Presents annual Forest Products Award

COLUMBIA FALLS, MT -- Governor Gianforte this week presented his annual Forest Products Award to the Weyerhaeuser Raw Materials Team at their Flathead Valley facility during Montana Forest Products Week in recognition of their steadfast commitment to active forest management and the production of Montana wood products.

“While the forest products marketplace continues to evolve in the face of significant challenges, companies like Weyerhaeuser Raw Materials are helping support our economy and responsibly manage our forests,” Gov. Gianforte said. “The Weyerhaeuser Team has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication.”

The honorees of the Governor’s Forest Products Award included Weyerhaeuser team members Shaney Neuharth, Zack Miller, Milo Funk, and Jacob Parent. Miller and Parent focus on sustainable forest management and raw material procurement to ensure non-sawlog materials are used productively. Funk manages by-product procurement, handling over 400,000 tons annually, and Neuharth leads initiatives to utilize slash material for heating systems, reducing reliance on natural gas and lowering emissions.

“When you dedicate your career to this industry, it’s nice to be recognized and being able to share our story and the impact we have on our communities and the forests,” Neuharth said of receiving the award. When you dedicate your career to this industry, it’s nice to be recognized and being able to share our story and the impact we have on our communities and the forests,” Neuharth said of receiving the award.

Beyond their operational roles, the team is involved in community education, from teaching University of Montana students about manufacturing processes to engaging fifth graders at the Annual Forestry Expo.

“Congratulations to the dedicated raw materials team at Weyerhaeuser whose valuable contributions to the forest products industry help create necessary products for building and manufacturing while also serving as an important partner in managing our forest’s health,” said Montana’s Department of Natural Resources and Conservation Director Amanda Kaster.

Gov. Gianforte’s Forest Products Award recognizes an outstanding person or entity for their work to actively manage Montana forests, responsibly develop forested resources, and/or promote the use of Montana wood products.

On Tuesday, the governor signed a proclamation recognizing Oct. 20-26 as Montana Forest Products week to promote the forest products industry and recognize its many contributions to Montana.

The proclamation may be viewed here.