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Westerman Gives Keynote Address at Forestry Innovation Summit

April 8, 2019

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) spoke at Ouachita Baptist University's inaugural innovation summit, titled "Sustainable Forestry and Wood Products for the Future." Westerman made the following remarks during his keynote address:

"We are making advancements in forestry, but there is much more we can do. I spent a lot of time in the woods growing up, and I saw a transformation of forests in our state through active forest management. However, the science of forestry is still relatively young in the United States…

"Just about everything you can make out of a tree is made in Arkansas, and right here in Arkadelphia is a prime place to be talking about forestry. I am so glad that Dr. Sells is thinking about what Ouachita and Henderson can do in this renaissance of forestry, so to say. When our forests are healthy, we all win."

Background

With 19 million acres of timber in the state of Arkansas alone, this event was a chance for industry leaders, entrepreneurs, students and others to discuss the environmental impacts of proper forest management, the need for sustainable forestry, and innovative ways to incorporate forest products into daily life.

Other speakers at the summit included:

  • Jody Doak, plant manager, Highland Pellets
  • Joe Fox, state forester, Arkansas Forestry Commission
  • Peter MacKeith, dean, Fay Jones School of Architecture & Design, University of Arkansas
  • David Sanders, director, Innovate Arkansas, Winrock International
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