Effects of Displacement and Outsourcing on Woods Workers and Their Families

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Abstract
This study examines the effects of displacement and outsourcing on 60 woods workers and their partners in northeastern California. Following displacement, 17% retired and 76% were reemployed when interviewed. The average unemployment period was 2 mo. Eighty percent of those reemployed continued to work in the woods. Postdisplacement income declined on average 25% from predisplacement levels. As a group, retirees fared the worst, losing 30% of their predisplacement income, while those reemployed in woods work lost on average 17%. Those reemployed worked in less stable jobs and frequently worked more hours with fewer or no benefits. Thirty percent were without health insurance. Women shouldered an increased responsibility for household income, contributing on average 15% more to the postdisplacement total. Job training was ineffective because the displaced were unwilling to move into occupations requiring relocation. Commitment to kin and communities kept the displaced from moving despite limited local opportunities.

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