Opinion ID: 1668262
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: Fair Market Value of the Trees Cut

Text: Having determined that La.R.S. 3:4278.1 is the appropriate measure of damages recoverable by plaintiffs, we must now determine the proper assessment of damages pursuant to the statute. Forestry expert Bruce Willis testified as to the size, number, and types of trees cut from plaintiffs' property. He estimated the value of the timber to be $10,507.89 for the Hornsbys, and $12,021.40 for the Guidrys. Thus, in accordance with the strict application of La.R.S. 3:4278.1 and based on expert testimony as to the value of the trees cut, we find that the Hornsbys are entitled to recover $31,523.67 (three times the timber valued at $10,507.89), and the Guidrys are entitled to recover $36,064.20 (three times the timber valued at $12,021.40).