Overview of Wisconsin’s Value-Added Wood Manufacturing Industry
| Authors: | Scott W. Lyon |
| Year: | 2023 |
| Type: | Proceedings - Paper |
| Station: | Northern Research Station |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.2737/NRS-GTR-P-211-paper32 |
| Source: | In: Kern, Christel C.; Dickinson, Yvette L., eds. Proceedings of the first biennial Northern Hardwood Conference 2021: Bridging science and management for the future. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-211. Madison, WI: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 160–163. |
Abstract
The valued-added wood manufacturing industry includes firms that use primary wood products, such as lumber or veneer, to produce higher value products, including flooring, cabinets, or furniture. Wisconsin’s value-added wood industry is an important sector for the State's economy and serves as a vital downstream market for forest raw materials. A survey was conducted with the Wisconsin value-added wood industry in 2018 to better understand the current economic impacts, markets, and needs of this industry. Results suggest that employment opportunities exist. Enrollment in a forest certification and/or chain-of-custody certification program was uncommon among respondents. This study found there is an opportunity to substitute locally grown commercial species instead of using out-of-the-region species such as southern yellow pine and alder. Lastly, results indicated additional need for educational training to support the value-added wood industry, particularly in the areas of manufacturing and processing.