Alabama Forestry Commission Estimates Hurricane Isaias Timber Damage at $33.5 Million

On October 16, the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) reported that a preliminary aerial survey of damage caused by Hurricane Isaias estimated losses of more than 2.5 million tons of timber valued at more than $33.5 million.

The initial assessment focused on the hardest-hit areas of Conecuh, Escambia, and Monroe counties. AFC pilots conducted an aerial survey on October 13, identifying a damaged area approximately 36 miles long and up to seven miles wide. The assessment covered 154,783 acres, including 64,795 acres of forestland and 40,805 acres classified as woody wetlands.

To calculate the preliminary losses, AFC used data from the most recent Forest Inventory and Analysis report, which AFC staff help compile annually. AFC noted that the estimates remain preliminary and that additional ground surveys will be necessary to verify the damage.

Alabama State Forester Rick Oates said:

“While we are thankful the damage was not as extensive as it could have been, these losses are still devastating for Alabama landowners. Growing timber is a long-term investment, requiring decades of hard work, careful management, and financial commitment. In a matter of hours, a storm can destroy what landowners have spent much of their lives building.”

AFC Forest Health Coordinator Drew Metzler added:

“Forest inventory data gives us a picture of Alabama’s timber resources long before a storm ever develops. By combining that information with what we’re seeing from the air, we can begin to understand the extent of the damage and put a dollar value on the losses. It’s one of the reasons maintaining accurate forest inventory data is so important.”