Partner Profile -- IN THE STICKS1
HFHC Partner, In The Sticks, is finding a way to create beautiful products out of Juniper.
Loading Juniper Logs in the Yard
Background
Out in Eastern Oregon, juniper trees encroach upon Oregon’s native watershed habitats. They drink up more than their fair share of water, contributing to soil erosion in sensitive riparian areas and threatening the biological diversity of the landscape. Working with local watershed restoration projects, Kendall Derby, owner of In The Sticks, purchases extracted Juniper logs from these restoration efforts and mills them into uniquely beautiful and workable lumber. Proudly sporting a Wood-Mizer band saw with a 3/32” kerf, Kendall is able to ensure a super smooth finish, while wasting little of the tree. Due to its natural weather-resistant properties, Juniper works extremely well for decks, outdoor planters, and raised beds. But with its unique aesthetics, it is also prized by local artisan furniture-makers.
Partnership with Sustainable Northwest
In The Sticks partnered with Sustainable Northwest and its Healthy Forests Healthy Community program to connect with the 
Northwest’s urban consumers. With the help of Sustainable Northwest, In the Sticks was able to present community education programs to urban consumers that highlighted the win-win that Juniper lumber provides for both the consumer and the environment. In addition, Sustainable Northwest facilitated a mutually beneficial business partnership between In The Sticks and ecohaus, a regional home improvement store specializing in sustainable products.
On Sustainability
Kendall Derby believes that the prosperity of his business is intimately connected to that of his neighbors, and the environment in which they live. That’s why he buys and mills his logs locally. And what he doesn’t use, doesn’t go to waste. He donates scrap wood to neighbors for firewood, and builds chicken coops for local farmer with leftover juniper boards. But to be viable, his business must extend beyond Fossil, Oregon.
"There are more people living on a Portland city block that in our whole county. We need each other. I need market outlets, and hopefully people will appreciate the unique qualities that western juniper offers.”
Highlights
Wood Species: Western Juniper
Products: 1x6x8, 6x6x8, plus a full array of furniture dimensions.
Location: Fossil, Oregon
Phone: (541) 987-2108
Website: www.junipersawmill.com
