By Lauren Grand, OSU Extension Forestry & Natural Resources, Lane County
As fall begins, log prices in Lane and Douglas counties reflect ongoing supply and market challenges. The critical factor driving these prices is an oversupply of small-diameter logs, creating difficulties for many landowners and loggers who find selling or processing smaller logs challenging. This abundance has led to a higher cost of logging as fewer mills are accepting smaller logs, and many operations are holding out for larger-diameter timber to cut.
In Lane County, Douglas-fir prices have dipped below $700 per thousand board feet (mbf), while in Douglas County, prices hover around $700/mbf.
Alder mills are back up and running at a higher capacity after struggling with reduced inventory earlier in the year. Their lumber market is currently stable, but there’s a cautious outlook for winter, as mills are concerned about long-term demand. Small conifer mills, meanwhile, are experiencing slowdowns, with some not purchasing as much timber, and others even shutting down operations.
Alder logs sell at $600/mbf, while “white woods” (like hemlock and white fir) are priced at $450/mbf in Lane County and $575/mbf in Douglas County.
The chip market continues to be challenging, with few takers and limited processing space. Due to a lack of market demand, many logging companies are leaving pulp logs in the woods. Prices for chips are holding steady at $25 per ton.
As the season progresses, loggers and mills alike are navigating these shifting conditions while hoping for a brighter outlook in 2025. The market remains tough, particularly for small-diameter logs, but strategic adjustments and careful planning can empower landowners and loggers to weather the storm.
