TO-82-01-2 -- Wood Fuel Resources in the United States

Fuelwood is now a major forest product in the United States. Currently 2 to 2.5% of the U.S. energy consumption is met with wood. There is an adequate supply of unused wood annually to meet 10-15% of energy needs.

Because of Btu content, moisture, and lack of uniformity in shape and sizes, wood as a source of energy presents some unique problems in harvesting, processing, transporting, and storage. Fuelwood markets can contribute to improved forest management and the rural economy. Because of these benefits, expanded use of wood fuels is desirable and technological development to improve wood’s competitive position in the energy market place is necessary.

Environmental issues associated with production and use of wood fuels should not become a major deterrent to an expanded contribution to energy by the forest resource.