Timber Interests vs. Environmentalists

In recent months we've seen increasing signs that timber interests and environmentalists are beginning to talk. After years of finger-pointing and scapegoating, some serious, constructive communication is long overdue. In the words of Tim Lovlien, a voice of reason from Boise Cascade, “anytime you open the forum to discuss the issue, it’s healthy.” New initiatives by groups like the Western Wood Products Association (see page 6) are indicative of a change of mood in the industry.

Unfortunately, fear of new environmental restrictions has led some companies to accelerate liquidation of their most sensitive forest resources. And mistrust of timber companies by environmentalists has led to an attitude that would prevent

any cutting in order to protect biodiversity. Until discussions get underway in earnest, positions and protective actions will only get more extreme.

There are many who accept the need to harvest timber (albeit on a sustainable basis), while protecting the others important value of forested land. And there are voices within the timber industry that recognize the need for changes in how they operate. Until new understandings are worked out, both the forests and the companies lose. Clinton’s proposed timber summit (see page 5) will come at an opportune time. Let's make it a sincere effort to find solutions that will benefit everyone.