WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives passed House Resolution 81 by unanimous vote, recognizing the importance and sustainability of the U.S. hardwoods industry.

The resolution, introduced by Rep. Brad Ellsworth (D-IN), had more than 50 co-sponsors from around the country and both parties.

“Our hardwood forests are managed by thousands of small landowners and families who take care of this resource,” Ellsworth said. “Americans should be proud of this strong environmental record and as members of Congress, we ought to keep this fact in mind as we look for opportunities to best support best practices in stewardship and environmental management.”

Deb Hawkinson, executive director of the Hardwood Federation, said, “(The unanimous vote of the resolution) affirms what we’ve known for a long time: America’s hardwoods are a legal and sustainable resource and deserve recognition for the numerous environmental, conservation and energy related attributes they offer. U.S. hardwoods and finished products are a ‘green’ option for construction and renovation.”

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