“Steady as she goes” is the sentiment in general with hardwood demand, as many mills report consistency in orders coming in. Production is steady as well, some mills even working over 40 hours a week to keep up with their customers. The Chinese continue to be a major consumer of our hardwood timber products, with their attention on both red and white oak keeping the overall demand for those species better than normal during this time of year. Reports are that low-grade markets are improving as well. Because of a generally wet summer so far, many sawmills are experiencing low log supplies, in turn keeping stumpage prices bolstered as they scramble to re-stock for their customers.
The Appalachian markets are generally steady – the Chinese continue to call for ash, as do domestic consumers. Cherry may be leveling off a little, as cabinet manufacturers are reporting a decrease in demand for that species, and current cherry lumber supply is “good.” High quality (FAS/1F) cherry lumber did see another increase this past week, however. General reports say that hard (sugar) maple has increased over the last month for most grades, and cabinet makers are seeing a steady demand for that species. In contrast, soft (red) maple is experiencing a slight decline in demand and price, but some mills are seeing consistent demand for this species. Red oak is showing some renewed demand, with flooring-grade red oak sales reported as “steady” (Weekly Hardwood Review). Contact a Forester Today
General lumber market comments/trends in the Appalachian Hardwoods region:
Black cherry: + 19.7% (since Jan 6th 2017)
Hard (sugar) maple: 4.4% (since Jan 6th 2017)
Red oak; -0.6% (since Jan 6th 2017)
White ash; +13.0% (since Jan 6th 2017)
Soft maple; 0.0% (since Jan 6th 2017)
Perspective and % Changes are measured using data from January 6, 2017 to July 28, 2017