Kevin Kanduch - Presidents Message

I hope the holiday season treated everyone well and that the New Year is off to a safe and prosperous start. We are in the time of year now that is always a push and a grind to the end of the season, although we are still waiting on that elusive thing known as winter! I think we have all felt the effects of this rather unusual winter and I think it is anyone's guess as to what the last little bit of the season will bring. I for one am keeping my fingers crossed for some consistently cold weather and some moisture in hopes that we all can finish the season strong, healthy, and not gearing up for fire season in April.

Industry Update: The bad—between the winter that never came, and uninspired markets, it is no surprise that it has been a lackluster season for a lot of companies. On top of that there is a massive amount of uncertainty that seems to be gripping the entire world, which leads to investors, projects, and markets not behaving in a predicable or positive way.

Thanks for sticking with me through that. Anyone who knows me is probably in shock right now as I am usually not one to talk about the negatives—rather I focus on the positives. Even though I like to focus on the positives, I think it is important to acknowledge and understand the negatives. This allows us to adapt and make the decisions that are necessary so that we can see the bad times through and prosper during the good times. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

So, with that being said…

The good— anyone watching the markets is seeing a nice and steady uptick in the right direction as we are approaching building season. It has a ways to go, but a nice and steady approach is always more welcome than a fast and furious upswing. Interest rates have also come down a reasonable amount, which will likely lead to the release of some pent up demand for building. We also have a Chief of the Forest Service that is trying to get some big items accomplished that will yield more and better projects. Even fuel has come down a modest amount. Honestly, I see a lot of positive things happening right now and I think they are a precursor to good times ahead.

KLM Update: I will keep this one brief to save space—we are wrapping up a logging project in the Big Hole and moving closer to Philipsburg to finish the season off strong. The excavation side has been doing some small projects here and there as we are navigating the weird weather. Firewood sales have been rather erratic as people don’t seem to want to buy firewood when the weather is warm—almost like they are assuming it won’t get cold again!

Closing: I want to personally thank everyone reading this. This organization, and industry would not be here without you. Your hard work, tenacity, and gumption are what makes this such an amazing industry to be apart of. The MLA is here to support, promote, and enhance this industry and all of us. I would like to close by asking everyone to be as active and present as possible in the MLA. Everyone’s voice is important and crucial in ensuring that the MLA is as effective and successful as possible—and that results in a more successful timber industry for all.

Stay safe out there, and don’t forget that this May meeting is our 50^th anniversary and is sure to be a great time!

-Kevin

Stay safe out there,

Kevin Kanduch

President, Montana Logging Association