As a first-generation logger in central Maine, it has become more and more difficult to operate due to shrinking markets, inflation, high interest rates, fuel and other expenses that continue to skyrocket.

Similar to farmers, loggers like myself have no control over markets or how much money we receive for a load of wood. We are price takers, not price setters. The industry is in critical need of a hand-up, not a hand-out. The governor’s proposed agriculture, forestry, and food producers bond promised to do just that. 

Logging contractors operate in a capital-intensive industry, relying heavily on very expensive equipment to operate efficiently and safely. However, over the last 10 years, the cost of logging equipment has doubled, making it more difficult to reinvest in new equipment and increasing costs of repairing the equipment we currently operate.

The bond bill was designed to provide funding for a new low-interest loan program that would help businesses like mine reinvest in highly efficient, ground-sensitive logging equipment, so we can continue to provide the public with forest products. 

This investment in Maine’s heritage industries, the first of its kind, could help Maine remain competitive in local, regional and global markets. In addition, it would protect jobs for our employees and their families and keep Maine’s forests working for future generations.

Our agriculture and forest products industries desperately need the investment.

John Hinds
Wayne