Forestry Association outlines South Carolina's strategy for forest industry recovery

The South Carolina Senate Fish, Game and Forestry Committee meeting on April 16, 2025, spotlighted the urgent need for revitalization in the state's forestry industry, following significant mill closures that have impacted production. Cam Crawford, president of the Forestry Association of South Carolina, presented a task force report detailing the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

Crawford highlighted that since March 2023, ten mills, including major players like International Paper, have announced closures, leading to a staggering loss of 8.2 million tons of production—25% of the state's wood fiber market. In response, the SICON Forest Recovery Task Force was established to support existing manufacturers and explore new market opportunities in the emerging bioeconomy.

The report emphasized the potential for South Carolina to lead in bioenergy, with wood products being utilized for renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel, and bioelectricity. Crawford noted that the task force has identified key sectors for growth, including energy, transportation, construction, and agriculture, each with specific recommendations for leveraging wood products.

A critical point of discussion was the recruitment of forest product manufacturers to bolster the industry. Crawford stressed the necessity of dedicated personnel within the South Carolina Forestry Commission to focus solely on attracting new businesses to the state. This position has been included in the upcoming fiscal year budget, reflecting a bipartisan commitment to revitalizing the forestry sector.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed support for the task force's initiatives, recognizing the importance of a robust forestry industry for South Carolina's economy and environmental sustainability. The anticipated outcomes include increased production capacity and the establishment of South Carolina as a leader in the bioeconomy, paving the way for future growth and innovation in the forestry sector.