America's Forest Technology,

"Growing Better"

An overview of OLC 2006

America’s Forest Technology, "Growing Better" — the theme of the 2006 Oregon Logging Conference — speaks to the timber harvest, regeneration and maintenance of forestlands that have evolved over the past two hundred years. Long gone are the days known as "cut and run." Nowadays, forest professionals are at the helm of the harvest, and orchestrate operations with skill and precision that is an art form in itself.

From February 23 — 25, 2006, Oregon Logging Conference will showcase a vast equipment exhibition along with industry presentations by experts in the field of safety, mechanized technology and forest practices. Professional Logger credits vary according to topic, but this is a fabulous opportunity to update skills and earn points toward certification. Loggers can earn as many as nine credits by attending seminars and presentations offered throughout the two-day session.

Education

Topics slated for 2006 will encompass Better Ideas/New Technologies in Logging; New Valmet Products from Ko-matsu Forest; Calculating Operating Costs and Timing When Considering New Equipment; Crew Training and Communication, Safety Training — Tools and Techniques; Controlling Sediment from Forest Roads; Managing Substance
Abuse in the Workplace; Forest Stewardship — Endangered Species; and more. Seminar and panel schedules will allow for maximum attendance and available credits.

Exhibits

In the outdoor exhibit area, participants can stroll through manufacturers’ displays of state-of-the-art equipment while availing themselves of product information and innovations in never-before seen presentations. You will find the unique and unusual alongside standard, tried and true producers. Hundreds of indoor displays will highlight products, parts and equipment available in a one-stop-shopping environment. Don’t forget to stop for lunch or a snack offered by exciting new concessionaires, conveniently located throughout the fairgrounds.

Events

Extracurricular activities kick off with Oregon Women in Timber’s Casino Night and Auction Preview during the annual, hosted Meet and Greet/Conference Registration on Wednesday, February 22. Subsequent activities included with paid registration are Thursday’s Opening Session Breakfast in the Wheeler Pavilion, Friday’s Hosted Members’ Breakfast, and the Sawdust Bowl social events on Thursday and Friday following the days’ educational lectures. Ladies present will want to attend this year ’s Desserts for Dreams charity benefit for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) at the Eugene Hilton on Friday afternoon.

To cap off this annual affair, Oregon Women in Timber will proudly open the doors to the Hilton’s Playwrights’ Hall, Friday at 5 p.m., inviting OLC affiliates in to enjoy the Silent Auction followed by their hosted reception. At 7 p.m. an elegant seated dinner will precede the Live Auction fundraiser, where bidding will be fast and furious for weekend trips, artwork, jewelry and a host of other wonderful items. Dancing ‘til midnight will seal the evening program.

Saturday will be chock full of family fun at the free educational displays and activities for youngsters in the Wheeler Pavilion (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.). Take time to walk just around the corner to watch the High School Forestry Skills Competition. You will be amazed at the techniques and talent exhibited here. High school athletes hone their skills all year in preparation and you won’t be disappointed by what you see. Cheer on these future loggers while being entertained!

Saturday will also introduce a new undertaking by Oregon Logging Conference with the Hands-On Training Seminar. This new educational experience will afford members the opportunity to dig right in as they learn new mechanical techniques and skills during this practicum. Bring your gloves and we will supply the hand cleaner and shop rags.

For additional information on conference activities, registration information and time schedules, please visit the website at www.oregonloggingconference.com or call the conference office at (541) 686-9191. Watch for updates and informative articles in upcoming issues of TimberWest magazine.

TW

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