Forest Resource Analyst Scott Danskin and Marketing Specialist John Barlow participated in a forestry roundtable titled “Time To Talk Timber!” hosted by the South Carolina Department of Commerce June 24. The event was held at the Clemson University Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science in Georgetown.
The focus of the event was the state’s forestry community, which has weathered numerous mill closings and production decreases over the past several years. The Department of Commerce understands these mill changes have had negative impacts on the forestry community and believed this was a great opportunity to highlight the services being provided during this time of change. They also felt they would have a better understanding of the issues being faced by our community if they sat down and heard directly from the forestry community.
Scott and John both presented on the services offered by the Forestry Commission. John discussed the agency’s marketing program, and Scott focused on analytical and data services. Several other invited groups made presentations as well, including Logistics, Manufacturing Extension Partners and the SC Department of Employment & Workforce. Senator Chip Campsen also spoke to the group, giving his view on the situation and some of the issues that need to be resolved to improve the current situation.