Researchers find economic opportunity in dead Alaska cedar

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) –
Researchers are studying the viability of logging yellow cedar trees that have been killed by warming temperatures in Southeast Alaska. The Juneau Empire reports that a study by the Alaska Coastal Rainforest Center and the University of Alaska Southeast examines whether harvesting the dead trees could be profitable for small mill operators. The researchers worked with the U.S. Forest Service and five lumber mills in Southeast Alaska. They found the main problem is getting to the trees. Other problems include equipment and mill processing. But the researchers conclude the wood presents an economic opportunity.