Hey outdoor board. I imagine there are some timber experts on here... My wife and I recently went under contract on a 66 acre lot of land in Quinton AL. We didn't buy the lot for the timber value, but searching google earth we noticed it has been clear cut about 21 years ago and want to see if there is some value there. We are currently speaking with some local foresters to get a timber appraisal before closing, but they have all been hesitant to give any indication on potential value... Using google earth it looks like 40 acres was forested in the past. It appears to be a mix of pine and other species, with pine making up about 50%-60% of the 40 acres. It doesn't look to have been maintained or thinned in any way. The old timber roads are still there, but probably need some work.

What could we conservatively expect to net from a timber sale like that? I understand the timber appraisal will give us a more indicative value, but just want to understand ballpark value in the meantime. Thanks in advance!

There is going to be alot that goes into that. You definitely on the smaller side. A logging company is going to take into account the amount and quality of the timber, access, how far it has to be hauled and probably quite a few other things. I have seen several times where people have smaller places like yours that they can't get a timber company to touch.
My guess is IF it is easy access, they assess it to have a good amount of high quality wood and it doesn't have to be hauled too far someone will take it. Otherwise it isn't worth them hauling all their equipment out and cutting it.
ETA: I forgot to mention, simply put, trees get more valuable the bigger they get. The most valuable are above 12" and above, so if the majority of your trees are this size it would definitely help. As it was clear cut about 20 years ago you are probably just starting to get there or will be in a few years.

Looks like you are close to Jasper, Alabama; my old plywood department manager lives there and worked for Jasper Forest Products at one time.

On November 16, 2020, Tolko and Jasper Lumber Company announced a 50-50 joint-venture partnership in Jasper Forest Products, an existing Southern Yellow Pine sawmill, shavings business, whole log chipper, and trucking operations in Jasper, Alabama. In April 2024, Tolko purchased the other 50 per cent interest in the business and acquired full ownership. Since 2020, production at the mill has expanded from 70 million board feet to 130 million board feet, with further plans to increase capacity to 180 million board feet.

If you aren't shy, I'd recommend you call the plant and ask for Jerry King in Timber procurement and tell him what you have.

https://www.forestry.alabama.gov/Pages/Informational/NewsFiles/A0003_Selling_Your_Timber.pdf


https://www.forestry.alabama.gov/Pages/Management/ForestAssistance.aspx

Yes sir.

For reference, my father in law has a tree farm in that general area (further north and west about 30 minutes away). It took a full two years once his trees were ready to get them cut. I believe they went to the aforementioned mill in Jasper and his trees are easy to get to. I can get you in touch with his forester for another opinion - he's a really helpful guy.

Thanks all for the guidance. OB doesn't disappoint.

AgEng98 said:

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For reference, my father in law has a tree farm in that general area (further north and west about 30 minutes away). It took a full two years once his trees were ready to get them cut. I believe they went to the aforementioned mill in Jasper and his trees are easy to get to. I can get you in touch with his forester for another opinion - he's a really helpful guy.

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Another opinion would be appreciated.