The American Forest Resource Council voiced its strong support for two executive orders signed by President Donald Trump on March 1 aimed at expanding U.S. timber production and strengthening the domestic lumber industry.
The executive orders address key challenges facing federal forest management, wildfire prevention and the economic sustainability of the nation’s wood products sector, the American Forest Resource Council stated in a news release.
The first order, titled “Immediate Expansion of U.S. Timber Production,” underscores the importance of timber, lumber, paper, bioenergy and other wood products to the nation’s economy and directs federal agencies to take decisive actions to increase timber supplies and reduce regulatory barriers.
The second order, “Addressing the Threat to National Security From Imports of Timber, Lumber,” classifies the wood products industry as essential to U.S. national security and economic stability. It tasks the secretary of commerce, in collaboration with other federal agencies, with investigating the national security implications of timber and lumber imports and recommending policies to fortify the domestic supply chain.
American Forest Resource Council President Travis Joseph praised the executive orders as long-overdue steps toward responsible federal forest management and economic revitalization.
“These executive orders state the obvious but provide the clarity and leadership past administrations have failed to say out loud and prioritize: America’s wood products should come from America,” Joseph said. “Whether for economic, environmental or national security reasons, better managing our federal forests benefits everyone. Who opposes American workers, stewarding and protecting American lands, to make American products and create opportunities — all while reducing wildfire risks to public health and safety? It’s a call to action to come together, get to work and deliver better outcomes for Americans and our forests.”
The American Forest Resource Council urged swift implementation of the executive orders to restore balance in federal forest management, support rural economies and ensure the sustainability of America’s timber and lumber industries, the news release stated.
With immediate action, the nation can reduce wildfire risks, protect communities, and increase domestic timber production to meet growing demand, the American Forest Resource Council stated in the release.
