December 8, 2025 3:05 a.m. 

At the Douglas Timber Operator’s annual Christmas social event on December 2nd, the organization recognized Art Adams of Nordic Veneer for his unique, long-standing service to the local community and the management of area forests, by giving him the Tough Tree Award.

A DTO release said the award is the organization’s highest recognition of individuals “for efforts above and beyond the call of duty for the forest products industry, timber workers, and natural resource dependent communities”.

Preceding the awards presentation, attendees watched a June 2005 video interview of Adams conducted by Rod Greene for the Douglas County Museum. In the interview, Adams recounted the origins of Nordic Veneer and the importance of the timber industry in Douglas County.

Adams said, “You’re part of a community. You employ people. You’re working with people every day. There’s a common thread in our industry of family, community, way of life, giving back to the community”

The Tough Tree Award was presented to Adams by his son JR Adams and grandson Bayley Adams. Upon receiving the award, Adams said, “We’ve seen a lot of things, mills on every street corner, log trucks everywhere. There’s always going to be transition, and nothing’s forever. Our industry has had a tough couple of years. But we’re very resilient, very much perseverant”.

DTO Executive Director Matt Hill said there is no one more deserving of the award than Art Adams. Adams said, “We thank you for your service, and for your family’s ongoing commitment to his industry and community”.

Nordic Veneer is a family-owned and operated business originating in Douglas County in 1954.