Need for market intelligence to achieve rational development of commercial plantations

Authors: R.A. Harris
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1979, Issue N.Z.J.For. 24(2) 1979, pp 205-213, Aug 1979
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: The expansion and development of New Zealand's exotic forest plantations cannot continue indefinitely without careful reassessment of markets and end-use requirements. Output is already surplus to our domestic needs, which are now levelling off. Of particular concern is the anticipated increase in volume of low-quality sawn wood such as that from untended stands in general, unpruned top logs, and the inner core of pruned lower logs in tended stands. Claims of world shortages of wood that will ensure markets must be qualified in relation to the type, quality and quantity of wood. The market-oriented. development of radiata pine plantations could tie in with complementary development of other general purpose limbers and specialty timbers.

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