MARK JOHNSON
OREGON HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
HOUSE DISTRICT 52
October 9, 2012 | CONTACT: Rep. Mark Johnson 503-986-1452 |
EXECUTIVE ORDER SUPPORTS EFFORT TO PROMOTE OREGON WOOD PRODUCTS AS SUSTAINABLE RESOURCE
HOOD RIVER – Rep. Mark Johnson (R-Hood River) today congratulated Gov. John Kitzhaber for announcing an executive order directing agencies to promote and market Oregon wood products in domestic and international markets. Rep. Johnson said the order is consistent with his efforts to pass legislation that enables Oregon to market its wood products as a sustainable resource.
“I am pleased by Governor Kitzhaber's executive order today recognizing Oregon's wood products as green building materials and encouraging greater use and marketing of them in Oregon and around the world,” Rep. Johnson said. “It is vitally important to our wood products industry that they be recognized for the excellent work they do in sustainably managing forest lands in Oregon and producing products that are second to none.”
The Governor's Office announced the Executive Order would direct state agencies to work with engaged groups to develop innovative uses for Oregon wood products and find ways to demonstrate those uses in new government construction. It also asks the Oregon Department of Forestry to work with public and private agencies to ensure that Oregon wood products are rated for their sustainability on a level playing field with other growers around the world.
During the 2012 session, Rep. Johnson introduced legislation that would allow more developers to earn tax incentives and green building certifications by using sustainable Oregon wood products. Though the legislation did not pass this year, he said the Governor’s order will give new momentum to that effort.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the Governor and the Legislature in the 2013 session to ensure that third party energy certification systems like LEED recognize and incentivize the use of all Oregon grown wood products and also encourage the use of other Oregon natural resources and products,” Rep. Johnson said.