MyReport                                                 

Appalachian Comments

POPLAR

Green Poplar sales are stable across most grades and thicknesses, with the species moving to millwork and moulding operations and concentration yards at steady prices. All the green figures remain intact. Despite some recent reports of steady-to-stronger kiln dried 4/4 Fas Poplar sales, prices gathered for this issue show erosion, and the listings fall by $25/MBF. Information also warrants reductions to the 4/4 #1C listings and low-end ranges.

FRAMESTOCK, CANTS, TIES, & BOARD ROAD

Upholstered furniture manufacturers are placing few orders for solid hardwood framestock. Among respondents who replied to the upholstered furniture sector portion of surveys over the last three weeks, 75% reported slow demand. Limited reported transactions keep the Oak and Mixed Species framestock ranges intact, however.

Wood pallet manufacturing operations are not overwhelmed with inventory. As such, in recent weeks, most are purchasing steady-to-stronger cant volumes. The cant listing and range accurately reflect reported prices.

Inventories of 7x9 crossties at treating plants are sufficient to meet current demand. However, buyers are growing concerned about sawmills’ ability to meet their needs in the months ahead. For now, reported prices are within the respective ranges across both subregions.

Demand for board road produced in the Appalachian region is better for some producers and lower for others but broadly lacks the upward momentum occurring in the South. Prices are well represented by the listing and range.