Article

The Georgia timber industry is facing severe challenges following the closure of International Paper's mills, leading to a 60% drop in timber demand. Pulpwood prices have plummeted from $15-16 to $5-6 per ton.

Consequently, many landowners are reluctant to replant, as costs exceed potential profits. Governor Brian Kemp has proposed $14 million for timber innovation initiatives at Georgia Tech. A bipartisan bill to remove local taxes on timber sales awaits a House vote. Industry leaders are exploring mass timber and sustainable aviation fuel as alternative avenues for growth amid job losses exceeding 1,600 since the closures.