Wood products - Industry Overview

Barbara A. Wise

In 1993, industry shipments are expected to increase by less than 2 percent, to an estimated $78.8 billion. This forecast is based on the expectation of an improved US. economy, and of increased industry exports as foreign economies also improve.

Before reading this chapter, please see "How to Get The Most Out of This Book," on page 1. This section will answer questions you may 'have concerning data collection procedures, forecasting methodology, sources and references, and the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) system. For information on other topics related to this chapter, see chapters 5 (Construction), 7 (Construction Materials), 10 (Paper and Allied Products), and 36 (Household Consumer Durables).

Fifteen manufacturing sectors make up SIC 24 (Lumber and Wood Products). This chapter excludes manufactured housing and prefabricated wood buildings, featured elsewhere in this book. Most of the lumber and wood products industry is concentrated in the Pacific Northwest and the South. Secondary concentrations are found across the Midwest, Northeast, and in Appalachia. Establishments classified in SIC 24 engage in the cutting and subsequent processing of timber into other products. These products are chips, poles, pilings, lumber, and veneer, and more highly processed wood products-plywood, millwork, cooperage, and reconstituted panel products. The industry employs over 670,000 people.

Lumber and wood products have a wide range of applications, but the construction sector remains the primary market for its products. Over 80 percent of the softwood lumber, 65 percent of structural panels (softwood plywood and oriented strand board, or OSB), and a large share of all millwork are utilized in construction-related activities.

Residential construction expenditures increased by 4 percent in 1992 (measured in real terms), with strength evidenced in single-family homebuilding. Housing starts exceeded 1.2 million units in 1992, more than 20 percent higher than in 1991. Private nonresidential construction, on the other hand, decreased by nearly 5 percent in 1992 (when measured in real terms). Overbuilding in previous years, slow economic growth, and high vacancy rates for nonresidential construction prevailed. Commercial construction, especially office buildings and hotels, experienced large declines in 1992.

Construction activity in Florida, Louisiana, and Hawaii picked up in the autumn after two devastating hurricanes. In southern Florida and Louisiana, up to 100,000 homes were destroyed, and many more damaged, by Hurricane Andrew in early September. Less than two weeks later, Hurricane Iniki struck Hawaii, leaving in its trail over $1 billion worth of damage on the island of Kauai.

The other important end-use markets for lumber and wood products include the furniture, cabinets and fixtures, and materials handling sectors. Furniture, cabinets, and fixtures are particularly important to producers of nonstructural panel products (particleboard, medium density fiberboard, hardboard, and hardwood plywood). Shipments of household furniture increased by more than 3 percent in 1992; pallets and skids increased by 1 percent.

Increased activity in the above sectors--coupled with improved conditions in some overseas markets--translated into better industry prospects. Lumber and wood products shipments increased nearly 3 percent (measured in constant dollars) to an estimated $77.4 billion in 1992. Production increases were registered in most product sectors, the major exception being logs. Logging activity declined slightly because of substantially reduced harvest levels in the Pacific Northwest.

Timber sales by the US. Forest Service (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in the Pacific Northwest declined by almost 75 percent since 1988 (from more than 7 million cubic meters in 1991 compared to approximately 26 million [m.sup.3] in 1988). According to industry sources, more than 100 lumber and panel products mills in the region have closed in just the past two years because of inadequate log supplies. Several bills were introduced into the US. Congress in 1992 to try to stabilize harvest levels in the region; these bills are still pending.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROFILE

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) designated more than 2 million hectares of forest land in the region (California, Oregon, and Washington) as critical habitat for the northern spotted owl, cited as a threatened species in 1990. Timber harvesting has been severely restricted or curtailed within the critical habitat area. The USFS and BLM were enjoined by federal courts to prevent any further timber sales--regardless of their location--until management plans are submitted to the FWS.

Environmentalists will likely continue efforts to curtail or modify logging on national forest lands. As a result, log supplies are expected to remain extremely tight in 1993, a situation which will affect industry shipments. There was continued pressure in 1992 to further restrict log exports from Federal lands in the western continental United States. Passage of the Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act (FRCRSA) made permanent the then-temporary prohibition on those exports, and FRCRSA placed a similar restriction on logs harvested from state lands. (An exception is the State of Washington, which was allowed to export 25 percent of its total sales volume, subject to periodic reviews.)

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

US. lumber and wood product exports, aided by a weak dollar and industry marketing efforts, increased to an estimated $6.6 billion in 1992. This represents a 2 percent increase over the 1991 level, and 148 percent over the 1985 level.

Japan, Canada, and Mexico were the industry's leading export markets. They accounted for 39 percent, 16 percent, and 8 percent, respectively, of total export sales. Sales to Mexico were up over 25 percent in 1992, to an estimated $475 million, compared to just $39 million in 1983. Other significant export markets were South Korea and Germany (5 percent each), and Italy and the United Kingdom (4 percent each). Exports to Europe were generally higher in 1992, while those to the Pacific Rim were generally lower.

Softwood logs, followed by softwood lumber, were the leading export commodities, accounting for 26 percent and 20 percent, respectively, of total export sales. Exports of softwood plywood rose by more than 50 percent through the first six months of 1992. If the industry can sustain this pace, 1992 will be a near-record year.

U.S. exports of hardwood lumber, veneer, plywood, and chips increased substantially once again in 1992. Several reasons are cited for the increase, including increased industry marketing efforts and growing consumer concern, worldwide, over the rapid deforestation of tropical hardwood forests. Increasingly, steps are being taken at the local level both here in the United States and abroad to limit the import of tropical wood products. Export bans and taxes (some of the taxes are de facto bans) in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines have also increased the demand for US. hardwood products.

U.S. wood products imports were valued at $6.5 billion in 1992, up 25 percent from the 1991 level. They were led by a one-third increase in softwood lumber imports from Canada. In 1991, Canada unilaterally terminated a memorandum of understanding which covered this sector. Following this, a countervailing duty investigation was initiated by the US. Government. Softwood lumber imported from Canada had accounted for 29 percent of domestic consumption. In May 1992, the US. Department of Commerce announced its final countervailing duty determination. The Department concluded that prices charged by Canada's provincial governments for timber used in production of softwood lumber products did in fact provide countervailable subsidies to Canadian producers. The net subsidy rate is 6.51 percent ad valorem. A month later, the US. International Trade Commission ruled that these imports were causing material injury to the US. industry.

Other principal suppliers to the U.S. market included Indonesia (hardwood and softwood plywood), Taiwan (hardwood plywood and miscellaneous wood products), Mexico (millwork), the People's Republic of China (miscellaneous wood products), Brazil (hardwood lumber, plywood, and veneer), and Malaysia (hardwood lumber).

Outlook for 1993

US. lumber and wood products shipments are projected to increase in 1993, based upon expectations of improving economic conditions in the United States and abroad. Expenditures (in real terms) in the U.S. residential construction and household furniture sectors, two of the industry's main end-use markets, are projected to increase by 4 percent in 1993. As mentioned in the preceding Environmental Profile section, environmental constraints placed on production could create extremely tight supply conditions in 1993.

The projected value of exports and imports will, at $6.7 billion, be nearly equal. Exports are seen as increasing by 2 percent in 1993. Exports of green softwood lumber to the European Community (EC) could drop substantially if the United States and the EC fail to agree upon a solution to the pinewood nematode problem. The EC wants U.S. producers to institute a temperature-sensitive indicator system to show that the lumber has been heat-treated, in lieu of kiln drying and mill certification programs. (Temperature-sensitive tags are designed to change color after exposure to certain temperatures for a given period of time.)

Long-Term Prospects

Lumber and wood products shipments are expected to remain at, or slightly above, the 1992-1993 level for the five-year forecast period. Residential housing starts are projected to average between 1.2 and 1.3 million units during this five-year forecast period. This will lead to relatively strong demand for construction-related lumber and wood products which constitute much of the industry's production.

The recently completed North American Free (NAFTA), if approved by Congress, should lead to increased export sales to Mexico as Mexican wood products tariffs are eliminated. The agreement calls for immediate elimination of tariffs on framing lumber, veneer, and moulding. Tariffs on many species of hardwood lumber. fiberboard products, and millwork products will be eliminated within 5 years, and tariffs on all lumber and wood products will be eliminated by January 1, 2003. Increased domestic demand in two other producing markets, Russia and Scandinavia, could mean less competition for U.S. producers (from this pair) in some overseas markets.

Imports should remain relatively stable throughout the forecast period, but they could increase substantially if further restrictions are placed upon the United States national forest land.

LOGGING

Commercial forest land in the United States covers approximately 195 million hectares, or one-fifth of the US. land base; a high proportion (70 percent) is privately owned. The U.S. Forest Service estimates that commercial timberlands in the United States contain 23.5 billion [m.sup.3] of timber. Nationally, net annual growth exceeds removals (harvests) by over 30 percent. Upwards of one million hectares of forest land are planted or seeded each year in the United States.

Notwithstanding the large domestic resource base, tight log supplies prevailed in many regions of the United States in 1992, most notably in the Pacific Northwest. USFS and BLM timber sale volumes in the Pacific Northwest have fallen by almost 75 percent since 1988 (7.3 million [m.sup.3] in 1991, compared to 26.2 million [m.sup.3] in 1988). This is a result of forest management constraints brought on by the June 22, 1990 listing of the northern spotted owl as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act; it is also related to environmental litigation.

The Fish and Wildlife Service designated more than 2 million hectares of USFS and BLM forest land in the Pacific Northwest as critical habitat for the northern spotted owl. Timber harvesting there has been severely restricted--or curtailed--within the critical habitat areas. The USFS and the BLM also have been enjoined by Federal courts from offering any timber sales, regardless of their location, until such time as the two agencies submit "acceptable' northern spotted owl management plans to the FWS.

The logging industry harvested an estimated 470 million [m.sup.3] of sawlogs, veneer logs, pulpwood, and related wood products in 1992, valued at $12.7 billion. Softwood logs, followed by pulpwood and hardwood logs, were the industry's leading commodities, accounting for over three-quarters of total shipments.

Softwood log production in 1992 was an estimated 180 million [m.sup.3], relatively unchanged from the 1991 level. Declines in harvest levels in the Pacific Northwest were, for the most part, offset by increased harvest levels in the South. Hardwood log production also was relatively unchanged from the 1991 level. Hardwood log production in 1992 was an estimated 44 million [m.sup.3]. Stumpage prices for both softwood and hardwood logs were moderately to sharply higher, depending upon the local availability of timber and the market for wood building products.

The volume of Federal timber (uncut) under contract in the Pacific Northwest fell to a historical low in 1992. According to industry sources, this has contributed to a large number of mill closures in the region, and, as a result, Congressional interest in the timber situation in the Pacific Northwest and elsewhere heightened in 1992. There were no less than seven bills under consideration in Congress in 1992 which addressed management of old growth timber, forest planning, judicial review of Federal timber sales, community stability, and/or worker assistance.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

Exports of sawlogs, veneer logs, pulpwood, and related wood products, are valued at $2.1 billion. They declined for the second straight year, a reflection of continued slow economic growth in many of the industry's overseas markets. Higher prices dampened the demand for US. logs.

Japan, followed by South Korea and the People's Republic of China, were the industry's leading export markets for softwood logs in 1992, accounting for over 90 percent of total sales overseas ($1.7 billion). Exports to South Korea and China were both significantly lower in 1992 due to increased competition from New Zealand. Softwood log exports in 1992 totaled 13.4 million [m.sup.3].

Hardwood log exports in 1992 were relatively unchanged from the 1991 level. U.S. exporters exported an estimated 1.2 million m 3 of hardwood logs, valued at $240 million. Canada was the industry's leading export market for hardwood logs, accounting for almost one-fourth of total export sales. Other leading export markets for hardwood logs were Japan and Germany, accounting for 20 percent and 16 percent, respectively, of total export sales.

Log exports from the Pacific Northwest have declined since the FRCRSA became law. Despite this, more than 11.5 million [m.sup.3] of Softwood logs were exported from the region in 1991, which is approximately 75 percent of total US. softwood log exports. According to industry sources, over 100 lumber and panel mills in the region have closed during the past two years due to inadequate log supplies. Legislation was again introduced in Congress in 1992, which would have further restricted log exports; this legislation is still pending.

Outlook for 1993

Shipments of sawlogs, veneer logs, pulpwood, and related wood products are expected to decline in 1993, unless Congressional action is taken to stabilize Federal harvest levels. Equally important, insist some observers, legislative action is needed to prevent appeals of timber sales that have completed the planning process. Environmental groups will advocate further reductions in the amount of timber being harvested from Federal lands. One focal point in this confrontation may be the Endangered Species Act, which is up for Congressional reauthorization. Exports are expected to remain near their present level, assuming no further log export restrictions are imposed on Washington state lands' exports.

Long-Term Prospects

Federal harvest levels in the Pacific Northwest should stabilize around 16 million [m.sup.3] (approximately one-half their historical level) during the next few years. This would translate into a slight increase in shipments over 1993. Log exports are expected to decline, and restrictions on exports from Federal lands could be extended to cover the whole United States.--Drafted by C. Michael Hicks. Direct inquiries to Barbara Wise, Office of Materials, Machinery, and Chemicals, (202) 482-0375, September, 1992.

LUMBER

Industry shipments rose more than 3 percent (measured in constant dollars) to an estimated $18.3 billion, and prices were up substantially in 1992. Domestic lumber production increased more than 3 percent during 1992, to a level of approximately 44.8 billion board feet (105.7 million cubic meters) as compared to 43.4 billion board feet (102.4 million cubic meters) in 1991.

The sawmills and planing mills industry (SIC 2421) primarily produces lumber, which accounts for about 70 percent of the industry's total value of shipments. Most lumber is the softwood category. The remainder of this industry's production consists of wood chips, softwood flooring, furniture stock, and other general sawmill products, including untreated railway ties.

The domestic lumber industry experienced major changes in 1992 as a result of supply shortages in Northwest timber, and the effects of the sluggish national economy. Natural phenomena--including heavy rains in the Southeast and forest fires throughout the Northwest and Rocky Mountain states--also contributed to shortages.

Southern yellow pine lumber production increased by over 10 percent in 1992, from 12.5 billion board feet (nearly 30 million cubic meters) in 1991 to 13.8 billion board feet (approximately 33 million cubic meters) in 1992. Increases in southern pine lumber production helped to offset lost output in the Pacific Northwest.

Residential construction--particularly single-family homes --is the principal softwood lumber market. In 1992, housing starts increased 20 percent, from 1 million units in 1991 to 1.2 million units, and single family starts increased 25 percent from 800,000 to 1 million during the same period. This provided some encouragement to the industry after a decline in housing starts beginning in 1987, following a record 1.8 million units a year earlier.

Home improvement, including repair and remodeling, is another major market for the sawmills and planing industry. In 1992, home improvement spending was up by about 10 percent from $42.3 billion to $46.5 billion. This provided another needed boost for the domestic lumber industry.

Employment in the industry declined less than 1 percent in 1992, compared to 1991, and is expected to increase slightly in 1993. However, total employment has declined substantially over the past five years from 152,000 in 1988 to 131,000 in 1992. While overall employment was relatively steady, industry payrolls in the Northwest declined because of 125 sawmill closings in the region during the past 5 years.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROFILE

Approximately two million hectares of federal forest lands in the Pacific Northwest were withdrawn from timber harvesting, following the listing of the northern spotted owl as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The majority of these areas are "old-growth" forest lands. Timber already under contract for harvest was excluded from the moratorium.

A close relationship exists between ongoing environmental issues and shipment quantities. The general consensus is that there will be sufficient timber supplies to maintain most active sawmills in the Pacific Northwest into early 1993. After that, the timber supply situation could worsen, causing the closure of more mills--with inevitable economic impacts spreading across countless small communities. Northwest mills recorded a 4 to 5 percent decrease in softwood lumber production in 1992 due to timber shortages.

The industry is conducting research into new processes and materials--in some cases with established universities --designed to yield recyclable products. Energy efficiency remains an important industry goal.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

The value of this industry's exports has increased by 8 percent from 1989-91, rising from $2.4 to $2.6 billion. In 1992 exports increased by less than 1 percent. Exports of softwood lumber (the major product of this industry) were up more than 5 percent in value--and 4 percent in volume--in 1991. All softwood lumber exports for 1991 were valued at more than $1.3 billion, up by nearly 8 percent from 1990. Japan is the largest foreign market for softwood lumber, importing more than 36 percent of the total value, while Mexico and Canada combined absorbed 12 percent of US. overseas sales.

Hardwood lumber exports increased by more than 6 percent in 1991 and are expected to show a similar percentage increase in 1992. The major export markets for US. hardwood lumber are Canada, Japan, Italy, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The value of exports to Canada in 1991 were about $170 million--and should rise by 12 percent in 1992. The value of exports to Japan was more than $138 million in 1991; exports in 1992 are expected to remain at the same level.

Outlook for 1993

Total lumber production is expected to increase slightly, by about 2 percent in 1993. Woodchip production also is expected to increase only slightly. Softwood lumber production is likely to remain level, or increase slightly, and hardwood production should increase about 3 percent. The main cause for this lackluster performance is directly related to construction. Total new construction is projected to increase by less than one percent. Single family housing is expected to increase 2 percent in 1993 to just above the one million unit level, yet multifamily units are not expected to increase.

Long-Term Prospects

The sawmills and planing mills industry can expect only moderate growth over the next 5 years. Increases will be about nearly 2 percent annually (based on 1987 dollars). This is attributed to a sluggish economy, interruptions in log supplies, and foreign competition. Structural adjustments are expected to continue and will result in further dislocation within the industry, especially in the Pacific Northwest.

Exports for this industry are expected to remain level or increase only slightly through the forecast period; emerging markets include Australia, Pacific Rim countries, and Mexico. Imports will continue to rise, as foreign producers become more competitive and domestic timber resources continue to shrink. Recent structural changes in the industry, closing of marginally economic mills, and investment in more modern equipment, will help minimize the increase of foreign imports.--Barbara Wise, Office of Materials, Machinery, and Chemicals, (202) 482-0375, September 1992.

MILLWORK

Following four consecutive years of declining constant dollar product shipments, the domestic millwork industry (SIC 2431) experienced increased demand and significantly higher prices for its primary commodity outputs. Despite a sluggish domestic economy, millwork shipments increased 3 percent in 1992. US. millwork producers were aided by an increase in housing starts, and by a surge in residential repair, remodeling, and home improvement (RRHI) projects. Meanwhile, a lower-valued US. dollar contributed to substantially higher product sales abroad.

While new residential construction continues to be the leading end-use market for millwork products (responsible for about 55 percent of total millwork shipments), the RRHI end-user segment has become increasingly important to domestic millwork suppliers. Despite reduced mortgage interest rates, the slow US. economy continues to dissuade many consumers from either purchasing new houses or moving up to larger houses. As a result, the percentage of product shipments going into RRHI projects has increased significantly over the past several years. Despite the industry's sluggish performance, in terms of physical quantities shipped, millwork shipments (based on current dollar value basis) have increased remarkably. Since 1982, US. millwork product shipments rose from $4 billion to more than $10.1 billion--a more than 150 percent increase.

The industry manufactures a wide range of fabricated millwork products. These include wood millwork commodities with metal, vinyl, and plastic overlays. In 1992, the industry's commodity sales leader (current dollar basis) was doors (30 percent of US. millwork shipments). This was followed by wooden windows (including aluminum, metal, and vinyl clad) and sashes (26 percent), standard and prefinished moldings (12 percent), and wooden frames for doors and windows (more than 3 percent).

The remaining 28 percent of the industry's 1992 sales were comprised of various millwork-type products, including wooden blinds, shutters, screens, shades, folding and stationary stairwork, porch columns and rails, trellises, carvings, ornaments, and other similar commodities.

Interior and exterior wood doors have ranked as the largest domestic millwork industry segment for more than two decades. Sales growth for wooden doors is strong despite a loss of marketshare--especially in the exterior door market--to fiberglass, steel, and other metals. In 1992, wooden door shipments doors were valued at almost $3 billion, an increase of about 11 percent from the previous year's level. There were approximately 41 million wooden doors shipped in 1992, with just over 80 percent being interior doors. About 60 percent of the wooden doors produced in 1992 went into new construction, while the balance was used for the RRHI segment.

The wooden door industry produces two types of exterior and interior doors, flush and panel. Flush doors are made by attaching sheets of wood or other materials (door skins) to an interior frame (usually wood). The door covering flush wood doors rely on imported lauan and birch species for most skins. Development of waterproof adhesives and seals contribute to product market share. Flush doors are now the most common type of wooden door in use, accounting for about 95 percent of all interior doors--and 75 percent of all exterior doors--produced in the U.S. Panel doors--solid cores in frames--experienced decreasing sales in recent years.

Doors made from non-solid wood materials have been gaining on solid wood doors. This is true in new construction, as well as in repair and remodeling sectors. As manufacturers seek lightweight, thermal-insulated doors for both interior and exterior end uses, they are experimenting with new materials. It is hoped that this research will produce better appearance as well as performance.

The marketshare for solid wood doors has dropped (except in higher-valued, top-end remodeling and home improvements). This is because of higher raw material costs and, in some instances, better energy efficiency. In addition, lower maintenance requirements are found in doors made from wood composites, as well as from other non-wood materials.

Increased use of steel led to declining sales of wood flush exterior doors. Insulated steel-embossed doors (used mostly for residential entrances) are now the most commonly used exterior door in new construction. They accounted for more than 60 percent of the total--up from 43 percent in 1984. Low maintenance, durability, moisture resistance, and energy efficiency have been their major selling points. However, the wooden door still ranks as the sales leader for both exterior and interior purposes in the RRHI sector. This is due to the fact that wooden doors can be cut to fit existing door frames. Fiberglass and insulated steel doors have increased their own marketshares in recent years, but combined they still control less than 45 percent of the repair and remodeling sector.

Interior doors have shown the least change in base materials, with wooden flush and molded hardboard doors taking about 60 percent of the market. Sales of molded hardboard doors have experienced double digit growth over the past decade. Another type of door which has made significant market inroads is a compression-molded fiberglass face pressed over a foam plastic core. This door can be worked and stained to simulate a natural wood grain appearance, and can be trimmed to fit openings. Wooden flush doors--such as those with a particleboard or hardboard core to which a veneered door skin is attached--are still in demand by consumers preferring the appearance of real wood. This is most readily apparent in the RRHI sector.

The specialty wood doors sector has been the fastest growing sector for the millwork industry. Growth in housing starts in 1992 combined with RRHI increases have spurred significant increases in demand for specialty doors (such as patio, bifolding models, French doors, storm units, and garage doors). Estimates indicate that more than 75 percent of all new single-family houses built have at least a one-car garage, with about one-half having multi-car garages. This led to increased sales of wooden garage doors at annual rates of more than 13 percent since 1982. The fastest-growing segment is wood windows (including aluminum and vinyl-cladded windows). Since 1982, current dollar shipments increased almost 250 percent, from $753 million to $2.6 billion. About 63 percent of the windows sold in 1992 were for RRHI, with the balance utilized in new home construction. The types of windows experiencing strongest growth in 1992 were double-hung cladded, casement cladded, awning cladded, and certain single-hung window units.

While vinyl and aluminum windows have received much publicity, wood windows are experiencing higher demand. Development of varied wooden-cladded windows in unlimited sizes shapes, and designs--combined with wood's natural strength and low maintenance--assisted marketing campaigns. Despite higher prices, thermal-insulated cladding eliminates need for painting, caulking and other upkeep. Therefore, much of the market share lost to ordinary vinyl, aluminum, plastic, or metal windows has been regained by the U.S. wood window sector. In new construction as well as in RRHI, wood framed and cladded windows account for about 40 percent of the window market.

Along with doors, another growing segment of the domestic window sector is manufacture of "custom made-to-order" specialty windows. Since the mid- 1980s, the specialty window sector has experienced growth of more than 6 percent annually. As the replacement, repair, and remodeling sector surpassed the new construction industry in sales, window manufacturers have developed a range of new windows. These include specialty skylights and roof windows, round-top windows, double and triple pane, and energy conserving casement windows. Even commodity-level, high volume manufacturers have begun to offer more than "off-the-shelf" and "in-stock" window products.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

In 1992, the U.S. millwork industry achieved a trade surplus--the first in more than 20 years. Aided by a weak dollar and strong foreign demand (especially from Canada and Mexico), exports grew by 40 percent or more in 1992 for the third consecutive year. Leading markets last year were Mexico (26 percent), Japan (5 percent), and the United Kingdom (5 percent). Sales to Canada increased by almost 50 percent; barriers were reduced under the continuing 10-year tariff reductions contained in the U.S.-Canada Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

In 1992, exports consisted of wooden doors (47 percent of the export total), prefinished and standard softwood and hardwood moldings (40 percent), windows (more than 10 percent), and wood blinds, shutters, shades, and screens (2 percent). Since 1989, US. door exports have increased from $39 million to nearly $138 million--a more than 250 percent increase. Leading markets for wooden doors were Mexico (48 percent of the export total), Canada (22 percent), the United Kingdom (10 percent), and Japan (7 percent).

Softwood (principally pine) molding comprised 85 percent of the total U.S. molding exports in 1992. Just as is true with wooden doors, they increased considerably in recent years. In 1992, American-made molding exports were valued at $116 million, 130 percent above the 1990 value of $50 million. Principal markets for U.S. molding exports were Canada (92 percent) and Mexico (5 percent). Domestic exports of windows, French windows, and their frames were valued at $30 million, and were primarily shipped to Canada (over 61 percent), Japan (16 percent), Mexico (6 percent), and South Korea (5 percent).

A surge in domestic housing starts and RRHI projects not only benefitted domestic millwork suppliers, but foreign suppliers as well. In 1992, U.S. millwork imports jumped by 24 percent to $279 million. The profile of U.S. millwork imports in 1992 was wood moldings (61 percent of the import total), doors (27 percent), windows (7 percent), and blinds, shutters, shades, and screens (4 percent). Leading foreign millwork suppliers in 1992 were Mexico (50 percent), Canada (more than 16 percent), Malaysia (7 percent), and Brazil (5 percent). Although the FTA benefited Canadian suppliers, low-cost Mexican millwork continued held a strong position in the US. market.

In 1992, imports of moldings were valued at $172 million, with standard pine moldings accounting for 73 percent of the total. Imports of all types of moldings grew by more than 80 percent in 1992 and were supplied primarily by Mexico (92 percent), and by Chile (4 percent). Industry reports indicate that Chilean Radiata pine molding is finding more acceptance in fingerjointed molding markets and for use in baseboard products.

Wooden door imports are comprised of two commodities: wood doors with frames and thresholds (accounting for 72 percent of the door import total) and flush doors (28 percent). In 1992, wooden door imports were valued at $75 million. Leading suppliers were Canada (23 percent), Mexico (15 percent), and Malaysia (more than 14 percent).

Outlook for 1993

The US. millwork industry should experience higher sales in 1993 if the general economic recovery continues--with a subsequent rise in housing starts and the number of RRHI projects. Millwork product shipments (on a constant dollar basis) are forecast to increase by more than 2 percent. While demand will again be dependent upon an increase in new construction, the RRHI and replacement sectors may constitute strong millwork markets as consumers remain in current residences. The specialty sector (primarily doors and windows) will show strong growth again as new products in a variety of shapes, sizes, designs, and even construction materials emerge.

Exports of millwork should continue their recent strong performance by increasing 25 percent in 1993. Favorable dollar exchange rates will continue to boost demand for high quality US. millwork products, especially doors and softwood moldings. Imports of millwork are forecast to increase by 10 percent in 1993, as expanded Mexican and Canadian shipments reach the United States. Imports from Chile, Brazil, Malaysia, and New Zealand, although only a small percentage the total, should experience strong growth in 1993.

Long-Term Prospects

Long-term prospects will remain closely tied to growth of real GDP. Product shipments of millwork should increase by more than 2 percent annually over the 1993-97 forecast period as housing starts gradually increase and RRHI projects experience strong growth. Domestic suppliers will likely continue to shift sales to the repair and remodeling sector and away from new construction. They will need to continue to develop new lines of specialty millwork (primarily doors, windows, and moldings) in order to experience moderate growth.

Competition among producers of doors made of various construction materials (including wood, steel, fiberglass) will increase throughout the forecast period. Insulated steel doors, with their lower maintenance, security, and energy conservation properties, will probably increase their market share in exterior doors. Wooden doors (especially molded hardboard) will remain the door of choice for interior door end uses. The higher-end, upscale residential construction sector will bring about increased demand for solid wood doors for those seeking the quality and appearance of natural wood grained doors.

Sales of wooden windows and vinyl-cladded windows will experience strong growth. Strongest growth will be in the specialty window sector as millwork producers develop new products for custom-made end uses. Skylight windows, roof windows, round-top windows, double- and triple-pane, energy conserving casement windows, and other specialized units will be installed in greater numbers.

The industry, which improved operating efficiencies in recent years by increasing output while keeping production costs down, will continue to automate and consolidate. Companies will become more vertically integrated to ensure a consistent level of raw material supplies, while allowing maximum control over processing, distribution, and deliveries. The current "custom made-to-order" manufacturing strategy will continue during the forecast period.

International trade will grow as domestic and foreign producers develop new specialty products. Exports will outpace imports if the dollar remains at current low values. Most US. millwork exports will be targeted to Canada, Mexico, and certain Asian and European countries. Competition from Latin American and Asian producers will intensify.--L. Gary Stanley, Office of Materials, Machinery, and Chemicals, (202) 482-0375, September 1992.

HARDWOOD VENEER AND PLYWOOD

Shipments of hardwood veneer and plywood increased by more than 4 percent (measured in constant dollars) in 1992, reaching an estimated nominal value of $2.1 billion. Domestic and overseas markets were generally stronger, and--as was true in other wood product segments--sales overseas were aided by growing concern over tropical deforestation.

Establishments classified in the hardwood veneer and plywood industry (SIC 2335) produce hardwood plywood, hardwood veneer (face and technical veneers), hardwood-type products (such as laminated veneer lumber), and prefinished hardwood plywood paneling. These products are used in a wide range of applications, including residential and nonresidential construction, repair and remodeling, manufactured housing, furniture, and cabinets/fixtures.

Hardwood plywood shipments accounted for an estimated 45 percent of total product shipments in 1992, followed by hardwood veneer (25 percent), hardwood plywood-type products (20 percent), and prefinished hardwood plywood paneling (10 percent). Prefinished hardwood plywood paneling's share of total product shipments has declined steadily over the past decade, largely through changed consumer tastes. Prefinished hardwood plywood paneling was the product of choice, but in the 1980s, gypsum board became the product of choice because of its brightness.

Stock hardwood plywood (4-feet wide by 6- to 10-feet long) production increased for the eighth year in a row in 1992, to an estimated 69.3 million [m.sup.2], compared to 42.6 million [m.sup.2] in 1985. Stock hardwood plywood comes in a wide range of thicknesses (the most common of which is 19.05 mm). Production is fairly evenly divided between the East and West, where it is concentrated in Oregon. While output was rising in both regions in 1992, tight raw material supplies in the West resulted in a much smaller gain for producers than otherwise possible.

Stock hardwood plywood production makes up almost 50 percent of total hardwood plywood production. The hardwood plywood industry also produces three other types of panels--architectural or decorative panels, made-to-size panels, and cut-to-size panels. There are no production estimates available, but indications are that output rose to accomodate key end-use sectors (construction, furniture, and cabinet/fixtures).

Hardwood plywood producers use both veneer and lumber cores in their manufacturing process. Lumber cores include not only lumber, but also particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF), and oriented strand board (OSB). Approximately three-fourths of the industry's production is manufactured with veneer cores. On a percentage basis, the use of MDF lumber cores has increased substantially over the past decade; however, it still accounts for less than 15 percent of total hardwood plywood production. Hardwood plywood producers use more than a dozen species as face veneers in the production of hardwood plywood; however, birch-faced (much of it imported from Canada) and oak-faced (primarily red oak) hardwood plywood account for over three-fourths of total production. The use of these two species has increased significantly over the past decade due to the increased use of light-colored woods in the furniture sector. Raw material (veneer-grade logs) costs were higher in 1992, but producers were able, for the most part, to maintain profit margins by increasing productivity. Log inventory levels declined as a result of reduced availability (increased exports) and higher log costs.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

US. hardwood veneer and plywood exports increased to a record $271 million in 1992, marking the fifth consecutive annual increase. Half of sales abroad were to Germany, Canada, and Mexico. Hardwood veneer exports amounted to 85 percent of the industry's exports, with Germany and Canada the leading foreign markets (accounting for 30 percent and 9 percent, respectively, of total exports). Japan took 6 percent, followed by Italy (5 percent) and the United Kingdom (nearly 5 percent).

Hardwood veneer and plywood imports increased by almost 20 percent in 1992, to an estimated700 million. Increases were registered in every sector (tropical and temperate hardwood plywood, and tropical and temperate hardwood veneer). Indonesia--our largest supplier of both tropical hardwood plywood, and of temperate hardwood plywood--supplies for 45 percent of total imports. Indonesia purchases U.S. veneer-grade hardwood logs, which it processes into veneer and then overlays on lauan plywood cores, for export to the United States.

Outlook for 1993

Moderately strong growth in furniture and modest growth in the construction sector should give rise to higher production levels in 1993. All sectors of the industry should experience some increase, even producers of prefinished hardwood plywood paneling, whose production dropped substantially over the past decade. Upward of 50,000 manufactured homes (mobile homes)--one-third annual mobile home output--were destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in September. There will be a surge in demand for prefinished hardwood plywood paneling, which is used extensively in mobile home construction.

Exports are projected to increase for the sixth straight year due to increased demand, worldwide, for temperate veneer and hardwood plywood. Exports to Japan, which increased more than one-third in 1992, are expected to rise again. Japan, one of the world's largest consumers of tropical wood products, is increasingly coming under fire because of growing concern within the country itself over tropical deforestation.

Long-Term Prospects

Hardwood veneer and plywood shipments are expected to remain at or near their 1993 level throughout the forecast period. Industry fortunes will remain closely linked to those of the construction, furniture, and cabinet/fixture sectors--all based on overall economic performance. The industry will face increased competition in its end-use markets from producers at home and abroad in the low-end furniture and cabinets/fixtures markets. Exports are expected to continue to grow and offer one of the best growth opportunities for the industry because of the growing concern over tropical deforestation.--Drafted by C. Michael Hicks. Direct inquiries to Barbara Wise, Office of Materials, Machinery, and Chemicals, (202) 482-0375, September 1992.

SOFTWOOD VENEER AND PLYWOOD

Softwood veneer and plywood shipments, bouyed by a strong recovery in exports, rebounded to an estimated $5.5 billion. Softwood plywood production totaled more than 17.3 million [m.sup.3] in 1992, compared to 16.5 million [m.sup.3] in 1991. Capacity utilization rates averaged upwards of 80-85 percent; however, rates varied considerably from region to region and producer to producer. Prices were substantially higher in 1992. The increase was not so much a function of increased demand, but rather decreased supply.

There were an estimated 121 mills operating in 1992, many of which were owned by large integrated forest products companies with at least some private timber holdings. Whereas at one point in time, almost all of the industry's timber came from old-growth forests, most of the timber today comes from second-growth forests (forests which have been previously cut). This has been made possible largely through innovations in veneer manufacturing (spendleless lathe) and in gluing technology.

Tight timber supplies continued in the Pacific Northwest and more mill closures resulted. Mills in this region are heavily dependent upon Federal timber (40 percent of their timber comes from Federal lands), and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) timber sale volumes declined almost 75 percent since 1988 (at 7.3 million [m.sup.3] in 1991). Fifteen plywood mills in the region have closed in the last 5 years, in large part due to inadequate timber supplies. The Pacific Northwest today accounts for less than 30 percent of the softwood plywood produced nationwide. The South is now the dominant producer of all three major product classes (sheathing, sanded plywood, and specialty plywood), and accounts for 65 percent of the U.S.'s sheathing plywood, as well as more than 60 percent of its specialty plywood.

New residential construction is the single largest end-use market for softwood plywood, consuming nearly one-third of all output. Other important end-use markets include industrial applications (furniture, materials handling, etc.), repair and remodeling, and nonresidential construction.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

After a disappointing year in 1991, softwood plywood exports rebounded strongly in 1992, to an estimated $355 million. This marked the sixth increase for the industry in the last seven years. During this period, sales overseas increased from $85 million to $355 million.

The EC--led by the United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Belgium--constituted the major export market. The three EC member countries absorbed 28 percent, 13 percent, and 11 percent, respectively, of total U S. export sales. All EC member nations combined consumed three-fourths of US. exports. Two other important overseas markets were Mexico and Canada, accounting for 12 percent and 8 percent, respectively (of total exports).

Leading end uses for softwood plywood in most overseas markets are materials handling, and concrete forming. It is seldom used for residential construction in most overseas markets because wood is considered an inferior building product, even though tests in the United States and elsewhere prove otherwise. Restrictive building codes often go so far as to preclude its use in many countries.

Masonry and concrete construction dominate most overseas residential construction markets. The exception is Canada, where wood frame construction (2x4) is used extensively. This frame type is used in Japan, although Japan still restricts use of wood in many applications, including four-story construction.

The American Plywood Association believes that a large market exists for wood frame construction if local biases can be overcome. Thermal efficiency and speed of construction are two benefits associated with wood frame. The industry has built 69 structures in 15 countries--including Super House in Japan--to extol wood frame's merits. A longstanding dispute with Canada moved closer to resolution in 1992 as a consensus performance standard neared approval in the United States. Therefore, staged elimination of U.S. and Canadian tariffs on softwood plywood will occur.

Softwood veneer and plywood imports surged to $49 million, compared to more than $35 million the previous year. This was not surprising, given tight timber supplies in the Pacific Northwest. Canada supplied over 95 percent of total imports. Imports from Indonesia rose by almost 75 percent, while Canadian shipments remained level.

Outlook for 1993

Availability of timber in the Pacific Northwest remains one of the industry's biggest concerns. Shipments of softwood veneer and plywood should increase by more than 4 percent (measured in constant dollars). Domestic as well as global demand for softwood plywood is expected to be stronger in 1993. A slight increase in single-family housing starts is projected in the United States, while stronger economic growth is forecast in many overseas markets. This is based upon the assumption that adequate timber supplies will be available. Otherwise, output in the Pacific Northwest could drop by as much as 885 thousand [m.sup.3], raising shipments by less than 1 percent.

The South's share of the softwood plywood market is expected to continue to grow. OSB's share of the structural panel market should increase. A leading US. panel producer recently announced that it will construct a new 310,000 [m.sup.3] OSB plant in West Virginia.

Long-Term Prospects

Softwood veneer and plywood shipments are expected to remain at, or slightly above, the 1992-93 level. Domestic veneer and plywood demand should be relatively strong as housing starts occur at projected rates. NAFTA, if approved by Congress, should boost export sales to Mexico as that country's softwood plywood tariffs (currently 15-20 percent) are eliminated in stages over 10 years. As is true with other wood products, increased domestic demand in Russia and Scandinavia--both major suppliers--will divert potential competition in other global markets.--Drafted by C. Michael Hicks. Direct inquiries to Barbara Wise,, Office of Materials, Machinery, and Chemicals, (202) 482-0375, September, 1992.

PALLETS AND SKIDS

Shipments by the pallets and skids industry (SIC 2448)--barely inched ahead in 1992 due to the continued lackluster performance of the economy. This industry, which produces wooden pallets and cargo containers used in the storage and transportation of manufactured goods, is the largest consumer of domestic hardwood lumber. In spite of competition from plastic and metal pallets, over 90 percent of the pallets and skids produced in the United States are wooden.

The industry has consumed nearly 7 billion board feet (24 million cubic meters) of hardwood and softwood over each of the last three years, with about three-quarters of that total being hardwood. In addition, more than 3 billion square feet (2.7 million [m.sup.3]) of Softwood plywood and OSBaferboard were consumed annually during that period.

The United States has approximately 2,180 pallet and skid producers, with most located adjacent to heavy manufacturing areas. Michigan (298) and Pennsylvania (251) are the states which have the most producers. Primary users of pallets and skids are the grocery, agricultural, paper, printing, steel, and chemical industries.

Domestic producers of pallets and skids are constantly modifying and improving their products, partially in response to competition from plastic and metal pallets, but also because of environmental concerns. An example of this is the red alder research presently being conducted at Oregon State University. Since this type of pallet is entirely recyclable, its usage has strong environmental benefits (in addition to alleviating the present softwood shortage). In addition, the major US. wooden pallet association launched an extensive program to establish performance standards. More "enhanced" pallets with increased resistance to fire and decay are being produced.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

Based on data for the first half of 1992, exports increased 10 percent, reaching $17 million. Nearly three-quarters of these exports were directed to Canada and Mexico. About two-thirds of imports originated in Canada.

Outlook for 1993

The level of activity in the pallets and skids industry is related to overall economic performance. Shipments for 1993 are projected to climb by more than 2 percent, in response to improved economic growth and continued export gains.

Long-Term Prospects

The same factors that will improve industry performance in 1993, will also be at work over the next 5 years, and annual average real growth in shipments should be 3 percent. In order to achieve this performance, however, products must reflect continued improvements in both durability and recyclability of its products. Rapidly increasing costs of solid waste disposal will benefit companies which rebuild and repair pallets.--Barbara A. Wise, Office of Materials, Machinery, and Chemicals, (202) 482-0375, September, 1992.

RECONSTITUTED PANEL PRODUCTS

A modest recovery in the furniture and construction sectors translated into higher sales for the reconstituted panel products industry, enabling producers to recover much ground lost in 1991. Shipments of reconstituted panel products increased 4 percent (measured in constant dollars) in 1992, reaching an estimated nominal value of $3.3 billion.

Establishments classified in SIC 2493 produce particleboard, hardboard, MDF, OSB, insulation board, and prefinished particleboard. The industry's largest sector is particleboard, accounting for approximately 28 percent of total product shipments, followed by OSB (22 percent), hardboard (19 percent), MDF (9 percent), prefinished particleboard and MDF (10 percent), as well as insulation board (6 percent).

Particleboard is a reconstituted panel made mostly from wood residues. These are bonded together under heat and pressure with a urea formaldehyde adhesive and then shaped into panels. (These panels can be laminated, embossed, etc. to produce prefinished particleboard panels.) Approximately 81 percent of the particleboard produced in the United States is used in the manufacturing of furniture, doors, and cabinets/fixtures. Secondary end uses include floor underlayment and mobile home decking. Particleboard production in 1992 was an estimated 6.9 million [m.sup.3], a 3 percent increase.

OSB is a composite panel made of narrow strands of fiber. They are oriented lengthwise and crosswise in layers, then coated with a wax and resin (usually phenolic-based) before being bonded under heat and pressure. Producers of OSB use roundwood (softwood and hardwood logs) as their basic raw material, unlike manufacturers of other reconstituted panel products. OSB is a structural panel and, therefore, its end uses are similar to those of softwood plywood. New residential construction is the largest consumer of OSB, consuming an estimated 32 percent of production, followed by repair and remodeling (25 percent), industrial applications (19 percent), and nonresidential construction (13 percent).

OSB production increased to more than 5 million [m.sup.3] in 1992, with most OSB producers operating at near capacity (between 90 and 95 percent). This comes on the heels of a slight decline in production in 1991, the first ever. Production of OSB, which has increased over thirty-fold since 1980, is heavily concentrated in the north-central and southern United States.

OSB was produced in the 1970's, but did not gain in popularity until the mid-1980's. Even then, it sold at a discount to softwood plywood. Increased use and market-share is evident (and OSB holds 25 percent of all structural panels). Today, OSB and softwood plywood are recognized as comparable products in terms of performance, and there is little or no difference in their comparative prices. Exports are valued at $8 million.

Hardboard is a reconstituted panel made from wood fibers consolidated under high heat and pressure. Unlike particleboard, only a minimal amount of resin is used in production. Production in 1992 was an estimated 1.5 million [m.sup.3] up approximately 6 percent. The largest user is the construction industry--primarily exterior siding products for new residential construction. Other end uses for hardboard are industrial applications (furniture and cabinets/fixtures) and the remodeling sector.

MDF is a dry-formed panel product manufactured from lignocellulosic fibers combined with a synthetic resin or other suitable binder. These panels can be laminated, embossed, etc. to produce prefinished panels. MDF is used primarily for industrial applications, such as furniture and cabinets/fixtures. Production was up just over 3 percent in 1992 to an estimated 1.7 million [m.sup.3]. It increased 9 out of the last 10 years. There are 14 MDF plants in operation, most of them located in the Pacific Northwest and the South.

Insulation board is used primarily in construction and repair and remodeling applications. It is a generic term for homogeneous panels made from lignocellulose fibers (usually wood or bagasse) that have been interfelted and consolidated into panels. Insulation board is oven-dried, but not consolidated under pressure, during the manufacturing process. Production rose by 5 percent in 1992. There are many different varieties, including sheathing and roof fiberboard--the two leading categories--sound deafening board, and acoustical tiles.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS

Exports of panel products increased for the sixth year in a row in 1992 to an estimated $240 million--more than double their value in 1987. Much of the gain in 1992 was registered in the particleboard, OSB, and hardboard sectors. Canada was the industry's largest overseas market, accounting for 36 percent of total export sales, followed by Taiwan (16 percent), Mexico (14 percent), and South Korea (12 percent).

Particleboard exports increased to an estimated $88 million in 1992, up 7 percent from the 1991 level. Canada was the industry's leading foreign market (with 33 percent of sales), followed by Mexico (21 percent) and by South Korea (17 percent). Industrial particleboard, used in the manufacture in furniture, cabinets/fixtures, toys, etc., was the leading export commodity.

Exports of hardboard, which turned around in the last half of 1991, appear to have increased 30 percent in 1992, reaching $28 million. (Export statistics do not clearly differentiate between hardboard and MDF.) Exports to Canada, the industry's leading market, declined as a share of all exports.

After years of increases, MDF sales overseas declined to an estimated $45.5 million in 1992. Exports to South Korea and Taiwan--the leading foreign buyers--were down substantially. Some of this decline may be due to competition from U.S. particleboard and hardboard producers.

U.S. producers were not alone in benefiting from upturns in the furniture and residential construction sectors. Imports of reconstituted panel products surged in 1992, reaching an estimated $345 million. Canadian OSB producers doubled their U.S.-bound exports in 1992.

Outlook for 1993

Reconstituted panel products shipments are forecast to increase by 3 percent (measured in constant dollars). Moderate growth is forecast for furniture--a fact that bodes well for particleboard, hardboard, and MDF producers. OSB and hardboard will increase slightly as single-family housing starts rise.

OSB shipments could increase by as much as 8 percent if anticipated new capacity comes on line. In any case, OSB's share of structural panel products will rise because of constraints placed on softwood plywood in the Pacific Northwest.

Overseas demand should remain strong. Most economists are forecasting moderate economic growth (between 5 and 7 percent) in Pacific Rim exports; consequently, overall foreign sales are expected to increase by 6 percent in 1993. Increased domestic demand for structural panels--combined with only modest production increases--will contribute to another substantial rise in OSB imports. Canadian imports could increase by another 20 percent. Particleboard imports are expected to increase as well.

Long-Term Prospects

Steady but slow growth is forecast for 1993-97, yet OSB should experience much stronger growth. Generally, shipment levels will depend on construction, housing, and furniture sectors. U.S. exporters will face increased competition in many Pacific Rim markets from producers in Southeast Asia, New Zealand, and Australia. Nevertheless, US. exports of reconstituted panel products should experience modest growth. As mentioned previously, NAFTA--if approved--will affect the volume of Mexico-bound exports. Terms of NAFTA include a phase-out period on tariffs for MDF, hardboard and insulation board, with a 10-year period covering particleboard and OSB. Industry efforts to market wood-frame construction in Mexico should also increase demand for reconstituted panel products in that nation.--Drafted by C. Michael Hicks. Direct inquiries to Barbara Wise, Office of Materials, Machinery, and Chemicals, (202) 482-0375, September, 1992.

Additional References

(For information on how to obtain publications from the U.S. Census Bureau, please call (301) 763-4100) Wood Products, Annual Survey of Manufactures, Bureau of Census, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20233. Lumber Production and Mill Stocks, Current Industrial Report, Bureau of Census, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20233. Crow's Weekly Letter C.C. Crow Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 25749, Portland, OR 97225. Telephone: (505) 646-8075. Forest Industries, Miller Freeman Publications, 500 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. Telephone: (415) 453-3341. The Pallet Industry in the United States, 1980, 1985, and 1990, Department of Forestry, School of Agriculture, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62903. Telephone: (618) 453-3341. Random Lengths, Random Lengths Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 867, Eugene, OR 97440-0867. Telephone: (503) 686-9925. Weekly Hardwood Review, P.O. Box 471307, Charlotte, NC 28247-1507. Telephone Number: (704) 543-4408. Regional Production and Distribution Patterns of the Structural Panel Industry 1992, American Plywood Association, P.O. Box 11700, 7011 South 19th Street, Tacoma, WA 98411. Telephone: (206) 565-6600. 1991 Statistical Yearbook of the Western Lumber Industry, Western Wood Products Association, Yeon Building, 522 SW Fifth Avenue, Portland, OR 97204. Telephone: (503) 224-3930. Wood Used in New Residential Construction in the United States, 1988, American Plywood Association, P.O. Box 11700, 7011 South 19th Street, Tacoma, WA 98411. Telephone: (206) 565-6600. Structural Panels 1992, C.C. Crow Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 25749, Portland, OR 97225. Telephone: (503) 646-8075.

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