Key partners in the Minnesota forest and bio-based economy gathered on April 23 for Timber Transformations: Advancing the Mass Timber Industry in Minnesota, a half-day event focused on responsibly advancing the mass timber potential in the region.

Held at the Mineland Reclamation building, the event opened with remarks from Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Commissioner Ida Rukavina and Katie Fernholz of Dovetail Partners, who also served as emcee.

The program began with an industry overview featuring Monica Haynes of the University of Minnesota Duluth’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research, Jeremy Fauskee of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Brian Brashaw of the U.S. Forest Service and Fernholz.

A Great Lakes Initiative panel followed, exploring Midwest regional collaboration in mass timber. Panelists included Rukavina, Matt Shermoen of Itasca Economic Development Corporation, Michaela Harms of Sterling Solutions and Fernholz. Jena Mertz of Giant moderated the discussion.

The final session focused on the current state of the industry and opportunities for growth. Speakers included Patty Thielen of the Department of Natural Resources, Eric Singsaas of the Natural Resources Research Institute, Rob Busch of the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters and Rukavina, who also emceed the segment.

“Northeastern Minnesota has long been at the heart of the state’s forestry and mineral industries,” said Rukavina. “The emergence of mass timber presents an exciting opportunity for both our region and all of Minnesota to expand and lead in this growing industry."

The event concluded with a Q&A and brainstorming session, encouraging participants to share ideas and continue momentum toward a sustainable mass timber economy in Minnesota.