2CF1FFF4A23CC5F8872582E3005C3F58 Hearing Summary

Molly Pitts, Executive Director, Colorado Timber Industry Association, introduced her organization and the Intermountain Forest Association, which she also represents. She discussed the impact of beetle epidemics on Colorado's forests.  Ms. Pitts' presentation slides (which she did not use in the hearing) are available as Attachment D.

Ms. Pitts described the good neighbor authority that helps the forest products industry work with the state and US forest services.  She noted increased mill capacity in Blanca and Montrose that will allow the industry to process more wood.

Ms. Pitts explained that the logging industry can benefit from state agricultural internship programs.  She made recommendations, including finding a consistent funding source for wildfire mitigation grants and advocating to the US Congress regarding the Farm Bill.  She added that restored immunity for pile burning would also help prevent forest fires.

Committee members discussed sawmill operations in the state with Ms. Pitts.

Joe Duda, Deputy State Forester, Colorado State Forest Service, discussed state efforts to promote Colorado wood.