2008 Washington State Tree Farmer of the Year

The Hama Hama Tree Farm, managed by David Robbins and his family, has been named Washington State Tree Farmer of the Year for 2008. David's grandfather H.M. Robbins started the Hama Hama Logging Company in 1922. In 1972, David became involved in the management of the property, which lies on the west side of Hood Canal and includes the Hamma Hamma River, Johns Creek, and 400 acres of estuary and tide flats. The tree farm is mostly composed of Douglas-fir with scattered stands of alder, hemlock and cedar, and supports a sustainable harvest of 1.4 million board feet per year. Their careful stewardship of the water, soil and timber resources directly benefits another portion of the family business -- the Hama Hama Seafood Company, which supplies some of the best oysters and clams around.

David and his father Bart were present at the Tree Farm Luncheon to receive the Stihl chain saw award that goes to all state tree farmers of the year. A new award was presented to them by Port Blakely Tree Farms, Inc., a family-owned company that feels closely allied with individual tree farmers. For at least the next 5 years, Port Blakely will provide funding for a large sign that will identify each new Washington State Tree Farmer of the Year.