The US and China agreed to dramatically reduced tariffs for 90 days—in bid to defuse trade war. In related news: markets rebound as the grown-ups return to the room; US envoy puts a positive spin on Canadian tariffs; and sawmill companies brace for volatile wood prices. Meanwhile: International Paper is closing two Texas facilities; Georgia approves hurricane relieve package for timber owners; Port Alberni, BC sees fresh investment amid forestry woes; and Conifex and Taiga report positive Q1, 2025 results.

In Forestry/Safety news: US lawmakers introduce a Forest Protection and Woodland Firefight Safety Act; Texas researcher on emerging safety technology for fallers; Pacific Northwest leaders urge action as wildfire season nears; a Washington state judge halts watershed logging; and wildfire updates from BC; Saskatchewan and Ontario. 

Finally, Mark Oulton has been appointed King’s Counsel by the Lieutenant Governor of BC.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor