The goal of the Forest Resource Utilization (FRU) program is to foster the most efficient use of Kentucky's timber resources. To accomplish this, FRU foresters supply technical assistance to individual industries, specific segments of the industry, other state and federal agencies and the general public. This assistance includes product marketing assistance, timber resource availability, manufacturing residue management and utilization, equipment analysis, mill efficiency studies, timber harvesting analysis, etc.

The Division of Forestry:

*  Monitors changes in the forests.

*  Strives to match wood producers and wood users.

*  Conducts wood-using industry surveys.

*  Compiles and reports data on quantities and species of wood used by Kentucky industries.

*  Compiles the Primary Wood Industries of Kentucky directory.

*  Reports timber products output (TPO Report).

*  Monitors trends in timber harvesting.

*  Publishes Kentucky's "Growing Gold" newsletter.

*  Offers technical assistance to mills and loggers to help producers increase operating efficiency and promote recycling and efficient use of resources, thereby extending Kentucky's forest resources. 

Available publications are listed below: 
 
Master Logger Program
This link directs you to the official Kentucky Master Logger Web site.

A Logger's Guide to the Forest Conservation Act
This brochure provides information for commercial timber harvesters.

Field Guide to Best Management Practices For Timber Harvesting in Kentucky
This booklet provides guidelines for using best management practices when harvesting timber.

Timber Harvesting Equipment and the Kentucky Forest Conservation Act
This brochure highlights equipment that is typically used on timber harvesting operations in Kentucky. 
 
What Landowners Should Know About Forestry Best Management Practices
This publication provides forest landowners with information about forestry best management practices that must be used when conducting timber harvesting.

Kentucky Primary Wood Industries Directory - 2007
This is a publication that provides information on primary wood industries located in Kentucky.

Forest Practice Guidelines for Water Quality Management
This publication provides recommended forestry best management practices for water quality management.