Economic and Marketing Implications of Special Forest Products Harvest in the Coastal Pacific Northwest

Abstract

Abstract The special forest products industry has recently become an important factor in forest management. Plants common to the understories of many Pacific Northwest United States and coastal British Columbia forests are harvested, processed, and marketed worldwide in floral greens markets as supplements and complements in floral arrangements. The industry employed over 10,000 people in Washington, Oregon, and southern British Columbia in 1989, and generated an estimated $128.5 million in sales. Forestland managers are discovering the advantages associated with leasing harvesting rights to the producers and harvesters of these products. A mail survey was used to sample special forest products businesses in Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia during 1989. Descriptions of plant materials harvested and their value are presented and discussed. Business characteristics and total industry affects are discussed. The industry's impacts on the regional economies and the industries marketing strategies including channels of distribution, product development, market product development, and future market opportunities are also discussed. West. J. Appl. For. 6(3):67-72.