Timber Buyers
Most of our timber purchases come from our strong reputation. Our timber buyers are key to maintaining this reputation. They excel at evaluating land and determining the value of the wood products. Based on their experience and evaluations, they suggest the best course of action. Importantly, there’s no pressure to sell or choose a specific type of harvest—it's entirely up to the landowner.
When a landowner decides to sell, our buyers create a sales contract that offers flexible timing for the harvest and ensures the best prices. Pricing depends on market trends, distance to mills, wood type, age, and quality. Our buyers and skilled loader operators work together to sort the wood, maximizing profits for both the landowner and the company.
During the harvest, buyers oversee the process, especially the feller-buncher operator working along property lines. They meet with machine operators frequently to ensure no damage occurs and handle repairs if needed. We use equipment like dozers and motor graders to build roads and loading decks and maintain the site. Sometimes, a dozer or grader stays on-site for routine maintenance, minimizing property damage.
The forester or timber buyer’s job wraps up with a final inspection to confirm that contract obligations are met and the landowner is happy with the results.
Professional Foresters and Wood Buyers
Fred Prawius
Born on Sumpter Air Force Base in South Carolina, Fred spent his high school years in Prattville, AL. He attended Auburn University and is a registered forester with the Alabama State Board of Foresters. With over twenty-five years of forestry experience, Fred covers all of central and south Alabama.
“I wanted to become a forester because I love being outside and being a good steward of the state’s natural resources. Deloney & Gandy Timber has provided the opportunity to meet a wide range of people in many communities and see some of the most amazing land in the southeast. Working with a team that exhibits integrity and honesty makes this job even better.”
When not in the woods, Fred enjoys spending time with his family. They attend church at First Baptist and enjoy working around the house and barn on free weekends.
Mike Conaway
Mike is a Las Cruces native that finally decided to trade in the heat of New Mexico for the humidity of South Alabama. He attended New Mexico State University and has been in the forestry industry for five years. Mike covers the southeastern counties of Alabama.
“I love anything to do with the outdoors – golf, pickleball, hunting, and fishing. Being a timber buyer allows me to combine my love of the outdoors with a focus on business. Working at Deloney & Gandy Timber has taught me to slow down a bit and enjoy the beauty that the woods have.”
After a long day in the woods, you can find Mike outside or volunteering with Forged Men’s Ministry.
Rush Coan
Rush grew up in Auburn and attended Auburn University. He now lives with his wife and kids in central Alabama. Rush covers the central counties of Alabama and has been in the timber industry for twelve years.
“I attended college with Malachi (Gandy) and when he asked me to come be a timber buyer, I immediately said yes. It allows me to be outdoors and see land all over central Alabama. I knew that Deloney & Gandy Timber would be a good fit for a growing family because it allows me to be with my wife and kids when I need to. Being part of a good Christian company that respects family time is very important to me.”
Rush and his family attend First Baptist Church (Reeltown) and spend most of their time outdoors – hunting, fishing, or at the baseball field watching their son play ball.