Sustainable Forestry: How Frank Miller Lumber Operates as a Zero-Waste Facility

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

At Frank Miller Lumber, we believe sustainable forestry is not just a responsibility—it’s a commitment to preserving our forests, supporting our communities, and delivering high-quality American hardwoods in the most environmentally friendly manner possible.

As a leader in the hardwood industry, we are proud to be a zero-waste facility. We ensure that every part of the tree is utilized efficiently, from responsible harvesting practices to innovative ways of repurposing by-products. We are dedicated to sustainable forestry and minimizing our environmental impact.

What is Sustainable Forestry?

Sustainable forestry involves managing forests to ensure their health, biodiversity, and productivity for future generations. This includes responsibly harvesting trees, replanting forests, protecting wildlife habitats, water quality, and soil integrity.

 Unlike fast-growing softwoods, American hardwoods such as red oak, white oak and walnut regenerate naturally. Responsible forest management ensures that hardwood resources are continuously replenished, allowing us to provide premium lumber while protecting the environment.

How Frank Miller Lumber Supports Sustainable Forestry

  1. Certified and Responsible Sourcing – We work with forestry partners who follow sustainable harvesting guidelines set by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). These practices protect biodiversity, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure forests remain healthy for generations.
  2. Selective Harvesting for Forest—We source our hardwoods from responsibly managed forests, where harvesting removes mature trees while allowing younger trees to thrive. This method promotes natural forest regeneration and ensures long-term sustainability.

Frank Miller Lumber: A Zero-Waste Facility

At Frank Miller Lumber, we make sure that no part of the tree goes to waste. From lumber production to byproduct utilization, we maximize efficiency and sustainability at every step of our process.

How We Achieve Zero Waste

  1. Efficient Lumber Processing – Our sawmill operations optimize cuts to reduce waste, maximizing the yield from each log.
  1. Utilizing Every Byproduct
  • Sawdust – Used as fuel for kilns, providing renewable energy to dry lumber
  • Bark – Recycled into mulch for landscaping
  • Wood Chips – Used in paper production
  • Cutoffs – Repurposed for secondary markets such as pallets
  1. Energy Efficiency & Carbon Reduction – Using wood byproducts to fuel our kilns reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers our carbon footprint.

Sustainability is Our Future

We are proud to be a zero-waste company focused on sustainability. From our responsible forestry partnerships to our waste-free production methods, we are dedicated to protecting the environment while delivering the highest quality hardwoods to our customers.

When you choose Frank Miller Lumber’s hardwoods, you’re not just getting premium–quality wood – you’re supporting a company that values sustainability, conservation, and a greener future for all.

An Open Letter to Our Valued Customers

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

Dear Customers,

One word comes to mind as we reflect on the journey that has brought Frank Miller Lumber to where we are today: gratitude. We are deeply thankful for your continued trust and partnership. Your loyalty and support have allowed us to grow, innovate, and continue delivering the highest-quality lumber products.

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At Frank Miller Lumber, our commitment to excellence is at the core of everything we do. We know that this commitment would mean little without customers like you, who share our passion for quality and craftsmanship. Whether you’ve been with us for decades or just joined the Frank Miller family, we want you to know how much we appreciate your trust in us.

Every day, our team works diligently to ensure that the lumber we produce meets the highest standards, not just because it’s our job but because we take immense satisfaction in delivering products that will stand the test of time. We understand that our success is directly linked to your success, and we are honored to be a part of the projects that shape your businesses, homes, and communities.

We also want to acknowledge the challenges the past few years have brought. The world has changed unexpectedly; the lumber industry has faced many difficulties. Yet, through it all, your support has remained unwavering. This resilience inspires us to continue to push forward, innovate, and find ways to serve you better.

Looking ahead, we are excited about the future. We are investing in new technologies and constantly seeking ways to improve our services. No matter how much we grow or change, one thing will remain the same: our commitment to you, our valued customers.

Thank you for choosing Frank Miller Lumber. Thank you for your trust, your business, and your continued partnership. We look forward to many more years working together and helping you achieve your goals.

With sincere appreciation,

The Frank Miller Lumber Team

A Day in the Life of Marketing and Public Relations

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

A Day in the Life of Marketing and Public Relations

The marketing and public relations world is full of variety at Frank Miller Lumber. No two days are the same.  A wide range of activities are tackled to ensure our brand stays at the forefront of the industry and community.

Content creation is critical, whether writing blog posts or creating marketing literature for customers, architects, and designers. Our goal is to produce content that educates others while also working on advertising efforts, including designing ads.

Developing marketing campaigns involves coordinating with various departments. Most recently sample kits were assembled of red and white oak to educate users on how comparable the species are when stained.  Complementary literature was included in these efforts. This campaign resulted in inquiries and red oak sales.

Another important responsibility is overseeing the creation of social media content. Social media is a powerful tool for connecting with our audience and showcasing our brand, company culture, the hardwood we produce, and its end destinations.

The website is a critical touchpoint for customers keeping it updated with the latest stock list is essential. Regular updates ensure customers can access the most current information about our products.

The marketing and public relations world is ever-changing, from rebranding efforts to community outreach. For the latest news and updates, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter.

Frank Miller Lumber Appoints Susan Mathias Maurais as President and CEO

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

Union City, Ind., October 10, 2024—Frank Miller Lumber is proud to announce the appointment of Susan Mathias Maurais as President and Chief Executive Officer as of August 1, 2024. Maurais has an extensive background, having served as a board member since 1996 and advancing to Vice Chair in 2017. Upon Martha Miller Mathias’s retirement in 2020, Maurais took over as the Chairman of the Board. Taking on the additional role as President and CEO in 2024, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as a fourth-generation member of the family-owned business.

As part of the family legacy, Maurais is deeply committed to maintaining Frank Miller Lumber’s tradition of producing high-quality quartersawn hardwoods. “It’s a tremendous honor to lead a business that has been part of my family for generations,” said Maurais. “I am dedicated to upholding our strong traditions while driving innovation and growth for the future.” In her new role as President and CEO, Maurais will focus on expanding Frank Miller Lumber’s global market presence, advancing sustainability initiatives, and driving innovation across all areas of operation.

“We are proud to announce Susan Maurais as the President and CEO of Frank Miller Lumber while she continues to serve as the Chairperson,” said Frank Miller Lumber’s Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Tyler Johnston. “Her expanded roles will enhance our ability to innovate and grow while upholding the values and legacy of Frank Miller Lumber.”

Frank Miller Lumber: Global Reach and International Presence

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

We take satisfaction in our extensive history and commitment to delivering the finest hardwood lumber to customers worldwide. As a trusted name in the industry, we have built a robust international presence that allows us to service clients across the globe with the same dedication and quality that our local customers have come to expect.

A Legacy of Excellence

Established in 1903, Frank Miller Lumber has grown from a local sawmill to a global leader in the hardwood lumber industry. Our dedication to quality, sustainability, and innovation has allowed us to expand our reach far beyond our roots in Indiana. We proudly serve customers in 5 continents and 40 countries, delivering the highest-quality hardwoods to meet diverse needs and applications.

Strategic Partnerships and Global Distribution

Our success in the international market is built on strong partnerships and a well-established distribution network. By collaborating with trusted partners worldwide, we ensure that our products are available to customers wherever they are located.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Frank Miller Lumber. As we expand our international presence, we remain committed to responsible forestry practices and environmental stewardship. Our hardwoods are sourced from sustainably managed forests, and we adhere to stringent standards to ensure that our operations positively impact the environment. This commitment not only preserves our natural resources but also meets the growing demand for eco-friendly products in the global market.

Looking Ahead

 As we expand globally, we strive to continue pushing the boundaries in the hardwood lumber industry, guaranteeing our customers have access to the finest products and services worldwide. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing our journey as one of the leading providers of premium American Hardwoods.

Whether you are in North America, Europe, or Asia, Frank Miller Lumber is here to meet your hardwood needs with unmatched quality and service. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how our global expertise and reach can support your projects.

A Day in the Life of Human Resources

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

Human Resources has evolved over the years. What once was known for hiring and firing has turned into much more.  In just one week, you could experience benefit essentials, the basics of workers’ compensation, FMLA, COBRA, OSHA and Safety, environmental, the Affordable Care Act, payroll, 401k plans, policy writing, training and development, and so much more.

The multitude of hats that need to be worn in Human Resources has become so vast that HR Managers need to be multi-talented, have strong interpersonal skills, and be well-versed in the latest technologies to complete tasks faster while keeping abreast of government regulations and compliance changes.

It doesn’t stop there!  In HR, you are the voice of the employees while keeping a healthy balance for the Company, ensuring everyone is engaged and heard.  Best practices are established to give employees confidence and respect while strategizing on coaching, counseling, and discipline.  HR can drive productivity by improving their experience and performance.

Employees are your greatest asset.  They are our number one priority!

Welcome to Human Resources!

The Unique Qualities of Red Oak: A Frank Miller Lumber Highlight

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

At Frank Miller Lumber, we take pride in supplying the highest-quality hardwoods to customers worldwide. Whether you’re a craftsman, architect, or designer, red oak stands out for its beauty, strength, and adaptability.

Aesthetic Appeal: The Beauty of Red Oak

Designer and Craftsman: Yew Studio

One of the most distinctive features of red oak is its open-grain pattern. This prominent grain enhances its visual appeal and makes it an excellent choice for staining. Red oak absorbs stains evenly, allowing for various finishes, from light and natural to deep and dark tones, giving artisans the flexibility to achieve the desired aesthetic.

Durability and Strength: Built to Last  

Red oak is not just about looks; it’s a workhorse in terms of durability and strength. Red oak is tough enough to withstand heavy use, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and demanding applications. Red oak is often used in flooring, cabinetry, and furniture – where longevity and resilience are key.

Sustainability: A Responsible Choice

 We are committed to sustainability at Frank Miller Lumber and red oak aligns perfectly with this commitment. Red oak is abundant in North America. By choosing red oak, you select a material of exceptional quality that supports sustainable forestry practices that help preserve our natural environment for future generations.

Why Red Oak from Frank Miller Lumber?

 We’ve been sourcing and supplying top-quality red oak for generations. Our commitment to excellence ensures that each piece of lumber we provide meets the highest quality and sustainability standards. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or embarking on your first woodworking project, red oak from Frank Miller Lumber is a choice that combines beauty, strength, and environmental responsibility.

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Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods - Exotic Hardwoods

Embracing a New Chapter: Welcome to Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods

Posted by Chelsea Timmerman on

At Frank Miller Lumber, we’ve always been committed to providing top-quality lumber and unparalleled customer service. Over the years, we’ve grown and evolved, continually striving to meet and exceed the expectations of our valued customers. In recent weeks, we have slowly rolled the rebranding of our retail store to Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods. This change reflects our dedication to enhancing our product offers and signifies our commitment to becoming your premier destination for the finest woods and woodworking materials.

Expanded Product Offerings

Bush Oil EZ-Sanding System

With our rebranding, we are excited to introduce an expanded range of products catering to various woodworking needs. Whether you are a professional carpenter, a dedicated hobbyist, or someone embarking on a DIY project, you will find an extensive selection of premium exotic hardwoods, locally made finishes, handcrafted gifts, and much more.

Our inventory includes:

Exotic Hardwoods: Explore rare and unique species from around the world, such as zebrawood, purpleheart, and padauk, ideal for crafting one-of-a-kind pieces.

Domestic Hardwoods: Choose from the finest quality oak, cherry, walnut, maple, and more, all sourced sustainably.

Specialty Plywood: Choose from various high-grade plywood, ideal for structural and decorative applications.

Live Edge Slabs: Experience the natural beauty of live edge slabs, each uniquely shaped and perfect for creating stunning tables, countertops, and other statement pieces.

Woodworking Accessories: Explore a range of finishes, sandpaper, and Bush Oil Product finishing kits to easily complete your projects.

A New Look, the Same Trusted Service

While our name and logo may have changed, our dedication to serving our customers remains unwavering. We are still the same family-owned business you have come to know and trust, now with a renewed focus on providing an even better shopping experience. We invite you to visit Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods and experience the transformation yourself.

Thank you for your continued support and trust in Frank Miller Lumber Fine Woods.

For more information, please contact us at 765-964-7705 or [email protected].