The Appalachian Mountains encompass some of the world's most diverse forest ecosystems. These ecosystems contain many hardwood and softwood species that are very important to the overall lumber industry in terms of diversity, grade, and value.
Both hardwood and softwood species have their own growth, site requirements, and silvicultural attributes. Each group comprises many different tree species found throughout North Carolina.
Both hardwoods and softwoods have unique lumber qualities and are utilized by the industry for various timber products. This article will discuss the two tree groups related to their place in the forest ecosystem and their qualities and characteristics regarding lumber products.
The Appalachian Mountains encompass an area with some of the most diverse forest ecosystems in the world. These ecosystems contain a multitude of hardwood species that are very important to the overall lumber industry in terms of diversity, grade, and value.
The region also has many lumber mills that specialize in producing high-quality hardwood lumber, which is used worldwide as building materials.