Forestry owners in Ireland are being advised to seek the best available quotes for selling timber, as prices currently remain stable. The Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) has released the results of its latest Timber Price Survey, covering the second quarter of the year (April to June). Jason Fleming, the IFA’s national farm forestry chairperson, stated that there has been no significant change in prices across all timber products since the first quarter of the year (January to March). He added that timber prices have remained consistent in the first half of 2023, reflecting steady market demand. This stability will be welcomed by farmers with forestry, following a period of market uncertainty in recent years.
The IFA survey revealed the following prices for Sitka spruce timber: Pulpwood prices ranged from €35/t to €40/t; Stakewood prices ranged from €42/t to €52/t; Palletwood prices ranged from €50/t to €80/t, depending on the length produced; Sawlog prices ranged from €83/t to €110/t. The survey gathered price data from forest owners, forestry companies, and sawmills. Fleming emphasized the importance of farmers shopping around and staying informed about timber markets, as there is significant variation in prices quoted, particularly those directly quoted to farmers.
In other forestry news, the Irish government has announced funding of €3 million for the development of over 300 forest parks and the enhancement of outdoor amenities on Coillte-owned land. The funding was announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, on June 30. Minister Humphreys highlighted the value of Ireland’s outdoors, including forest parks, walking and cycling trails, uplands, and blueways, in terms of physical and mental well-being. She also emphasized their importance in attracting tourists to rural areas and supporting local economies.
