Maine’s forest products sector contributes an estimated $8.1 billion and 31,822 jobs to our state’s economy. That’s about 4 percent of the jobs in Maine. Put another way, roughly 1 out of 25 jobs in Maine is associated with the forest products sector.
Maine’s forests
Maine’s forests are essential to the quality of life that Mainers cherish. Forests provide clean water and air, crucial habitat for wildlife and great recreation opportunities. “Undeniably, what sets Maine apart from the rest of the country — and the major reasons that Maine’s forests remain largely intact and healthy — are the diversity of markets that Maine’s forestland owners have and the ability of forest-based industries to adapt, strengthen and diversify those markets.” –Keeping Maine’s Forest-Based Economy: A National Demonstration Project