Fluctuations in national forest timber harvest and removals: The southern regional perspective

Abstract

Here, we examine fluctuations in timber harvest and removals on National Forest System (NFS) lands of the Southern Region in light of changing societal values and administrative policies. We also present timber product utilization information based on multiple data sources, examine NFS removals in the context of standing volume, and compare NFS removals with removals on other ownerships. Additionally, we compare the estimates generated using the Forest Inventory and Analysis inventory with data collected and reported in the NFS Timber Cut and Sold reports. Data presented in this bulletin will enable NFS managers in the Southern Region to take a more indepth look at amounts of logging residue left on the ground versus merchantable material leaving the forest.