TIMBERLAND TRANSACTIONS

Structural changes in the ownership of private timberlands have created opportunities for investors to purchase timberlands. Forest product companies are motivated to sell as a result of mergers and acquisitions, to raise capital for expansion, or to reduce debt. Some large forest product companies have sold non-strategic timberlands to focus on timber processing rather than on resource management. Individuals also have sought to realize profits on appreciating timberlands.

Since 1996, the rise in volume of timberland transaction is significant. During this time, over 40 million acres has changed hands.