PORT ANGELES — Clallam County could see a significant swing in timber revenue in 2026, as millions in projected income remain uncertain due to legal challenges and market conditions.
Department of Natural Resources Olympic Region Manager Drew Rosanbalm told Callam County Commissioners DNR-managed timber lands brought in just over 9.5 million dollars in 2025, including more than 2.2 million in the fourth quarter.
“For the fourth quarter there were A lot of sales. When you look through the list and everything that closed out, 2025 was a good year. That’s one of my three highest in my tenure in this job,” said Rosenbalm.
More than 11 million dollars in timber remains under contract, continuing to generate revenue as projects move forward.
But projections for 2026 — about 6.5 million dollars — could shift.
Several local timber sales tied to legal challenges account for up to 2.5 million dollars, creating uncertainty in the county’s outlook. Some of those projects remain active even as court cases continue.
DNR Olympic Region Timber Sales Manager David Hurn says market conditions are steady, though harvesting has slowed.
“On the question about our pricing—if we’ve seen a difference in pricing—and we really haven’t, although we have seen a slowdown in harvesting. And so that has contributed to just, you know, we’re still selling the sales, but the mills are running at makeshift capacity, and we’re just not moving as much wood.”031726 Hurn :24 “…moving as much wood right now,” said Hurn.
Timber revenue supports schools and other local services, making the outcome of those disputed sales especially important.
County leaders say they’ll continue monitoring the situation and update projections as needed.