Forestry cluster learns about UMO research
CARIBOU — Meeting for the fifth time Wednesday, Aug. 26, as a full group, the Northern Forestry Products Industry Cluster, organized by Aroostook Partnership for Progress (APP), took a deep dive into research and development thanks to a presentation from scientists at The University of Maine in Orono.
Bob Wagner and Steve Shaler provided the more than 20 representatives of the industry with an overview of sustainable forests and forest-based economy signature research.
The work being done at UMaine brings together the university’s internationally recognized expertise in forest resources, wood and paper science, structural engineering and chemical engineering to solve current problems and develop new opportunities for Maine’s $8-billion forest-based economy.
“The presentation from UMaine was a good step towards building better connections with research and development,” said Bob Dorsey, president of APP. “Cluster members will continue this conversation with an in-person visit to the UMaine facilities Sept. 9.”
“Research and development is a critical component in this industry,” added Charles Tardiff of Maibec.
In addition to the UMaine briefing, Dorsey led a short discussion on the action plan developed to address opportunities and challenges in the forest products industry, including workforce development/education, transportation, energy, access to capital/insurance, state bureaucratic barriers and research/development.
“The cluster moves from here to focus on committee level activities, implement the action plan, receive briefings on relevant information and prepare for the 2016 Maine legislative session,” said Dorsey. “This will be the agenda for most of 2016 and beyond – completing actions, identifying follow on actions, supporting DOT efforts, supporting bills that facilitate efficiency in the forest sector and collaborating with statewide agencies and groups to bring focus on the careers and job growth in this sector.”
The cluster, organized by APP and supported by Northern Maine Development Commission through grants from the Maine Technology Institute and USDA Rural Development, will meet again in October.
The forest products industry represents more than 6,750 jobs in Aroostook County and is the major economic engine of the region.
