The United States has reinforced its commitment to a sustainable forest-based economy with the launch of a new statewide initiative in Wisconsin. The “Wisconsin Forests FIRST” (Forest Industry Roadmap and Strategies for Tomorrow) project is a comprehensive effort to develop a long-term strategic plan for the state’s healthy forests and competitive forest products industry. Funded by a $1 million grant from the State of Wisconsin, the initiative is a collaboration between the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association, the Wisconsin Paper Council, and the Wisconsin Council on Forestry. This two-year roadmap seeks to align industry priorities and assess market conditions to ensure the sector remains a vital economic and environmental pillar.

The primary challenge addressed by this initiative is the rapid disruption of the traditional forest products supply chain due to global market volatility and mill closures. Between 2019 and 2023, the number of wood-utilizing businesses in Wisconsin decreased by over five percent, while forestry and logging firms saw an eight percent decline. These stressors, combined with the impacts of climate change—such as unpredictable winters and extreme rainfall—have created significant instability for forest-dependent communities. To maintain its competitive edge against other states and international markets, Wisconsin must find ways to sustain existing businesses while pivoting toward new, value-added technological opportunities.

The solution detailed by the Forests FIRST coalition involves a strategic pivot toward emerging innovations that can utilize wood fiber in revolutionary ways. The roadmap specifically identifies biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More production as a key growth opportunity, alongside advanced packaging materials, wood-derived fuels, and mass timber construction. By integrating biochar production technologies into current forestry operations, the industry can better manage wood residues from storm-damaged areas and municipal yards. This transition is supported by data-driven research and stakeholder engagement managed by Camoin Associates, aiming to provide the intelligence needed for informed policy decisions and new investment strategies in these specialized sectors.

The expected outcomes of the Forests FIRST initiative include the establishment of an actionable path forward for Wisconsin’s $42 billion forest products economy, which currently accounts for 11 percent of the state’s manufacturing jobs. By fostering a healthy forest products industry, the project ensures the continued success of sustainable forest management, which provides clean air, water, and wildlife habitat. The integration of biochar and other cutting-edge wood science is projected to attract new investment and develop a more resilient workforce capable of leading in emerging global markets. Ultimately, the roadmap will culminate in a final report to the Governor and Legislature by December 2027, securing Wisconsin’s position as a leader in climate-smart forestry and innovative wood utilization.