A Win for American Working Forests: Red Oak and National Security
A Win for American Working Forests: Red Oak and National Security
The United States Endowment for Forestry and Communities is proud to celebrate a significant milestone for American working forests.
The FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), signed into law in late December, includes a provision encouraging the U.S. Department of Defense to rapidly transition from Southeast Asian apitong wood to domestically sourced red oak as the preferred material for military trailer decking.
This marks a meaningful step toward sustainability, national security, and supporting local economies tied to forestry.
“This development is a trifecta win for our nation’s working forests, their caretakers, and the environment,” said Pete Madden, president and CEO of the Endowment. “Our domestic hardwood industry has long set the standard for sustainability and security, and it stands ready to meet this vital need for the U.S. military.”
For decades, apitong, a Southeast Asian hardwood, has been the material of choice for military trailer flooring. However, its use has come with significant environmental and operational risks. Unregulated harvesting has contributed to deforestation and ecosystem harm, while reliance on a global supply chain creates vulnerabilities for military readiness. Shifting to domestically sourced red oak ensures a reliable, sustainable supply chain free from geopolitical risks.
Red oak, abundant across the U.S., is not only durable and well-suited for military applications but is also receptive to treatments that enhance its resistance to pests and decay, extending its lifespan. Moreover, the transition to red oak supports rural American jobs and protects forests by ensuring that significantly more red oak is grown than harvested—helping maintain healthy, thriving forests.
The Endowment views this as a pivotal moment that reinforces the value of domestic hardwoods in strengthening America’s economy and environment while supporting national defense. It highlights the importance of working forests and sustainable practices in ensuring resources for future generations
About the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities:
The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities is a not-for-profit public charity collaborating with partners in the public and private sectors to advance systemic, transformative, and sustainable change for the health and vitality of the nation’s working forests and forest-reliant communities.
For more information contact:
Aleta Rogers, aleta@usendowment.org
