Publication Details
Understanding chain-of-custody certification in the Appalachian hardwood region: Primary manufacturers' practices and perceptions
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Year Published
2011
Publication
In: Fei, Songlin; Lhotka, John M.; Stringer, Jeffrey W.; Gottschalk, Kurt W.; Miller, Gary W., eds. Proceedings, 17th central hardwood forest conference; 2010 April 5-7; Lexington, KY; Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-78. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 607-616.
Abstract
Many obstacles may deter hardwood manufacturers from obtaining chain-of-custody certification. Because the hardwood and softwood forest products industries have many differences between them, current certification systems may not fit the unique demographics of the hardwood industry. For this reason, it is important to understand chain-of-custody certification as it relates to hardwood forest products producers. The objectives of this study were to define the characteristics of Appalachian primary hardwood manufacturers and determine their attitudes towards chain-of-custody certification. The study included a questionnaire that was mailed to 1,239 primary hardwood manufacturers in the Appalachian region. The majority of the producers surveyed were small, noncertified manufacturers. Although certification levels were low and many of the producers held negative attitudes towards certification, many of the producers felt that they were environmentally conscious. Results indicate that many companies pursue certification for their customers and to gain some type of market advantage. Although most felt knowledgeable about the certification process, many producers still have little or no knowledge of chain-of-custody certification.
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Citation
Montague, Iris B. 2011. Understanding chain-of-custody certification in the Appalachian hardwood region: Primary manufacturers' practices and perceptions. In: Fei, Songlin; Lhotka, John M.; Stringer, Jeffrey W.; Gottschalk, Kurt W.; Miller, Gary W., eds. Proceedings, 17th central hardwood forest conference; 2010 April 5-7; Lexington, KY; Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-78. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 607-616.