NNtrRGHANT NNAGAZINtr BUVtrRSz GU[Dtr

Business Forecast

(Continued from page ?tt)

Remodeling markets were strong and are expected to increase about 5% in 1975. While we predict a U.S. lumber consumption level of 33.5 billion board feet in 1974, down l2.I% from 1973, we expect that consumption will climb 4.8% to 35.1 billion board feet in 1975. As a consequence, we expect softwood lumber shipments from the West. which totaled 19.4 billion board feet in 1973, will decline to 16.9 billion board feet in 1974, then increase to 17.5 billion board feet in 1975.

Raw material flow has been impeded in 1974 by high stumpage prices as mills faced the threat of environmental lawsuits aimed at harvesting practices and water runoff from logging operations. The suits tended to make bidding competition keener in the face of potential curtailments of allowable cut levels already established by federal agencies.

These trends caused problems in spite of the demonstrated ability of intensive forest management to double timber production.

In summary, the most optimistic producers are looking for a turnaround in housing and lumber consumption in early Spring. Others put their faith in late Summer or early Fall. Meanwhile, there is little likelihood of any important advances in demand or supply for the balance of. t974.

This tradition of finest quality and service since 1943 has made Hunter Woodworks one of the nation's leading pallet manufacturers.

We are now able to deliver pallets to you anywhere across the nation. Our experienced sales engineers can help you with your pallet, box, skid, and cut lumber problems in any of the 50 states.

HUNTER WOODWORKS, INC.

1235 E. 223 ST., CARSON, CALTF. 90745

PHONE: (2I3') 775-2544 o (213) 835-5671