On March 1, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at boosting timber production in the U.S. This effort is designed not only to increase the availability of wood products but also to enhance forest management and lower the risks of wildfires.
The executive order highlights that the U.S. has plenty of timber resources to meet its needs. Relying on imported lumber can lead to higher construction costs, fewer job opportunities, and contribute to wildfire risks.
The order mandates that in the next 30 days, key federal officials must develop new guidelines to support timber production and improve forest management. This will help streamline the process for timber delivery and reduce uncertainty around timber supply.
Since 1991, regulations affecting timber harvesting on federal land have hindered the industry. Reports show that timber harvests have plummeted from 2 billion board feet to just 55 million by 2015.
Oregon has a rich history in timber, and State Representative Alek Skarlatos believes this executive order could help tackle issues related to forest management and wildfire prevention. He expressed hope that Congress would support this initiative, giving it lasting power beyond just an executive order.
On the other hand, John Persell, an attorney with Oregon Wild, argues that the order misrepresents the science behind wildfire prevention. He emphasizes the importance of protecting older, larger trees, which are more resilient to fires. According to him, the order overlooks scientific evidence and public input to push for more commercial logging.
Oregon Wild has been dedicated to conserving the state’s forests and wildlife since 1974. Persell warns that the executive order raises significant concerns about future forest management, marking a troubling shift in decision-making processes regarding public lands.
Additionally, the president has issued orders related to timber and lumber imports to the U.S. For further details on these orders, visit the White House website.
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Timber production,Executive order,Wildfire management,Forest management,Donald Trump,Oregon,Timber industry,Job opportunities
