Gov. Nathan Deal recently announced that a study by the Georgia Institute of Technology for the Georgia Forestry Commission shows that in 2011, economic activity generated by the forestry industry topped $25 billion in output and provided 118,459 jobs.
“I am proud to see our state retain its position as a national forestry leader,” Deal said. “Our 24 million acres of forests are one of Georgia’s most valuable natural resources, and the dedication of the men and women in the forestry community drive that success. I’m confident our sustainably grown forests will be providing both economic and environmental benefits for generations of Georgians to come.”
Highlights of “Economic Benefits of the Forest Industry in Georgia: 2011” include increases in output, compensation, employment and total economic impact, as well as impact statistics according to region.
The report shows that between 2010 and 2011:
• Revenue generated directly by the forestry industry rose 4 percent to $15.1 billion.
•Forest industry workers earned $2.9 billion in wages and salaries, up 13.3 percent.
•Georgia’s forest industry directly employed 46,378 people, up 6.8 percent, the first upward trend in four years.    
•The industry generated more than $487 million in revenues for the state budget in 2011.
“We are very pleased that, after three years of declines, Georgia’s forest industry increased output, employment and compensation during 2011,” GFC Director Robert Farris said. “Information from our recent mill survey indicates this trend has continued through 2012, and that Georgia’s position as a national forestry leader will remain strong.”