The Iowa hardwood lumber industry: An input-output analysis to the year 2010

Abstract

The model used for this study was developed with a USDA Forest Service personal computer based system called IMPLAN (from IMpact PLANning). IMPLAN is a linear input-output system that requires user input to define region of study, in this case the state of Iowa, and to quantify the magnitude of the changes (supply and demand changes) to be evaluated (Naughton et al., 1985). The computer program adjusts national level data to fit the economic composition and trade relationships of the chosen region (Standaert, 1989).

As with most studies involving projections, the further into the future one goes the more assumptions one has to make about the changes in the world that affect things such as demand. In view of this, analyses and economic assessments that are as short-term as allowed by the model are more preferable. For the purposes of this study, five- and ten-year projections were considered adequate enough.