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Foresty industry task force makes recommendations

State legislators are taking a hard look at Georgia’s forest industry challenges. A new report details the impact recent mill closures are expected to have on the state’s economy and to affected Georgians. Georgia Tech estimates those closures will cause a $2.9 billion loss to the state, with nearly 7,000 jobs eliminated.

At Gov. Brian Kemp’s direction, Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) Director Johnny Sabo led a special task force that examined current issues and possible solutions. The task force report details recommendations to bolster the forest products sector, diversify markets, and secure the industry’s long-term sustainability.

“This is a marathon, not a sprint,” Sabo said. “To witness real change, it will require focused collaboration over the next several years. With the dedication of so many, I am confident Georgia will remain the #1 forestry state in the nation.”

In 2024, the forest industry generated $880 million in tax revenue and had a $59.4 billion total impact on Georgia. However, four mill shutdowns and devastation caused by Hurricane Helene created unprecedented challenges.

 The task force report lists budget priorities to be considered by legislators in the 2026 Georgia General Assembly, which began last week.

Recommended budget priorities are:

• Design and construction of a mass timber state office to serve as a pilot project for future endeavors and attract a mass timber manufacturing facility to Georgia ($2.6 million). Mass timber refers to engineered wood products formed by bonding, layering, or fastening components together to create large, solid, and structural panels, posts, and beams. 

• Expand Georgia Grown Wood Products marketing to strengthen current and future manufacturing investment. ($660,000).

• Support timber industry’s expansion into emerging markets through research, product testing, and private partnerships. Provide funding for Georgia Forestry Innovation Initiative with Georgia Tech. ($10.9 million).

The complete report can be accessed at https://gfb.ag/ForestryTFreport.

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