Some traders reported that the market was similar to 1991, when a recession sent shockwaves through the industry.
The depressed prices were slightly up on the lows recorded in the fourth quarter of 2006 due to production curtailments.
But without more substanital cutbacks, the mood among traders regarding price recovery is not positive, especially due to the bleak outlook of the US housing market.
Other factors making life difficult for lumber traders include log and energy price increases.
