US builder confidence index—which foreshadowed the last housing bust—fell for the fourth straight month as lumber tariffs and lot availablability weighed on builder confidence (cup half empty?); but the ratings are still strong and reflect confidence in housing demand (cup half full?). Elsewhere: CN Rail apologizes and seeks solutions for Prince George’s shipping backlog; and Resolute and Unifor reach a tentative four year labour deal. 

In other news: Skeena Sawmills plans to build a pellet plant in Terrace BC; a Lakeview Oregon plant plans to convert wood waste into aviation fuel; the Canadian wood recycling sector is positioned for growth; and forests and forest products are touted as part of the climate change solution.

Finally, Vancouver has its first certified forest therapy guide: “The forest is the therapist – the guide opens the door“.

–Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor