Opening up your property for timber harvesting can be a challenging process, and finding a trusted logging company in PA with free appraisals may be even more difficult. Penn-Sylvan, America’s leading manufacturer of ¾ lumber, fits this bill and is currently looking for premium hardwoods throughout northwest Pennsylvania and southwestern New York state, and is offering free appraisals for properties larger than ten acres.
Continue reading here to learn more about Penn-Sylvan’s reputation as a trusted logging company in PA, the most in-demand hardwood species, and several of the most frequently asked questions property owners may have when opening up their property to a logging company for the first time.
What is a Logging Company in PA Looking For?
Tree Species That Drive Demand
The expansive woods and forests of Pennsylvania and neighboring New York offer some of the most sought-after hardwood species in the country. Known for their incredible beauty, immense strength, and consistent milling characteristics, these hardwood trees are widely used in fine furniture, custom cabinetry, premium flooring, and architectural millwork. Logging companies in PA are always on the lookout for mature, high-quality hardwoods that can meet the growing demand of domestic and international markets.
Whether destined for kiln-drying or sawmill processing, the following species are widespread throughout the area and consistently deliver the value buyers are looking for:
- Ash
- Beech
- Black Cherry
- Black Walnut
- Cherry
- Hard Maple
- Hickory
- Poplar
- Red Oak
- Soft Maple
- Walnut
- White Oak
What Affects the Price of Standing Timber?
Before any cutting takes place, a Penn-Sylvan representative will evaluate your timber and offer a stumpage price, also known as the amount paid for the trees as they stand. This estimate factors in the expected mill price, which can fluctuate, minus additional processing costs such as cutting, skidding, loading, hauling, and any additional handling fees. While every property is different, the formula used typically follows this logic:
Stumpage = Mill Price – (Harvesting & Operational Costs)
The quote you receive for the standing timber on your property will also depend heavily on the mix and maturity of species on your land. Black cherry, for example, is among the most valuable hardwoods in the region and often commands premium rates, though these can fluctuate seasonally between $500 and $800 per thousand board feet. Other species, such as white oak, red oak, and hard maple, tend to offer strong, stable returns, often ranging from $400 to $600, depending on market demand.
| Species | Avg. Stumpage Price (Q1 2025) |
| Northern Red Oak | $604 |
| White Oak | $778 |
| Black Cherry | $779 (Northeast avg; varies by region) |
| Hard Maple | $650 |
| Soft Maple | $368 |
| Yellow-Poplar (Poplar) | $213 |
| White Ash | $0 (no data reported) |
*Stumpage Price Data for Q1 2025 as reported by PennState Extenstion
Considering that timber value is influenced by so many factors, including volume, accessibility, and market timing, the best way to understand what your timber is worth is to schedule an expert evaluation as soon as possible. Penn-Sylvan offers no-obligation property visits to help landowners make informed decisions based on real-time insights and fair pricing.
Why Penn-Sylvan is the Top Logging Company in PA
Penn-Sylvan stands apart from other logging companies in Pennsylvania by combining fair pricing, a commitment to forest stewardship, and an approach that prioritizes the goals of the landowner. Our team brings decades of experience to every project, and we’re committed to making the timber harvesting process as clear, respectful, and financially rewarding as possible. We offer free, no-obligation evaluations for landowners with at least 10 acres of wooded property within our regular service area throughout PA and NY. During these assessments, our team will walk the property, review the mix and maturity of your timber, and explain exactly what to expect from the process, including a fair stumpage price quote.
Our commitment to sustainability is backed by our affiliation with the Appalachian Hardwood Manufacturers. Being Appalachian Hardwood Verified Sustainable means we only source from forests that are growing at more than double the rate of harvest and natural loss. It’s a long-term approach that not only protects the environment but also helps maintain the value of regional forests for future generations. When it comes time to harvest, our team minimizes impact and keeps you informed every step of the way. From outlining the type of equipment we’ll use to detailing the timeline and restoration process, our goal is to leave your land in good condition and ensure you feel confident about the results.
Get A Quote for Logging in PA
With full control over both the harvesting and milling process, Penn-Sylvan eliminates the need for third-party buyers, meaning landowners benefit from faster payments and higher returns. By sending all harvested timber directly to our processing facilities, we’re able to offer some of the most competitive stumpage prices in the region. If you’re looking for a dependable, experienced logging company in PA that will help quote, harvest, process, and sell your standing timber in Pennsylvania or New York, Penn-Sylvan delivers a streamlined and sustainable approach.
