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Estimating Timber Investment Potential in the South for the 1998 RPA Assessment

Investigators:

David N. Wear, USDA-Forest Service, Southern Research Station
Runsheng Yin, University of Georgia
David H. Newman, University of Georgia

Description:

This study investigates timber production potential on a county-by-county basis in the South. Production potential is defined using concepts from the analysis of production frontiers. Using empirical data on timber harvesting patterns, stochastic production frontiers are estimated for various subregions of the South. Counties with actual production that departs from efficient levels defined by the frontiers have potential for expanded production. Those that have substantially higher production may be producing at levels that are not sustainable. Models are being estimated using data from Timber Product Output surveys, Forest Inventories, and Timber Mart South records. Research is ongoing. (This study is largely funded by the 1998 RPA Assessment).

Problem Area(s): Timber investment
Status: Ongoing

modified: 13-MAR-2000
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