From Mark Downey, CEO Fur Handlers Auction Inc:
Fur Harvesters Auction's March 11, 2009 wild fur sale held in
Seattle drew a large crowd of international buyers. Results on sable
realized significant increases on northern goods for larger sizes compared
to recent sales. Smaller eastern sables sold at recent market levels. The
demand for wild fur remains positive but the global financial crisis has
placed all buyers and manufacturers on cautious footing. We sold at levels
previously set and held the line on what we felt were reasonable values on
all wild goods. To sell at any level is not our policy as this is not in the
best interest of our shippers and buyers, and is considered irresponsible as
this would only further shatter the confidence of our industry. Our sale
reflects what we believe is a responsible position that protects the value
of the wild fur product. As confidence returns, prices and clearances will
move forward.
We thank the trade and our valued shippers for their unwavering support
during these difficult times.
There ya have it. I'm glad FHA isn't panicking and trying ta sell for anything they could get. The people runnin FHA are also trappers, and know the blood, sweat, and tears we put into our fur harvest.
Coon prices did pretty good for those 20% that sold. Muskrat caught my eye, 85% clearance and a $4.18 (usd) average...not bad! I'll be patchin my waders for the spring!
