Demand for hardwoods is bright spot for timber industry
By Jim Griffith

In a market of continued doom and gloom everyone is looking for a bright spot. One bright spot in Georgia’s timber industry seems to be the hardwood market. I keep hearing from timber buyers looking for hardwood. Hardwood pulpwood is selling for more than pine pulpwood. Although I agree that is not saying a lot in today’s market for pulpwood.I even had a request from one logger who was willing to conduct a thinning operation on a hardwood site to get the hardwood pulpwood.Others are looking for hardwood logs, and they especially want oak logs.

I can’t predict how long this demand for hardwood will last but can just report that for the time being there is a strong demand for the product.Now may be the time for you to consider selling your timber. It is rare to have a pure hardwood timber tract. There may be enough hardwood in your natural woods that will create the interest that brings a better price for your pine as well. Now may be the time you have been waiting for to look into selling your timber. Your Georgia Farm Bureau has forestry assistance available to make sure you get the most from your timber investment.  

Jim Griffith is general manager of the GFB Real Estate and Mortgage Companies.