Third, the volume of timber available for harvesting may be limited by conservation plans. This is especially true in the West and Northwest. Mechanization will effect some logging workers more than others. Fallers and buckers and log graders are predicted to experience the largest decline in employment. Most job openings will result from workers leaving this occupation for other jobs or retirement.
Many workers transfer to occupations that are less dangerous.
In addition, many younger workers are not committed to logging as a career. They often take jobs just for a summer in order to earn money for school. Logging is sensitive to the weather. During the cold winter months and the muddy spring months, logging may not take place. It also may be stopped during times of drought.