NNRG Board Member Allen Lebovitz has done more for FSC alder markets than just about anybody. Through log sales from his land management company, Willapa Land & Dendrology (WiLD), he was largely responsible for establishing the first industrial flow of FSC alder lumber through Seaport Lumber in South Bend. This spring he's trumpeting a new first - FSC alder logs sold into a growing certified veneer market.

With market development assistance from NNRG staff, Allen was able to sell the first container of FSC alder veneer logs ever (to our knowledge) to Exotic Hardwoods & Veneers in California. "We have a long way to go to get the FSC alder market to full scale, but this is definitely a step in the right direction" says Lebovitz.

Buyer Bob Nichols says he's delighted to have established a new supply chain. "The demand for this material is robust and getting better all the time. Our biggest problem has been finding it, but we hope to build on this first purchase and create a regular program."

Having the full range of FSC alder veneer grades available is an important milestone for designers and project teams that want to make use of this versatile Northwest hardwood, but need a wide range of certified lumber and veneer finishes. Support of these early markets is important to their growth and success. Interested parties should contact Bob at Exotic Hardwoods & Veneers at 510-436-5702 or by email.