Two weeks ago, a U.S. forester marked a mature Black Walnut tree for harvest. Two days ago, the felled tree headed to the saw mill. Two hours ago, magnificent boards were cut, destined for use in fine furniture, flooring, interior paneling and a variety of other American Hardwood products. But what happens to the wood processing by-products?

• Tree bark is processed into mulch and soil conditioners.

• Sawdust fuels the boilers that operate dry kilns or is sold for animal bedding.

• Trimmings are chipped and processed into paper and other products.

• Small pieces are recovered and processed into wood components.

Advanced technology and responsible manufacturing processes assure the least wood waste and greatest yield of lumber. Millions of products are made from trees and every part of the log is utilized.