After initial confusion within the hardwood industry about the status of the proposed Hardwood Checkoff, the USDA has issued a statement via e-mail to stakeholders clarifying where the process stands.

The Hardwood Checkoff program proposal has been given a “green light” for further action at the United States Department of Agriculture, according to the Hardwood Checkoff Committee.

The US Hardwood Industry Coalition says it is clarifying the status of the proposed Hardwood Checkoff with news that the USDA has elected not to proceed on the proposal.

Despite an opposition group's claim to the contrary, a "green light" has been given to the proposed Hardwood Checkoff program for further review by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, says the committee sponsoring the initiative.

The WCMA keeps watch on key issues impacting wood component manufacturers.

In my mind, the proposed Check-Off program is not about our respective businesses today. It is about the long-term collective future of the hardwood industry; our businesses, our employees and their families, and a way of life.

Sponsors of the proposed Hardwood Checkoff have submitted revisions that would limit the scope of eligible products while including export sales and yellow poplar into program.

The comment period for the proposed Hardwood Lumber and Hardwood Plywood Promotion, Research and Information Order has been extended to February 18.

The Hardwood Checkoff blog by Wood Products Editor-in-Chief Karen Koenig, wood rot at actor Brad Pitt’s charity homes and, of course, Cardell Cabinetry's collapse, were among stories that received comments from Woodworking Network during the past week.

Hardwood lumber and hardwood plywood producers have until January 13 to submit comments on the proposed Hardwood Checkoff program..