History of the PCA

HISTORY | VISION | ECONOMICAL IMPACT | ISSUES | VALUE

      In July, 1947 the forerunner of The Pine Chemicals Association was first organized as the Tall Oil Association. The initial purpose of the association was "to advance by all lawful means the interests of the Tall Oil manufacturing industry". Included in its charter was the collection and dissemination of statistical data of all kinds relating to Tall Oil, as well as the goal of providing research programs, investigations, and experiments relating to the production and marketing of Tall Oil and its distillation products. The Association was the platform for members to express common views to government agencies, other industries and the public.

       In 1955, the Association re-organized as the Pulp Chemicals Association. Three Divisions were designated, each with its own separate goals and bylaws. These Divisions were Sulfate Turpentine, Tall Oil and Fatty Acids. The scope of the association broadened to include "products produced by or from products of, the wood pulp industry". Each Division had separate goals and membership could be in one or more of the Divisions. The Association continued to provide research programs, investigations, experiments, and statistical data for the overall membership. In 1974 the Association began the sponsorship of the annual International Naval Stores Meeting, a gathering of companies from around the world to hear presentations on markets, technology and other subjects of interest to the industry. In 1998, the Association changed its name to Pine Chemicals Association, Inc. as part of its new Strategic Plan initiative.

      Today the Pine Chemicals Association membership is an international trade association, representing over 20 countries. Membership has been expanded and is open to any person or firm in the business of manufacturing or marketing chemical products derived from the pulp and forest products industries, including black liquor skimmings, crude tall oil, crude turpentine and fractionated turpentine and tall oil products and their derivatives. In addition, service and product providers to this industry group are welcome to join the association as associate members.

       The Pine Chemicals Association today provides statistical data, general technical information and training, and is a forum to work with government agencies. In past years the association has been very successful in working with critical regulatory issues, setting industry standards, conducting training seminars, supporting technical programs and developing industry publications on markets and technology. The association continues to sponsor the International Conference, which is held annually.

       The Pine Chemicals Association is proud of its fifty plus years of service to its membership and will continue to play an important role in helping to bring value to the industry and its customers.