2026 Summer Conference
Williamsburg Lodge
Colonial Williamsburg, VA
August 1-4, 2026
Make your room reservations early!
Register Online Download Reg Form Reserve Rooms
View Agenda
Celebrate the nation’s 250th Anniversary & Colonial Williamsburg Foundation’s 100th.
Technology is improving timber purchasing and sawmill production are leading presentations at the 2026 Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers, Inc. Summer Conference.
There will also be programs on domestic and international markets and updates on promotion. A special visit is planned by an 18th century leader.
The Conference is set for Aug. 1-4 at the Colonial Williamsburg Lodge in Williamsburg, VA. It is a special time to visit Colonial Williamsburg with celebrations set to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary and the 100th year of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation which oversees the events and buildings.
Confirmed speakers are:
– AI in the Sawmill: Business to Bucking Log Technologies. Virginia Tech Associate Professor and Extension Specialist Pipiet Larasatie will discuss developments in artificial intelligence for sawmills for business and bucking.
– Tariffs and the EUDR Impact on U.S. Hardwoods in 2026 by American Hardwood Export Council International Program Manager Tripp Pryor. He will discuss the latest updates and impact on exports.
– Domestic Markets For Hardwoods by Hardwood Market Report/Fastmarkets Editor Andy Johnson. He will update domestic grade markets for hardwoods.
– TimberSync Finds Trees For Mills by Ace Heinle who will share new technology to connect sawmills with forest landowners that generates results.
– Real American Hardwood will present the latest videos, social media and design contests promoting solid hardwood products to architects & designers.
– Pit Sawmill Tour on Tuesday at 10 am to view the Colonial Williamsburg method of producing lumber. The mill was rebuilt with funds from AHMI, PLM and several AHMI members.
There will be ample time for networking with the leading producers and distributors of Appalachian hardwoods and secondary manufacturers. Plan to join the fun with the summer golf tournament, croquet and pickle ball.
The Colonial Williamsburg Lodge offers top-ranked golf, a decadent spa, an close proximity to historic Williamsburg. Attendees will have access to passes for multi-day visits to the period homes, shops and more. There are also theme parks and other historic sites in the area.
All AHMI attendees are invited to march with a Fife and Drum Corps to the reception and dinner at Shields’ Tavern. It is a return to the 1700s for drinks and dinner.
You may register online at www.appalachianhardwood.org and follow the link to Meetings. Please make your room reservations there or directly with the Colonial Williamsburg Lodge at (800) 261-9530. Book your room by July 1, 2026 and rooms start at $229.
Please make dining reservations early for the best selections. Business casual is requested.
For more information, call the AHMI office at (336) 885-8315.
2026 Summer Conference Agenda
Saturday, Aug. 1
Relax on your own
6 pm Early Bird reception
Sunday, Aug. 2
2-4 pm – AHMI Board of Trustees Meeting
3-5 pm – Registration in lobby
6-7 pm – Welcome Reception sponsored by Stringer Industries
Dinner on your own
Monday, Aug. 3
8:30 am – General Session
12 pm – Golf Tournament on Green Course
2 pm – Pickle Ball Tournament on tennis courts
2 pm – Croquet Tournament on Spa Lawn
5:45 pm – March to Shields’ Tavern
6-7 pm – Monday Reception and dinner at Shields’ Tavern
Tuesday, Aug. 4
8:30 am – Breakout Sessions (concurrent)
10 am – Tour of pit sawmill
Departure – Have a safe trip home
Williamsburg is living history…
Colonial Williamsburg is a unique place where you can step back in time to the 18th century. This living history museum brings the past to life with its historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and engaging activities.
Visitors can wander through cobblestone streets and see how people lived during colonial times. It’s a fantastic spot for families, history buffs, and anyone looking for a fun day out.
The Historic Area of Colonial Williamsburg includes 89 original 18th-century structures. Hundreds of houses, shops and public outbuildings are reconstructed on their original foundations. Museums, gardens and farms offer additional glimpses of period life.
You can also visit other historic areas nearby. The first permanent English settlers arrived at Jamestown in 1607. At Williamsburg, the ideas of independence and revolution took form. The siege of Yorktown in 1781 was the last major battle of the American Revolution.
In this Historic Triangle, discover the history of the diverse people whose lives form the earliest chapters of America’s story. In fact, we’ve packaged a Historic Triangle ticket so that you can save when you explore all three places.
Busch Gardens® offers fun for the whole family. Enjoy thrilling roller coasters, animal encounters, great dining, and shows. With our Bounce Tickets, you can enjoy admission to Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
Guests can splash and slide the summer away at Water Country USA®, Virginia’s largest water park. Experience more than 25 water attractions. With our Summer Bounce Ticket, you can enjoy admission to Colonial Williamsburg, Water Country USA, and Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Discounted tickets will be available from the Concierge onsite.
Business Speakers • Tour historic pit sawmill
Hear from nation’s founders • Dinner at Shield’s Tavern
Receptions • Golf • Networking
Register Online Download Reg Form Reserve Rooms
For more information, please call the AHMI office at (336) 885-8315 or email info@appalachianhardwood.org.