October 14, 2025

Crisis in South Carolina’s Timber Industry Amid Mill Closures

News Summary

South Carolina’s timber industry, worth $23 billion, faces a crisis following the closure of multiple mills, including International Paper’s Savannah facility. Approximately 1,100 jobs are at risk, and this trend threatens sustainable forest management as timber prices drop. Local economies are deeply affected, as many landowners relied on these mills for their timber sales. The Winthrop family is reassessing land management strategies while advocates push for innovative solutions and conservation efforts to revitalize the industry, amid calls for sustainable practices and a focus on preserving natural resources.

Charleston, South Carolina—Crisis in Timber Industry Following Major Mill Closures

The timber industry in South Carolina, valued at $23 billion, is grappling with a severe crisis triggered by the recent closure of several mills. The most significant closures include International Paper’s Savannah mill and additional mills in Georgetown and Riceboro, which collectively jeopardize approximately 1,100 jobs.

This wave of mill closures is part of a larger trend; from 2021 to 2024, a total of 10 mills and wood product companies have either shut down or reduced operations in the region. The impact of these closures is multifaceted, leading to significant implications not only for employment but also for the sustainability of timber resource management.

Impact on Local Economies

The loss of major mills like the ones operated by International Paper is particularly concerning as South Carolina landowners historically sold 40% of their timber products to these mills over the past five years. As of 2024, current data shows that only 40% of grown timber is being harvested, raising alarms around sustainable forest management practices. Forestry experts suggest that areas affected by these closures may soon become “biological deserts,” with severe implications for biodiversity and local ecosystems.

Economic Challenges for Loggers and Landowners

With fewer mills operating, the remaining facilities have responded by cutting timber prices, which has placed additional financial strain on loggers and landowners. Furthermore, as machinery costs increase and the distance for transporting timber grows, loggers are facing heightened operational challenges.

For local logging businesses, the emotional toll of these changes is significant. Many are now needing to auction off equipment, as the closures threaten their livelihoods. In plantations like Groton and Butterfield, some marked trees are being designated as habitats for wildlife, such as the Red-cockaded Woodpecker, further complicating land management decisions.

Long-term Consequences and Solutions

The Winthrop family, who have managed Groton’s 23,000 acres since 1906, are re-evaluating their land management strategies amidst fluctuating timber prices. Environmental advocates emphasize the need to foster a deeper relationship with forests, encouraging views that see them as more than mere commodities.

In response to the ongoing crisis, innovative solutions are being explored. Technologies such as satellite monitoring and AI-driven advisory systems are being considered to help navigate the challenges within the timber industry. Additionally, organizations like the S.C. Regional Development Alliance are actively working to attract wood products companies back to the area to help revitalize the timber market.

Efforts to bolster conservation are also underway, highlighted by recent purchases made by The Nature Conservancy, which seeks to create the state’s first new state forest in 20 years in Jasper County. Recently, the Open Space Institute finalized an $11.35 million acquisition of a 1,644-acre forest tract in Dorchester County, contributing to local conservation efforts. Voter approval of a 1-cent local sales tax for conservation initiatives underscores the community’s commitment to preserving what remains of their natural resources.

Conclusion

As the South Carolina timber industry faces unprecedented challenges due to mill closures, the future of the region’s economic landscape is uncertain. The dual pressures of job losses and reduced timber prices threaten longstanding livelihoods, while the need for sustainable forestry practices and environmental conservation efforts becomes increasingly central to discussions around recovery and resilience in the industry.

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Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER

SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.

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