Parker,
Yes, in fact this was a specific point that came up in my research when I asked for the meaning of "sustainable" practices. The lumber industry has not been well known for selective "sustainable" harvesting practices. They (of course) want to get...get out...with as much as possible, as fast as possible. Understandable naturally from a business perspective. Not so necessarily from an environmental standpoint (which I think is somewhat of a driving force here).
Wind fallen trees are the obvious next choice, but when coupled with the expense of actually harvesting them, plus the super high picky "standards" of piano and other instrument makers, it could get difficult to actually get the job done (big trees require big equipment and people to operate it).
I can see this becoming a problem (unless of course an "executive order" wipes away all restrictions. Then its business as usual. It could happen.
Peter Grey Piano Doctor
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Peter Grey
Stratham NH
(603) 686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 08-17-2025 10:48
From: Parker Leigh
Subject: Now this sitka spruce issue in Alaska
There are alternate sources in Ak including some that specialize in processing fallen but healthy timber which does not require special permits. In general
our foresty practices of clear cutting are not only wasteful but not economic compared to countries such as Austria for example where forests are sustainably
managed.
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Parker Leigh RPT
Winchester VA
(540) 722-3865
Original Message:
Sent: 08-17-2025 08:15
From: Peter Grey
Subject: Now this sitka spruce issue in Alaska
John,
Thanks for bringing this up.
A little research reveals that this issue goes back to an agreement in 2016 for a 16 year period of transition from old growth timber to "second growth" timber. As is typical in industry, these time frames tend to get ignored until things get "critical". Plus, it appears that "assessment" and "adjustment" were written into the agreement.
This is all new to me, but Gemini gave quite a bit of insight on the matter. It's (like many things) a complicated matter that impacts numerous areas. I find it odd though that Steinway and others would not have begun looking to other sources, considering the importance of the issue. The saying: "putting all your eggs in one basket" comes to mind.
Of course I could be wrong...as sometimes happens 😉
Peter Grey Piano Doctor
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Peter Grey
Stratham NH
(603) 686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com
Original Message:
Sent: 08-16-2025 16:10
From: John Minor
Subject: Now this sitka spruce issue in Alaska
https://www.frontiermediausa.com/klawock-lumber-mill-supplier-to-steinway-sons-suing-forest-service-over-access-to-sitka-spruce/
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John Minor
The Piano Shop Inc
Champaign IL
thepianoshopcu@gmail.com
www.thepianoshopcu.com
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