DENVER - Today, Governor Polis visited Medicine Wolf Log Furniture to meet with owner Jon Weekley. Medicine Wolf Log Furniture uses beetle kill trees to turn fire hazard kindling from the forest bed into artisan furniture for our homes. By utilizing local materials and repurposing beetle kill Jon creates furniture while removing dangerous kindling from our forests.
“Jon’s innovative business is a perfect example of Colorado’s ingenuity. By using beetle-kill wood Jon is able to create beautiful furniture, while helping find a good use for trees that may otherwise be kindling in our forests. I am excited to visit Jon’s shop to learn about his innovative process and see his craftsmanship," said Governor Polis.
Governor Polis recently took executive action to protect Colorado forests and create a statewide approach to combating the spread of pine beetle infestations. The task force created by this action will develop strategies to help protect Colorado communities, critical water resources and forests, support Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy, and enhance fire mitigation and response efforts. In addition to the task force, the Governor will seek to extend and boost key wildfire mitigation and beetle kill tax incentives, as well as seek funding for critical wildfire mitigation, community outreach, and research needs, and resources to draw larger federal funding streams.
To learn more about the Mountain Pine Beetle, visit the Colorado State Forest Service webpage.
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