Hardwood industry research priorities in West Virginia

A mail survey was used to determine West Virginia?s hardwood research technology priorities. This paper provides direction to researchers with interests in developing and promoting a sustainable and profitable wood products industry. Results from a survey of West Virginia?s primary and secondary wood products manufacturers indicated that the top five hardwood utilization research needs were: 1) improved markets and marketing techniques for lower grade lumber; 2) new products and processing technologies to utilize lower grade logs and lumber; 3) new cutting technologies to reduce kerf and increase yields; 4) automated processing systems for hardwood logs and lumber; and 5) better utilization of by-products and waste. Highest rated hardwood forest management research needs were: 1) sustainability of the West Virginia forest resource; 2) long-term management/harvest systems for higher quality logs; 3) harvesting systems (impacts, productivity, and environmental effects); 4) regeneration of shade intolerant species; and 5) regulations.

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