A new initiative launches today, designed to spur interest in designing and building with mass timber – sustainable, large, engineered wood beams and panels used to create a range of buildings, even skyscrapers. “As we see more mass timber buildings go up across the state, it’s clear that mass timber can become an integral and important part of Michigan’s forest products economy, which generates more than $26 billion annually,” said Sandra Lupien, director, MassTimber@MSU at Michigan State University. …Project teams that receive awards – ranging from $25,000 to $75,000 – will participate in a cohort led by MassTimber@MSU and WoodWorks. …“WoodWorks is proud to partner with the Michigan Mass Timber Catalyst Program to accelerate the adoption of mass timber for new construction projects throughout Michigan,” said Jennifer Cover, president and CEO of  WoodWorks – Wood Products Council.