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Understanding the value of an acre of timber is essential for anyone in the forest products supply chain, whether managing timberland, planning harvests, or securing raw materials. A complex interplay of market dynamics, harvest strategies, and emerging environmental trends shapes timber valuation. Source: Resource Wise In this updated analysis, Resource Wise explored the forces driving timber worth, diving into fresh 2022-2024 stumpage price data for US South plantation and natural pine and highlight key trends to watch in 2025. Before we can determine the value of an acre of timber, we need to understand the law of supply and demand, which ultimately drives the price of timber. Demand is heavily influenced by location, surrounding mill types, proximity to those mills, and the volume and type of timber products consumed in a given area. Therefore, the volume and type of products available on a tract of timber will determine the value per acre. Location and Proximity to Mills: Timber near sawmills or pulp mills fetches higher prices due to lower transportation costs. In the US South, sawtimber for lumber often commands a premium over pulpwood. Timber Type and Age: Managed pine plantations, typically clearcut at 25-35 years, yield 80-105 tons per acre, with sawtimber (12″+ DBH) driving the highest returns. Natural stands with mixed hardwoods can be even more valuable when high-grade logs are present. Harvest Method: Clearcuts maximize volume and revenue per acre, while thinnings provide earlier cash flow with lower yields. The choice depends on market timing and management goals. Market Trends: Demand for timber products like lumber, pulp, and bioenergy materials fluctuates with construction cycles, paper production, and sustainability initiatives. These factors create a wide range of per-acre values, making understanding historical trends and current market conditions essential. Using transaction-based data from 2022–2024, Resource Wise updated its analysis of stumpage prices for US South plantation and natural pine, focusing on clearcut and thinning harvests. Mature plantation stands, averaging 80-105 tons/acre, saw a dip in 2023 due to a temporary oversupply of sawtimber, followed by a recovery in 2024 as lumber demand strengthened. Thinnings, yielding 30-50 tons/acre of mostly pulpwood and chip-n-saw, showed lower values for younger stands (16-20 years) due to smaller log sizes. The 21-25-year stands fetched higher prices with more chip-n-saw and small sawtimber, though prices fluctuated with pulp market demand. Natural stands, often denser with 90–110 tons/acre and mixed with hardwoods, saw a gradual decline over the period. This reflects softening hardwood sawtimber prices and reduced pulpwood demand. Thinnings in natural stands, yielding 40-60 tons/acre, showed a steady price increase, driven by consistent pulpwood demand and higher removal volumes compared with plantations. Compared with 2017-2019, when plantation clearcuts averaged US$1,542-$1,694/acre and natural clearcuts peaked at US$2,055/acre, the 2022-2024 data show plantation values trending higher due to inflation and sawtimber demand, while natural clearcut values have softened slightly due to market saturation. Beyond traditional market forces, timber’s value is increasingly influenced by global decarbonization efforts, which are reshaping demand and creating new opportunities for landowners. The carbon dioxide removal (CDR) market, projected to grow US$100 billion annually between 2030 and 2035, is opening new revenue streams. Timberlands can generate income through carbon sequestration or by supplying biomass for Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS). For example, companies like Drax are planning wood-fired power plants in the US South, using biomass to produce renewable energy while capturing carbon emissions. Sustainability policies are also playing a role. The EU’s target is to reduce emissions by 55% by 2030, and US investments in carbon capture (US$2.54 billion through 2025) are boosting demand for wood as a renewable alternative to fossil-based materials. This trend could support sawtimber prices, particularly in regions with strong sustainability mandates. However, innovations like biochar, which uses wood waste to lock carbon in soil, might divert low-grade timber from pulp markets, potentially softening pulpwood prices unless offset by carbon credit revenues. Additionally, policy uncertainty in biofuels, such as the expiration of US biodiesel tax credits, can impact biomass demand, adding another layer of complexity to timber markets. These decarbonization trends highlight timber’s evolving role, not just as a raw material but as a key player in climate mitigation. An acre’s value depends on your specific stand and market conditions. Based on 2022–2024 averages: A 100-acre plantation in the US South at 26+ years might yield US$211,100–US$227,500 from a clearcut. The same plantation, thinned at 21–25 years, could bring US$53,800–US$90,400. A 100-acre natural stand might be valued at US$196,000–US$216,800, with thinnings at US$66,400–US$75,700. These are starting points; site-specific factors like soil quality, accessibility, and mill proximity can significantly adjust these figures. The valuation of timberland is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including market dynamics, timber characteristics, and emerging environmental trends. Recent data from 2022 to 2024 indicate that while plantation pine clearcuts have seen a recovery in value due to increased lumber demand, natural pine stands have experienced a gradual decline. The expanding carbon dioxide removal (CDR) market offers new revenue streams through carbon sequestration initiatives. However, it also introduces complexities for traditional timber markets, highlighting the need for balanced strategies that support both carbon sequestration and traditional timber production. Staying informed about these evolving trends and integrating sustainable practices will be essential for maximizing the value of timber assets and contributing to broader climate mitigation efforts.

A centre of excellence for mass timber research, innovation and manufacturing has been launched by Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST) in Scotland. Source: Timberbiz Supported by Scottish Funding Council and host institution Edinburgh Napier University, the Innovation Campus at BE-ST will now house £1.5 million pounds of newly acquired, state-of-the-art mass timber post-processing equipment and SuperBlower extraction system. This will complement existing capabilities and further enhance precision finishing, production capacity, and health and safety processes. The Mass Timber Centre of Excellence will provide the UK construction and built environment sector with the facilities, knowledge, and connections to accelerate the adoption of UK-grown mass timber solutions and access the benefits these can bring, such as lowering carbon emissions associated with construction, strengthening local supply chains, creating jobs, and improving the efficiency of the delivery of the built environment. The Mass Timber Centre of Excellence offers access to advanced mass timber manufacturing equipment, including a CNC machine and offering full-scale production of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), Nail Laminated Timber (NLT), and Glue Laminated Timber (Glulam). The factory is anticipated to have an annual manufacturing output capacity of approximately 8,000m³ once fully operational. The UK faces the dual challenge of a climate emergency and a housing emergency. By advancing the use of mass timber, the Centre has been established to position the construction industry as a key part of the solutions to both challenges. Mass timber is a category of engineered wood products made by compressing layers of timber to form large structural elements. Currently, the UK imports 73,000m3 of mass timber per year. By creating higher-value timber products in the UK, such as mass timber, and leveraging local supply chains, we can unlock significant economic and environmental benefits in the UK. The centre provides support to accelerate UK-grown mass timber adoption across the UK. As well as offering access to mass timber manufacturing equipment, the centre offers research, innovation, and systems design support through partnerships with industry and academic experts to develop timber solutions; consultancy services to assist with product approvals, regulatory compliance, and manufacturing processes; and timber processing through trusted partners for felling, grading, kilning, and planing. Hands-on training and skills development can also be provided via the Centre to upskill the workforce in the expertise required to deliver mass timber products. “The Mass Timber Centre of Excellence opens up huge opportunities for the construction sector. By investing in mass timber, we are not just advancing low carbon approaches to construction, we are also investing in economic growth, creating jobs, and addressing some of the UK’s key challenges,” Sam Hart, Associate Director of Manufacturing and Housing at BE-ST, said. Stephen Good, CEO of BE-ST added that the launch of the centre will support the wider adoption of mass timber, helping to reduce carbon emissions, strengthen supply chains, and deliver much-needed domestic, non-domestic, public, and private infrastructure where appropriate, in a more efficient, affordable, higher quality and sustainable way.  

Bushfires pose a significant threat to Australia and New Zealand’s environment, economy, and communities, with traditional detection methods often failing to provide timely warnings. Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered bushfire detection systems are emerging as a vital tool to enhance early intervention, protect forests, and safeguard lives and infrastructure in response to this challenge. Source: Timberbiz These smart systems use advanced technology to identify fires at their initial smouldering stage, giving emergency services and communities crucial minutes that can significantly change the outcome of bushfire events, according to Dryad Networks. “AI-powered bushfire detection systems with ultra-early detection capabilities give emergency responders a decisive headstart in the event of a bushfire,” Sohan Domingo, VP of Sales, Technology, and Operations, Dryad Networks, said. “This lets them mobilise more rapidly and strategically to the precise location of the burn. This means that response teams can contain outbreaks at their nascent stage, preventing them from escalating into uncontrollable blazes that devastate large areas of wilderness and inhabited regions and directly contributes to the safety and preservation of Australia and New Zealand’s diverse ecosystems and communities.” AI-powered systems begin monitoring long before fires are visibly established, unlike conventional detection methods that rely on visible flames or satellite imagery. The core of this capability is distributed networks of solar-powered sensors placed across bushland, which detect the chemical signatures of fire during its earliest smouldering stage. This raises the alert well in advance of visible flames, giving emergency services more time to act. Smart sensor networks help land managers cover vast areas that would otherwise go unwatched by monitoring even remote and rugged landscapes continuously so that no region remains unprotected. This is crucial in areas where accessibility and visibility are limited. The result is faster, more localised intervention that can stop bushfires before they spread out of control. Smart sensor networks are strengthened by complementing autonomous drones equipped with advanced AI, which can respond rapidly to detected threats and further enhance the effectiveness of emergency operations. Drones arrive at the precise location of the fire swiftly once alerted, giving responders an accurate, real-time view of the situation. This immediate insight lets firefighting teams act decisively, preventing fires from spreading and causing widespread devastation. Future drone advancements will actively suppress fires through innovative methods such as foam dispersal or acoustic technology. This will further decrease the reliance on human crews in high-risk situations, improving the safety and effectiveness of bushfire management. “The environmental implications of adopting AI-powered bushfire detection systems are significant,” Mr Domingo said. “Early bushfire containment protects people and communities, preserves biodiversity and ecosystems, and curtails carbon emissions associated with widespread bushfires significantly. “Reducing emissions through effective fire management becomes increasingly critical as climate change continues to exacerbate fire conditions across Australia and New Zealand. AI-driven systems can play an instrumental role in both countries’ broader climate mitigation and adaptation strategies by preventing extensive environmental destruction.” These detection and response technologies also integrate seamlessly with existing emergency management frameworks. Data from AI sensors and drone surveillance systems feed directly into emergency response platforms and fire analytics tools, creating a cohesive operational picture for firefighting authorities. This seamless integration supports efficient coordination among multiple response units, including ground crews and aerial firefighting teams, enhancing the effectiveness of fire suppression efforts. The Australian and New Zealand Federal Governments have both recognised the need for greater disaster preparedness. The Australian Federal Government committed $28.8 million to disaster preparedness in the 2025-2026 Federal Budget, including $17.7 million for the Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Program. (1) In New Zealand, the government has committed NZ$70 million over seven years (2024–2031) to the Natural Hazards and Resilience Platform, an initiative designed to strengthen national resilience to natural disasters by supporting science across the four Rs: reduction, readiness, response, and recovery. (2) AI-powered bushfire detection technologies align closely with Australia and New Zealand’s commitment to proactive disaster resilience. Reducing reaction times and improving accuracy in identifying and locating fire threats gives communities a vital protective barrier against increasingly frequent and severe bushfire events. Businesses and critical infrastructure operators also benefit directly from improved asset protection, minimising the disruption and financial impact associated with large-scale bushfires. AI detection systems can be customised to accommodate specific regional conditions and management strategies, incorporating local expertise into broader technological solutions. Collaborating with local communities and Indigenous groups, especially those with traditional knowledge of land management and fire practices, can make the rollout of detection technologies more adaptive and effective in practice. “The integration of AI technology into bushfire detection and suppression systems represents a critical advancement toward a more resilient Australasia. Authorities and communities can reduce the destructive impacts of bushfires significantly by embracing these innovations to better protect lives, ecosystems, and economic assets,” Mr Domingo said. “Continued investment and development in these AI-driven solutions will remain essential in shaping a safer, more sustainable future for the forests and communities of Australia and New Zealand as climate challenges intensify.” References: (1): https://budget.gov.au/ (2): https://www.mbie.govt.nz/science-and-technology/science-and-innovation/funding-information-and-opportunities/investment-funds/strategic-science-investment-fund/ssif-funded-programmes/natural-hazards-and-resilience-platform

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the newest tool in the arsenal to prevent the degradation and depletion of forests, with new research revealing how the technology can help protect the ecosystem. Source: Timberbiz Charles Darwin University (CDU) researchers collaborated on an international study, led by the University of Sri Lanka, to develop an AI model which detects changes in forest cover, or the amount of land surface covered by trees. According to the United Nations, between 2000 and 2022 there was a net forest area loss of 100 million hectares. Researchers took U-Net architecture, which is used for image segmentation often in biomedical image analysis and adapted it to compare past and present pictures of the ecosystem and detect where forest loss has occurred. This custom model was fed a dataset of images from Google Earth and was able to detect forest cover changes with an accuracy of 94.37%. Researchers also tested the model on other datasets, which had an accuracy rate of 97.82% and 98.44% respectively. Co-author and CDU Associate Professor in Information Technology Bharanidharan Shanmugam said the model was ideal for real-world applications because it produced high accuracy rates despite needing fewer training samples. “Traditional methods for forest cover monitoring often struggle with accuracy and efficiency. Many rely on manual interpretation, which is time-consuming and prone to errors,” Associate Professor Shanmugam said. “Our research provides a powerful tool for governments, environmental agencies and conservationists to detect and monitor deforestation more effectively. “By leveraging deep-learning techniques, our model enables rapid analysis of satellite images, allowing authorities to identify high-risk areas and respond to deforestation before irreversible damage occurs. “Unlike traditional approaches that require extensive manual effort, our method automates the process, making large-scale monitoring more feasible and cost effective.” The study was a collaboration between the University of Sri Lanka, CDU, Friedrich-Alexander University in Germany, University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka, and the University of Otago in New Zealand. Co-author and CDU Lecturer in Information Technology Dr Thuseethan Selvarajah said another advantage was the model can function with limited labelled data. “This makes it highly adaptable for use in regions where high-quality training datasets may not be available,” Dr Selvarajah said. “Whether deployed in tropical rainforests, boreal forests, or temperate woodlands, the model can provide valuable insights for conservation efforts. “By integrating this technology into existing environmental monitoring frameworks, governments and conservation organisations can enhance their ability to protect forests, enforce regulations, and mitigate the long-term impacts of deforestation. “In the broader context, this research contributes to global efforts in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity.” Change Detection for Forest Ecosystems Using Remote Sensing Images with Siamese Attention U-Net was published in the international journal Technologies.

The Australian Forest Contractors Association is leading the Optimising RTO Training and Assessment Methods for Harvesting Operators project, one of 22 projects under the Forest Workforce Training Program being managed by ForestWorks with funding from the Australian Government. Source: Timberbiz The project is focusing on workplace-integrated training solutions to improve the delivery of training and assessment, to contribute to a sustainable and skilled workforce. Through pilot projects with three training organisations the project will aim to develop a scalable model to streamline the training and assessment process for harvesting operators, improving safety, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in workforce development. The first step in the project is to seek views of the forestry services businesses owners and workers about how training and assessment is currently delivered, and where improvements could be made. You can complete the survey here. This will provide important baseline data to inform the project. The Forest Worker Training Program also is also looking at diversity in the forestry sector workshop, and particularly how to attract more women into the industry. Forestry Australia is also conducting a survey on behalf of the organisations leading and delivering the women-focused projects. Insights from this survey will be used to inform the development of initiatives to promote gender equity to support increased participation and advancement of women in our industry. If you would like to be added to a mailing list to be kept up to date with developments of the Forest Worker Training program, or if you have questions about our project or the program, call 0437 524 933 or email tim@afca.asn.au

Since its major upgrade in 2024, Forest and Wood Products Australia’s Data Dashboard has set a new benchmark in how the forest and wood products sector accesses reliable market intelligence. Discover the New Forecasting Tool on FWPA’s Data Dashboard in a live webinar on Monday 12 May with Erick Hansnata, Statistics & Economics Program Manager at FWPA. Source: Timberbiz Designed to support evidence-based decision-making, and managed by FWPA’s Statistics and Economics team, the FWPA Data Dashboard brings together a comprehensive suite of datasets that are essential for business planning and market forecasting. The current version of the Data Dashboard includes: The FWPA Softwood Data Series Monthly timber trade data and forward projections ABARES Australian Forest and Wood Product Statistics Building activity trends and forecasts Macroeconomic indicators impacting the sector International forest production and sustainability data Regular research and insights from FWPA’s Statistics and Economics team Now, the platform has expanded further with the release of the FWPA Australian Dwelling Forecast Dataset, a new feature offering deep insights into Australia’s residential construction sector. What’s Included in the Australian New Dwelling Forecast Dataset: Forecasts of dwelling approvals, commencements, and completions through to 2035 Projections for the value of Alterations & Additions (A&A) in private dwellings Monthly and quarterly data, including trend and seasonally adjusted figures Coverage at both the national and state levels This dataset is powered by an econometric model that integrates FWPA softwood sales data to deliver a clear, reliable outlook on future residential building activity. It is updated monthly and includes full documentation of the methodology to ensure transparency and confidence in the results. The FWPA is offering an exclusive walkthrough of the latest enhancement to the FWPA Data Dashboard, the Australian Dwelling Forecast Dataset. This powerful new tool delivers monthly projections of residential building activity out to 2035, designed to support better planning and forecasting across Australia’s forest and wood products industry. In this session, you’ll learn: What’s included in the new dwelling forecast dataset The robust econometric model sitting behind it How to access and use the dashboard effectively The broader benefits of FWPA’s Data Dashboard for your business Hear directly from Erick Hansnata, FWPA’s Statistics and Economics Program Manager, and get your questions answered live. The event is on Monday 12 May from 12:30 to1:00pm you can register for this Zoom meeting here. To access the dashboard click here.

Following significant engagement over the last month, the first in-person round of negotiations towards a comprehensive India New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will take place in India this week. Source: Timberbiz This follows the successful visit to India last year by Deputy Prime Minister, Winston Peters and the formal launch of negotiations by Minster for Trade and Investment, Todd McClay and Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal during the Prime Minister’s large trade mission to New Delhi in April. “This is an important step in our trade relationship with India and signals the two Governments’ intent to deliver a high-quality outcome that benefits both countries,” Mr McClay said. “With a population of 1.4 billion and a GDP estimated to grow to US$5.2 trillion by 2030, India offers significant opportunity for New Zealand exporters. “Strengthening ties with India across the board is a key part of the Government’s broader strategy to diversify and grow New Zealand’s export markets and double trade by value in 10 years. In March New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon kickstarted free trade negotiations with India after talks in earlier years had stalled.  Mr Luxon had promised that New Zealand would sign a free trade agreement with India during its first term in office. The New Zealand Timber Industry Federation and Export NZ made submissions to support the proposed trade deal.

Australia’s forest products industries have congratulated the re-elected Albanese Government and all members and senators of the new 48th Parliament who they will work with to achieve improved sector-wide outcomes. Source: Timberbiz “We congratulate Prime Minister Albanese on Labor’s election victory and increased majority, and we’ll now get down to business working with the new Government on a range of issues impacting forestry and the supply chain,” Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA), Diana Hallam said. “We also welcome all the new and re-elected MPs and senators of the new 48th Parliament and will continue our tradition of advocacy with them. “We are eager to get straight to business with the new Government on policies announced during the campaign including the new ReMade in Australia brand and housing sector initiatives, and the soon-to-be-released Timber Fibre Strategy developed during the first term of Government by the Strategic Forest and Renewable Materials Partnership. “Our sector faces many challenges, from long-term timber and wood-fibre supply to immediate construction market issues, ensuring we have a skilled workforce geared to needs, illegal imports, social licence to operate and making sure Australians understand the importance of what the sector does. AFPA will continue lead advocacy for the supply chain, addressing these issues in Canberra,” Ms Hallam said. “We thank the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Julie Collins, along with Shadow Minister for the Environment, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Jonno Duniam, for their ongoing support and all other parliamentarians who represent our industries across the Parliament. “Forestry and the supply chain directly employs 80,000 Australians, indirectly another 100,000 and creates essential products for our everyday lives, while fighting climate change. AFPA will ensure it gets the attention the sector deserves in Canberra,” she said. The Australian Forest Contractor’s Association also congratulated the Australian Labor Party led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for winning the Federal Election. “Congratulations to Prime Minister Albanese and his team for this election result,” AFCA CEO Tim Lester said. “During the campaign we welcomed a commitment from Forestry Minister Julie Collins who wrote to us stating that the Prime Minister and the Minister were strong advocates for plantation and native forestry sectors. “She confirmed that the Government’s position on native forestry is unchanged and that ‘An Albanese Government will never walk away from timber workers and communities’,” Mr Lester said. “Forestry services businesses are generally small, multi-generational family businesses providing specialist equipment and skills to ensure the supply of timber and wood fibre to processing and export facilities. Security of contracts, viability of arrangements and surety for resource availability are all critical for long term business success. “These businesses are the employers of an essential workforce who have high quality jobs in rural and regional Australia. The World Bank says forestry industries have an economic impact two and a half times the amount of money directly generated. A strong forestry sector means more local economic activity, which means stronger communities. “The alternative is exporting our jobs, importing more timber and Australian taxpayers spending more to manage our forests. “There is a lot of misinformation circulating so we would like to extend an invitation to all Parliamentarians to come and see how our forests are managed particularly through harvesting and regeneration. “We look forward to working with the Labor government to promote certainty and security for forestry services businesses who are providing the foundation for Australia’s $24 billion forest products sector,” Mr Lester said.  

The Hyne Group has announced as expansion of its Pallets division with the acquisition of Pallet & Bin Pty Ltd located in Shepparton, Victoria. Source: Timberbiz Pallet & Bin manufactures a range of products for some of Australia’s largest food producers, including a significant amount for the export markets. Hyne Group CEO Jim Bindon said Pallet & Bin was a well-regarded, local business that had been operating for more than 20 years and was a significant supplier for freighting food, “Clients include five of Australia’s largest food producers and this offers further diversity opportunities for our national pallet customer base,” he said. “Shepparton is also strategically located between Hyne Timber’s Tumbarumba sawmill and key Melbourne metropolitan markets, offering some solid locational synergies for both raw material timber supply and freight efficiencies.” This announcement follows the Group’s expansion in 2024 of its pallet manufacturing divisions through the acquisition of Rodpak Pallets & Packaging (VIC), Express Pallets & Crates (QLD) and Pinetec Pty (WA). The Group also expanded its Australian Garden Care division last year with the acquisition, through its Rocky Point Pty Ltd subsidiary, of Bassett Barks on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. In parallel, the Hyne Group’s majority owners in the UK, James Jones and Sons Ltd, has announced the acquisition of United Box Ltd. United Box Ltd was originally formed as a joint venture in 2003 by James Jones & Sons Ltd and Scott Group Ltd. United Box manufactures and distributes agricultural boxes and is a valued supplier to the food industry across the UK and Ireland. “Our recent acquisitions, combined with a progressive investment philosophy, are part of our disciplined global strategy and these two additions to our Group demonstrates our strong support of the rural and farming communities in the UK and Australia,” Tom Bruce-Jones, Chairman of James Jones & Sons Group, said. “This broadens our product portfolio and provides confidence to all our end users of our vertically integrated local supply chains, particularly given the current global trade war.”