As 2007 winds down, Morbark Inc. reflects on half a century of accomplishment while looking forward to a bright future.

A year-long celebration of the company’s 50th anniversary commenced with public and private open houses that included food, drinks, and tours of the handsome new office building that is a testament in itself to how far Morbark has come.

Lon Morey, president and CEO of Morbark Inc. said, “We’ve experienced a lot of changes in the last 10 years, our company is much stronger today as a whole. We focus on teaming and collaboration among employees and those who help us achieve our goals.”

Morbark began in a small blacksmith shop in the modest town of Winn, Mich., in 1957 when Norval “Nub” Morey and Robert Baker became partners in the invention and patenting of a “log debarking apparatus”. Over the years the company grew from building sawmill equipment to also manufacture forestry, tree care and wood-waste recycling equipment.

Other events in 2007 commemorating Morbark’s milestone included Demo Days, a unique event allowing customers an opportunity to interact with personnel, watch equipment demos and tour the factory; a lively autumn tailgate party at a Central Michigan University football game, and a first-class summer picnic for employees and their families. Also centering around this landmark anniversary were themed trade shows, company advertising and a memorial calendar.

With the anniversary celebration winding down Morbark remained nostalgic about it’s past.

“My father was a true innovator, his influence and dedication continue to impact those who work for Morbark today,” Morey said. “The future looks bright as Morbark turns towards the next 50 years.”