AN ANALYSIS OF STATE-LEVEL ECONOMIC-DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS TARGETING THE WOOD PRODUCTS INDUSTRY

States in regions with abundant forest resources are developing new ap proaches to stabilize rural economies and maximize economic contributi on. An evaluation of public sector infrastructure resources and privat e sector capabilities shows that value-added forest resource-based pro grams are emerging as areas that can contribute to employment growth. In this study, development agency respondents identify program goals a nd objectives as well as the methods they use to actualize strategic p rogram plans. The primary goals of these programs are to increase empl oyment and attract new industry. Attributes that contribute to success ful development programs include having a substantive forest resource base and strong government leadership.