Lakes States Lumber Association Newsletter

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October-November 2025

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Are you tired of the word tariffs yet? Even if you are pro-tariffs or not, I think it is fair to say the word tariffs is exhausting. I'm not here to debate whether the tariffs are right or wrong. What I do know is that in order to outlast a communist country like China in a trade war, our government needs to be prepared to assist more than just the crop farmers financially.

China is playing the long game, betting on the fact that we have elections that can have consequences, and they are seeing how long the United States can hold on. I think we all agree business is hard enough, and then when you throw tariffs into the conversation, it creates a truly challenging economic climate.

This is a time where, regardless of personal feelings on tariffs or political parties, we need to come together and let our legislators know how these tariffs have negatively impacted our industry. If lumber manufacturing is not included in the agricultural assistance or other government relief packages, we could potentially see a collapse in the United States' lumber manufacturing sector. We must advocate for the future of our mills and our people.

If you need help getting your message to your legislators in D.C., I strongly encourage you to reach out to Dana Cole with The Hardwood Federation. Dana and her team have been working tirelessly to:

• Secure aid for our sector.
• Educate legislators and the administration on the severe negative impact of the tariffs on our industry.

This is a time where we need to be doubling down on our efforts in supporting The Hardwood Federation. Our collective voice is our greatest strength right now.

 

Kirby Kendrick
LSLA President
Kendrick Forest Products
kirby@kendrickinc.com