qualification: Onsite Supervisor (OS) person—Add extra field supervision. Requires: one-day OS course, plus first aid card; plus eight CE credits • Online or in-person QP and OS courses now available • OPL course registration required—Contact AOL to attend; $60 fee/person/course OPL CORE COURSES These OPL core courses are the one-time requirement for individuals seeking to complete the individual qualification for Qualified Professional (QP) and Onsite Supervisor (OS). During 2024, a total of 23 in-person OPL core courses are scheduled in all regions of the state (17 courses were offered in 2023). Additionally, online OPL core courses are NOW available on-demand (all five courses). • Register now for any OPL core course, including: four OPL-QP courses, plus the one OPL-OS course. 2023 OPL CHANGE In 2023, the OPL Standard changed to require at least one individual person qualification, employed by the company. • ‘Bridge’ OPL qualification expires 12/31/24, for individuals not yet completing OPL-QP requirements. To maintain company OPL qualification—at least one individual employed by each contract logging company must take OPL core courses, one time, for the Qualified Professional (QP) person, plus the person must every two years complete OPL-CE credits and show a valid first aid card. Optional Onsite Supervisor (OS) person qualification offers a larger OPL company the added tool to employ extra field supervision with fewer courses. OREGON PROFESSIONAL LOGGER PROGRAM (OPL) OPL is a voluntary professional standard that qualifies logging operator individuals and their employer company, in a program of continuing education about Oregon forest practices, safety, business, and sustainable forestry. OPL is the ‘Qualified Logging Professional’ training program, recognized by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) in Oregon. The OPL is administered by Associated Oregon Loggers, Inc, for loggers and forest operators working in Oregon forests. MORE OPL INFORMATION As an AOL member—when you are logged-in to the AOL website you can access many training resources: ;Member-only resources: https://oregonloggers.org/page/OnlineOPLCredits ;Email your inquiry to: [email protected] ;Visit AOL website (Oregon Professional Logger page): https://oregonloggers.org/page/OPL ;Or, call the AOL office for assistance: 503.364.1330
25 September 2024 OPL & Professional Qualification OPL-CE EDUCATION RESOURCES—Finding continuing education (CE) classes for individuals LIST BELOW SHOWS SOME OFFERINGS for OPL-CE CREDIT (Continuing Education) • Any training or education program offered by any other provider can be OPL-CE credit, for a QP or OS person • Meetings or trainings from timber purchaser/landowner/mill can be OPL-CE credit, for a QP or OS person • Submit to AOL—Your proof of completion to receive OPL-CE credit [AOL Proof of Completion form] • Additional resource partners for CE continuing education are here: https://oregonloggers.org/page/OPLContinuingEducationResources DATE EVENT September 28 Tree School Umpqua; up to 8 OPL-CE credits. Roseburg; Umpqua Community College; Pre-registration required; 24 short-courses late registration runs Sept. 1–13; no walk-ins; $90 registration; online at: https://beav.es/TSU 541.672.4461; [email protected] October 5 Tree School Field Day, Oregon City; up to 8 OPL-CE credits. Oregon City; Hopkins Demonstration Forest; Pre-registration required; Several field classes $35 registration ($20 youth); online at: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/tree-school/regional-tree-schools 503.655.8631; [email protected] October 10 Scaling for Non-Scalers; 6 OPL-CE credits. Wilsonville; Holiday Inn Portland South; registration $395 by 9/27, $495 after www.westernforestry.org, Western Forestry & Cons Assoc., 503.226.4562 November 2 AOL Safety Conference; 8 OPL-CE credits. Lebanon; Best Western Boulder Falls Inn – Conference Center Full-day of great programs; registration required; 8:00am–5pm Register at www.oregonloggers.org or 503.364.1330 November 4–6 Pacific Logging Congress; OPL-CE credits. Lihue, Hawaii; Kauai Beach Resort – Conference Center Programs, meetings, socials, networking; registration required Register at www.pacificloggingcongress.org December 3–5 Pacific NW Forest Vegetation Management Conference; OPL-CE credits. Hillsboro (25 minutes west of Portland); Hidden Creek Community Center Topics on vegetation release of plantations and road access; Registration rate and details are pending Openings for speakers and exhibitors; contact: [email protected] www.westernforestry.org, Western Forestry & Cons Assoc., 503.226.4562 https://www.westernforestry.org/events/2024-pnw-forest-vegetation-management-conference/ 2024 Third Wednesday Monthly Workforce Development, Workshop Series; 2 OPL-CE credits each. Virtual Zoom or in-person options; locations and topics to be determined Series runs January through December 2024; 10am–Noon each workshop Forest Resource Association and Western Forestry & Conservation Assoc. www.westernforestry.org/upcoming-conferences/, 503.226.4562 To find more great forestry short-programs, held statewide by OR State University Forestry Extension, go to the OSU-Extension website: • http://extensionweb.forestry.oregonstate.edu/; Click on “Events Calendar” at bottom of webpage; then click “See All Events.” • Forestry Extension – Tree School Online Library features 52 past recorded webinars, featuring favorite Tree School topics. https://extension.oregonstate.edu/tree-school/regional-tree-schools OTHER POPULAR TRAINING PROVIDERS Community Colleges in Oregon www.educationatlas.com/oregon-community-colleges.html OR Small Business Development Centers (20 centers) www.oregonSBDC.org OR Construction Contractors Board www.oregon.gov/CCB/ OR Bureau of Labor & Industries https://www.oregon.gov/BOLI/pages/index.aspx OR-OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Admin) https://osha.oregon.gov/edu/Pages/index.aspx OR-OSHA Online Courses https://osha.oregon.gov/edu/courses/Pages/default.aspx OR Employment Department – OR WorkSource www.worksourceoregon.org www.qualityinfo.org SAIF Corp., safety & workers’ comp training programs https://www.saif.com/trainings.html Western Forestry & Conservation Assoc www.westernforestry.org t
26 The Mainline OPL & Professional Qualification 2024 SCHEDULE – OPL-CORE COURSES Oregon Professional Logger—Associated Oregon Loggers SFI Sustainable Forestry Initiative—Oregon SIC (8/19/24) ‘BRIDGE’ OPL QUALIFICATION EXPIRES 12/31/24, for individuals not yet completing OPL-QP and OPL-CE • For company to be OPL-qualified, must employ one QP individual, and crews overseen by a QP or OS • One-time only required core OPL courses to train individuals for OPL-QP (or OPL-OS qualification) IN-PERSON: OPL-Core Courses scheduled during 2024; register to attend at locations in five regions • Located near your business—In-person 5x full-sets of four required QP courses; and three OS courses ONLINE: OPL-Core Courses now available; for purchase and completion on-demand • Online Courses: Available now: all four OPL-QP courses; plus the one OPL-OS course is available CORE OPL-QP COURSES • 2024 OPL Core Course registration required—Register now—$60 fee per course (online or in-person) • To register or more information, visit: www.oregonloggers.org/ or call AOL 503.364.1330 Qualified Professional (OPL-QP)—Four courses required plus valid first aid card, plus CE, for QP individual 1. QP-Sustainable Forestry (required for QP only) 2. QP-Forest Practices (required for QP only) 3. QP-Business & Leadership (required for QP only) 4. QP-Safety & Technology (required for QP only) Onsite Supervisor (OPL-OS)—One course required plus valid first aid card, plus CE, for OS individual • OS-Onsite Supervisor (required for the optional OS qualification) › **OS is an optional qualification available for additional supervising individuals (and larger employers) QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL COURSES (QP) IN-PERSON 2024 NORTHWEST OREGON—QP COURSES January 23 Salem, OPL-QP Safety & Technology; Chemeketa Community College 8am–5pm January 24 Salem, OPL-QP Business & Leadership; Chemeketa Community College 8am–5pm January 31 Tillamook, OPL-QP Sustainable Forestry; Tillamook Bay Community College 7:30am–4:30pm February 1 Tillamook, OPL-QP Forest Practices; Tillamook Bay Community College 7:30am–4:30pm 2024 MID-VALLEY OREGON—QP COURSES March 19 Albany, OPL-QP Safety & Technology; Linn-Benton Community College 7:30am–4:30pm March 20 Albany, OPL-QP Business & Leadership; Linn-Benton Community College 7:30am–4:30pm October 22 Eugene, OPL-QP Sustainable Forestry; Lane Community College 7:30am–4:30pm October 23 Eugene, OPL-QP Forest Practices; Lane Community College 7:30am–4:30pm 2024 DOUGLAS-COOS OREGON—QP COURSES May 7 Roseburg, OPL-QP Sustainable Forestry; Umpqua Community College 7:30am–4:30pm May 8 Roseburg, OPL-QP Forest Practices; Umpqua Community College 7:30am–4:30pm May 21 Coos Bay, OPL-QP Safety & Technology; SW Oregon Community College 7:30am–4:30pm May 22 Coos Bay, OPL-QP Business & Leadership; SW Oregon Community College 7:30am–4:30pm 2024 NORTHEAST OREGON—QP COURSES March 13 Pendleton, OPL-QP Sustainable Forestry; Blue Mtn Community College 7:30am–4:30pm March 14 Pendleton, OPL-QP Forest Practices; Blue Mtn Community College 7:30am–4:30pm June 12 Pendleton, OPL-QP Safety & Technology; Blue Mtn Community College 7:30am–4:30pm June 13 Pendleton, OPL-QP Business & Leadership; Blue Mtn Community College 7:30am–4:30pm 2024 SOUTHWEST OREGON—QP COURSES November 7 Medford, OPL-QP Sustainable Forestry; Rogue Community College 7:30am–4:30pm November 8 Medford, OPL-QP Forest Practices; Rogue Community College 7:30am–4:30pm November 19 Medford, OPL-QP Safety & Technology; Rogue Community College 7:30am–4:30pm November 20 Medford, OPL-QP Business & Leadership; Rogue Community College 7:30am–4:30pm ONSITE SUPERVISOR—OS COURSES IN-PERSON MID-VALLEY. May 30. Eugene, OPL-Onsite Supervisor; Lane Community College 7:30am–4:30pm SOUTHWEST. October 24. Coos Bay, OPL-Onsite Supervisor; SW OR Community College 7:30am–4:30pm NORTHWEST. December 5. Salem, OPL-Onsite Supervisor; Hampton Inn, 510 Hawthorne Ave SE 7:30am–4:30pm
27 September 2024
28 The Mainline Policymaking & Advocacy Jewell School District in March filed a lawsuit in Oregon Circuit Court, challenging the newly-approved state forest habitat conservation plan (HCP), which will reduce by 35% the timber harvest revenues available to the school. The Jewell School District, serving 145 K–12 students in Northwest Oregon’s Clatsop County, lawsuit names Oregon Department of Forestry. The school is 100% funded by state timber revenue. Under the new HCP plan, that funding is anticipated to be slashed in half, losing $1 million or more. Although the state school funding formula could account for revenue changes, District managers are alarmed about impacts to the small school’s funding, its families, and local employment. The new HCP plan, which was approved by the Oregon Board of Forestry by a narrow 4-3 margin in March, increases the acreage of non-harvestable habitat across roughly 640,000 acres of state forests in Western Oregon. • AOL worked aggressively with forest and local government partners during the past several years of HCP development, in our unsuccessful mutual opposition to these restrictive and unworkable prohibitions of state forest management. We will continue lobbying at all levels of state government to overturn the damage, while seeking increased future harvest. “Jewell is heavily reliant on the timber revenues for two reasons,” said John DiLorenzo, attorney representing the school district. First, they need it for their funding stability. Second, the district does not want timber jobs to go away. Because when forest employment declines, then forest families leave the community and the school enrollment and education quality declines; or worse, the school closes and remaining students bussed to far-away schools. The lawsuit hinges on a requirement under the 2010 Northwest Oregon State Forests Management Plan, which is codified as an administrative rule under Oregon law. The administrative rule states that revenue from state forestland must be sufficient to cover the cost of implementing the Northwest Oregon State Forests Management Plan. The lawsuit challenges that current and future lower harvest levels authorized by the state forester are not high enough to meet that requirement. The lower new harvest levels under the HCP would put the Department of Forestry state forest program in a financial deficit, and would be insufficient to cover the cost of current or future necessary forest management. The department relies on one-third of state timber revenue to sustain programs and staffing levels. The other two-thirds goes to local governments in 16 state forestland trust counties, which decades ago deeded the timberland to the state under the now much-disputed terms of shared future timber harvest revenues. DiLorenzo said, “We believe the department has two choices… increase harvests… or, slash their budgets.” He said the main lawsuit objective is prompting a second look at the damaging HCP, to maintain harvest level, habitat, and school revenue. t School District Challenges State Forest Revenue Decline ›By Rex Storm, Executive Vice President
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