South Carolina’s Timber Industry Faces Challenges Following Shutdown of Two Major Pulp Mills
Forestry turmoil: Mill closures threaten $23B industry and jobs
South Carolina’s timber industry is dealing with significant challenges following the closure of International Paper’s Georgetown pulp and paper mill, the WestRock paper mill in North Charleston, as well several sawmills. These shutdowns have left local loggers struggling to find new markets for their products.
According to South Carolina Forestry Commission, the forest sector contributes over $23 billion to South Carolina’s economy, as well as being the top employment provider in the state.
“A lot of people are shocked to hear that, but that’s true. The number one industry by payroll. The problem is we have lost the market for our pulpwood,” said Chip Campsen, chairman of the State Senate’s Fish, Game, and Forestry Committee.
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the potential shutdown of logging crews and timber owners who cannot bring their products to market. Industry leaders emphasize the need to find new markets for pulpwood quickly to sustain the state’s timber industry.
FEA compiles the Wood Markets News from various 3rd party sources to provide readers with the latest news impacting forest product markets. Opinions or views expressed in these articles do not necessarily represent those of FEA.