The Forest Economy of Haines, Alaska

Abstract

The Institute of Social, Economic and Government Research of the University of Alaska carries on a series of study programs supporting the development of the state's natural resources. One such program is directed at improving the utilization of Alaska's valuable forest resource, the role by Alaska's timber industry. A Survey of the Alaskan Products Industry, published in 1966, provided a review and analysis of the growth and development of the pulp and lumber industry. Marketing Hardwoods from Alaska's Susitna Valley (1966) was the first in the Institute's study series on "Marketing Alaska's Timber Products" and focused attention on utilization in a particular geographic area, with emphasis on investigation of markets and marketing procedures. This report completes Phase II of the Institute's marketing series. It examines the timber resources and current utilization activity of the Haines area and utilizes the potential for pulp chip production. Other possible manufacturing alternatives are also investigated. Particular attention is paid to the role of the forestry sector in the community's economy. Phase III of the "Marketing Alaska's Timber Products" series is entitled "Analysis of Integrated Forest Utilization in the Railbelt Area of Alaska." The study, currently underway, is evaluating alternative methods of integrated utilization of forest land and timber in the railbelt area. Dr. Michael R. C. Massie has primary responsibility for the Institute's forestry research program. He was assisted in this study by Dr. Robert C. Haring, Head of the University of Alaska's Department of Business Administration. The study was financed by McIntire-Stennis cooperative forestry research i monies and State of Alaska matching funds, with additional support for this project from the Institute of Northern Forestry, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. The analyses, conclusions, and recommendations of this report were reviewed by professionals and technical specialists in industry, government, and university research; their criticisms and helpful suggestions were most helpful and thoroughly appreciated. It is recognized that some of the issues dealt with are somewhat controversial and that not everyone may be fully satisfied by the findings of the authors. The purpose of the study has been to take a comprehensive and objective look at forest utili zation in one area of the state, and any disagreements engendered are likely to result from differing opinions and points of view. In any case, the important consideration must be the extent to which a report such as this contributes to better understanding and future progress. It is our belief that on these counts the Haines study makes a major contribution to more effective utilization of Alaska's forest resources.