#United States #Weyerhaeuser #Buckhannon #Thrive Program

Weyerhaeuser's Commitment to Buckhannon

Weyerhaeuser Company, a leading player in timberland ownership and wood products manufacture, has pledged a substantial investment of $1 million toward the community of Buckhannon, West Virginia. This commitment, part of the company's THRIVE initiative, will unfold over several years, emphasizing collaboration with local officials, business leaders, and community organizations.

Established in 2023, the THRIVE program is a strategic move aimed at empowering Weyerhaeuser's rural operational communities. Buckhannon marks the third selected community for this initiative, which aims to bolster local economies and improve the quality of life.

Devin W. Stockfish, Weyerhaeuser's President and CEO, underscored the importance of rural communities like Buckhannon to the company’s success and the broader forest products industry. He expressed enthusiasm about the investment, stating, "We want to ensure these communities remain vibrant places to live and work."

Located in north-central West Virginia, Buckhannon boasts a population of around 5,300 and has been home to Weyerhaeuser's engineered wood products plant for over 25 years. The facility is regularly recognized for its exceptional safety and reliability in manufacturing.

Community Involvement and Future Prospects

Mayor Robbie Skinner voiced his gratitude for this selection, indicating that Weyerhaeuser's investment represents a strong commitment to the future of Buckhannon. He expressed eagerness to partner with the company to realize shared objectives for community enhancement.

The THRIVE program signifies more than a financial contribution; it is also about fostering grassroots involvement. Weyerhaeuser aims to engage deeply with the Buckhannon community to pinpoint priorities and collaborate on initiatives. Potential focuses could include youth education and workforce development, vital areas for sustaining local growth.

Nancy Thompson, the Senior Director of Advocacy and Philanthropy at Weyerhaeuser, reiterated this community-centric approach, emphasizing the need to tailor efforts according to each community's unique challenges and aspirations.

The THRIVE initiative also aligns with Weyerhaeuser's overarching 3 by 30 Sustainability Ambition, which reflects the company’s commitment to both environmental sustainability and community support. The THRIVE program has demonstrated success in other areas, with Zwolle, Louisiana, and Raymond, Washington previously designated as THRIVE communities.

As these programs evolve, each selected community is set to receive similar financial investments, thereby reinforcing Weyerhaeuser's presence and influence where it matters most. The continued selection of new THRIVE communities, beginning in 2026, will build upon this foundational goal to effectuate meaningful community improvements.

Overview of Weyerhaeuser's Operations

Weyerhaeuser has a long-standing reputation as a steward of timberland management, owning about 10.4 million acres of timberlands across the United States and adhering to internationally recognized sustainability standards. The company, which generated $7.1 billion in net sales in 2024, employs around 9,400 people globally, furthering its mission in sustainable forestry and responsible wood product manufacturing.

Through partnerships with local nonprofits and business leaders, Weyerhaeuser seeks to bolster community resilience and ensure its operational areas thrive both economically and socially. As the investment in Buckhannon unfolds, the company aims to cultivate a legacy of sustainability and community engagement that resonates for generations to come.

For more information about Weyerhaeuser and its initiatives, visit www.weyerhaeuser.com.