Alabama’s $36 Billion Forestry Industry Powers Rural Growth and Innovation

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster):  Alabama’s forestry industry is a vital economic engine, particularly for the state’s rural areas. By generating billions in economic activity, creating thousands of jobs and promoting sustainable practices, the industry not only supports local economies but also positions Alabama as a leader in forestry and natural resource management on a national and global scale.

The forestry industry’s scope is massive in Alabama, with its total annual economic impact calculated at $36 billion. The state is home to over 110 manufacturing facilities including sawmills, paper mills and other production sites, supporting more than 40,000 jobs directly in the sector.

The industry’s average annual investment in Alabama has been pegged at $840 million, with $300 million in new investment in the state’s rural regions announced during 2023 alone.

“Alabama’s forestry industry is a lifeline for our rural communities, providing stable jobs, generating significant economic activity, and supporting local businesses,” said Brenda Tuck, Rural Development Manager for the Alabama Department of Commerce. “With much of the industry rooted in rural regions, forestry helps sustain families, fund public services and create new opportunities for growth.

“Its impact goes beyond economics — it’s about preserving the way of life in Alabama’s small towns and ensuring a bright future for these communities,” she added.

Tuck said the forestry industry is a top employer in Alabama’s rural areas, where many timberland operations, sawmills, and paper mills provide well-paying jobs.

In addition, forestry-related activities such as logging, lumber production and paper manufacturing drive growth in rural communities by supporting secondary industries like transportation, equipment manufacturing and bioenergy production.

Courtesy: www.yellowhammernews.com