Episode 75: Oregon’s Lumber Grading Program

What this episode covers

In this episode of Oregon State University Extension’s In the Woods podcast, host Jacob Putney talks with wood products extension specialist Scott Leavengood about a new lumber grading training program created in response to Oregon Senate Bill 1061 (the Oregon Forest to Homes Act). The program will certify small-scale sawmill operators to visually grade their own lumber for use in Oregon building construction under a limited, direct chain of custody, without applying grade stamps. The one-day trainings will teach simplified, conservative grading rules for key Oregon softwood species and include a hands-on test; certification is valid for five years. Use is limited to lumber sold directly to homeowners/builders for one- and two-family detached dwellings, with documentation provided for building inspectors. Initial sessions are planned for October in La Grande and Roseburg, with registration via the Oregon Wood Innovation Center website.

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