NORTH ANSON – Business leaders will discuss the future of Maine’s wood and forest products industry during a forum from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 15, at Cousineau Wood Products at 3 Valley Road.

From Wood to Riches: Growing Maine’s Forest Products Industry in a Changing Marketplace will explore the challenges confronting this sector as well as the ways to assure its future in the economy.

A panel of experts will analyze the industry’s current markets and operations, sources of support for growth and change, and options for the future. Panel members will include Brody Cousineau, director of operations for Cousineau Lumber; Chris Krauss, coordinator of Maine WoodNet; Diane Overlock of Solon Manufacturing; Steve Banahan of Moose River Lumber; and Dr. Bryant Hoffman, executive director of the Central/Western Maine Workforce Investment Board, among others.

Representatives from the offices of U.S. Sens. Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins and U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud will be present, as will representatives from the governor’s office.

Discussion topics will cover the issues of international competition, workforce training and efficiency of small business enterprises, popular misconceptions, and strategies that can empower the industry to survive and grow. The discussion will be followed by a tour of the Cousineau Wood Products facility and a light lunch.

The event is sponsored by the Somerset Workforce Development Team, a collaborative partnership of economic development, education and training, and workforce development organizations in Somerset County.

For more information or to register to attend, contact Bryant Hoffman as soon as possible at 207-753-9011.