Montgomery, Ala. – The Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) released new figures showing that Hurricane Isaias caused over $33 million in timber damage across the state. Using a preliminary aerial survey conducted on Oct. 13, the agency estimates the storm destroyed more than 2.5 million tons of timber.
Scope of the damage
The survey identified a swath roughly 36 miles long and up to seven miles wide, encompassing 154,783 acres. Of that area, 64,795 acres are classified as forestland and an additional 40,805 acres are woody wetlands. The hardest‑hit counties were Conecuh, Escambia and Monroe.
How the estimate was calculated
To arrive at the dollar figure, AFC staff applied data from the most recent Forest Inventory and Analysis report, which provides baseline values for Alabama’s timber resources. “Forest inventory data gives us a picture of Alabama’s timber resources long before a storm ever develops,” said AFC Forest Health Coordinator Drew Metzler. “By combining that information with what we’re seeing from the air, we can begin to understand the extent of the damage and put a dollar value on the losses. It’s one of the reasons maintaining accurate forest inventory data is so important.”
Impact on landowners
State Forester Rick Oates expressed sympathy for the affected property owners. “While we are thankful the damage was not as extensive as it could have been, these losses are still devastating for Alabama landowners,” Oates said. “Growing timber is a long‑term investment, requiring decades of hard work, careful management and financial commitment. In a matter of hours, a storm can destroy what landowners have spent much of their lives building.”
Next steps
The AFC emphasized that these numbers are preliminary. Ground surveys will follow to verify the aerial findings and refine the loss estimates. The agency also noted that its personnel have been assisting with emergency response, delivering water, food and tarps to affected communities and helping saw crews clear nearly 100 miles of roads.
Storm background
Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Destin, Fla., on the evening of Oct. 9 with sustained winds of 105 mph. By 1 a.m. the next morning the storm’s center was about 55 miles south‑southwest of Montgomery, with winds reduced to 65 mph as it moved rapidly inland.
The AFC’s estimate provides a clear picture of the economic hit to Alabama’s timber sector, a vital part of the state’s rural economy. Landowners, industry groups and local officials can now plan recovery efforts with a better understanding of the scale of loss.
Original reporting: FOX10 WALA Mobile (news) — read the source article.
