Frequently asked Questions

ques_tree 1
I was wondering if you could provide me with an estimate market value for a mature (i.e 25 years old) pine tree.

Also, could you please let me know how often I would need to prune the trees until they mature and if prune certificate is needed as proof?

---

ans_tree 1
The short answer is somewhere between $0 -$120.00 per tree at age 27 (I have seen them worth up to $320.00!)

1.Most sawmills will not purchase Radiata (Pines) under 27 years old.
This is to do with strength and density.

2.The price will vary tremendously according to a number of factors, for example; have the trees been pruned? Have the trees been thinned? What is the stocking rate per hectare? What is the G.F. rating? Can the trees be ground based harvested? How far to the market? etc etc.
With full information I would be able to give you a fair market estimate for the trees.

3.It is a big advantage if the trees have a "pruned stand certificate".

4.It is probably too late to prune the trees at 12 years old.

5. Radiata trees are usually pruned in 3 seperate "lifts". Each lift will prune the tree approx. 2metres. The desired result is a pruned tree, clean to 6.2 metres. This operation is normally carried out at 2 or 3 year intervals within the first 10 years of the trees life. The objective is to produce as much "clear" wood as possible. A premium is payed for clear
wood.
One way of measuring what the trees are worth at their present age is to apply a "discounted cash flow analysis" to the trees you are considering investing in.
I have some recent experience in this field and would be happy to take instruction from you.

You may also wish to consider the value of the carbon sequestered in the pine trees as this may well be a valuable trading commodity.

You may wish to read more about forestry