Homeowners rejoice as Canada cuts interest rate, but US inflation remains sticky despite easing housing costs. In related news: Quebec is scrutinized by the Assembly of First Nations of Newfoundland and Labrador (again); a US apprenticeship program is developed to focus on recruitment through technical forestry roles; the USDA prioritizes private landowners to store carbon; and more details on why Oregon can’t pay for wildfire work. Meanwhile: spruce budworm outbreaks has Maine officials worried; salamanders are of top concern in Virginia; Sweden takes another look at moose damage; and recent NASA research examines precipitation effects on vegetation.

In other news: the University of British Columbia targets remote Indigenous Communities for bioenergy production; Vancouver Island residents find value in construction waste; Drax moves forward to produce sustainable jet fuel; New Zealand’s dairy producers will be powered by wood pellets; and the inventor of ‘plastic lumber’ is honoured.

Finally, an oldie but a goodie – watch a dry Christmas Tree erupt in flames and review the safety steps in your own home this holiday season!

Suzi Hopkinson, Tree Frog Editor