Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/819351
12 PalletCentral • March-April 2017 palletcentral.com W hen describing the wood packaging industry on Capitol Hill, it often sounds something along the lines of "Well, our industry is just wood and nails." The usual response is a smile and a chuckle. As everyone knows, it's much more complicated. The hook-and-bait, folksy story of a simple industry is followed up with, "It's actually more than that. There are three PhDs on staff and an aeronautical engineer – yes, a rocket scientist, all dedicated to the software engineering program that designs wooden pallets." The response is what one would imagine. Similarly, while government affairs and public affairs is a lot of handshakes and shoe leather on Capitol Hill, it's more involved. To fight the fight and win, to have a place at the table, to provide you with the most up-to-date news and information, it takes resources. There are real and significant threats to our industry, both known and unknown. To best serve the membership, NWPCA retains a network of experts and engages independent contractors in the areas of public affairs, legal counsel, and government affairs. As an organization, NWPCA subscribes to news networks and holds membership in associations whose missions closely align with NWPCA. Through this strategic web of partnerships and collaborations, the wood packaging industry's influence has deepened and expanded, and NWPCA's profile is continuously elevating. Victories have been achieved at the federal and state level. Without a doubt, your voice is being heard. There is, however, still a threat against the wooden pallet and container industry. The Cary Institute, through their TreeSMART trade initiative, wants to ban the import of solid wood packaging (or wooden pallets.) Using the resources generated by NWPCA membership, such threatening initiatives are being met with fierce opposition. NWPCA is also now able to pursue programs to benefit members such as the USDA BioPreferred® program. Finally, even with the voice of NWPCA on Capitol Hill and beyond, it is your voice that is the most powerful. Constituents have the most important voice in Congressional offices. Your member of Congress and Senators want to hear from you. With President Trump's agenda, elected officials want to hear how presidential initiatives affect their constituents. Plan now to attend the NWPCA Congressional Fly-In on June 20-21, 2017. Meetings will be arranged between attendees and congressional representatives and federal agencies that directly affect your business. Participants will join staff and other NWPCA members in a group. This is a great opportunity to educate elected representatives about the wood packaging industry. It is imperative to illustrate the significant economic impact the wood packaging industry has on districts, states, and the nation. The Fly-In will be the most opportune time for the industry to be heard and your participation is critical. PC Capitol Hill Corner By Patrick Atagi, Vice President of Advocacy & External Affairs