Loggers Nationwide Support Jobs in the Woods Act

Representatives from both the Associated Oregon Loggers (AOL) and Professional Logging Contractors Northeast (PLCN) are among the many industry groups supporting the Jobs in the Woods Act that has been introduced in both the U.S. House and Senate. In the House, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) reintroduced the legislation that would fund forestry career training programs through new USDA grants. A report in the AOL April Mainline publication says the legislation is “a huge opportunity to get more young people into logging, trucking, forestry and mill careers.”

In the Senate, the legislation was introduced by Sen. Angus King (I-ME) and championed by Northeast loggers: “The Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast applauds Senator King for sponsoring and introducing the Jobs in the Woods Act and we fully support this important legislation at a critical time for the logging industry.”

Dana Doran, Executive Director of PLCN, adds, “Our existing logging and forest trucking workforce is aging, and targeted workforce education and training programs are needed to provide pathways to good paying careers in the woods to ensure the industry’s future. Opportunities are strong for the next generation, particularly in the rural areas where this legislation would have the greatest impact.”

The legislation is supported by national groups such as the American Loggers Council, Forest Resources Assn. and others, as well as state logging associations across the country.