Atlas Engineered Products launched Canada’s first robotic roof truss manufacturing line in Clinton, Ontario. In other Company news: Howe Sound Pulp & Paper workers were exposed to toxic gas; Weyerhaeuser and TimberHP partner on wood fibre insulation; Cambium acquired Urban Evolutions; and the Hardwood Review reported 151 US hardwood sawmill and yard closures since 2023. In Finance news: Canada’s economy lost 68,000 jobs, Deloitte warns of slower growth, and Numera says interest rates may moderate; while in the United States — the remodeling market is stable; mortgage rates hit 7.4%; and sawmill utilization improved to 76.5%.

In Forestry news: the man responsible for a Saskatchewan wildfire was sentenced to six years in prison; ecologist Michelle Mack says forest management can reduce wildfire emissions; BC Timber Sales extended consultation on Mount Rose Swanson logging; Lake Cowichan acquired 100 acres from Mosaic; and Forests Canada partnered with U-Haul. Meanwhile, a UK report warns that expanding biofuel production could increase pressure on forests; and BCIT is seeking industry expertise for a new wood products program.

Finally, Hurricane Isaias is approaching the US Gulf Coast, threatening a storm surge and damaging winds.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor