The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is highlighting the power of consumer choices during National Forest Products Week, celebrated Oct. 19-25, emphasizing how purchasing local, sustainably made wood products helps keep Minnesota’s forests healthy and resilient.
From furniture and flooring to paper and fuelwood, the state’s forests provide renewable materials that support both the economy and the environment. The DNR notes that buying Minnesota-made products directly supports sustainable forest management practices.
“Consumers drive markets; and, in the case of forest products, markets provide tools to help manage forests sustainably,” said Jeremy Fauskee, utilization and marketing program consultant for the DNR’s Forestry Division. “Your choices truly matter when it comes to the future of Minnesota’s forests.”
The DNR points to ash trees as one example of how consumer demand can aid forest health. With an estimated 1 billion ash trees statewide, Minnesota faces severe threats from the emerald ash borer. By choosing products made from ash, consumers can help promote timber harvests that replace vulnerable trees with a greater diversity of species, strengthening forest resilience.
The DNR encourages buyers to look for products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council or Sustainable Forestry Initiative, both of which verify sustainable harvest practices.
“Every time you choose a local, renewable wood product, you are helping to keep our forests healthy for future generations,” Fauskee said.
A map and database of Minnesota mills are available on the DNR website to help residents find local suppliers.
