Description

GGHI Business Forum Lunch: State of the Forest

Join Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. (GGHI) on Tuesday, October 20th for an important conversation about the state of forestry and what it means for our forests, communities, and economy.

This Business Forum Lunch will bring together forestry leaders to discuss who owns Washington’s forests, how different ownership objectives shape forest management, and the challenges facing our region’s wood supply.
Guest Speakers Include:
- Patti Case: Washington Forest Protection Association
- ​Brian Sayler: VP/GM, Green Diamond Resource Company
- Matt Comisky: Washington State Manager, American Forest Resource Council
- John Bull: City of Montesano Forester 

What We’ll Discuss

Who owns the forest?
A look at forest ownership across Washington and right here in Grays Harbor County, including state, federal, private, and tribal lands.

Why ownership matters:
How the objectives of different forest landowners influence how forests are managed, including how much forestland is already unavailable for harvest.

The state of our wood supply:
Why Washington’s current and projected wood supply is a growing concern and what it means for the future of forestry and local communities.

Why It Matters to Grays Harbor:

- Environment
Explore the relationship between active forest management, wildfire risk, carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat, and healthy soils and watersheds.
-  Community
Forestry supports more than jobs. Local forest-related businesses and employees contribute to community organizations, activities, and the social fabric of Grays Harbor.
- Economy
Understand the impact of forestry on local jobs, wages, taxes, and revenue that directly support local taxing districts and public services.
- The Cost of Inaction
What are the potential environmental, social, and economic consequences of continuing on the current path?

We hope you'll join us for a timely discussion about Washington’s forests, the future of the wood supply, and the role forestry plays in the health and vitality of our communities.

​All guests are required to pre-register for this event. Walk-ins will not be allowed. To register, click the green 'Register' button on this page and follow the prompts. A catered lunch is included in the registration fee.

UPDATED CANCELLATION POLICY — OCTOBER 2026

When you register for a Greater Grays Harbor event, GGHI is responsible for the cost of your lunch/event reservation. All registrations are subject to the following cancellation policy:

- Substitutions: If you are unable to attend, you may send a substitute in your place. Substitutions are welcome any time prior to the event.

- No-shows: Registrants who do not attend and do not arrange for a substitute will be charged the full registration fee.

- Late registrations: If you request to be added to the guest list after the registration closing date, payment must be made by cash or check at event check-in.

- Invoicing: Business invoicing is not available unless payment arrangements have been pre-approved by GGHI.

Thank you for understanding that these policies help GGHI cover the costs associated with event attendance and reservations.