These funds provide financial assistance to modernize post-kiln processing operations with a state-of-the-art grading and trim line system

Wheeland Lumber CO. Inc. received a $1,976,836 Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service under the Wood Utilization Assistance program (CFDA 10.674), awarded September 11, 2025, with a completion date of June 1, 2027. The grant funds the modernization of Wheeland Lumber's post-kiln processing operations through the installation of a state-of-the-art grading and trim line system featuring automated scanning, grading, and sorting equipment. This capital equipment installation and infrastructure improvement is expected to increase the company's annual production capacity from 9 to 11 million board feet while simultaneously improving workplace safety by reducing physically demanding manual tasks such as lifting and lumber handling.

Beyond operational improvements, the project advances the Wood Utilization Assistance program's broader objectives of strengthening the domestic forest products industry and promoting sustainable forest management. The modernized facility will support the manufacturing of high-quality wood products while providing economic incentives to regional landowners in Pennsylvania to maintain and manage their forests, thereby reinforcing regenerative forest management practices and increasing carbon sequestration. This investment exemplifies the program's emphasis on expanding processing capacity and operational efficiency within the domestic timber supply chain while achieving environmental sustainability goals.

This project will integrate automated scanning, grading, and sorting equipment. The upgrade is expected to increase production from 9 to 11 million board feet annually while improving workplace safety by reducing physically demanding tasks such as lifting and handling lumber. The upgraded operations will support the manufacturing of high-quality wood products, fostering sustainable practices and contributing to the united states timber supply chain. This investment supports long-term environmental and economic sustainability by reinforcing regenerative forest management practices, increasing carbon sequestration, and providing economic incentives for regional landowners to maintain and manage their forests.