Some Forest Facts

Michigan's Forests Are Growing!

One of many woodlots managed by Greater Michigan Timber Management

Did you know...Michigan's forests are growing 2 1/2 times more wood than what is being harvested?

Each year Michigan forests grow an additional 1032 million cubic feet . For example, a forest of 500 trees,each with a trunk of at least 5" in diameter,  with each tree representing 53.2 million cubic feet of standing timber, will grow an additional 19.4 trees.
(Annual growth on timbered land averages 55 cubic feet of wood per year)
Most species of trees in Michigan regenerate naturally from seeds, and after harvesting, through root or stump sprouts. In addition , over 30 million trees are planted each year.

Timber, like wildlife, can be stored only to a certain level. As timber ages, nature reclaims some of the trees.  Each year 202 million cubic feet are lost to insects, disease and other natural causes.
 
This is why it is extremely important to actively manage and harvest your standing timber before this occurrence as the value of the standing timber decreases overall. Forest managers, like Greater Michigan Timber Management, help to control the rate of harvest to assure a sustainable supply of forestry resources, both present and future.

We're Growing A Bright Future in Michigan's Forests!

Michigan's forests support 150,000 jobs and add $9 billion to Michigan's economy.  Additionally, forest-based tourism and recreation support 50,000 jobs and add $3 billion to Michigan's economy.

Each year Michigan citizens consume 800million cubic feet of wood products. Products from the forest typically include: lumber, utility poles, pulp and paper, firewood, plywood, furniture, oriented strand-board, log homes, particleboard, paneling, shingles, flooring, cabinets, fencing, Christmas trees, bridges and even guitars!

* Based on the 5th Forest Inventory conducted by the USDA Forest Service.