About the National Hardwood Lumber Association
Strong Roots. Global Reach.
Founded in 1898, the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) was established by 37 dedicated lumbermen in Chicago, who all came together to create uniform standards for the grading and trading of hardwood lumber. Today, NHLA continues to serve our membership as well as the broader hardwood lumber consumer base as the foremost authority in the hardwood industry, with a mission to represent the entire hardwood supply chain at all levels of production.
NHLA is a membership-based international trade association that serves as the voice of the hardwood industry, representing timber producers, sawmills, lumber graders, wood products manufacturers, and countless other professionals engaged in the North American hardwood market. While many regional and state associations exist and are our valued partners, NHLA is the only national voice advocating for the hardwood industry, giving us a unique position to influence both industry standards and public policy.
At NHLA, our mission is to serve members engaged in the commerce of North American hardwood lumber by maintaining order, structure, and ethics in the ever-evolving global hardwood marketplace. We are committed to providing unique member services that support growth and success, promoting North American hardwoods as the sustainable and versatile choice for various industries, and advocating for the hardwood community in both public and private policy issues to ensure the long-term health of the industry. We also offer an exclusive platform for unparalleled networking opportunities, connecting professionals across the global hardwood trade. Through these efforts, NHLA ensures that our members remain well-equipped to thrive in a competitive market, contributing to the ongoing sustainability and growth of the hardwood industry.
