NEWS

As a result of a new executive order declaring that wood products are critical to U.S. national security, the Department of Commerce will investigate imports of timber, lumber, and wood products like kitchen cabinets and furniture to determine the effect on national security. The Department of Commerce's report, including recommendations to mitigate threats and strengthen the industry, is due by November 26.

Decorative Hardwoods Association (formerly HPVA) eNews Volume XVIII, Issue IV: Trump Announces Plan For Reciprocal Tariffs | Decorative Hardwoods Are Always On Trend | Trump Issues Deregulation Order

Effective immediately, the Trump administration shut down the $800 de minimis exemption for Chinese imports. Now, all imports from China, no matter how small the amount, must enter the U.S. through standard customs procedures, submit full import documentation, and pay applicable duties and taxes.

What animal is helping researchers identify oak trees infected with the invasive pathogen that causes sudden oak death?

Answer: Experts from Forest Research used a trained spanador—a cocker spaniel labrador cross—to find the tree pathogen Phytophthora ramorum which causes sudden oak death.

PHOTO © Sara Porter

In 2023, Missouri lawmakers set up the Missouri Hardwood Forest Product Promotion Fund to promote real wood over lookalike products. The Missouri Forest Products Association has been investing those funds to raise awareness of real wood through the ChooseWood campaign.

PHOTO © MULLICAN FLOORING