Abstract: A retractable holddown mechanism for veneer clipper infeed conveyors comprising a novel means to control the action of retractable holddown bars that yieldably clamp the veneer flat against conveyor belts during normal operation and that, in the event of an obstruction at the clipper entrance, are caused to retract in a programmed motion that first provides relief allowing the veneer to pile up for a short time with reduced tendency to break up where it accumulates most rapidly, and that thereafter clears the conveyor for removal of the jammed veneer with minimum difficulty.