Hardwoods Development Council: Strengthening Pennsylvania’s Forestry Legacy

Pennsylvania stands at the forefront of the nation’s hardwood industry, producing and exporting some of the highest-quality lumber in the world. From veneer and flooring to snowboards and drumsticks, the state’s 16.62 million acres of forestland supply a remarkable range of products while contributing significantly to the economy and the environment.

The Impact of Pennsylvania Hardwoods

With an annual direct economic impact of $21.8 billion and an indirect impact of $36 billion, Pennsylvania’s hardwood industry is a powerhouse. Over 60,000 Pennsylvanians—or 10% of the state’s manufacturing workforce—are employed in the forest products sector. The state also leads the nation in hardwood growing stock and lumber production. These facts underscore the vital role forestry plays in Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry and broader economy.

Home to more than 100 tree species, Pennsylvania is globally recognized as the Black Cherry capital of the world, producing 30% of the nation’s black cherry volume. The state also ranks as the fifth largest maple syrup producer, with enough maple trees to rival Vermont.

Hardwoods Development Council: Mission and Vision

Established in 1988, the Hardwoods Development Council is tasked with fostering growth, sustainability, and innovation within the hardwoods industry. The council collaborates with state and local governments, industry leaders, and organizations to:

• Promote access to timber resources on private and public land.
• Expand the development and manufacturing of value-added forest products.
• Support domestic and international markets for Pennsylvania hardwoods.
• Engage the public in understanding the importance of forest products in daily life.

Through these efforts, the council ensures that Pennsylvania’s forests remain both economically productive and environmentally sustainable.

The Role of Hardwood Utilization Groups (HUGs)

The Hardwoods Development Council partners with three regional Hardwood Utilization Groups (HUGs) to strengthen the industry across the state:

1. Allegheny Hardwood Utilization Group (AHUG): Serving 14 counties in northwestern and northcentral Pennsylvania, AHUG focuses on expanding the forest products industry and raising awareness about timber resources.
2. Keystone Wood Products Association (KWPA): Covering Central Pennsylvania, KWPA promotes workforce development, education, and sustainable forest management while enhancing the competitive position of the region’s wood products industry.
3. Northern Tier Hardwood Association (NTHA): Supporting nine counties in the Northern Tier, NTHA prioritizes economic development through intelligent forest management and education.

These HUGs play a vital role in ensuring Pennsylvania’s hardwood industry thrives in both domestic and international markets.

A Focus on Sustainability

Pennsylvania’s forests grow at 2-3 times the rate of harvest, making them a model of sustainable forestry. The council actively promotes the use of green building materials, sustainable forest management practices, and responsible harvesting to maintain healthy forests. These efforts not only improve carbon capture but also enhance wildlife habitats and preserve the environment for future generations.

Advancing Workforce Development

With many foresters retiring or moving into other industries, the demand for skilled professionals in logging and forestry is on the rise. The Hardwoods Development Council, alongside its partners, works to engage schools, universities, and community organizations to encourage the next generation to pursue careers in forestry and manufacturing.

Council Leadership

The Hardwoods Development Council is guided by a 29-member team representing government, industry, academia, and regional organizations. Under the leadership of Russell Redding, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the council continues to drive innovation and excellence in Pennsylvania’s forestry industry.

Click here to Learn More