Socio-Economic Research on Non-Timber Forest Products in the Pacific Northwest

Summary

The non-timber forest products industry in the Pacific Northwest has been viable for nearly a century. Although it is a small part of the regional economy, the industry involves many people in the region and products are exported worldwide. Harvest of non-timber forest products has become more scrutinized as landowners, forest managers, and harvesters struggle to meet their sometimes conflicting needs and requirements, and deal with growing demand for many wild products. Much of the research on non-timber forest products has focused on biology and ecology, although there has been some research on the social and economic aspects of non-timber forest products over the past several decades. There are several social and economic studies of the industry that are underway or just being completed in the Pacific Northwest. Current research includes studies on product yield, market surveys, price analysis, product management and silviculture, recreational use, and policy analysis. Recommendations for future research are outlined. The non-timber forest product industry is a highly varied and frequently changing industry, with issues ranging from biological sustainability to equity. Social and economic research helps resolve questions surrounding management, harvesting, production and marketing of these highly demanded and often poorly understood products.

Key Words:

• Non-timber forest products
• NTFP industry
• NTFP markets
• NTFP socio-economics