Economic output by Alberta’s forest sector grew in 2015, marking the fourth consecutive year of increases. The forestry sector saw the value of its products rise by five per cent – or $150 million – last year, following growth of eight per cent in 2014, 14 per cent in 2013, and nine per cent in 2012.
Lumber, pulp and paper, and panelboard manufactured by members of the Alberta Forest Products Association (AFPA) in 2015 was valued at approximately $3 billion. The most significant gains came from pulp and paper, which grew 16 per cent. Panel also had a strong year, with seven per cent growth. Lumber production values declined by five per cent.