RAHC and NHLA drive U.S. hardwood growth with USDA support

Published on July 29, 2025 Time: loading...

Advancing American hardwood markets received a major boost this month as the Real American Hardwood Coalition (RAHC) and the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) secured 2025 USDA Forest Service Wood Innovations Grants. The federal funding helps drive the industry’s growth.

Real American Hardwood Coalition Awarded $275,000

RAHC received $275,000 to fund its project:
“Expand hardwood markets for mills across the U.S.”
This award backs RAHC’s national campaign to educate consumers and promote real American hardwood. Efforts highlight the sustainability, performance, and aesthetic appeal of domestic hardwoods. The program builds long-term awareness and market demand for U.S.-grown hardwood.

NHLA Receives $80,000 for Data‑Driven Tools

The National Hardwood Lumber Association was granted $80,000 for its initiative:
“Develop tools and performance data to improve market share of domestic hardwood lumber products, thereby supporting active management and rural jobs across the U.S.”
The focus will be on research‑based resources and performance data. These tools aim to boost confidence among architects, builders, and retailers in American hardwood products. Rural timber communities benefit.

USDA Invests $80 Million in Wood Innovations Grants

Both awards are part of a wider $80 million USDA Forest Service Wood Innovations Grant Program. The program supports projects that:

Strengthen forest product markets
Promote wood as a renewable building material
Support active forest management
Encourage innovation, forest health, and rural job growth across America

Hardwood Industry Strong in 2025 Grant Cycle

Additional hardwood‑focused projects funded in 2025 include:

Sawmill modernization: Orion Hardwoods (IN), Rutland Lumber (MS), Oaks Unlimited (NC)
Sustainability upgrades: Fitzpatrick & Weller (NY), Mullican Flooring (NY), Deer Park Lumber (PA)
Advanced research: University of Kentucky (KY), Henkel Corp. (NJ), Michigan Tech (MI)
Product development: Maryland DNR (thermally modified decking), DB Global (oak barrels)

These projects show innovation, resilience, and momentum across the hardwood sector.

Industry Leadership from NHLA & RAHC

As a founding member of RAHC, NHLA plays a leading role in these initiatives. Founded in 1898 by thirty‑seven lumbermen in Chicago, NHLA established uniform standards for hardwood grading and trade. Today, NHLA is the only national trade association representing the full North American hardwood supply chain.

The organization serves timber producers, sawmills, graders, product manufacturers, and other hardwood professionals. NHLA promotes member success through standards, education, and public policy advocacy. Networking opportunities connect industry professionals globally. NHLA positions American hardwood as a sustainable, versatile material in both public and private sectors.

Market Impact & Future Outlook

Federal support for RAHC and NHLA aligns with mission goals. It underpins domestic hardwood marketing and innovation strategies. The awards strengthen public policy influence and industry standards. They also reinforce rural economies.

These grants are expected to fuel:

Increased demand for U.S. hardwood
Greater confidence in performance metrics
Broader consumer awareness
New market opportunities for hardwood producers