Moving Away from Ash Wood

For us, manufacturing fitness equipment from ash wood has always symbolized quality and sustainability. However, times have changed. The ash tree, which has long been a source of our high-quality wood, is facing a rapid decline in the United States and Europe. Various factors, including prolonged heatwaves, fungal diseases, and the notorious Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), have dramatically reduced its population.

Emerald Ash Borer

Once celebrated for their adaptability and diversity, ash forests are now suffering due to the impact of the Emerald Ash Borer. This invasive beetle, which likely arrived in the United States from Asia in the late 1990s, has relentlessly spread, devastating ash tree populations along the way. Ash trees were once among the dominant tree species in the U.S., with over nine billion trees. However, the Emerald Ash Borer has decimated a significant portion of these trees in a short span of time.

Ecological Impact

The consequences of this development are severe. In the Appalachian region, where we source our wood, ash trees account for approximately 5% of the forest. Ash trees are renowned for their straight growth and impressive size, making them a valuable resource. Moreover, they serve as critical habitats and food sources for a wide variety of wildlife, from butterflies to beavers.

Fewer than 1% of ash trees infected by the Emerald Ash Borer Beetle survive.

National Resources

Our decision to transition away from ash wood is based on careful consideration and driven by a deep commitment to environmental responsibility. We aim to adapt to natural developments. Ash trees have essentially become functionally extinct, meaning they no longer provide the accustomed economic value as hardwood or fulfil their ecological roles in the forests, as they have done for many years.

Sustainability

Furthermore, the scarcity of healthy ash wood has led to higher costs for procurement. We are committed to ensuring that our materials are sustainably sourced, which includes responsible management of finite resources. Although efforts are being made to replant ash trees in affected areas, they cannot grow in the same density to fulfil their traditional functions. We will be following the development of ash tree populations in sustainable forestry, and we remain hopeful for a better future for this valuable wood.