Staff Writer
ASHLAND — Local, state and federal officials will be at the Ashland Community High School Friday night to discuss lumber issues affecting the region.
“We’ll be meeting to discuss the Softwood Lumber Agreement with softwood lumber representatives from Washington, D.C. The meeting takes place May 15 at the high school gym, beginning at 6 p.m.,” said Town Manager Jim Gardner. Gardner said the group will be looking for ways to get Canadian officials to abide by the agreement.
“Some key points we’re focusing on — it’s critical the Canadian government honors the Softwood Lumber Agreement and that the U.S. enforces it. We know of breaches that have happened and it’s a major cause of the hardships for our lumber mills here,” said Gardner.
Gardner said the U.S. trade representatives have done some things to address the issue.
“That includes imposing a 10 percent import charge to (Canadian) provinces, but our big breach problem is coming out of British Columbia. Violations range from discount on stumpage rates to cancellation of stumpage payments. It hurts,” said Gardner.
Leadership shown by Sens. Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe and Congressman Mike Michaud, said Gardner, has given those in the lumber communities of Maine some hope.
“But a meeting is necessary to speak with all those involved. We need cooperation all the way around,” he said.
Friday’s session will include a panel of people who will share ideas and concerns on lumber issues affecting the region.
“Panelists will include individuals from Washington, D.C., who are very knowledgeable with regard to lumber issues and trade with Canada,” said Gardner.
Gardner said the meeting will be emceed by Michael Cote, human resource director for Fraser Papers Inc.
“There will also be all of the congressional representatives, including Sharon Campbell, Phil Bosse and Barb Hayslett, as well as myself,” said Gardner.
Gardner is encouraging anyone with an interest in the lumber industry to attend on Friday.
“This is our chance. We actually had Washington (representatives) come to us. That doesn’t happen every day,” said Gardner. “Through our delegation, they pulled it off.”
For more information, contact Gardner at 435-2311.
