WVFA Mountain State Forestry Fall 2020

I N D U S T R Y N E W S www.wvfa.org Fall 2020 |  West Virginia Forestry Association Mountain State Forestry 15 that do know their costs, particularly when establishing log prices by species. As a final question, mills were asked if they would support the development of a standard log grading system. Of the mills that responded, 58 (65.9%) indicated they would support an industry standard log grading system, while 30 (34.1%) said they would not support an industry standard. Mill size did not play a role in whether a mill would support the introduction of a standardized log grading system, based on statistical analysis. CONCLUSIONS The various factors examined in this survey, taken together, confirm that log grading and scaling are highly variable and depend on mill-based rules of thumb relative to grading and scaling standards. There are a variety of ad hoc systems in use in Appalachia, making it difficult to make intelligent economic decisions about where to sell logs and maximize value. Ad hoc grading and scaling protocols do not serve the best interests of the hardwood industry. Based on the survey results, sawmills recognize that a standardized hardwood log grading system is needed, with 66% of the respondents interested in supporting some type of standardized system. The elements of a standardized system must be simple to use in a production setting, mirror what the industry is currently using, and serve as the basis for efficiently pricing hardwood logs. Barriers are created when sawmills are handed a variety of protocols. In that case, it can be difficult to define the best option for producers, landowners, and contractors. The opinions of all interested stakeholders must be considered in order to insure actual implement and continued development of a standardized hardwood log grading system.