National Hardwood Magazine - July 2011

HARDWOOD
FEDERATION
HFPAC Provides A Strong, Unified Industry Voice
Sometimes public officials can’t see the forest for the trees. In an
effort to promote “green” building, federal and state governments are
often guided by advocacy groups with an anti-forestry bias.
For example, the White House recently purchased a U.S. Oak conference
table that would have qualified had they followed the misguided
green building standards many federal agencies use. Another
example: imported bamboo was almost chosen over American Hard
Maple for a new gym floor at a major military base. Why? Because
they wanted a renewable material – despite the fact that American
Hardwoods have been lauded as renewable and sustainable by other
sectors of U.S. government.
These decisions, and thousands like them, increasingly threaten the
Hardwood industry and its proud tradition of stewardship and sustainable
forestry. This tradition provides economic security to millions,
while preserving forests for future generations.
When the Hardwood industry speaks with a unified voice, these
illogical and counterproductive policies can be stopped. For example:
• At the urging of the Hardwood Federation, Congress passed key
resolutions in 2009-2010 demanding U.S. Hardwoods not be discriminated
against in government purchasing and declaring
American Hardwood as an environmentally preferred resource.
• This paved the way for the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s recent decision
to embrace wood in green building designs.
These success stories are a direct result of Hardwood Federation
PAC dollars at work. By helping elect leaders who understand the
Hardwood industry, HFPAC broadens the group of Congressional
allies willing to raise their voices and help achieve results on the
industry’s behalf.
The Hardwood Federation is the voice of the Hardwood industry in
Washington, D.C., uniting historically fractured groups and constituents.
Issues we address include:
• Fighting to prevent anti-wood green building standards from being
promoted by the U.S. government;
by DEB HAWKINSON
Executive Director
Hardwood Federation
Washington, D.C.
• Working to lower taxes on small businesses
and boost the economic recovery;
• Getting action at the highest levels of government
on unique Hardwood issues such as
unfair increases in lumber inspection fees;
• Ensuring fair trade policies and keeping illegally sourced wood out
of the U.S.; and
• Engaging Congress to push for responsible U.S. Forest Service
policies.
The Hardwood Federation is the industry’s best advocate for strong
public policy. HFPAC works district by district across the nation to
support Federal candidates for office who understand the industry and
support its public policy goals.
HFPAC, a non-partisan entity, was formed in 2004 to further the
Federation’s efforts to educate candidates and lawmakers about the
Hardwood industry and its unique concerns and interests.
Specifically, HFPAC:
• Fulfills the Hardwood Federation’s vision, values and beliefs by
being active in the political process;
• Identifies and supports members of Congress and candidates who
understand and support our agenda (especially those with
Hardwood facilities in their districts); and
• Voices support for or opposition to, policies that affect the
Hardwood industry.
For more information about membership to HFPAC, visit online at
www.HFPAC.com.
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