North Carolina (NC) state-wide standing timber prices for the fourth quarter of 2023 are up in four of the five major product classes compared to the previous quarter. Even though prices were up, increases were marginal for hardwood sawtimber, pine chip-n-saw, and pine pulpwood. There was a 1% price increase for hardwood sawtimber and a 3% increase in both, pine chip-n-saw and pine pulpwood respectively. Hardwood pulpwood had the largest increase at 10%. Pine sawtimber was the only product class to experience a decrease in standing timber price, which was marginal at 2%. These price trends mirror South-wide standing timber prices.
In a review of standing timber price data for Eastern and Western NC, Eastern NC's fourth quarter 2023 average standing timber prices were up from the third quarter 2023 prices for the five major product classes. Standing timber prices in Eastern NC were up 26% for hardwood pulpwood, 12% for hardwood sawtimber, 10% for pine chip-n-saw, 8% for pine pulpwood, and 3% for pine sawtimber. Western NC did not fare as well, seeing standing timber prices decrease by 2 percent to 9 percent for all five major product classes. Pine sawtimber, chip-n-saw, and pulpwood prices were down 9%, 4%, and 2% respectively. Hardwood sawtimber and pulpwood prices were down 5% and 3% respectively.
For more information on the fourth quarter 2023 average standing timber prices in North Carolina, please visit the Forestry Price Data page. Remember, timber prices may vary greatly depending on many factors including location, species, products, access, and distance to the mill. Timber prices presented in price reports may not reflect the stumpage values for a particular stand of trees or within a specific region of the state. It is recommended that you seek professional assistance in accessing the value of your standing timber.
