Softwood Lumber Board and US Forest Service Mark Decade of Partnership

As the US observes National Forest Products Week (October 19–25), the Softwood Lumber Board (SLB) and the USDA Forest Service are celebrating more than a decade of collaboration advancing sustainable building solutions and expanding markets for softwood lumber.

The organizations first formalized their collaboration through a memorandum of understanding in 2015, followed by an expanded agreement in 2021 aimed at growing demand for wood products. Since 2015, the SLB and Forest Service have jointly invested nearly $100 million in programs and competitions that position lumber as a sustainable and innovative building material.

These initiatives have launched city-based accelerators in Boston, New York, and Georgia; supported national design competitions showcasing lumber’s potential in schools, housing, and community infrastructure; and driven measurable growth in softwood lumber’s market share.

Through joint efforts under WoodWorks and Think Wood, the partnership is helping design teams, developers, and contractors apply modern wood construction with confidence. The programs also strengthen rural economies and forest resilience, showing the broad benefits of public–private cooperation.

Looking ahead, the SLB said the collaboration will be central to reaching its goal of generating 2.9 billion board feet in new annual lumber demand by 2035, ensuring wood continues to expand its role in construction while supporting communities and the environment.