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Our proposed regulations not only provide the first mechanism for the in^wrtation of 

 unprocessed wood, they also stipulate specific treatments and procedures required to bring 

 raw wood into our country that will protect our natural and agricultural resources from 

 foreign pests and diseases. 



Timber imports have not been tremendously problematic in the past, mainly because 

 the volumes have been so low. But as interest in importing raw wood grows, so does the 

 risk of importing harmful pests and diseases. We are responsible to the American taxpayer 

 to make sure exotic pests and pathogens do not enter our country along with imported wood 

 products. 



Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this issue with you. I am happy to answer 

 any questions you may have at this time. 



