The eucalypts which have been used widely for utility poles for more than 30 years have dwindled remarkably from traditional supply areas. Consequently, pole-using authorities are considering importing poles from abroad. This alternative is considered unrealistic and costly. The aims of this paper are: - to dispel fears of pole scarcity and to show that an abundant resource of a variety of tree species, consisting of both hardwoods and softwoods, considered suitable for poles, is available; - to point out obstacles that hinder the full utilization of this natural and renewable wealth; - and to suggest workable solutions to the pole supply problems.

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