Will Structural Freight Changes in the Lake States Alter the Future of Wood Deliveries?
Delivered wood fiber prices in the Lake States have been depressed for the better part of two years – a period which saw a significant drop off in demand due to the closure of two large regional paper mills. In an unexpected twist, however, prices turned markedly higher in March. Delivered fiber prices in 2Q2022 were up 13% quarter-over-quarter (QoQ) and while they have recently tapered, prices are still at their highest point in more than three years.