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The silver beech industry in transition
Authors: Steven OlsonPublication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 2003, Issue N.Z.J.For. 48(4) 2004, pp 26-28, Jan 2004
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry
Abstract: The New Zealand silver beech industry is in transition with new opportunities arising in domestic and international markets. Supply from forests managed sustainably under the Forests Act is increasing as is Forest Stewardship Council certified stock. Demand for hardwood timber is also increasing and in the last four years silver beech sawnwood prices have been on the rise. These trends create opportunities for silver beech producers.
There is a need to improve industry performance through better marketing, research and cooperation amongst interest groups. This is beginning to happen. High end niche markets are being targeted to move silver beech prices towards those of equivalent quality temperate hardwoods.