Root & Grain Co.
Our Story
How chasing the beauty hidden in the forests of New Brunswick evolved into high-quality products that caught the attention of luthiers, cue makers, and craftsmen internationally.
The Beginnings
Long before Root & Grain Co. existed, Dale Smearer was already chasing the beauty hidden in the forests of Northern New Brunswick.
What began with three Birdseye Maple logs — and the thought, “I hope I didn’t just get myself into trouble” — turned into a lifelong pursuit. Dale learned the art of identifying rare wood grain and milling it with precision, transforming each piece into something extraordinary that would eventually make its way around the world — becoming part of luxury cars, elegant yachts, the fine trim of private jets, and countless artisanal creations. His craftsmanship evolved into high-quality products that caught the attention of luthiers, cue makers, and craftsmen internationally.
How I Found My Way
My path started in forestry school, driven by a love for nature and a fascination with how trees tell their own stories. Forestry runs deep in my family — I’m third generation. My grandfather, Bob Lamkey, and father, Jim Ferguson, both made their living in the woods, with my father working for my grandfather before starting his own forestry company. Dwight Lamkey, Bob’s son, was also deeply involved in forestry and, years ago, partnered with Dale in Business.
When I was in forestry school, Uncle Dwight wanted me to meet his old partner — and that introduction would change everything. The first time I visited, Dale and Dwight spent hours reminiscing about the good ol' days. Together, they had once been an unstoppable force in the trade, through buying and selling they built one of the most successful log yards in the region with customers coming from all over the world.
Dwight is the reason I met Dale, and ultimately, the reason I have the privilege of working with him today.
Dale's Mentorship
From that first meeting, Dale became more than a connection — he became my mentor. He’s passed down not only the technical skills of working with rare hardwoods but also the patience, precision, and respect the craft demands.
Every lesson comes with a story from years past, insights you won’t find in any textbook, and the quiet wisdom that only decades of experience can provide.
His guidance has shaped not just my skills, but my way of seeing the wood — as a living record of time, to be honored in every cut.
The Connection to the Canadian Forests & Craftsmanship
Our work is rooted — quite literally — in the landscapes of Canada.
The hardwoods we use are shaped by our country’s rugged seasons, rich soils, and wild beauty. Each Birdseye and Curly Maple board tells its own story of resilience and growth, with patterns formed over decades in
the heart of our forests.
At Root & Grain Co., we see ourselves as caretakers of that story, crafting pieces that preserve its beauty and carry it forward. Every cut, carve, and finish is done with care, so the legacy of these trees lives on in the hands of those who use and cherish them.
The Meaning Behind Root & Grain Co.
The wood grain and roots of a tree together symbolize life’s journey, the passage of time, and
interconnectedness. Roots reflect the hidden strength, foundation, and connection to our origins, grounding us as we grow. The wood grain, with its intricate patterns, tells the story of each year, each challenge, and each season endured—marking the passage of time and the resilience it brings. Together, they remind us that true beauty and strength come from what is nurtured and sustained beneath the surface, with time shaping life’s unique patterns and leaving a legacy of growth and transformation.