Meet David Dhaseleer
Meet David Dhaseleer, a Senior Project Forester for Steigerwaldt. Now retired from his full-time role as Vice President, Forestry Operations Advisor, David continues to work in a limited capacity as a Senior Forester. With his vast forestry experience and 28-year history with Steigerwaldt, David works closely with select clients on forestland management and advises staff on a wide range of forestry matters.
Please provide a professional history introduction (prior and during your time at Steigerwaldt):
- I started my forestry career in 1984 cruising timber in the rocky mountain states for 3 years. During the winters I planted loblolly pine trees in the southeast US. I worked temporary jobs cruising timber in Kentucky and West Virginia, and as a line clearance forester for Detroit Edison. At Steigerwaldt, I began on a specific project cruising timber in Wisconsin. After that, I took a temporary job with Georgia Pacific setting up timber sales as a surveyors assistant. Steigerwaldt was hiring again, so I went back to work and continue to 32 years later.
Why are you passionate about this field?
- I really enjoy helping landowners reach their goals for their property, and enjoy seeing the results of harvesting and watching the growth of new stands of timber.
How do you serve our clients?
- I provide expertise in a wide range of areas from installing gates, and assisting with appraisals of timberland to managing large tracts of forestland.
Why do you enjoy working at Steigerwaldt?
- Steigerwaldt provided me with the opportunities to work on a wide range of forestry related topics from timber cruising and tree planting to expert witness testimony. There has always been new challenges with virtually every project. I enjoy the team approach at Steigerwaldt also, because it means that everyone pitches in to get the job done, and it provides a wide range of expertise from all the employees.
Since you’ve worked here, how has the industry changed?
- It started with small landowners and large paper companies who managed their own timberlands. As the paper companies sold their timberlands, Timber Investment Management Organizations purchased them. Many needed local assistance with management, and it was a great boost for consulting companies. Now, much of the investment properties are being split and sold to private individuals.
What industry changes are you most excited about?
- I keep looking ahead to see what the next breakthrough may be in the use of forest products. Without the sale of timber, forest management will become much more limited.
What’s your superpower?
- Experience.
What’s your favorite tree and why?
- Northern white cedar is my favorite tree. It provides many benefits for wildlife, and has beautiful lightweight wood that is rot resistant. I made paneling from it and have it on some walls in my house.
What’s your favorite National Park?
- So far, it is Glacier National Park.
What would you do with 10 acres?
- Manage it, improve it, and recreate on it. Then I would sell it for a profit and buy 20 acres.
Where do you like to go on vacation?
- I like the western plains and rocky mountain states.
What is your favorite outdoor activity?
- Hunting , fishing and working.
