by Guy Sabin, SCFC Resource Development Section Chief
The Resource Development Section’s primary goal is to provide the best possible data and services to retain, attract and grow forest industry in our state. Healthy markets support sustainable forest management, keeping forest land forested, and keeping our forests healthy. Good market opportunities for landowners contribute to the economic, environmental, and social benefits our forest resources provide for everyone in the state.
Unfortunately, forestry businesses in South Carolina are in dire straits. Mill closings over the last three years account for 10.7 million tons of lost wood consumption annually in terms of roundwood and residues; this represents more than 30% of our previous total wood use. These impacts are felt by family forest landowners and throughout the wood supply chain. Loggers, truck drivers and wood buyers are adjusting their work. Landowners may be reconsidering their investment in forestry and struggling to implement planned management practices.
As challenging as these losses have been, we also have reason to be optimistic. For 2025 so far there have been announcements of new mills and expansions totaling $1.25 billion in capital investment and more than 900 new jobs. The Resource Development Section will also be growing soon with the addition of an Economic Development Officer. This position was a key recommendation of the SC Forest Recovery Task Force and will be an important part of building on recent successes. We appreciate the work of partners like the Forestry Association of South Carolina for bringing this new position to reality.
The Forest Recovery Task Force is co-chaired by State Forester Scott Phillips and Forestry Association President and CEO Cam Crawford. This group was formed in 2023 and has evaluated opportunities for forest products in the energy, transportation, construction, and agriculture sectors. The group has explored opportunities including traditional building products and mass timber, wood biomass energy with carbon capture, and emerging markets such as renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. Both in-state manufacturing and expansion of export markets are important. I am especially excited about new opportunities for wood use, like using biochar as an additive for greener steel and asphalt.
The Resource Development Section has ambitious goals for economic development, along with continuing our ongoing services for the most up-to-date and accurate data and business assistance. I am proud to be a part of this team that I consider one of the best in the country and know that it will take all of us together to help build the future of forestry in South Carolina.