Jack Taggart: Transforming Timber into Community Impact with New River Farms Sawmill
A Passion Turned into a Business
New River Farms Sawmill’s story began with Jack’s love for woodworking and civil engineering. His background in these fields, combined with his affinity for the craft, led him to purchase a sawmill as a hobby. What started as a small, manual sawmill became a passion project that quickly evolved into a full-fledged business.
“I bought a sawmill as a hobby, but it became clear to me that this could be a profitable business,” says Jack, reflecting on the turning point that led to the creation of New River Farms Sawmill in 2024. What began as a modest endeavor grew into a business rooted in the values of craftsmanship, sustainability, and local community impact.
From Engineer to Entrepreneur
A native of Nelson County, Virginia, Jack’s journey to West Virginia has been both personal and professional. After earning a degree in civil engineering and serving as an engineer in the Army, Jack and his wife decided to make the move to the Mountain State—a place they had long admired during their college vacations.
“I’m the 10th generation of my family from West Virginia,” Jack shares. “Even though I grew up in Virginia, I’ve always had a strong connection to the land here. It felt like the right place to start this new chapter.”
Their connection to West Virginia runs deep, and it’s no surprise that the couple chose Fayette County to plant roots. The area’s rugged beauty, rich natural resources, and close-knit community made it the perfect location for New River Farms Sawmill to take root.
The Sawmill and Its Role in the Community
The sawmill itself is a crucial part of New River Farms’ operations. The process is simple but impactful: Jack takes local timber, cuts it with precision, and transforms it into high-quality products for various uses. Whether it’s timber for barns, chicken coops, or custom furniture, New River Farms Sawmill is dedicated to offering the highest quality products sourced from their own backyard.
“Right now, we’re producing green lumber, which is raw, untreated timber. But with the installation of our kiln, we’ll soon be able to offer a wider range of products, including kiln-dried hardwoods and live edge slabs,” Jack explains.
The use of locally sourced materials is a cornerstone of the business. With timber coming from just down the road—often no more than 30 minutes away—New River Farms Sawmill plays a key role in reducing supply chain distance and providing sustainable, local resources for its customers.
Embracing Sustainability and Community Stewardship
One of Jack’s core missions is to respect and care for the resources that make his business possible. “We want to make sure we’re good stewards of the land, the people, and the timber we work with,” says Jack. “From the loggers who bring in the timber to the customers who receive the final product, we’re all part of a bigger community.”
New River Farms Sawmill’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond just sourcing local materials. Jack is also focused on fostering strong relationships with customers, building connections that are rooted in trust and shared values. “Our goal is to provide a product that is made with care and respect, and that supports the local community,” he adds.
Expanding and Growing for the Future
Looking ahead, Jack is excited about the future of New River Farms Sawmill. This spring, the business will open a retail store onsite, providing a direct touchpoint for customers and a chance to experience the products firsthand. Additionally, the kiln and planer being installed will allow New River Farms to offer an expanded range of products, meeting the growing demand for high-quality, locally sourced wood.
New River Farms Sawmill’s commitment to its craft and community hasn’t gone unnoticed. The business was recently recognized as the Startup Business of the Year for 2024 by the Hive, a Southern West Virginia economic development initiative. Jack credits this recognition to the hard work of his team and the support of the community.
“It was humbling to be nominated and awarded this recognition,” Jack says. “We’re just getting started, but it feels good to know that our efforts are making a positive impact.”
The Future of New River Farms Sawmill
As New River Farms Sawmill continues to grow, Jack remains committed to his mission: to transform local timber into products that support the New River Gorge region. The combination of his engineering expertise, love for woodworking, and dedication to sustainability sets him on a path to success.
With a strong foundation, a growing customer base, and a clear vision for the future, New River Farms Sawmill is primed to become an integral part of West Virginia’s business community. And as the sawmill continues to expand, there’s no telling just how much more Jack and his team will contribute to the region’s economic growth and preservation of its natural resources.
To learn more about New River Farms Sawmill and the products they offer, visit their website or stop by their retail location when it opens this spring.
