Herbert Lumber Co. – Riddle, OR

About Us

At Herbert Lumber we create more than just quality lumber. We strive to create trust, pride, and a commitment to excellence. As an employee-owned company, our people are the foundation of our success. Their knowledge and dedication to their trade ensures we deliver the finest products, every time.

The Herbert Lumber Company, located in Riddle, Oregon, has a rich history rooted in the timber industry. Established in the 1947, our company grew to become a key player in Douglas County’s lumber production. Specializing in producing high-quality lumber products, contributing to the local economy and the community’s development.

In 2023, Herbert Lumber transitioned to become an employee-owned sawmill, signaling a new chapter in its operations and commitment to its workforce. This change fostered greater involvement and investment from its employees in the company’s success

In January 2024, the company expanded its operations by launching a kiln drying program, which has since been a successful addition to its services. This program allows Herbert Lumber to provide premium, properly dried lumber, meeting higher standards for various markets.

key features

Key Features That Set Us Apart

Vertical Grain Clear

At Herbert Lumber, we pride ourselves on VG Clear. This highly sought-after product is achieved through a precise combination of log selection, milling technique, and rigorous quality control.

Custom Timbers

We specialize in custom timber cutting up to 26′, offering tailored solutions to meet the unique specifications of our clients. Whether you need specialty dimensions, specific grain orientations, or cuts for niche applications, our experienced team ensures precision, quality, and consistency in every order.

Kiln Drying

In January 2024, Herbert Lumber proudly launched its kiln drying program, marking an exciting new chapter in our commitment to delivering top-quality lumber products. This initiative has already proven to be a success, enhancing the performance and durability of our products while expanding the services we offer to our customers.

Employee- Owned

At Herbert Lumber Company, we believe that success is strongest when it’s shared. That’s why, in 2023, we proudly transitioned to an employee-owned structure. This change represents more than just a new way of doing business—it’s a commitment to our team, our community, and the future of sustainable forestry.

HLC History

1947

Milton Herbert commissions a build for a portable sawmill on top of a two-wheeled trailer in Springfield, Oregon. The sawmill was built on floated parts with the promise of repayment once the mill was up and running. A word on good faith (not even a handshake) brought in a partner to help operate the mill, but he sold his shares later that year when his interests diversified.

1948

Along with a new partner, Milt purchases riverfront land on the South Umpqua just outside Canyonville, Oregon for $250 per acre. They moved the mill down from Springfield and enlarged their capacity from 8 to 20 feet. The changes and expansion effectively convert the portable sawmill into a stationary location with an accompanying log pond. (This area is now known as Herbert’s Pond, a recreational fishing area east of Canyonville)

1949

Milt and his wife Arlene live out of an Army-Surplus hospital tent with their baby daughter while they build a home on the property. His partner decides to move back to the Eugene area, so Milton buys out his shares. Over the course of the next 13 years, Milt and Arlene continue to expand the mill and log pond.

1953

With nowhere for the crew to cash their paychecks, Milt and Norm Chappell have the idea to start a bank in South County. Along with other members of the timber community, they help establish South Umpqua State Bank. (Now known as Umpqua Bank)

1956

Herbert Lumber Co. purchases the Rocket Lumber Co. property in Riddle, Oregon and utilize the facility to plane their lumber.

1962

During a pivotal time in the lumber industry, Herbert decides to “Stay in the game.” The sawmill moves to Riddle in order to get the entire operation at one location close to the railroad and highway.