Timber products output and timber harvests in Alaska

Projections of Alaska timber products output, the derived demand for logs and chips, and timber harvest by owner are developed by using a trend-based analysis. These are revised projections of those made in 1990, 1994, and 1997, and reflect the consequences of recent changes in the Alaska forest sector and trends in markets for Alaska products. With the cancellation of the long-term contracts and the closure of the two southeast Alaska pulp mills, demand for Alaska national forest timber now depends on markets for sawn wood and the ability to export manufacturing residues and lower grade logs. Four scenarios are presented that display a range of possible future demands. The range in annual demand for timber from Alaska national forests is 48 to 370 million board feet of logs annually. Areas of uncertainty include the prospect of continuing changes in markets and competition, and the rates of investment and innovation in manufacturing in Alaska.