Forestry and Wood Products

Rooted in Rich History

Forestry and Wood Products

Rooted in Rich History

At the heart of Franklin County’s thriving economy lies its rich forestry and wood products industry. With its vast forests, skilled workforce, and commitment to sustainable practices, Franklin County has become a leading destination for businesses and individuals looking to explore the world of timber and wood products. This vibrant industry not only contributes significantly to the local economy but also plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable resource management and environmental stewardship.

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Forest Types
Local Wood Products
Local Forestry College

Forest Types

67% is Forested Land

Forests and their Preservation:

The 253,921 acres of State-owned Forest Preserve lands within Franklin County are a cherished resource protected by the New York Constitution that include a diverse ecosystem of deciduous and evergreen forests.

Conservation Easements and Private Land:

In addition to the Forest Preserve, our county is home to thousands of acres of private lands protected with conservation easements. These easements serve as a means to safeguard various crucial natural resources while allowing traditional land management practices to continue.

The Significance of Working Forests:

Within Franklin County, the concept of “working forests” holds great importance. Molpus Woodlands Group and F&W are nationwide forest resource management and consulting companies that have established offices here. Actively managed forests ensure a sustainable supply of wood for lumber, energy, paper, and packaging. They not only provide us with essential wood products but also filter our drinking water, provide habitat for at-risk species, and play a vital role in carbon sequestration.

Local Wood Products

From forest to furniture

The thousands of forested acres in the Adirondack Frontier serve as the primary source of raw materials for one of our most significant exports: wood products. Tupper Lake Hardwoods and Richards Logging are key employers in Tupper Lake that carry on the community’s rich timber management and wood products heritage.

Franklin County is also home to a vibrant community of skilled artisans who craft high-quality, hand-crafted wood products. Companies such as Adirondack Wood Furnishings, Heritage Woodworks, Perry’s Custom Woodworking, and John Gillis Cabinetry, have been providing custom wood items to both the local community and customers nationwide for years.

Local Forestry College

Education Programs

Paul Smith’s College, located in the heart of Franklin County, offers a comprehensive bachelor’s degree program in forestry. This program equips the next generation of land managers with a strong foundation of technical, field-based, and applied education rooted in sustainable best practices.