Utilization of Fire-Impacted Timber: A Summary of a Survey of Mill Procurement Personnel and a Review of the Literature

Abstract

Wildfire is an important ecological process and prescribed fire is a critical tool for the stewardship of fire-dependent forest lands. Continued interest in the use of prescribed fire as part of various silvicultural systems raises the question: How does fire-impacted timber influence timber utilization by mills? To help answer that question, a survey of mill procurement staff in the Lake States (Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin) and the southeastern US and a literature review were conducted.

When it comes to utilizing fire-impacted timber, the "answer" is situation dependent on what the mill produces and their outlets for residual products. Charred wood and bark negatively impact the quality of products manufactured from pulpwood (e.g., paper, fluff pulp, cardboard) as small discolored flecks can appear in the final product. Utilization by mills which produce dimensional lumber generally isn’t a concern as the charred material can be removed by the debarking and slabbing processes. However, char-damaged wood fibers can result in weaker strength solid wood products.

When considering the use of prescribed fire in a timber stand, it is important to consider local markets and their procurement specifications for fire-impacted timber. Waiting several years after a prescribed fire before harvesting timber may increase its utilization.