RAYONIER INC

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION

Our consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). Rayonier Inc.'s Consolidated Financial Statements include the Operating Partnership, wholly-owned subsidiaries and entities in which the Company has a controlling interest. Rayonier, L.P.'s Consolidated Financial Statements include wholly-owned subsidiaries and entities in which the Operating Partnership has a controlling interest. For additional information regarding our consolidated entities with a noncontrolling interest component, see Note 5 — Noncontrolling Interests. All intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated.

As of December 31, 2023, the Company owned a 98.4% interest in the Operating Partnership, with the remaining 1.6% interest owned by limited partners of the Operating Partnership. As the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership, Rayonier Inc. has exclusive control of the day-to-day management of the Operating Partnership.

USE OF ESTIMATES

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and to disclose contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. There are risks inherent in estimating and therefore actual results could differ from those estimates.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and other highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Accounts receivable are primarily amounts due to us for the sale of timber and are presented net of an allowance for doubtful accounts.

INVENTORY

Higher and better use (“HBU”) real estate properties that are expected to be sold within one year are included in inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value. HBU properties that are expected to be sold after one year are included in a separate balance sheet line entitled “Higher and Better Use Timberlands and Real Estate Development Investments.” See below for additional information.

Inventory also includes logs available to be sold by the Trading segment. Log inventory is recorded at the lower of cost or net realizable value and expensed to cost of sales when sold to third-party buyers. Inventory also includes carbon unit inventory. Carbon unit inventory represents the basis in New Zealand carbon units intended to be sold in the next 12 months. See Note 15 — Inventory for additional information.

PREPAID LOGGING ROADS

In the Pacific Northwest and New Zealand, costs for roads built to access particular tracts to be harvested in the upcoming 24 months to 60 months are recorded as prepaid logging roads. We charge such costs to expense as timber is harvested using an amortization rate determined annually as the total cost of prepaid roads divided by the estimated tons of timber to be accessed by those roads. The prepaid balance is classified as short-term or long-term based on the upcoming harvest schedule. See Note 23 — Other Assets for additional information.

PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS

As a requirement of the Farm Credit Act, borrowers in the Farm Credit System are required to purchase equity in Farm Credit lenders. The equity balance primarily represents shares of Class A common stock in CoBank valued at $100 par value. CoBank equity purchases continue annually until a balance equal to 8% of our 10-year historical average loan balance at CoBank is obtained. Initially, a minimal equity purchase was made in cash upon the receipt of loan proceeds. Subsequently, equity purchases are made annually through patronage dividends, of which approximately 90% is cash and 10% is equity. The stock hasno cash value until retired. As our loans are paid in full, the stock is generally retired over a 10-year loan base period beginning in the year following loan payoff.

Estimated cash and equity dividends are recognized as an offset to interest expense in the period earned. These estimates are calculated by applying the weighted average debt balance with each participating lender to a historical dividend rate. Changes in assumptions, as well as changes in actual experience, could cause the estimates to change. See Note 7 — Debt and Note 23 — Other Assets for additional information.

DEFERRED FINANCING COSTS

Deferred financing costs related to revolving debt are capitalized and amortized to interest expense over the term of the revolving debt using a method that approximates the effective interest method. See Note 23 — Other Assets for additional information on deferred financing costs related to revolving debt. See Note 7 — Debt for additional information on deferred financing costs related to term debt.

CAPITALIZED SOFTWARE COSTS

Software costs are capitalized and amortized over a period not exceeding five years using the straight-line method. See Note 23 — Other Assets for additional information.

TIMBER AND TIMBERLANDS

Timber is stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Costs relating to acquiring, planting and growing timber including real estate taxes, site preparation and direct support costs relating to facilities, vehicles and supplies, are capitalized. A portion of timberland lease payments are capitalized based on the proportion of acres with merchantable timber volume remaining to be harvested under the lease term and the residual portion of the lease payments are expensed as incurred. Payroll costs are capitalized for time spent on timber growing activities, while interest and other intangible costs are not capitalized. An annual depletion rate is established for each particular region by dividing merchantable inventory cost by standing merchantable inventory volume, which is estimated annually. We charge accumulated costs attributed to merchantable timber to depletion expense (cost of sales) at the time the timber is harvested or when the underlying timberland is sold.

Upon the acquisition of timberland, we make a determination on whether to combine the newly acquired merchantable timber with an existing depletion pool or to create a new, separate pool. This determination is based on the geographic location of the new timber, the customers/markets that will be served and the species mix. If the acquisition is similar to an existing depletion pool, the cost of the acquired timber is combined and a new depletion rate is calculated for the pool. This determination and depletion rate adjustment normally occurs in the quarter following the acquisition.

HIGHER AND BETTER USE TIMBERLANDS AND REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS

HBU timberland is recorded at the lower of cost or net realizable value. These properties are managed as timberlands until sold or developed, with sales and depletion expense related to the harvesting of timber accounted for within the respective timber segment. At the time of sale, the cost basis of any unharvested timber is recorded as depletion expense, a component of cost of sales, within the Real Estate segment.

HBU timberland and real estate development investments expected to be sold within twelve months are recorded as inventory. See Note 14 — Higher and Better Use Timberlands and Real Estate Development Investments for additional information.

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS

Real estate development investments include capitalized costs associated with the development and construction of identified real estate projects, such as infrastructure, roadways, utilities, amenities and/or other improvements designed to enhance marketability and create parcels, pads and/or lots for sale. We capitalize interest on real estate projects under development based on the amount of underlying expenditures during the capitalization period. The period begins when activities necessary to ready a property for its intended use commence, typically when we begin the site work for land already owned, and ends when the improvement is substantially complete and ready for its intended use. Determination of when construction of a project is substantially complete and ready for its intended use is subjective and requires business judgement. As such, we determine when the capitalization period begins and ends through communication with project managers and others responsible for the tracking and oversight of individual projects.

IMPAIRMENT OF HBU TIMBERLANDS AND REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS

We review our higher and better use timberlands and real estate development investments for potential impairment indicators whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

Impairment indicators for each development project are assessed separately and include, but are not limited to, significant decreases in sales pace or average selling prices, significant increases in expected land development and construction costs, and projected losses on expected future sales. Development projects have extended life cycles that may last 20 to 40 years, or longer, and have few long-term contractual cash flows. Development periods often occur through several economic cycles. Subjective factors such as the expected timing of property development and sales, optimal development density and sales strategy impact the timing and amount of expected future cash flows and fair value.

An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset is not recoverable and exceeds its fair value. The evaluation of anticipated cash flows is highly subjective and is based in part on assumptions regarding future economic conditions, such as construction costs and sales values that could differ materially from actual results in future periods. If impairment indicators exist and it is expected that undiscounted cash flows generated by the asset are less than its carrying amount less costs to sell, an impairment provision is recorded to write-down the carrying amount of the asset to its fair value.

PROPERTY, PLANT, EQUIPMENT AND DEPRECIATION

Property, plant and equipment additions are recorded at cost, including applicable freight, interest, construction and installation costs. We generally depreciate our assets, including office and transportation equipment, using the straight-line depreciation method over 3 to 25 years. Buildings and land improvements are depreciated using the straight-line method over 15 to 35 years and 5 to 30 years, respectively.

Gains and losses on the sale or retirement of assets are included in operating income. Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets that are held and used is measured by net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is the amount the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the assets, which is based on a discounted cash flow model. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell.

LEASES

At inception, we determine if an arrangement is a lease and whether that lease meets the classification criteria of a finance or operating lease. Operating leases are included in right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, other current liabilities, and long-term lease liability in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The income generated from our commercial and residential leases in Port Gamble are accounted for in accordance with Topic 842. We recognize the total minimum lease payments provided for under the leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

ROU assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the estimated present value of lease payments over the lease term. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we generally use our incremental borrowing rate based on the estimated rate of interest for collateralized borrowing over a similar term. Lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS IMPAIRMENT

Operating lease right-of-use assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset group to which the operating lease is assigned may not be recoverable. Recoverability of the asset group is evaluated based on forecasted undiscounted cash flows. If the carrying amount of the asset group is not recoverable, the fair value of the asset group is compared to its carrying amount and an impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the fair value. A discounted cash flow approach using market participant assumptions of the expected cash flows and discount rate are used to estimate the fair value of the asset group.

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. A three-level hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value was established as follows:

Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 — Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.

Level 3 — Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities. This includes certain pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs.

ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION LIABILITIES

We estimate future costs for known environmental remediation requirements and accrue for them on an undiscounted basis when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the related costs can be reasonably estimated. We consider various factors when estimating our environmental liabilities, including construction contracts, proposed statements of work, project management, and other professional fees. We evaluate the adequacy of these liabilities on a quarterly basis. We make adjustments to the liabilities when additional information becomes available that affects the estimated costs to study or remediate any environmental matter. Legal investigation and defense costs incurred in connection with environmental contingencies are expensed as incurred. Recoveries of environmental remediation costs from other parties are recorded as assets when their receipt is deemed probable and does not exceed the amount of losses previously recorded. See Note 12 — Environmental and Natural Resource Damages Liabilities for more information.

GOODWILL

Goodwill represents the excess of the acquisition cost of the New Zealand Timber segment over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Goodwill is not amortized, but is periodically reviewed for impairment. An impairment test for this reporting unit’s goodwill is performed annually and whenever events or circumstances indicate that the value of goodwill may be impaired. We compare the fair value of the New Zealand Timber segment, using an independent valuation for the New Zealand forest assets, to its carrying value including goodwill. The independent valuation of the New Zealand forest assets is based on discounted cash flow models where the fair value is calculated using cash flows from sustainable forest management plans. The fair value of the forest assets is measured as the present value of cash flows from one growth cycle based on the productive forest land, taking into consideration environmental, operational, and market restrictions. These cash flow valuations involve a number of estimates that require broad assumptions and significant judgment regarding future performance. The annual impairment test was performed as of October 1, 2023; the estimated fair value of the New Zealand Timber segment exceeded its carrying value andno impairment was recorded. Except for changes in the New Zealand foreign exchange rate, there have been no adjustments to the carrying value of goodwill since the initial recognition. See Note 23 — Other Assets for additional information.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION AND REMEASUREMENT

The functional currency of our New Zealand-based operations is the New Zealand dollar. All assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect at the respective balance sheet dates. Translation gains and losses are recorded as a separate component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (“AOCI”), within Shareholders’ Equity.

U.S. denominated transactions of the New Zealand subsidiary are remeasured into New Zealand dollars at the exchange rate in effect on the date of the transaction and recognized in earnings, net of related cash flow hedges. All income statement items of the New Zealand subsidiary are translated into U.S. dollars for reporting purposes using monthly average exchange rates with translation gains and losses being recorded as a separate component of AOCI, within Shareholders’ Equity.

REDEEMABLE OPERATING PARTNERSHIP UNITS

Limited partners holding Redeemable Operating Partnership Units have the right to put any and all of the units to the Operating Partnership in exchange for Rayonier registered common shares, on aone-for-one basis, or cash, at Rayonier’s option. Consequently, these Redeemable Operating Partnership Units are classified outside of permanent partners’ capital in the Operating Partnership's accompanying balance sheets and the related noncontrolling interest is classified outside of permanent equity in the accompanying balance sheets of Rayonier. The recorded value of the Redeemable Operating Partnership Units is based on the higher of 1) initial carrying amount, increased or decreased for its share of net income or loss, other comprehensive income or loss, and dividend or 2) redemption value as measured by the closing price of Rayonier common stock on the balance sheet date multiplied by the total number of Redeemable Operating Partnership Units outstanding.

RELATED PARTY

We follow ASC 850, Related Party Disclosure, for the identification of related parties and disclosure of related party transactions. A party is considered to be related to us if the party, directly or indirectly or through one or more intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with us. Related parties also include principal owners, management and directors, as well as members of their immediate families or any other parties with which we may deal if one party to a transaction controls or can significantly influence the management or operating policies of the other to an extent that one of the transacting parties might be prevented from fully pursuing its own separate interests.

Transactions involving related parties cannot be presumed to be carried out on an arm’s-length basis, as the requisite conditions of competitive, free-market dealings may not exist. Representations about transactions with related parties, if made, shall not imply that the related party transactions were consummated on terms equivalent to those that prevail in arm’s-length transactions unless such representations can be substantiated. See Note 25 — Related Party.

REVENUE RECOGNITION

We recognize revenues when control of promised goods or services (“performance obligations”) is transferred to customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration expected in exchange for those goods or services (“transaction price”). Unsatisfied performance obligations as of December 31, 2023 are primarily due to advances on stumpage contracts, unearned license revenue, unearned carbon capture and storage revenue and post-closing obligations on real estate sales. Of these performance obligations, $19.0 million is expected to be recognized within the next twelve months, while the remaining $11.3 million is expected to be recognized as we satisfy our performance obligations. We generally collect payment within a year of satisfying performance obligations and therefore have elected not to adjust revenues for a financing component.

TIMBER SALES

Revenue from the sale of timber is recognized when control passes to the buyer. We utilizetwo primary methods or sales channels for the sale of timber – a stumpage/standing timber model and a delivered log model. The sales method we employ depends upon local market conditions and which method management believes will provide the best overall margins.

Under the stumpage model, standing timber is sold primarily under pay-as-cut contracts, with a specified duration (typicallyone year or less) and fixed prices, whereby revenue is recognized as timber is severed and the sales volume is determined. We also sell stumpage under lump-sum contracts for specified parcels where we receive cash for the full agreed value of the timber prior to harvest and control passes to the buyer upon signing the contract. We retain interest in the land, slash products and the use of the land for recreational and other purposes. Any uncut timber remaining at the end of the contract period reverts to us. Revenue is recognized for lump-sum timber sales when payment is received, the contract is signed and control passes to the buyer. A third type of stumpage sale we utilize is an agreed-volume sale, whereby revenue is recognized using the output method, as periodic physical observations are made of the percentage of acreage harvested.

Under the delivered log model, we hire third-party loggers and haulers to harvest timber and deliver it to a buyer. Sales of domestic logs generally do not require an initial payment and are made to third-party customers on open credit terms. Sales of export logs generally require a letter of credit from an approved bank. Revenue is recognized when the logs are delivered and control has passed to the buyer. For domestic log sales, control is considered passed to the buyer as the logs are delivered to the customer’s facility. For export log sales, control is considered passed to the buyer upon delivery onto the export vessel.

The following table summarizes revenue recognition and general payment terms for timber sales:

NON-TIMBER SALES

Non-timber sales are primarily comprised of hunting and recreational licenses, carbon credits and other auxiliary income. Hunting and recreational license sales and any related costs are recognized ratably over the term of the agreement and included in “Sales” and “Cost of sales,” respectively. Payment is generally due upon contract execution. The New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (“NZ ETS”) incentivizes the lowering of greenhouse gas emissions by providing carbon credits to certain organizations that lower carbon emissions. Our New Zealand segment regularly sells carbon credits and recognizes income as they are sold to other carbon emitting entities.

Carbon Capture and Storage Sales

Carbon capture and storage (“CCS”) sales are primarily comprised of revenue generated from granting land access and the right to inject, sequester and permanently store carbon dioxide in a subsurface area. CCS contracts contain variable consideration arrangements, which may include variable durations, rates, access acres and carbon volumes. The determination of the transaction price and the allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations may require significant judgment and is based on management’s estimate of the most likely amount of consideration we expect to receive as of the reporting date.

Variable consideration is included in the transaction price only to the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal of the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved. The estimation of variable consideration requires us to make certain judgments and assumptions regarding the amount and timing of future payments, which may be impacted by factors such as changes in market conditions, competition or other factors beyond our control. As a result, actual amounts of variable consideration could differ from our estimates.

We regularly review our estimates of variable consideration and, if necessary, adjust the transaction price and related revenue recognition accordingly. Any such adjustments are recorded in the period in which the estimate is revised.

LOG TRADING

Log trading revenue is generally recognized when procured logs are delivered to the buyer and control has passed. For domestic log trading, control is considered passed to the buyer as the logs are delivered to the customer’s facility. For export log trading, control is considered passed to the buyer upon delivery onto the export vessel. The Trading segment also includes sales from log agency contracts, whereby we act as an agent managing export services on behalf of third parties. Revenue for log agency fees are recognized net of related costs.

We recognize revenue on sales of real estate generally at the point in time when cash has been received, the sale has closed and control has passed to the buyer. A deposit of 2% to 5% is generally required at the time a purchase and sale agreement is executed, with the balance due at closing. On sales of development real estate containing future performance obligations, revenue is recognized using the cost input method based on development costs incurred to date relative to the total development costs allocated to the contract with the customer. The aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to unsatisfied obligations is recorded and presented in “Deferred revenue” in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

COST OF SALES

Cost of sales associated with timber operations primarily include the cost basis of timber sold (depletion), logging and transportation costs (cut and haul) and ocean freight and demurrage costs (port and freight). Depletion includes the amortization of capitalized costs (site preparation, planting and fertilization, real estate taxes, timberland lease payments and certain payroll costs). Other costs include amortization of capitalized costs related to road and bridge construction and software, depreciation of fixed assets and equipment, road maintenance, severance and excise taxes, carbon basis and fire prevention.

Cost of sales associated with real estate sold includes the cost of the land, the cost of any timber on the property that was conveyed to the buyer, any real estate development costs and any closing costs including sales commissions that may be borne by us. We expense closing costs, including sales commissions, when incurred for all real estate sales with future performance obligations expected to be satisfied within one year.

When developed residential or commercial land is sold, the cost of sales includes actual costs incurred and estimates of future development costs benefiting the property sold through completion. Costs are allocated to each sold acre or lot based upon the relative sales value of each acre or lot as compared to the estimated sales value of the total project. For purposes of allocating development costs, estimates are reevaluated at least annually and more frequently if warranted by market conditions, changes in the project’s scope or other factors, with any adjustments being allocated prospectively to the remaining units available for sale.

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

The determination of expense and funding requirements for our defined benefit pension plan, its unfunded excess pension plan and its postretirement life insurance plan are largely based on a number of actuarial assumptions. The key assumptions include discount rate, return on assets, mortality rates and longevity of employees. See Note 18 — Employee Benefit Plans for assumptions used to determine benefit obligations, and the net periodic benefit cost for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Periodic pension and other postretirement expense is included in “Cost of sales,” “Selling and general expenses” and “Interest and other miscellaneous income, net” in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income. The service cost component of net periodic benefit cost is included in “Cost of sales” and “Selling and general expenses” while the other components of net periodic benefit cost (interest cost, expected return on plan assets and amortization of losses or gains) are presented outside of income from operations in “Interest and other miscellaneous income, net.” Changes in the funded status of our plans are recorded through other comprehensive (loss) income in the year in which the changes occur. We measure plan assets and benefit obligations as of the fiscal year-end.

The defined benefit pension plan and the unfunded excess pension plan were terminated in 2023. For additional information, see Note 18 — Employee Benefit Plans.

INCOME TAXES

We use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax benefits or consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, operating loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured pursuant to tax laws using the enacted tax rate that is expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which the temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. We recognize the effect of a change in income tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income in the period that includes the enactment date of the rate change. We record a valuation allowance to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets if it is more-likely-than-not that such deferred tax assets will not be realized.

In determining the provision for income taxes, we compute an annual effective income tax rate based on annual income by legal entity, permanent differences between book and tax, and statutory income tax rates by jurisdiction. Inherent in the effective tax rate is an assessment of the ultimate outcome of current period uncertain tax positions. We adjust our annual effective tax rate as additional information on outcomes or events becomes available. Discrete items such as taxing authority examination findings or legislative changes are recognized in the period in which they occur.

Our income tax returns are subject to audit by U.S. federal, state and foreign taxing authorities. In evaluating the tax benefits associated with various tax filing positions, we record a tax benefit for an uncertain tax position if it is more-likely-than-not to be realized upon ultimate settlement. We record a liability for an uncertain tax position that does not meet this criterion. Interest and penalties for an uncertain tax position are recognized in income tax expense. We adjust our liabilities for uncertain tax benefits in the period in which it is determined the issue is settled with the taxing authorities, the statute of limitations expires for the relevant taxing authority to examine the tax position or when new facts or information become available. See Note 20 — Income Taxes for additional information.

ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures, which requires disclosure of significant segment expenses that are regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) and a description of other segment items (the difference between segment revenue less the segment expenses disclosed under the significant expense principle and each reported measure of segment profit or loss) by reportable segment, as well as disclosure of the title and position of the entity’s CODM and an explanation of how the CODM uses the reported measures of segment profit or loss in assessing segment performance and deciding how to allocate resources. The pronouncement is effective for annual reporting periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and for interim periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. We do not expect the adoption of this pronouncement to impact our consolidated financial statements beyond the expansion of our reportable segment disclosures.

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

We have evaluated events occurring from December 31, 2023 to the date of issuance of these Consolidated Financial Statements for potential recognition and disclosure in the consolidated financial statements. No events were identified that warranted recognition or disclosure.

2. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

As of December 31, 2023, Rayonier operated infive reportable segments: Southern Timber, Pacific Northwest Timber, New Zealand Timber, Real Estate, and Trading. The previously reported Timber Funds segment was liquidated in 2021 with all proceeds being distributed to noncontrolling interests at the end of 2022. As a result, disclosure of Timber Funds segment results are not presented for 2023 or 2022, while 2021 results are presented for historical purposes.

Sales between operating segments are made based on estimated fair market value, and intercompany sales, purchases and profits (losses) are eliminated in consolidation. We evaluate financial performance based on segment operating income (loss) and Adjusted Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization (“Adjusted EBITDA”). Asset information is not reported by segment, as we do not produce asset information by segment internally.

Operating income as presented in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income is equal to segment income. Certain income (loss) items in the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income are not allocated to segments. These items, which include interest income (expense), miscellaneous income (expense) and income tax expense, are not considered by management to be part of segment operations and are included under “unallocated interest expense and other.”

The following tables summarize the segment information for the three years ended December 31:

(a)The year ended December 31, 2021 includes $159.1 million of sales attributable to noncontrolling interests in Timber Funds. Included in sales attributable to noncontrolling interests in Timber Funds for the year ended December 31, 2021 is $125.4 million from Fund II Timberland Dispositions attributable to noncontrolling interests in Timber Funds. The year ended December 31, 2021 also includes $31.4 million from Fund II Timberland Dispositions attributable to Rayonier.

(b)The years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 include log marketing fees paid to our Trading segment from our Southern Timber and Pacific Northwest Timber segments for marketing log export sales. The year ended December 31, 2021 includes the elimination of timberland investment management fees paid to us by the timber funds which were initially recognized as sales and cost of sales within the Timber Funds segment.

(a)The year ended December 31, 2022 includes $0.7 million of timber write-offs resulting from casualty events. Timber write-offs resulting from casualty events are recorded within the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income under the caption “Cost of sales.”

(b)The year ended December 31, 2023 includes $2.3 million of timber write-offs resulting from casualty events. Timber write-offs resulting from casualty events are recorded within the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income under the caption “Cost of sales.”

(c)The year ended December 31, 2021 includes $45.6 million of operating income attributable to noncontrolling interests in Timber Funds. Included in operating income attributable to noncontrolling interests in Timber Funds for the year ended December 31, 2021 is $41.2 million of income from Fund II Timberland Dispositions. The year ended December 31, 2021 also includes $10.3 million of income on Fund II Timberland Dispositions attributable to Rayonier and a $7.5 million gain on investment in Timber Funds.

(d)The years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 include $105.1 million, $16.6 million and $44.8 million, respectively, from Large Dispositions. The year ended December 31, 2022 includes an $11.5 million gain associated with the multi-family apartment complex sale attributable to noncontrolling interests (“NCI”). The gain associated with the multi-family apartment complex sale attributable to noncontrolling interests is recorded within the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income under the caption “Other operating (expense) income, net.”

(e)The year ended December 31, 2023 includes $20.7 million of net recoveries associated with legal settlements, which is partially offset by a $2.0 million pension settlement charge.

(a)Excludes timberland acquisitions presented separately, in addition to real estate development investments of $23.1 million, $13.7 million and $12.5 million in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

(b)The year ended December 31, 2021 includes $2.8 million of capital expenditures attributable to noncontrolling interests in Timber Funds.

(a)The year ended December 31, 2021 includes $78.9 million of depreciation, depletion, and amortization attributable to noncontrolling interests in Timber Funds. Included in depreciation, depletion, and amortization attributable to noncontrolling interests in Timber Funds for the year ended December 31, 2021 is $66.4 million related to Fund II Timberland Dispositions. The year ended December 31, 2021 also includes $16.6 million related to Fund II Timberland Dispositions attributable to Rayonier.

(b)The years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 include $91.1 million, $8.3 million and $9.8 million, respectively, from Large Dispositions.

(a)The year ended December 31, 2021 includes $20.2 million of non-cash cost of land and improved development from Fund II Timberland Dispositions, of which $16.2 million was attributable to noncontrolling interests in Timber Funds and $4.0 million was attributable to Rayonier.

(b)The years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 include $43.7 million, $4.6 million and $0.1 million, respectively, from Large Dispositions.

3. REVENUE

Contract Balances

The timing of revenue recognition, invoicing and cash collections results in trade receivables and deferred revenue (contract liabilities) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Trade receivables are recorded when we have an unconditional right to consideration for completed performance under the contract. Contract liabilities relate to payments received in advance of performance under the contract. Contract liabilities are recognized as revenue as (or when) we perform under the contract.

The following table contains contract balances recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2023 and 2022:

(a)The increase in trade receivables was primarily driven by timing of sales in our timber segments.

(b)The decrease in deferred revenue, current is primarily driven by the satisfaction of post-closing obligations on real estate sales and the timing of advance payments on stumpage contracts, partially offset by increased hunting license renewals and the current portion of a carbon capture and storage contract entered into in the first quarter of 2023.

(c)The increase in deferred revenue, non-current is primarily driven by a carbon capture and storage contract entered into in the first quarter of 2023.

The following table summarizes revenue recognized during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 that was included in the contract liability balance at the beginning of each year:

(a) Revenue recognized was primarily from hunting licenses, the use of advances on pay-as-cut timber sales and the satisfaction of

post-closing obligations on real estate sales.

The following tables present our revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by product type for the years ended December 31, 2023,2022 and 2021:

(a) Includes deferred revenue adjustments, revenue true-ups and marketing fees related to Improved Development sales.

The following tables present our timber sales disaggregated by contract type for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:

4. TIMBERLAND ACQUISITIONS

During 2023, we acquired approximately 4,000 acres of U.S. timberland located in Florida, Georgia, Texas and Washington throughsix transactions for an aggregate value of $13.2 million, which were funded with cash on hand and like-kind exchange proceeds. We also incurred approximately $0.9 million of additional costs associated with acquisitions completed in the prior year. Additionally, during 2023, we acquired approximately 1,000 acres of leased timberland in New Zealand.

In December 2022, we completed the acquisitions of approximately 138,000 acres of high-quality commercial timberlands located in Texas, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana from Manulife Investment Management for approximately $454.5 million in the aggregate. We funded the acquisitions with incremental borrowings, cash on hand, and like-kind exchange proceeds. Additionally, infive transactions during 2022, we acquired approximately 2,000 acres of U.S. timberland located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Washington for an aggregate value of $3.3 million, which were primarily funded from operating cash flow.

During 2022, we also acquired approximately 1,000 acres of timberland (including approximately 400 acres of leased land) in New Zealand for approximately $0.7 million. These acquisitions were funded from operating cash flow.

The following table summarizes the timberland acquisitions for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:

(a)Includes costs incurred in 2023 associated with acquisitions completed in the fourth quarter of 2022.

5. NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS

NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS IN CONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES

Matariki Forestry Group

We maintain a 77% controlling financial interest in Matariki Forestry Group (the “New Zealand subsidiary”), a joint venture that owns or leases approximately 421,000 legal acres of New Zealand timberland. Accordingly, we consolidate the New Zealand subsidiary’s balance sheet and results of operations. The portions of the consolidated financial position and results of operations attributable to the New Zealand subsidiary’s 23% noncontrolling interest are reflected as an adjustment to income in our Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income under the caption “Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in consolidated affiliates.” Rayonier New Zealand Limited (“RNZ”), a wholly-owned subsidiary, serves as the manager of the New Zealand subsidiary.

The following table sets forth the income attributable to the New Zealand subsidiary’s noncontrolling interests:

Ferncliff Investors

We maintain an ownership interest in Ferncliff Investors, a real estate joint venture entity. In 2017, Ferncliff Management and Ferncliff Investors were formed for the purpose of raising capital from third parties to invest in an unconsolidated real estate joint venture entity, Bainbridge Landing LLC, for the development of a multi-family community containing apartments and townhouses on afive-acre parcel in Bainbridge Island, Washington. Ferncliff Management is the manager and 33.33% owner of Ferncliff Investors, with the remaining ownership interest in Ferncliff Investors held by third-party investors. Ferncliff Investors holds a 50% interest in Bainbridge Landing LLC, the joint venture entity that owns and is developing the property.

In 2022, Bainbridge Landing, LLC completed the planned sale of its multi-family apartment complex in Bainbridge Island, Washington for a purchase price of $65.5 million. The equity income related to the apartment complex sale was $16.0 million, of which $4.5 million was attributable to Rayonier. We recognized the gain on the sale in our Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income under the caption “Other operating (expense) income, net.”

NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS IN THE OPERATING PARTNERSHIP

Noncontrolling interests in the operating partnership relate to the third-party ownership of redeemable operating partnership units. Net income attributable to the noncontrolling interests in the operating partnership is computed by applying the weighted average redeemable operating partnership units outstanding during the period as a percentage of the weighted average total units outstanding to the Operating Partnership’s net income for the period. If a noncontrolling unitholder redeems a unit for a registered common share of Rayonier or cash, the noncontrolling interests in the operating partnership will be reduced and the Company’s share in the Operating Partnership will be increased by the fair value of each security at the time of redemption.

The following table sets forth the Company’s noncontrolling interests in the operating partnership:

(a)The year ended December 31, 2023 includes an additional distribution of $0.20 per operating partnership unit. The cash distribution amount of $0.5 million was payable on January 12, 2024, to holders of record on December 29, 2023.

6. EARNINGS PER SHARE AND PER UNIT

Basic earnings per common share (“EPS”) is calculated by dividing net income attributable to Rayonier Inc. by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing net income attributable to Rayonier Inc., before net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in the operating partnership by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding adjusted to include the potentially dilutive effect of outstanding stock options, performance shares, restricted shares, restricted stock units and noncontrolling interests in operating partnership units.

The following table provides details of the calculations of basic and diluted earnings per common share of the Company for the three years ended December 31:

Basic earnings per unit (“EPU”) is calculated by dividing net income available to unitholders of Rayonier, L.P. by the weighted average number of units outstanding during the year. Diluted EPU is calculated by dividing net income available to unitholders of Rayonier, L.P. by the weighted average number of units outstanding adjusted to include the potentially dilutive effect of outstanding unit equivalents, including stock options, performance shares, restricted shares and restricted stock units.

The following table provides details of the calculations of basic and diluted earnings per unit of the Operating Partnership for the three years ended December 31:

7. DEBT

Our debt consisted of the following at December 31, 2023 and 2022:

Principal payments due during the next five years and thereafter are as follows:

2.75% SENIOR NOTES ISSUED MAY 2021

In May 2021, Rayonier, L.P. issued $450 million of 2.75% Senior Notes due 2031, guaranteed by certain subsidiaries. Semi-annual payments of interest only are due on these notes through maturity. The Senior Notes due 2031 were sold at an issue price of 99.195% of their face value, before underwriters discount. Our net proceeds after deducting approximately $3.9 million of underwriting discounts and expenses, were approximately $442.5 million. The discount and debt issuance costs are being amortized to interest expense over the term of the notes using the effective interest method.

TERM CREDIT AGREEMENTS

We have entered into several credit agreements with CoBank, ACB, as administrative agent, and a syndicate of Farm Credit Institutions. Our various term credit facilities issued through the Farm Credit System provide for annual patronage payments, which are profit distributions made by the cooperative to its member-users based on the quantity or value of business done with the member-user.

All of our term credit agreements are benchmarked to Daily Simple SOFR plus a credit spread adjustment. While all of our term credit facilities provide for variable interest rates based on a spread over Daily Simple SOFR, we have entered into multiple interest rate swap agreements to fix portions of our variable rate exposure. For each credit facility described below, we provide our estimated effective interest rate after consideration of estimated patronage payments and interest rate swaps.

2015 TERM LOAN AGREEMENT

In August 2015, we entered into a credit agreement with CoBank, ACB, as administrative agent, and a syndicate of Farm Credit institutions and other commercial banks to provide $550 million of credit facilities, including anine-year $350 million term loan facility (“2015 Term Loan Facility”). The periodic interest rate on the 2015 Term Loan Facility is subject to a pricing grid based on our leverage ratio, as defined in the Term Credit Agreement. As of December 31, 2023, the periodic interest rate on the 2015 Term Loan Facility was Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.6% plus a credit spread adjustment of 0.1%. Monthly payments of interest only are due on this loan through maturity. We estimate the effective interest rate on this term loan facility to be approximately 3.0% after consideration of the interest rate swaps and estimated patronage refunds. For additional information on our interest rate swaps, see Note 8 — Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities.

2022 INCREMENTAL TERM LOAN AGREEMENT

In December 2022, we entered into an Incremental Term Loan Agreement to provide afive-year $250 million senior unsecured incremental term loan facility (“2022 Incremental Term Loan Facility”). During the fourth quarter of 2023, we repaid $150 million of the principal balance on this loan. The periodic interest rate on the 2022 Incremental Term Loan Facility is subject to a pricing grid based on our leverage ratio, as defined in the Incremental Term Loan Agreement. As of December 31, 2023, the periodic interest rate on the $100 million 2022 Incremental Term Loan Facility was Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.6% plus a credit spread adjustment of 0.1%. Monthly payments of interest only are due on this loan through maturity. We estimate the effective interest rate on this term loan facility to be approximately 4.6% after consideration of interest rate swaps and estimated patronage refunds. For additional information on our interest rate swaps, see Note 8 — Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities.

2016 INCREMENTAL TERM LOAN AGREEMENT

In April 2016, we entered into an Incremental Term Loan Agreement to provide a 10-year, $300 million term loan facility (“2016 Incremental Term Loan Facility”) of which $100 million was subsequently repaid. The periodic interest rate on the 2016 Incremental Term Loan Facility is subject to a pricing grid based on our leverage ratio, as defined in the Incremental Term Loan Agreement. As of December 31, 2023, the periodic interest rate on the $200 million 2016 Incremental Term Loan Facility was Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.65% plus a credit spread adjustment of 0.1%. Monthly payments of interest only are due on this loan through maturity. We estimate the effective interest rate on this term loan facility to be approximately 2.4% after consideration of interest rate swaps and estimated patronage payments. For additional information on our interest rate swaps, see Note 8 — Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities.

2021 INCREMENTAL TERM LOAN AGREEMENT

In June 2021, we entered into an Incremental Term Loan Agreement, which provided us the ability to make an advance of $200 million on or before June 1, 2022. In January 2022, we made a $200 million draw on our 2021 Incremental Term Loan Facility. The periodic interest rate on the 2021 Incremental Term Loan Facility is subject to a pricing grid based on our leverage ratio, as defined in the Incremental Term Loan Agreement. As of December 31, 2023, the periodic interest rate on the 2021 Incremental Term Loan Facility was Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.55% plus a credit spread adjustment of 0.1%. Monthly payments of interest only are due on this loan through maturity. We estimate the effective interest rate on this term loan facility to be approximately 1.5% after consideration of interest rate swaps and estimated patronage refunds. For additional information on our interest rate swaps, see Note 8 — Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities.

REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY

In December 2022, we amended the $300 million Revolving Credit Facility to convert the interest rate benchmark from LIBOR to Daily Simple SOFR plus a credit spread adjustment. The periodic interest rate on the Revolving Credit Facility is subject to a pricing grid based on our leverage ratio, as defined in the Term Credit Agreement. As of December 31, 2023, the periodic interest rate on the Revolving Credit Facility was Daily Simple SOFR plus 1.25% plus a credit spread adjustment of 0.1%, with an unused commitment fee of 0.175%. Monthly payments of interest only are due on this loan through maturity. See Note 23 — Other Assets for additional information about deferred financing costs related to revolving debt.

During the year ended December 31, 2023, we made no borrowings and repayments on our Revolving Credit Facility. At December 31, 2023, we had available borrowings of $289.9 million, net of $10.1 million to secure our outstanding letters of credit.

NEW ZEALAND SUBSIDIARY DEBT

WORKING CAPITAL FACILITY

In July 2023, the New Zealand subsidiary renewed its NZ$20 million working capital facility, extending its maturity date to June 30, 2024. The facility is available for short-term operating cash flow needs of the New Zealand subsidiary. This facility holds a variable interest rate indexed to the 90-day New Zealand Bank Bill rate (“BKBM”). The margins are set for the term of the facility. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the New Zealand subsidiary made no borrowings or repayments on its working capital facility. At December 31, 2023, there was no outstanding balance on the facility.

SHAREHOLDER LOANS

The New Zealand subsidiary has made capital distributions in the past to its partners on a pro rata basis to redeem certain equity interests, which were reinvested by the partners into shareholder loans to the New Zealand subsidiary. Our capital distribution and portion of the shareholder loan are eliminated in consolidation. The capital distribution to the minority shareholder and its reinvestment in the shareholder loan results in the recording of a loan payable by the New Zealand subsidiary. Except for changes in the New Zealand foreign exchange rate, there have been no adjustments to the carrying value of the shareholder loan since its inception. See Note 5 — Noncontrolling Interests for more information regarding the New Zealand subsidiary.

SHAREHOLDER LOAN DUE 2025

In September 2020, the New Zealand subsidiary recorded a loan payable in the amount of $23.3 million due in 2025 at a fixed interest rate of 2.95%. As of December 31, 2023, the outstanding balance is $21.8 million.

SHAREHOLDER LOAN DUE 2026

In July 2021, the New Zealand subsidiary recorded a loan payable in the amount of $28.1 million due in 2026 at a fixed interest rate of 3.64%. As of December 31, 2023, the outstanding balance is $25.5 million.

SHAREHOLDER LOAN DUE 2027

In April 2022, the New Zealand subsidiary recorded a loan payable in the amount of $27.9 million due in 2027 at a fixed interest rate of 6.48%. As of December 31, 2023, the outstanding balance is $25.5 million.

DEBT COVENANTS

In connection with our Term Credit Agreement, Incremental Term Loan Agreement, 2021 Incremental Term Loan Agreement, 2022 Incremental Term Loan Agreement and Revolving Credit Facility, customary covenants must be met, the most significant of which include interest coverage and leverage ratios.

The covenants listed below, which are the most significant financial covenants in effect as of December 31, 2023, are calculated on a trailing 12-month basis:

In addition to these financial covenants listed above, the Senior Notes due 2031, Term Credit Agreement, Incremental Term Loan Agreement, 2021 Incremental Term Loan Facility, 2022 Incremental Term Loan Facility, and Revolving Credit Facility include customary covenants that limit the incurrence of debt and the disposition of assets, among others. At December 31, 2023, we were in compliance with all applicable covenants.

8. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

We are exposed to market risk related to potential fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. We use derivative financial instruments to mitigate the financial impact of exposure to these risks.

Accounting for derivative financial instruments is governed by ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, (“ASC 815”). In accordance with ASC 815, we record our derivative instruments at fair value as either assets or liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Changes in the instruments’ fair value are accounted for based on their intended use. Gains and losses on derivatives that are designated and qualify for cash flow hedge accounting are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) and reclassified into earnings when the hedged transaction materializes. Gains and losses on derivatives that are designated and qualify for net investment hedge accounting are recorded as a component of AOCI and will not be reclassified into earnings until the investment is partially or completely liquidated. The changes in the fair value of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments and those which are no longer effective as hedging instruments, are recognized immediately in earnings.

FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE AND OPTION CONTRACTS

Our New Zealand subsidiary’s domestic sales and operating expenses are predominately denominated in New Zealand dollars, while its export sales, shareholder distributions and ocean freight payments are predominately denominated in U.S. dollars. To the extent New Zealand dollar costs exceed New Zealand dollar revenues (the “foreign exchange exposure”), the New Zealand subsidiary manages the foreign exchange exposure through the use of derivative financial instruments. It typically hedges a portion of export sales receipts to cover 50% to 90% of the projected foreign exchange exposure for the following 12 months, up to 75% for the forward 12 to 18 months and up to 50% for the forward 18 to 24 months. Additionally, it will occasionally hedge export sales receipts to cover up to 50% of the foreign exchange exposure for the forward 24 to 36 months and up to 25% of the foreign exchange exposure for the forward 36 to 48 months when the New Zealand dollar is at a cyclical low versus the U.S. dollar. The New Zealand subsidiary’s trading operations typically hedge a portion of export sales receipts to cover the projected foreign exchange exposure for the following three months. As of December 31, 2023, foreign currency exchange contracts and foreign currency option contracts had maturity dates through November 2026.

Foreign currency exchange and option contracts hedging foreign currency risk qualify for cash flow hedge accounting. We may de-designate these cash flow hedge relationships in advance or at the occurrence of the forecasted transaction. The portion of gains or losses on the derivative instrument previously in AOCI for de-designated hedges remains in AOCI until the forecasted transaction affects earnings. Changes in the value of derivative instruments after de-designation are recorded in earnings.

INTEREST RATE PRODUCTS

We are exposed to cash flow interest rate risk on our variable-rate debt and on anticipated debt issuances. We use variable-to-fixed interest rate swaps and forward-starting interest rate swap agreements to hedge this exposure. For these derivative instruments, we report the gains/losses from the fluctuations in the fair market value of the hedges in AOCI and reclassify them to earnings as interest expense in the same period in which the hedged interest payments affect earnings.

To the extent we de-designate or terminate a cash flow hedging relationship and the associated hedged item continues to exist, any unrealized gain or loss of the cash flow hedge at the time of de-designation remains in AOCI and is amortized using the straight-line method through interest expense over the remaining life of the hedged item. To the extent the associated hedged item is no longer effective, the gain or loss is reclassified out of AOCI to earnings immediately.

INTEREST RATE SWAPS

The following table contains information on the outstanding interest rate swaps as of December 31, 2023:

(a) All interest rate swaps have been designated as interest rate cash flow hedges and qualify for hedge accounting.

(b) Includes the SOFR Credit Spread Adjustment component of 0.1%.

(c) Rate is before estimated patronage payments.

FORWARD-STARTING INTEREST RATE SWAPS

In March 2023, we modified our benchmark rates from LIBOR to Daily Simple SOFR for our forward-starting interest rate swaps, resulting in slightly favorable fixed rates. In May 2023, we entered into a new $50 million forward-starting interest rate swap, benchmarked to Daily Simple SOFR.

The following table contains information on the outstanding forward-starting interest rate swaps as of December 31, 2023:

(a) All forward-starting interest rate swaps have been designated as interest rate cash flow hedges and qualify for hedge accounting.

The following table demonstrates the impact, gross of tax, of our derivatives on the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:

During the next 12 months, the amount of the AOCI balance, net of tax, expected to be reclassified into earnings is a gain of approximately $23.0 million. The following table contains details of the amounts expected to be reclassified into earnings:

The following table contains the notional amounts of the derivative financial instruments recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2023 and 2022:

The following table contains the fair values of the derivative financial instruments recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2023 and 2022. Changes in balances of derivative financial instruments are recorded as operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows:

(a)See Note 9 — Fair Value Measurements for further information on the fair value of our derivatives including their classification within the fair value hierarchy.

OFFSETTING DERIVATIVES

Derivative financial instruments are presented at their gross fair values in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Our derivative financial instruments are not subject to master netting arrangements, which would allow the right of offset.

9. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

A three-level hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value was established in the Accounting Standards Codification as follows:

Level 1— Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2— Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1.

Level 3— Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

The following table presents the carrying amount and estimated fair values of our financial instruments at December 31, 2023 and 2022, using market information and what we believe to be appropriate valuation methodologies under GAAP:

(a)We did not have Level 3 assets or liabilities at December 31, 2023 and 2022.

(b)Restricted cash represents proceeds from like-kind exchange sales deposited with a third-party intermediary and cash held in escrow. See Note 21— Restricted Cash for additional information.

(c)The carrying amount of long-term debt is presented net of deferred financing costs and unamortized discounts on non-revolving debt. See Note 7 — Debt for additional information.

(d)See Note 8 — Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities for information regarding the Consolidated Balance Sheets classification of our derivative financial instruments.

(e)Noncontrolling interests in the operating partnership is neither an asset nor liability and is classified as temporary equity in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets. This relates to the ownership of Rayonier, L.P. units by various individuals and entities other than the Company. See Note 5 — Noncontrolling Interests for additional information.

We use the following methods and assumptions in estimating the fair value of our financial instruments:

Cash and cash equivalents and Restricted cash — The carrying amount is equal to fair market value.

Debt — The fair value of fixed rate debt is based upon quoted market prices for debt with similar terms and maturities. The variable rate debt adjusts with changes in the market rate, therefore the carrying value approximates fair value.

Interest rate swap agreements — The fair value of interest rate contracts is determined by discounting the expected future cash flows, for each instrument, at prevailing interest rates.

Foreign currency exchange contracts — The fair value of foreign currency exchange contracts is determined by a mark-to-market valuation, which estimates fair value by discounting the difference between the contracted forward price and the current forward price for the residual maturity of the contract using a risk-free interest rate.

Foreign currency option contracts — The fair value of foreign currency option contracts is based on a mark-to-market calculation using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

Noncontrolling interests in the operating partnership — The fair value of noncontrolling interests in the operating partnership is determined based on the period-end closing price of Rayonier Inc. common shares.

10. COMMITMENTS

At December 31, 2023, the future minimum payments under non-cancellable commitments were as follows:

(a)Environmental remediation represents our estimate of potential liability associated with environmental contamination and Natural Resource Damages (NRD) in Port Gamble, Washington. See Note 12 — Environmental and Natural Resource Damage Liabilities for additional information.

(b)Primarily consisting of payments expected to be made on our Wildlight and Heartwood development projects.

(c)Commitments include $8.4 million related to pension plan termination, payments expected to be made on financial instruments (foreign exchange contracts) and other purchase obligations. See Note 18 — Employee Benefit Plans for additional information on the pension plan termination.

11. CONTINGENCIES

We have been named as a defendant in various lawsuits and claims arising in the normal course of business. While we have procured reasonable and customary insurance covering risks normally occurring in connection with our businesses, we have in certain cases retained some risk through the operation of large deductible insurance plans, primarily in the areas of executive risk, property, automobile and general liability. These pending lawsuits and claims, either individually or in the aggregate, are not expected to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, or cash flow.

12. ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGE LIABILITIES

Various federal and state environmental laws in the states in which we operate place cleanup or restoration liability on the current and former owners of affected real estate. These laws are often a source of “strict liability,” meaning that an owner or operator need not necessarily have caused, or even been aware of, the release of contaminated materials. Similarly, there are certain environmental laws that allow state, federal, and tribal trustees (collectively, the “Trustees”) to bring suit against property owners to recover damage for injuries to natural resources. Like the liability that attaches to current property owners in the cleanup context, liability for natural resource damages (“NRD”) can attach to a property simply because an injury to natural resources resulted from releases of contaminated materials on the owner’s property, regardless of culpability for the release.

Changes inenvironmental and NRD liabilities from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023 are shown below:

(a)The increase in liabilities reflects revised environmental and NRD cost estimates recorded during the year ended December 31, 2023.

We periodically examine whether the contingent liabilities related to the environmental matters described above are probable and reasonably estimable based on experience and ongoing developments in those matters, including continued study and analysis of ongoing remediation obligations. During the year ended December 31, 2023, with the assistance of independent environmental consultants and taking into consideration inflation, investigation and remediation actions previously completed, new information available during the period and ongoing discussions with the Trustees, we completed a comprehensive long-term analysis and cost assessment related to our ongoing environmental remediation and NRD obligations. As a result of this analysis, we increased the accrual for environmental and NRD liabilities by $1.4 million, which are recorded on an undiscounted basis.

It is expected that the upland millsite cleanup and NRD restoration will occur over the nextone totwo years, while the monitoring of the Port Gamble Bay, mill site and landfills will continue for an additional 15 to 20 years. NRD costs are subject to change as the scope of the restoration projects become more clearly defined. It is reasonably possible that these components of the liability may increase as the project progresses. Management continues to monitor the Port Gamble cleanup process and will make adjustments as needed. Should any future circumstances result in a change to the estimated cost of the project, we will record an appropriate adjustment to the liability in the period it becomes known and when we can reasonably estimate the amount. For further information on the timing and amount of future payments related to our environmental remediation liabilities, see Note 10 — Commitments.

We do not currently anticipate any material loss in excess of the amounts accrued; however we are not able to estimate a possible loss or range of loss, if any, in excess of the established liabilities. Our future remediation expenses may be affected by a number of uncertainties including, but not limited to, the difficulty in estimating the extent and method of remediation, the evolving nature of environmental regulations, and the availability and application of technology. We do not expect the resolution of such uncertainties to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position or liquidity.

13. GUARANTEES

We provide financial guarantees as required by creditors, insurance programs, and various governmental agencies.

As of December 31, 2023, the following financial guarantees were outstanding:

(a)We have not recorded any liabilities for these financial commitments in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The guarantees are not subject to measurement, as the guarantees are dependent on our own performance.

(b)Approximately $9.2 million of the standby letters of credit serve as credit support for real estate construction in our Wildlight development project. The remaining letters of credit support various insurance related agreements. These letters of credit will expire at various dates during 2024 and will be renewed as required.

(c)Surety bonds are issued primarily to secure performance obligations related to various operational activities and to provide collateral for our Wildlight development project in Nassau County, Florida and our Heartwood development project in Richmond Hill, Georgia. These surety bonds expire at various dates during 2024, 2025, and 2026 and are expected to be renewed as required.

14. HIGHER AND BETTER USE TIMBERLANDS AND REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENTS

We routinely assess potential alternative uses of our timberlands, as some properties may become more valuable for development, residential, recreation or other purposes. We periodically transfer, via a sale or contribution from the real estate investment trust (“REIT”) entities to taxable REIT subsidiaries (“TRS”), higher and better use (“HBU”) timberlands to enable land-use entitlement, development or marketing activities. We also acquire HBU properties in connection with timberland acquisitions. These properties are managed as timberlands until sold or developed. While the majority of HBU sales involve rural and recreational land, we also selectively pursue various land-use entitlements on certain properties for residential, commercial and industrial development in order to enhance the long-term value of such properties. For selected development properties, we also invest in targeted infrastructure improvements, such as roadways and utilities, to accelerate the marketability and improve the value of such properties.

Changes in higher and better use timberlands and real estate development investments from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023 are shown below:

(a)The current portion of Higher and Better Use Timberlands and Real Estate Development Investments is recorded in Inventory. See Note 15 — Inventory for additional information.

(b)Capitalized real estate development investments includes $1.0 million of capitalized interest and $7.8 million of parcel real estate development investments. Parcel real estate development investments represent investments made for specific lots and/or commercial parcels that are currently under contract or expected to be ready for market within one year.

15. INVENTORY

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, our inventory consisted entirely of finished goods, as follows:

(a)Represents the cost of HBU real estate (including capitalized development investments) under contract to be sold as well as the cost of HBU real estate deferred until post-closing obligations are satisfied. See Note 14 — Higher and Better Use Timberlands and Real Estate Development Investments for additional information.

(b)Represents the basis in New Zealand carbon units intended to be sold in the next 12 months. See Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 23 — Other Assets for additional information on carbon credits.

16. LEASES

TIMBERLAND LEASES

U.S. timberland leases typically have initial terms of approximately 30 to 65 years, with renewal provisions in some cases. New Zealand timberland lease terms typically range between 30 and 99 years. New Zealand lease arrangements generally consist of Crown Forest Licenses (“CFLs”), forestry rights and land leases. A CFL is a license arrangement to use government or privately owned lands to operate a commercial forest. CFLs generally extend indefinitely and may only be terminated upon a 35-year termination notice. If no termination notice is given, the CFLs renew automatically each year for aone-year term. Alternatively, some CFLs extend for a specific term. Once a CFL is terminated, we may be able to obtain a forestry right from the subsequent owner. A forestry right is a license arrangement with a private entity to use their lands to operate a commercial forest. Forestry rights terminate either upon the issuance of a termination notice (which can last 35 to 45 years), completion of harvest, or a specified termination date.

As of December 31, 2023, the New Zealand subsidiary hasthree CFLs comprising 11,000 gross acres or 9,000 net plantable acres under termination notice that are being relinquished as harvest activities are concluded, as well astwo fixed-term CFLs comprising 3,000 gross acres or 2,000 net plantable acres expiring in 2062. Additionally, the New Zealand subsidiary hastwo forestry rights comprising 31,000 gross acres or 4,000 net plantable acres under termination notice that are being relinquished as harvest activities are concluded.

OTHER NON-TIMBERLAND LEASES

In addition to timberland holdings, we lease properties for certain office locations. Significant leased properties include a regional office in Lufkin, Texas; a Pacific Northwest Timber office in Hoquiam, Washington and a New Zealand Timber and Trading headquarters in Auckland, New Zealand.

LEASE MATURITIES, LEASE COST AND OTHER LEASE INFORMATION

The following table details our undiscounted lease obligations as of December 31, 2023 by type of lease and year of expiration:

The following table details components of our lease cost for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021:

(a) The majority of timberland leases are subject to increases or decreases based on either the Consumer Price Index, Producer Price Index or market rates.

(b) Short-term leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet. Lease expense for these leases are expensed on a straight line basis over the lease term. Short-term lease expense was not material for the year ended December 31, 2023.

The following table details components of our lease cost for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021:

We apply the following practical expedients as allowed under ASC 842:

17. OTHER OPERATING (EXPENSE) INCOME, NET

The following table provides the composition of Other operating (expense) income, net for the three years ended December 31:

(a)Gain on investment in Timber Funds represents the gain recognized on the sale of rights to manage two timber funds (Funds III and IV) previously managed by the Company’s Olympic Resources Management (ORM) subsidiary, as well as its co-investment stake in both funds.

(b)The year ended December 31, 2022 includes $16.0 million of equity income from the sale of a multi-family apartment complex in Bainbridge Island, Washington. As the equity investment was co-owned with outside investors, $4.5 million of the equity income was attributable to Rayonier. See Note 5 — Noncontrolling Interests for additional information.

18. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

DEFINED BENEFIT PLANS

We haveone qualified non-contributory defined benefit pension plan covering a portion of our employees and an unfunded plan that provides benefits in excess of amounts allowable under current tax law in the qualified plans. We closed enrollment in the pension plans to salaried employees hired after December 31, 2005. Effective December 31, 2016, we froze benefits for all employees participating in the pension plan. In lieu of the pension plan, we provide those employees with an enhanced 401(k) plan match similar to what is currently provided to employees hired after December 31, 2005. Employee benefit plan liabilities are calculated using actuarial estimates and management assumptions. These estimates are based on historical information, along with certain assumptions about future events. Changes in assumptions, as well as changes in actual experience, could cause the estimates to change.

In December 2022, the Rayonier Board of Directors approved the resolution to terminate the Defined Benefit Plan and notified impacted parties of the termination and alternative distribution options. The Defined Benefit Plan was terminated on February 28, 2023. On July 20, 2023, the Rayonier Board of Directors approved the resolution to terminate the unfunded plan and will distribute all benefits in accordance with Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. The unfunded plan was terminated on July 31, 2023. In the fourth quarter of 2023, distributions were made to settle the obligation with participants in the Defined Benefit Plan electing the lump sum distribution option. The settlement resulted in the recognition of a $2.0 million loss. The loss was recognized in the “Interest and other miscellaneous income, net” line item of the Consolidated Statements of Income. We expect to recognize additional pre-tax non-cash pension settlement charges related to the actuarial losses in AOCI upon settlement of the remaining obligations of the Defined Benefit and Excess Benefit Plans. These charges are currently expected to occur in 2024, with the specific timing and final amounts dependent upon several factors. See Note 24 — Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income for additional information.

The following tables set forth the change in the projected benefit obligation and plan assets and reconcile the funded status and the amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets for the pension and postretirement benefit plans for the two years ended December 31:

For pension and postretirement plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, the following table sets forth the projected and accumulated benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets for the two years ended December 31:

ACTUARIAL (GAIN) LOSS

PENSION

Key components of the actuarial gains and losses contributing to the period change in the benefit obligation are as follows:

•Changes in participant demographics resulted in an actuarial loss of approximately $0.4 million.

•Changes in the discount rate resulted in an actuarial gain of approximately $0.2 million.

•Changes in plan assets during the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023 resulted in an investment gain of $2.9 million, which is due to the difference between the 4.97% expected return compared to the actual return of 10.77%.

•Liability adjustment of 5% for in-pay participants and 20% for not-in-pay participants resulted in an actuarial loss of approximately $4.2 million.

POSTRETIREMENT

The actuarial gains and losses contributing to the period change in the benefit obligation were not material.

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Net gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income for the three years ended December 31 are as follows:

Net gains or losses reclassified from other comprehensive income and recognized as a component of pension and postretirement expense for the three years ended December 31 are as follows:

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/LOSS (“AOCI”)

Net losses that have not yet been included in pension and postretirement expense for the two years ended December 31, but have been recognized as a component of AOCI are as follows:

NET PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT COST (CREDIT)

The following tables set forth the components of net pension and postretirement benefit cost (credit) that have been recognized during the three years ended December 31:

The service cost component of our benefit expense is recorded within the operating expense line item “Selling and general expenses” within the Consolidated Statements of Income. All other components of the benefit costs expense are included within the “Interest and other miscellaneous income, net” line item of the Consolidated Statements of Income.

VALUATION ASSUMPTIONS

The following table sets forth the principal assumptions inherent in the determination of benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost of the pension and postretirement benefit plans as of December 31:

DISCOUNT RATE

At December 31, 2023, the pension plan’s weighted average discount rate was 4.99%. The discount rate for the defined benefit pension plan is derived from the Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) Above Median AA Yield Curve, which serves as a proxy for interest rates used by annuity providers. The discount rate for the unfunded plan was based on the single effective interest rate that produced the same present value as that produced by the Plan’s expected benefit payments when discounted using the Internal Revenue Code Section 417(e) segment rates applicable for lump sum payments in 2024.

EXPECTED LONG-TERM RETURN ON PLAN ASSETS

In 2023, the expected return on plan assets was 4.97%, which is based on historical returns on current asset allocations and expected returns using the Black-Litterman method.

INVESTMENT OF PLAN ASSETS

Our Pension and Savings Plan Committee and the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors oversee the pension plans’ investment program, which is designed to maximize returns and provide sufficient liquidity to meet plan obligations while maintaining acceptable risk levels. The investment approach emphasizes diversification by allocating the plans’ assets among asset categories and selecting investment managers whose various investment methodologies will be minimally correlative with each other.

In 2020, we transitioned to a liability-driven investment (“LDI”) strategy. An LDI strategy focuses on maintaining a close to fully-funded status over the long-term with minimal funded status risk. This is achieved by investing more of the plan assets in fixed income instruments to more closely match the duration of the plan liability. The investment allocation to fixed income instruments will increase as the plans' funded status increases. Investment target allocation percentages for equity securities can range up to 80 percent.

Our pension plans’ asset allocation (excluding short-term investments) at December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:

Investments within the equity categories may include large capitalization, small capitalization and emerging market securities. Pension assets did not include a direct investment in Rayonier common shares during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.

NET ASSET VALUE MEASUREMENTS

Separate investment accounts are measured using the unit value calculated based on the Net Asset Value (“NAV”) of the underlying assets. The NAV is based on the fair value of the underlying investments held by each fund less liabilities divided by the units outstanding as of the valuation date. These funds are not publicly traded; however, the unit price calculation is based on observable market inputs of the funds’ underlying assets.

The following table sets forth the net asset value of the plan assets as of December 31, 2023 or 2022:

CASH FLOWS

Our expected benefit payments to be made for the next 10 years are as follows:

(a)Reflects the expected settlement of the Defined Benefit Plan and Excess Benefit Plan in 2024.

We expect to make cash contributions in 2024 of approximately $7.2 million in order to fund the Defined Benefit Plan on a plan termination basis. The Defined Benefit Plan will be settled upon completion of the purchase of annuity contracts. The settlement is expected to be completed by the end of June 30, 2024. The Excess Benefit Plan will be settled entirely with lump sum payments upon termination with expected cash contributions in 2024 of approximately $1.2 million. Projected cash contributions are an estimate, as actual amounts and timing are dependent upon several factors.

DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLANS

We provide a defined contribution plan to all of our eligible employees. Company contributions charged to expense for these plans were $2.5 million, $2.5 million and $2.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The defined contribution plan includes Rayonier common shares with a fair market value of $8.1 million and $8.3 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. As of June 1, 2016, the Rayonier Inc. Common Stock Fund was closed to new contributions. Transfers out of the fund will continue to be permitted, but no new investments or transfers into the fund are allowed.

19. INCENTIVE STOCK PLANS

The 2023 Rayonier Incentive Stock Plan (the “Stock Plan”) was approved by shareholders on May 18, 2023. The Stock Plan allows for up to 3.0 million shares to be granted for options, rights, performance shares, restricted stock, restricted stock units, other stock-based awards or any combination of the foregoing, subject to certain limitations. At December 31, 2023, a total of 2.5 million shares were available for future grants under the Stock Plan. Grants can no longer be made under prior plans. Under the Stock Plan, shares available for issuance may be increased by awards made under the Stock Plan, or awards granted under a prior plan, that are forfeited, terminated, expire unexercised, are settled in cash in lieu of stock, are exchanged for other awards or are released from a reserve for failure to meet the maximum payout under a program. In the event that withholding tax liabilities arising from an award under this Stock Plan, other than options or stock appreciation rights, are satisfied in shares, the shares available under the Stock Plan will be increased. We issue new common shares upon the exercise of stock options, the granting of restricted stock, and the vesting of performance shares and restricted stock units. The Stock Plan allows for the cash settlement of the required withholding tax on share or unit awards.

A summary of our stock-based compensation cost is presented below:

(a)Represents amounts capitalized as part of the overhead allocation of timber-related costs.

(b)A valuation allowance is recorded against the tax benefit recognized as we do not expect to be able to realize the benefit in the future.

FAIR VALUE CALCULATIONS BY AWARD

RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS & RESTRICTED STOCK

Restricted stock units granted to employees under the Stock Plan generally vest in fourths on the first, second, third and fourth anniversary of the grant date. Periodically, other one-time restricted stock unit grants are issued to employees for special purposes, such as new hire, promotion or retention, and can vest ratably over, or upon completion of, a defined period of time. Holders of unvested restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards receive dividend equivalent payments on outstanding awards. Members of the board of directors are granted restricted stock, which vests immediately upon issuance and is subject to certain holding requirements. The fair value of each share granted is equal to the share price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant. We have elected to value each grant in total and recognize the expense on a straight-line basis from the grant date of the award to the latest vesting date. As permitted, we do not estimate a forfeiture rate for non-vested shares. Accordingly, unexpected forfeitures will lower stock-based compensation during the period in which they occur.

As of December 31, 2023, there was $7.3 million of unrecognized compensation cost attributable to our restricted stock units. We expect to recognize this cost over a weighted average period of 1.9 years. As of December 31, 2023, there wasno unrecognized compensation cost attributable to our restricted stock.

A summary of our restricted stock units is presented below:

(a)Intrinsic value of restricted stock units outstanding is based on the market price of the Company’s stock at December 31, 2023.

A summary of our restricted stock is presented below:

(a)Intrinsic value of restricted stock outstanding is based on the market price of the Company’s stock at December 31, 2023.

PERFORMANCE SHARE UNITS

Our performance share units generally vest upon completion of athree-year period. The number of shares, if any, that are ultimately awarded is contingent upon our total shareholder return versus selected peer group companies. The performance share payout is based on a market condition, and as such, the awards are valued using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The model generates the fair value of the award at the grant date, which is then recognized as expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. Additionally, we do not estimate a forfeiture rate for non-vested units. As such, unexpected forfeitures will lower stock-based compensation during the period in which they occur.

As of December 31, 2023, there was $4.9 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to our performance share unit awards, which is attributable to awards granted in 2021, 2022 and 2023. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.3 years.

A summary of our performance share units is presented below:

(a)Intrinsic value of outstanding performance share units is based on the market price of the Company's stock at December 31, 2023.

Expected volatility was estimated using daily returns on the Company’s common shares for the three-year period ending on the grant date. The risk-free rate was based on the 3-year U.S. Treasury rate on the date of the award. The dividend yield was not used to calculate fair value as awards granted receive dividend equivalents. Grants made to Vice Presidents and above are subject to aone-year post-vest holding period and include an additional discount for liquidity. The following table provides an overview of the assumptions used in calculating the fair value of the awards granted for the three years ended December 31:

NON-QUALIFIED EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTIONS

The exercise price of each non-qualified stock option granted under the Stock Plan is equal to the closing market price of the Company’s stock on the grant date. Under the Stock Plan, the maximum term is 10 years from the grant date.

A summary of the status of our stock options as of and for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:

A summary of additional information pertaining to our stock options is presented below:

(a)Intrinsic value of options exercised is the amount by which the fair value of the stock on the exercise date exceeded the exercise price of the option.

As of December 31, 2023, compensation cost related to stock options was fully recognized.

20. INCOME TAXES

Rayonier is a REIT under the Internal Revenue Code and therefore generally does not pay U.S. federal or state income tax. As of December 31, 2023, Rayonier owns a 98.4% interest in the Operating Partnership and conducts substantially all of its timberland operations through the Operating Partnership. The taxable income or loss generated by the Operating Partnership is passed through and reported to its unitholders (including the Company) on a Schedule K-1 for inclusion in each unitholder’s income tax return. Certain operations, including log trading and certain real estate activities, such as the entitlement, development and sale of HBU properties, are conducted through our TRS. The TRS subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal and state corporate income tax. The New Zealand timber operations are conducted by the New Zealand subsidiary, which is subject to corporate-level tax at 28% in New Zealand and is treated as a partnership for U.S. income tax purposes.

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

The provision for income taxes for each of the three years ended December 31 follows:

A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate to the actual income tax rate for each of the three years ended December 31 follows:

The Company’s effective tax rate is below the 21 percent U.S. statutory rate primarily due to tax benefits associated with being a REIT.

DEFERRED TAXES

Deferred income taxes result from differences between the timing of recognizing revenues and expenses for financial book purposes versus income tax purposes. The nature of the temporary differences and the resulting net deferred tax asset/liability for the two years ended December 31 follows:

Net operating loss (“NOL”) and tax credit carryforwards as of the two years ended December 31 follows:

(a)The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) was signed into law on December 22, 2017. The TCJA lifted the 20-year federal NOL Carryforward period. Net operating losses generated after December 31, 2017 have an indefinite carryforward period.

(b)The U.S. state NOL is made up of several jurisdictions that expire in various future years. No state NOL is set to expire before December 31, 2033.

We record a valuation allowance to reduce the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that such deferred tax assets will not be realized. Since 2015, we have had a 100% valuation allowance against the U.S. taxable REIT subsidiary's deferred tax assets, net of deferred tax liabilities. During 2023, the net deferred tax assets increased by $9.6 million. As a result, we recorded a change in the valuation allowance of $9.6 million related to the U.S. TRS's deferred tax assets, net of liabilities.

TAX STATUTES

The following table provides detail of the tax years that remain open to examination by the IRS and other significant taxing jurisdictions:

TAX CHARACTERISTICS OF DIVIDEND DISTRIBUTIONS

The taxable nature of the dividend distributions paid for each of the three years ended December 31 follows:

(a)The year ended December 31, 2023 includes an additional cash dividend of $0.20 per common share. The dividend was payable January 12, 2024, to shareholders of record on December 29, 2023. This additional cash dividend will be considered a 2023 distribution for federal income tax purposes.

21. RESTRICTED CASH

Restricted cash includes cash deposited with a like-kind exchange (“LKE”) intermediary. In order to qualify for LKE treatment, the proceeds from real estate sales must be deposited with a third-party intermediary. These proceeds are accounted for as restricted cash until a suitable replacement property is acquired. In the event LKE purchases are not completed, the proceeds are returned to the Company after 180 days and reclassified as available cash. Additionally, restricted cash includes cash balances held in escrow as collateral for certain contractual obligations related to our Heartwood development project as well as cash held in escrow for real estate sales.

The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash in the Consolidated Balance Sheets that sum to the total of the same such amounts in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the two years ended December 31:

22. ASSETS HELD FOR SALE

Assets held for sale is composed of properties not included in inventory which are under contract and expected to be sold within the next 12 months that also meet the other relevant held-for-sale criteria in accordance with ASC 360-10-45-9. As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the basis in properties meeting this classification was $9.9 million and $0.7 million, respectively. Since the basis in these properties was less than the fair value, including costs to sell, no impairment was recognized.

23. OTHER ASSETS

The following table provides the composition of Other assets for the two years ended December 31:

(a)See Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 8 — Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities for further information on derivatives including their classification on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

(b)See Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for additional information.

(c)Represents the cost basis in four joint venture entities by our New Zealand subsidiary, reflecting investments made for the establishment and enhancement of timber assets which the joint ventures will monetize upon maturation of the timber.

(d)The Executive Severance Pay Plan provides benefits to eligible executives in the event of a change in control of the Company.

(e)See Note 1 — Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 15 — Inventory for additional information on carbon credits.

Changes in goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were:

24. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

The following table summarizes the changes in AOCI by component for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. All amounts are presented net of tax and exclude portions attributable to noncontrolling interests.

(a)The years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 include $10.3 million and $75.0 million, respectively, of other comprehensive income related to interest rate products. See Note 8 — Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities for additional information.

(b)This component of other comprehensive income is included in the computation of net periodic pension and post-retirement costs. The year ended December 31, 2023 includes a $2.0 million pension settlement charge. See Note 18 — Employee Benefit Plans for additional information.

The following table presents details of the amounts reclassified in their entirety from AOCI to net income for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022:

25. RELATED PARTY

In January 2020, we entered into an agreement to sell developed lots to Mattamy Jacksonville LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mattamy Homes, for an aggregate base purchase price of $4.45 million (subject to multiple takedowns over a 2 year period), plus additional consideration as to each lot to the extent the ultimate sales price of each finished home exceeded agreed price thresholds (the “Mattamy Contract”). In May 2021, we entered into an amendment to the original agreement, which sold additional lots to Mattamy for an aggregate base purchase price of $1.0 million. The Mattamy contract also included marketing fee revenue based on a percentage of the sales price of each finished home.

In September 2020, Keith Bass, a member of our Board of Directors, was named the Chief Executive Officer of Mattamy Homes US. Following this development, the Mattamy Contract and the ongoing obligations therein, were reviewed by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee in accordance with established policies and procedures regarding the authorization and approval of transactions with related parties.

The following table demonstrates the impact, gross of tax, of our related party transactions on the Consolidated Statements of Income and Comprehensive Income for the three years ended December 31:

(a)The year ended December 31, 2021 excludes approximately $0.3 million of cash received from Mattamy Jacksonville LLC under this agreement for the reimbursement of local impact fees.

All consideration due under this contract was received from Mattamy Homes as of December 31, 2022. There were no new agreements entered into with Mattamy Homes during the year ended December 31, 2023.