Logging Utilization in Alaska, 2016–2019

Commercial timber harvest sites in Alaska were studied between 2016 and 2019 to estimate growing-stock removals, characterize current tree utilization, characterize logging operations, and assist with estimating the amount of woody biomass left onsite after harvesting. Sample logging sites were selected within major geographic regions in proportion to 5-year timber harvest volumes. A two-stage sampling method (felled trees clustered within logging sites) was used to compute state-level utilization factors. Results indicated that for every 1,000 ft3 delivered to the mill, harvesting removed 1,091 ft3 of timber volume from growing stock; created 92 ft3 of growing-stock logging residue; and yielded 2 ft3 of non-growing-stock material that was delivered to the mill. The ratio of Alaska growing-stock residue to mill-delivered volume was three times larger than in other Northwest states. Study results can inform land managers of residues available for biomass/bioenergy uses, provide data for life-cycle analyses, and estimate removals from growing stock associated with commercial timber harvesting.