The ALC was formed in 1994 to serve as a unified, national voice for professional loggers across the United States. Made up of a coalition of state and regional logging associations and councils, ALC represents more than 50,000 employees and reaches over 10,000 logging contractors.

With the adoption of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) by the American Forest and Paper Association in 1994, it was clear that American Loggers needed a strong, consistent presence in order to impact issues on a national level. This coalescing event was, in effect, the beginning of the ALC.

To enhance the logging profession, provide a unified voice on logging issues; and cooperate with public, industrial and private timberland owners to further sustainable forestry practices.

The Council is committed to enhancing the logging profession, establishing a more level playing field for professional loggers and providing accurate information about the logging profession to the forest products companies, landowners and the public. It serves as a national network and communication center, linking local, state and regional organizations around the country.