A third-generation logger keeps it local and reliable
By Abigail Thorpe
You could say logging is in the Akre family blood. Reuben Akre’s grandfather started a logging company in North Idaho back in 1958. Now the third generation, Reuben carries on the family business in his own way, but family and community are still at the core of it.
In addition to its logging work, Akre Enterprises offers excavation, mulching and hazard tree removal to homeowners in the North Idaho area. “We’re kind of the one-stop shop; we do a little bit of everything, so you’re only dealing with one contractor at the end of the day,” says Reuben. It’s what sets Akre Enterprises apart. Because they can do everything, the company often offers the most competitive rates, and with a small three-man crew, Reuben is always on-site working with his team. “You’re not dealing with big companies, just local guys,” he says.
Reuben grew up watching his father and two uncles run the logging company with his grandfather. His father bought the company out in 1990, and Reuben worked alongside him for five years before heading out on his own to start Akre Enterprises in 2015.
He grew up in Priest River—even attended the same high school his mother and father did back in 1985. It was after high school that he realized the potential and future logging held for him. At the end of the day, watching a project come together and making landowners happy drives his passion and fuels his business.
Reuben learned from his father to take pride in his work, and it’s a core principle that extends to his business every day. He attributes his success and knowledge to his father, grandfather and uncles, who have served as role models throughout his life. His father in particular has been in the business for so long now his knowledge is a foundation of Reuben’s own business. “I wouldn’t be where I am without him. Day in and day out I get advice from him,” he says.
Akre Enterprises serves North Idaho communities from Coeur d’Alene to Bonners Ferry and Priest River. Reuben and his crew work only with private landowners, so you know you’re getting their full attention and the best they have to offer whether you’ve hired them for a small project, or a large one.
The small, tight-knit community is part of what’s kept Reuben in Priest River for so many years. You may run into him in the grocery store or at a local community event. He’s known for the strong work ethic that runs through his family for several generations and distinguishes his company today. “Word travels so fast in small communities, you get known for what you do, and if you take pride in what you do you’ll last a long time,” he says. “I’ve taken pride in it, my family as well.”
Being a business in a small community means people work together. It’s what sets Priest River and other North Idaho communities apart. “Small communities have great business owners, and they refer each other and help each other out whether times are tough or not,” says Reuben.
He’s proud of his community and proud to be a third-generation logger in North Idaho. It shows in every aspect of his work and guarantees that when you need a job done, it’ll be done right the first time around with Akre Enterprises.
Akre Enterprises
866 ID-57
Priest River, Idaho 83856
208.610.9903