This study reviews the current and potential market for Western hemlock in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia. Currently, there is no true premium market for hemlock in the BC interior. By exploring the options available, both domestic, and through export, a theoretical “premium” market can be sought. Research data was collected at the Skattebo Educational Forest. As a typical Interior Cedar-Hemlock stand, this site provides an accurate and representative sample of a West Kootenay hemlock stand. The effect that the premium quality timber had on revenue is broken down and discussed. Further considerations such as export laws and regulations were also explored. The overall economic impact of the premium timber was not as significant as expected from a domestic market, but saw its largest profit increase coming from export to the United States. However, by adapting to potential market changes and utilizing all available options, increased revenue is still possible domestically as well.
