It would be nice if the sort of input that would benefit board members could be gleaned by reading woodturning forums, but I have read very little (practically nothing) that would serve to help board members make policy decisions. The number of woodturners who actively participate on this or other forums is very small. There are roughly fifty times as many visitors (sometimes called lurkers) and most of them aren't forum members. The forum is open to all woodturners, not just AAW members. Based on my recent experience in approving new forum members, no more than about half are AAW members. The discussions that take place are mostly about tools, wood, and what I would characterize as learning and sharing in nature. It's very rare that I see a thread that discusses AAW policy.
I think that the best way to get the pulse of members is by face to face or phone or email, in that order. I know that many board members visit clubs to discuss current activities and plans and to solicit feedback. I believe that is a lot more effective than the relatively small number of woodturners who participate actively on this and other forums. It is also my observation that online political discussions never go well.