Idaho Timber Industry Key Role Player in the State and Nation

Idaho’s timber industry continues to play a key role in the state’s economy. Idaho’s timber industry is also a key player in supplying the nation’s need for wood and wood products to meet a growing need for housing, while at the same time being able to provide a product that helps to meet the environmental and social value that using wood in building design can bring to a community. Idaho Forest Products Commission (IFPC) officials said the progressive nature of the industry means that new technology is quickly integrated by mills, companies and workers. In fact, many might be surprised about how high-tech the timber industry has become — a case in point, the increased use of robotic technology. The IFPC points to new products such as cross laminated timber and nanotechnology as examples of that new technology.