Suppliers and Investors

U.S. Southern Forests Serve Domestic and Global Demands for Sustainable Wood Products

With nearly one-third of U.S. Forested Land, the Southern States produce over $100 billion of forest products or markets around the world. The region is the first-choice resource for buyers seeking an affordable supply of sustainable wood products with a variety of species, year-long harvesting and over 1,600 mills.

Key Southern State Facts:

  • 215,216,897 acres in forested land
  • 289,926,000 green tons in annual softwood growth
  • 187,869,152 green tons in annual hardwood growth
  • 13,870 MMBF in softwood lumber production
  • 4,138 MMBF in hardwood lumber production
  • Non-restrictive terrain with year-round harvesting
  • Superior transportation infrastructure supported by regional Panamax, Neo-Panamax, and Post-Panamax ports [1]
  • Dedicated landowners, forestry groups and government working together to ensure the health and growth of the region’s forests

The Business-Friendly Region for Wood Processing and Manufacturing

As a sustainable growing economy, landowners, loggers, foresters and industries work together to ensure the accessibility and affordability of southern forest products. With projected growth through 2040, the region offers a solid wood supply created by private land ownership and sustainable forest management practices – the right choice for global wood buyers, processors and manufacturers.

  • Highest growth percentage of timberland in the United States
  • Regional research facilities and innovative manufacturing
  • Utilization of innovative biomass, pellet and liquid fuel technologies
  • Lowest energy rates per KWH, low labor and insurance rates
  • Year-round harvesting
  • Government support and economic incentives to boost the forest economy
  • Overall lower production costs and economical supply chain
  • Regional research facilities and innovative manufacturing
  • Bio-energy research focused on emerging markets for wood chips, wood pellets and biomass uses
  • Leading edge of industrial advancements

Southern Timber Supply Analysis

The Southern Timber Supply Analysis Application uses maps that allow users to estimate the amount of timberland, standing timber, and growth and removals within a user-specified distance or trucking time of any site in the Southern United States. Data is updated regularly and readily shows areas that have an abundant and sustainable supply of forest resources.

Professional Assistance

Through its network of state forestry organizations and economic development departments, the Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF) can help prospective businesses find their perfect home in the South. SGSF is available to assist forest industry professionals in the identifying and locating southern forest resources and sources of wood materials, as well as help identifying identification of locations for plant sites for prospective wood processors and manufacturers.

For more information, contact the SGSF Executive Director.