Of this, 4.3 million acres of state-managed lands are available for commercial development, and an additional 5.6 million acres are available for harvest within the Tongass National Forest under federal management. Current operations on state land have averaged approximately 30 million board feet annually, while young growth in the Tongass is growing rapidly, at a rate of 500 million board feet per year.
Alaska’s forests produce high-quality timber that can support a variety of industrial and specialized markets. Coastal forests are dominated by Western Hemlock (60%), Sitka Spruce (32%), and other softwoods (8%). Interior Alaska is vast with extensive stands dominated by White Spruce (64%), Birch (21%), and Poplars (15%). This diversity in species enables the production of a wide range of products that support various markets.
Our mills produce a multitude of products that support a growing and robust demand for timber, including, but not limited to, large cants and flitches, shop lumber destined for remanufacturing, dimensional lumber, railway ties, shakes and shingles, music wood, and a host of specialty and craft products.
Alaska’s timber industry is a vital and sustainable pillar of our state’s economy, harnessing our expansive forest resources to produce a variety of products to meet growing demand. With careful management, Alaska continues to supply high-quality timber while maintaining a sustainable production approach, ensuring that Alaska’s forests will provide economic opportunities and natural beauty for generations to come.