Yesterday, our dirt work guy had to stop due to rain. He started a large burn pile and knocked over a dozen or so large pines for me to cut up. So today, we’re out here early to get as much of this cut as possible before more rain settles in.
These pines were purposefully planted 35-ish years ago as an investment. I’m leaning more toward it being someone’s personal investment, not a commercial operation. I say that because this pine stand wasn’t managed as well as others I have seen. It looks to have had at least one thinning years ago, but the amount of natural regrowth between the pines leads me to believe nobody has managed this stand in the last decade or more. I’m not a forestry expert, so I could be completely wrong.
However, it does leave me with a lot of material for personal use. At this point, the goal is to get at least three 10′ logs out of each pine tree. I won’t chase every little bit of material further up the tree.
Unfortunately, we can’t sell any of the pine logs. There isn’t a market for it right now. Some people are having a hard time giving it away. Mississippi had a bad drought last year that killed a lot of pines. People were forced to sell off what they had before they fell and rotted away. That tanked the market. Currently, our local mill (30 minutes away) is only paying $35 per ton for pine logs. For the majority of people, that’s not worth the time invested.
It’s coming along very nicely Jay. No rest for the wicked. lol. You guys are doing a great job. Looking forward to your next video. Play safe
Thats awesome Every kid needs a partner in Crime LOL Over Yonder is that place that is over there but not quite in site. Just out of a parents site LOL! So glad they are having fun.
Your going to get a lot of wood out of those trees. If I could make a suggestion? If you do wind up selling some to make some money back even pine you will make more if you keep the logs longer at 16 Feet. That is the prime length most mills want them. Get your fella with the excavator to move them after if you cant with your tractor. Just an idea. Good way to get some $$$
I’m also looking forward to your next video. I agree about staying safe:
I hope that you are turning off your chain saw when you walk with it. Had not been below zero so I was wearing multiple layers under my jacket, my idling saw would have taken out my left radial nerve at the elbow along with a bit of other tissues when it kicked up and rotated around my left hand. I still required stitches, but no “real damage”
Namaste
Jay,
Owning a sawmill myself (two actually) you might consider making two 16’ logs versus three 10’ logs.
Main reason is timber frame barns & sheds. 16’ long beams are key for making barn bays that you can comfortably drive a pallet of 10’ or 12’ long lumber into for storage. My limiting factor up here in Michigan is getting nice sized (diameter) 16+’ logs. Given your property you might not have the same issue. Enjoy the journey!
Great stuff. I am looking forward to the next video. Be safe.
Hi!
Can’t you use the pine to building your houses?