Nov 03, 2005. /Lesprom Network/. American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) president and CEO W. Henson Moore, has announced he will retire in August of 2006 after serving in this capacity since February 1995. Informing the membership of his decision, Mr. Moore said, “By the time I depart I will have been here over eleven and a half years. It’s time for me to stand down and let somebody else take it from here. “ In 1995, Mr. Moore led a comprehensive reorganization of the association following the merger of the National Forest Products Association and the American Paper Institute, making AF&PA one of the most member-focused, efficient trade associations. Under Mr. Moore's leadership AF&PA developed the first strategic plan to focus efforts and resources on priorities to improve the global competitiveness of the forest products industry. In addition, Mr. Moore also implemented an innovative Value Based Dues system, ensuring member companies only paid for those issues that affected their bottom line. This dues system was recognized by the American Society of Association Executives, awarding it the “Best Membership Retention/Member Service” award. In 2002, Mr. Moore led the formation of the International Council of Forest and Paper Associations (ICFPA), which is now comprised of 43 countries representing industries accounting for more than 90% of the world’s paper and more than 50% of the world’s wood production. Moore served for two years as its first president. ICFPA members cooperate on international matters and develop and promote common positions. Mr. Moore came to AF&PA after a distinguished public service career. A former member of congress from Louisiana, he also served as deputy secretary of the U.S. department of energy and deputy chief of staff for president George H.W. Bush. “Henson had the leadership skills and relationships that this industry needed to make a difference – and he did,” said AF&PA chairman of the board Aubra Anthony, president and CEO of Anthony Forest Products Company. “He has been the forest products industry’s tireless advocate for over a decade, and his expertise in both the tax and energy arena have served this industry well. Henson brought both a professional and personal passion to his AF&PA service, and we have much to thank him for.” Mr. Moore said, “We’ve seen significant positive changes in the industry since 1995. I am very proud of this industry and our accomplishments – and the team at AF&PA is just the best. The board will be conducting a formal search for my replacement over the next several months, and we are confident of a smooth transition.” AF&PA is the national trade association of the forest, paper and wood products industry. AF&PA represents more than 200 companies and related associations that engage in or represent the manufacture of pulp, paper, paperboard and wood products. The forest products industry accounts for approximately 6% of total U.S. manufacturing output, employs 1.3 million people, and ranks among the top 10 manufacturing employers in 42 states.