While 2018 marks the 30th year Minnesota Forest Industries (MFI), Minn., USA, has had a popular booth at the Minnesota State Fair, during which time it has given away nearly a half million seedlings, the Fair has actually depended on forest products since its inception in 1859.

From the wood barns and fences more than 150 years ago, to the grandstand, hundreds of buildings and even the wrapping on your sno-cone, Minnesotans at the State Fair are never far from wood and paper products made from sustainable, renewable forests.  

During this year’s Minnesota State Fair, running August 23 through Labor Day, MFI will again be giving away free Red Pine seedlings, hand-held, tree-shaped fans and other materials at its traditional location at the fairgrounds.

"We’re pleased to have been a fixture at the State Fair for 30 years, helping Minnesotans learn about forests and the forest products industry," said Wayne Brandt, MFI’s executive vice president. "We invite everyone to stop by our booth to say hello and pick up their own free seedlings."

Thirty-two thousand Minnesotans work in the forest products industry, which has a $9.1 billion economic impact that’s felt throughout the state. From Aitkin to Zumbro Falls, nearly 300 Minnesota cities are home to businesses from which the forest products industry purchases goods and services.

Minnesota Forest Industries is an association representing these state forest products companies: Bell Lumber & Pole Company; Hedstrom Lumber Company; Louisiana Pacific Corp.; Minnesota Power; Molpus Woodlands Group, LLC; Norbord Minnesota; Packaging Corporation of America; PotlatchDeltic; Sappi North America; Savanna Pallets; UPM, Blandin Paper Mill; and Verso Corporation.

MFI members encourage conservation, proper forest management and industry development that foster sound environmental stewardship, multiple use of timber lands and sustainable, long-term timber supply. MFI’s web address is minnesotaforests.com.