In a press release, the Swiss Timber Industry Association points out that log stocks in many Swiss sawmills fell sharply last year due to unfavourable weather conditions. The association therefore appeals to all forest owners to mark wood ready for harvesting as soon as possible.

According to the press release, above-average precipitation made timber harvesting more difficult or at times impossible in some places. At the same time, the low level of bark beetle activity led to fewer forced harvests, which overall resulted in a reduced timber harvest volume and a lower supply of sawable round timber.

While the order situation at sawmills remained stable throughout last year, stocks had fallen to an unusually low level by January 2025. Although production can still be maintained at present, according to industry estimates, log stocks are expected to be depleted by the summer. There is therefore a risk of an undersupply towards the end of the second quarter.

In order to ensure security of supply, it is crucial to utilise the current logging season and replenish stocks in good time. The association is therefore appealing to all forest owners to mark timber ready for harvesting as soon as possible and to carry out or commission the timber harvesting work. Close coordination between forest owners and buyers is also essential.

Source:  schweizerbauer.ch