Logger Training Leads to Improved Market Access but No Price Premium

The Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) Program is a catalyst to develop or improve state-based logger training programs. SFI characterizes the role of loggers as the most visible and engaged participants in the implementation of sustainable forest management. This article discusses the use and compensation of trained loggers, contrasting SFI wood procurement operations with non-SFI operations. The results indicate that trained loggers are being used but are not receiving additional compensations for their training efforts. Logger training providers, such as Cooperative Extension Forestry Programs, should be aware that training for loggers may not translate into a price advantage but is likely to improve access to markets.