WHY IS TIMBER VALUABLE?
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SIZE. For any given species, the value of an individual tree is directly proportional to its size. Large trees contain more wood volume per inch of diameter than small trees and can be converted into usable products with less waste per tree.
QUALITY. The quality of a tree is just as important in terms of value as its species and size. A high quality hardwood tree is one that is at least 18" in diameter, straight and tall, with few or no limbs in the first 18' of height. Quality (and value) of the tree increases with each additional foot of height that is free of limbs and branch stubs. In contrast, trees that are diseased or crooked or trees with scars and other defects on the main stem are of much less value.
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SPECIES. Some species of trees are much more valuable than others because the wood they contain is of a desirable color, grain and texture. The wood of Black Walnut is a classic example of a highly valuable species. Other highly valued species that grow in New York & Pennsylvania include Black Cherry, White Ash, Hard Maple, Soft Maple, White Oak and Red Oak. The wood from these kinds of trees is of exceptional value mainly because it is in constant demand by manufacturers of high-quality furniture, cabinets and other wood products that command a high price in today's marketplace.
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