Appalachian Comments

RED OAK

Several sawmills entered the winter season with decent but not overabundant Red Oak log decks. Last week’s winter storm lowered log receipts, and another widespread snowstorm predicted for East Coast states has the potential to keep receipts low until logging conditions improve. Green Red Oak output is somewhat limited and is being absorbed by markets. Export business gained steam before the holidays, lost steam over the holidays, and is showing signs of picking back up now that the holidays have passed. Domestic and global demand for kiln dried Red Oak is sufficient to keep inventories manageable and the listings intact. The only changes to kiln dried Red Oak increase the high end ranges for 4/4 #2A. Red Oak lumber exports climbed 19% in November, rising after the trade deal framework was announced with China and coinciding with a shift to more positive exporter comments. Red Oak log exports fell 8% in November from October, by comparison.