Links 







These are a few of the eight-some pages of links (and commentary) 
that we provide as part of our online resources in the Guide.


APHIS is the branch of the US Department of Agriculture and is responsible for collecting the Lacey import declarations.  Their site offers the official government position on Lacey and the requirements.  Other sites are offering interpretations and expansions upon The Lacey Act.  Some groups will emphasize the aspects of The Lacey Act which match their own agenda.  For the basic facts, visit APHIS. 

Top page:
 

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/lacey_act/index.shtml
 
 

Forest-Trends offers a wide range publications.  These are generally very forcefully written, designed to scare companies.  They emphasize heavily the penalties and the risks in the international wood trade.  They have a number of documents specifically written about supplying Asian countries, including a Chinese language version.  These documents can be given to suppliers to encourage them to take your demand for support and information in relation to Lacey seriously.  They would not be recommended for customers. 
 
Top Page:   
 

http://www.forest-trends.org/
 
 
Direct to publications:  
 
http://www.forest-trends.org/resources/publications/publications.php 
 

Direct to the Chinese language version

http://www.forest-trends.org/documents/publications/Lacey%20Act%20Brief_China_EN.pdf

The EIA is an environmental group that is very aggressive in their attempts to stop illegal logging around the world.  Their site is often used as a reference by companies and organizations who want the more emotional approach to the Lacey Act.  The EIA has stated that they intend to gather and provide the Department of Justice with evidence of American companies importing illegal material.  

Top Page:
 

http://www.eia-global.org/
 
 
This is an excellent article about the EIA's work around the world.  Make sure you and your suppliers are familiar with these issues.
 
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2008/10/06/081006fa_fact_khatchadourian?currentPage=all
 

The International Wood Products Association provides importers and foreign exporters with a  wide range of resources and excellent support.  If you are not a member now, you should be.

Top Page:
 

http://www.iwpawood.org/




DoJ (Department of Justice):  You can run a search on "Lacey" and see news reports on prosecutions for violations.

Top Page:
 

http:/www.usdoj.gov/


The Guide provides links and commentary on many other sites and includes pages of resources on "Sources for Tracing Legality" and "Wood Information, Species Research and Statistical Resources."  The information is provided both in printed form and as an electronic file on your CD, so you can go immediately to the sites referenced.

   
 
 


Mandatory Disclaimer: 


This guide is intended to provide guidelines and advice for importers (and foreign exporters) to assist in the entry and sale of logs, lumber, veneer, and other processed wood goods within the United States. Although much of this information should be suitable for the paper industry as well, it is not designed specifically for that product category.

The information provided here is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date of printing and is provided in good faith to assist you in navigating through the complexities of the Lacey Act. However it is important to remain up to date on current regulations and requirements. This should not be considered a substitute for professional legal advice. Consult your legal representative, your customs specialists and your trade associations for additional information or clarifications. Use of this guide does not imply or specifically provide any protection against prosecution, nor do the authors assume any liability for the results of your actions in following the advice provided here. 

Finally, self certification by a company regarding the legality of its wood purchases is no guarantee against Federal prosecution under the Lacey Act. It will however, help reduce a company’s likelihood of becoming the target of malicious prosecution and will provide a significant adjunct to any required defense.

 

Copyright © 2009, Compliance Specialists, LLC. All rights reserved.