Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

Canada’s inflation rate eased in August, interest rate cut tomorrow is now all but certain. In other Business news: Steelworkers are frustrated with the forestry strike on Vancouver Island; Unifor is set to meet on future of Domtar’s Kénogami and Dolbeau plants; Arkansas State University recognized West Fraser’s workforce contributions; and CO280 initiated carbon removal project in Canada. Meanwhile: CWC and FPAC applaud the creation of the Build Canada Homes agency; Canada’s housing starts tumble 16%; and China’s weakened economy drives lower log imports.

In Forestry/Climate news: Sweden and Finland urge revision of EU’s forestry climate targets; the US agencies issue memorandum on wildfire response reforms; US forestry stakeholders promote biomass power; US Senators seek renewed funding of Women in Wildfire Boot Camp; BC Forest Minister Parmar visits the UBC Malcolm Knapp Research Forest; and the BC Forest Practices Board to audit biodiversity practices in the Mackenzie District.

Finally, via Zoom tonight, BC Forest History Association Speaker Series presents Larry Pedersen, BC’s 14th Chief Forester.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

A BC Supreme Court judge granted an injunction against logging protesters in BC’s Walbran Valley. In related news: the First Nation forest company responds; the protesters dig-in, and ENGO’s decry the lack of old-growth protections. Meanwhile: Port Hawkesbury Paper suspends logging in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia; the Na̲nwak̲olas Council celebrates the role of First Nations in forestry; US Forestry Chief lauds active land management; and the Roadless Rule public comment period nears end. Finally, as the EU Deforestation Regulation nears its start, opposition and compliance measures pick up.

In Business news: Derek Nighbor and John Desjarlais recommended policy prescription for Canada’s economy; the diversification challenge for Canada’s softwood lumber producers; Prime Minister Carney’s new housing agency; President Trump’s duty-free list adds wood pulp codes; and USA BioEnergy is transforming an old plywood mill into a biorefinery in Texas. Meanwhile: mass timber is going mainstream in BC; University of Maine researchers turn wood into medicine; and the UK’s Green Paper will transform timber specification.

Finally, it’s See Tracks? Think Train® Week (formerly Rail Safety Week).

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US Fed is still expected to cut interest rates next week despite a jump in inflation. In other Business news: the scope of pollution from Washington’s defunct Cosmopolis pulp mill is unknown; Russia’s Segezha Group cuts 350 jobs at its Novoeniseysk sawmill; and EU wood pellet consumption is set to rebound. Meanwhile: FSC US announced its 2025 Leadership Awards, while SFI Canada highlighted funding for Indigenous-led Climate Smart projects.

In BC Forestry news: more on the Pacheedaht First Nation effort to end the Walbran Valley blockade; Williams Lake is hosting a ‘contemplative forestry‘ workshop; Prince George protesters call for an end to glyphosate spraying; and UBC forestry prof Shannon Hagerman on environmental social science in forestry. Elsewhere: Nova Scotia funds projects to save hemlock trees; Ontario clears storm-felled timber from Samuel de Champlain Park; Coulson says Saskatchewan paid too much for its new firefighting planes; the UK opened a new seed bank; and the US decision to issue smoke masks to firefighters doesn’t apply to arduous work.

Finally: a NASA image of an Idaho’s forest chessboard reflects 19th century forest management.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Pacheedaht First Nation asserts sovereignty, calls for blockaders to leave BC’s Walbran Valley. In related news: Elder Bill Jones takes his own Nation to court; and the Walbran echoes BC’s attempt to saw the Carmanah Valley in half. In Forestry/Wildfire news: New Brunswick says there’s no evidence timber practices worsen wildfires; the US Forest Service Chief defends logging in hearing; the US Interior plans to rescind the Public Lands Rule; Colorado says past wildfires are reshaping forest regeneration; Ontario invests in invasive species projects; and a study says Canadian wildfire smoke caused 82,000 premature deaths.

In Business & Finance: Newfoundland extends its power-purchase agreement with Corner Brook Pulp & Paper; Georgia-Pacific plans to modernize its Alabama River Cellulose mill; Georgia leaders explore options after mill closures; US residential building material prices rise for the 4th straight month; and Canada’s first mixed-use tall mass timber Passive House building rises in Vancouver. Meanwhile: Trump lobbies the EU for 100% tariffs on China and India; and lumber’s steep price drop chills Trump’s timber ambitions.

Finally, BC’s 14th Chief Forester Larry Pedersen reflects on lessons from his tenure.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

A significant yard fire at Georgia Pacific’s Englehart, Ontario mill was contained without impacting operations. In other Business news: Oregon fined Stella-Jones $1M for environmental violations, Nova Scotia weighs bidding on Northern Pulp’s assets; West Fraser’s Minnesota OSB mill received a job creation grant; Drax is under pressure again in the UK; and Domtar adjusted communications on its Kingsport digester project. Meanwhile, Weaber Inc. filed for bankruptcy before its sawmill fire; TAPPI named Kim Nelson board chair; CMHC says Canada’s housing starts are flat; Russ Taylor calls lumber’s price drop “crazy”; and the US Fed signals that 3% inflation is the new 2%.

In Forestry news: Walbran Valley protesters persist as the TLA calls for resolution; BC officials change their mind on link between CN Rail to the Lytton fire; the Mi’kmaq blockades continue in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia; the US Forest Service will allow masks for wildfire crews; Montana advocates push to rescind the Roadless Rule, and South Australia battles giant pine scale.

Finally, California crews are fighting to save a grove of sequoias from the Garnet Fire.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

US forest organizations ask Trump to act on crisis threatening America’s timber supply, rural economies, and energy security. In related news: Trump’s proposed change to the Roadless Rule gets pushback from Patagonia’s Ryan Gellert; former US Forest Service chief Mike Dombeck; and Alaska-based renewable energy expert Ariel Hasse-Zamudio; and researchers say boosting timber harvests won’t solve America’s wildfire problem.

North of the 49th: Prime Minister Carney’s Build Canada Strong announcement includes $3.5M for forestry in Northern Ontario; BC Forest Minister Ravi Parmar and BC Wood Chair Kelly Marciniw celebrate the Global Buyers Mission; Tsawak-qin Forestry seeks removal of Walbran Valley protesters; a logging blockade heats up in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia; and ENGOs raise glyphosate concerns in northeastern Ontario.

Elsewhere: Pixelle Specialty Solutions appoints Julie Schertell CEO; Georgia Pacific acquires Anchor Packaging; and Metsä Group’s carbon capture pilot plant is now online.

Finally, a new study says climate change makes lightning-sparked wildfires more frequent.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled billions in new funding and a Buy Canadian policy to help tariff-hit sectors. In related news: FPAC’s Derek Nighbor welcomed measures to strengthen Canadian industries; Lawerence Herman says the US Supreme Court will give Trump a tariff victory; and the AF&PA urges exclusion of Brazil pulp from tariffs. In other Business news: Kruger is restarting its Corner Brook Pulp & Paper mill; German equipment makers seek delay of EU deforestation law; and low lumber prices are called a warning sign, as US job growth slows and inflation ticks up.

In other news: the Canadian Wood Council advances steel-timber hybrid solutions; Netflix partners with the American Forest Foundation on carbon credits; US hearings offer outlet for unease with US Forest Service revamp; UBC professor Younes Alila says clearcut logging affects water; Wildsight says BC is failing to protect old-growth; and The Great Koala National Park is announced in Australia. Meanwhile: the Ontario Woodlot Association has a New Executive Director; and the latest FSC Canada newsletter.

Finally, Premier Eby opens BC Wood’s GBM, emphasizes value-added sector’s critical role.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Lumber futures, which have tumbled more than 20%, bounced back after Interfor announced a 12% output cut. In other Business news: Prime Minister Carney’s decision to lift tariffs on most US goods is debated as Carney hinted at progress with Trump call; COFI’s Kim Haakstad says increased US duties are a “blow to an industry in trouble”; Hood Industries is investing in a new Mississippi sawmill; and Vietnam’s wood exporters are recalibrating their trade strategies. Meanwhile, the US Endowment’s Peter Madden opines on how biomass can revitalize US forests; and  Canada’s housing starts are near record highs, except in Ontario.

In Forestry and Wildfire news: drought may dull Canada’s fall colours; BC’s late-season wildfires remain a serious issue; a BC logger is fighting to recover his timber licence deposit; the USDA’s new wildfire-risk funding targets North Carolina; an analysis finds most tropical forestry firms are not ready for the EU’s deforestation-free rules; and wildfire updates include the Mine Creek fire shutting BC’s Coquihalla highway, the Root Fire in California, and blazes in New Jersey.

Finally, California is piloting “BurnBot,” a remote-controlled machine that carves out fire breaks.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Citing market conditions, Interfor announced plans to reduce is lumber production by 12% across all regions. In related news: Domtar will temporarily close its sawmill in Maniwaki, Quebec; Canada seeks trade panel review of US lumber duty decision; Greif completes sale of Ohio containerboard business; and desptite challenges—Drax should retain UK support. Meanwhile: lumber futures fell again; and Russian lumber exports remain weak.

In Forestry news: the USDA invests $8M in timber production and forest health; Nanaimo Regional District purchases marsh land from Mosaic Forest Management; and Nova Scotia is no longer disclosing glyphosate spray locations. In Wildfire news: the BC Cariboo District issues an evacuation order; Whistler’s fire danger hits extreme; Ontario’s cottage country fires are a different kind of beast; and Spain and Portugal fires overwhelm firefighting resources.

Finally, from bustling lumber mill to ghost town — Lake Michigan’s buried history.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US Court of Appeals ruled that many of Trump’s tariffs are illegal, but Treasury Secretary Bessent expects the Supreme Court to rule otherwise (and he has a backup plan if it doesn’t). In related news: Bessent said Trump may declare a national housing emergency this fall to tackle affordability; lumber futures fell to a four-month low; and US consumer sentiment fell 6% in August. In other Business news: San Group’s credit-protection process requires more time; UK’s Kingspan Timber is closing after 60 years; and wildfires are hurting tourism in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Ottawa is just over a 10th of the way to is 2 billion tree planting goal; debate continues over proposed changes to the US Roadless Rule; misinformation helped kill Oregon’s wildfire risk map; ENGOs call for an end to native logging in New South Wales, Australia; and wildfire updates from Saskatchewan and Oregon.

Finally, the history and future direction of wood science, and Portland’s proposed mass-timber research and manufacturing campus.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor 

The US Lumber Coalition says lumber price drop is due to weak housing market and excess Canadian supply. In other Business news: Unifor Canada says the US needs Canadian lumber; Savannah, Georgia questions International Paper’s mill closure; and Stella-Jones is fined for unlawful water pollution in Oregon. Meanwhile: the Danish timber industry bemoans burden of EU packaging rules; and palm oil companies say US’ EUDR exemption should apply to them too.

In Forestry/Wildfire new: BC’s North Cowichan council to make logging a strategic priority; a Lakehead University researcher says soils are key to carbon storage; and a Clemson University prof says wildfires impact soil too. Meanwhile: more Oregon cities are buying their forest watersheds; Washington States’ old-but-not-quite-old-growth conservation announcement; the latest from the BC Community Forest Association; and wildfire updates from BC, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Oregon.

Finally, happy Labour Day long weekend! The frogs are back on our pads Tuesday.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The Trump administration public comment period on rescinding the US Roadless Rule sparks ENGO opposition. In related news: a US House delegation visits Alaska; and a federal court allows White Mountain National Forest logging to proceed. Meanwhile: Drax faces UK probe into biomass sourcing; Sweden debates paying forest owners to store carbon; UBC Forestry expands its Combined Heat and Power Academy; UBC’s Melissa McHale earns a Wall Fellowship for climate resilience research; and Mississippi State University names its first endowed professor in innovative wood design.

In Business news: US railroads pursue mega-mergers while CPKC and BNSF reject consolidation; Arkansas’s Two Rivers Lumber gets a federal grant; South Carolina’s timber sector faces uncertainty; lumber futures approach bear market territory; and wood-framed homes market share rose in 2024. In Health & Safety news: Canadian wildfires erase years of air quality progress; mechanization reshapes logger health risks in the US Northeast; New Zealand releases new guidelines for forest safety; and the latest news from the BC Forest Safety Council.

Finally, 350 endangered Mountain Yellow-legged Frogs leap back into California’s wild. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Washington State announced it will conserve 77,000 acres of “legacy forests”— to the chagrin of industry and environmentalists. In other Forestry news: BC Forest Minister Ravi Parmar tours Port Alberni sites; researchers track bat populations in BC cutblocks; North Cowichan council re-prioritizes harvesting in its community forest; and New Brunswick eases Crown Land restrictions. Meanwhile: record heat renews fire risk on Vancouver Island; US groups clash over spotted owl protections; and bull trout streams face logging lawsuits in Montana.

In Business news: Kimberly-Clark shifts four production lines offshore; and Trex reports Q2 sales increase; lumber futures slide after tariff-driven rally; and concerns rise over US lumber demand. Meanwhile: Novo Textile to expand its uses of BC wood pulp fibres; Arkansas’s Timber University is impacting architecture; BC introduces a new method for forest carbon accounting; EU wildfire emissions hit record levels; and wildfires updates from Nova Scotia, Oregon and California.

Finally, Jeff Keller is named Western Wood Products Association President.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Prime Minister Carney announced the removal of all tariffs on US goods covered by the Canada-US-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). In related news: BC is surprised by Carney’s move; the US paper industry opposes tariffs on Brazil pulp; Canfor’s Darlington, South Carolina sawmill is now closed; and a Quesnel lumber yard fire is under control. Meanwhile: CPKC says it’s not interested in more railway consolidation; Michigan’s sawmill industry is shrinking; and the slow death of a New Zealand timber town.

In Forestry news: ENGO’s block logging in BC’s Walbran Valley; BC’s heat wave shatters records; New Brunswick’s centuries-old fires come with a message; how the BC Institute of Technology can advance your lumber career; and Oregon struggles to find enough forestry workers. Meanwhile: coal-to-wood pellet conversions can help meet US energy demands; and the Wood Pellet Association of Canada’s 2025 conference and tour.

Finally, and sadly, BC forest logging and firefighting trail blazer Ralph Torney died at 82.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Trump signals furniture tariffs are coming in 50 days—referring to US Section 232 investigation on timber, lumber and wood products. In related news; BC’s forest industry fears additional forest product tariffs; and an economist says lumber tariffs undermine Canada’s capacity to invest in forest management. In other Business news: SFPA welcomes EU recognition that US poses negligible risk under EU’s Deforestation Regulation; Interfor defers its plan to spray glyphosate in Ontario; a BC MLA speaks to inaction on forestry; the labour dispute at closed Galloway, BC mill continues; Maine falls behind on the CLT front; and the US Fed signals rates cuts are coming.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: UBC’s Lori Daniels says Port Alberni fire is a harbinger of things to come on the BC coast; wildfires prompt evacuations north of Hope, BC; in Annapolis County, Nova Scotia; and central Oregon and California. Meanwhile: BC hunting lodge loses logging appeal; and Woodlots BC announced its 2025 Conference & AGM dates.

Finally, Wisconsin researchers listen to forests to learn about protecting them.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

International Paper announced that it will permanently close its containerboard and packaging facilities in Savannah and its lumber and containerboard operations in Riceboro. In other Business news: the US and EU unveiled details of their trade deal; the US Trade Commission said Chinese cabinet duties will remain in place; a US trade court dismissed JD Irving’s lumber appeal; BC First Nations explore free trade with US Nations; Ontario invests in worker training; the Canadian Federation of Independent Business says 1 in 5 companies won’t survive 6 months due to tariffs; and New Zealand and Nordic timber companies face troubled times.

In other news: the USDA invests in private forests in the US south; Missoula experts push back on USDA’s consolidation plan; BC’s caribou populations are predicted to fall due to climate change; UBC’s Gary Bull opines on forest management and biodiversity; and two letters on the future of North Cowichan’s Municipal Forest Reserve. Meanwhile, positive mass timber news from the Softwood Lumber Board, and a real estate development company (fire test).

Finally, WorkSafeBC is looking at new regulation requirements for combustible dust. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Domtar announced it will indefinitely idle its Grenada, Mississippi paper mill. In related news: International Paper sells its specialty pulp business; Lowes acquires Foundation Building Materials; Steelworker’s Brian Butler takes issue with Dallas Smith on Vancouver Island strike; and odor mitigation is underway at Domtar’s Kingsport mill. Meanwhile: lumber prices are tumbling; the largest freestanding mass-timber structure in the world nears completion; and the Paper and Packaging industry is ending its marketing check-off program. 

In Wildfire news: Canada’s Fire Chiefs call for a national fire-coordinating entity; BC insurers say rising risk is driving up premiums; BC coastal fires enter new era due to drought; BC forestry workers bear fire’s health and economic burden; and the high cost of Quebec’s record breaking 2023 fire season. South of the 49th: US Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz says US forests need less wildfire and more logging; Oregon ranchers are forced to delay wildfire projects; and internationally—Brazil suspends key rainforest protection measure. Meanwhile: the Canadian Wood Pellet Association highlight Asia’s energy transition; researchers probe black spruce growth; and the Canadian Institute of Forestry consolidates Free to Grow measures.

Finally, a new study shows how saving tigers also slashes carbon emissions.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Quebec renewed its promise to modify the forestry bill that provoked confrontations between Indigenous protesters and forestry workers. In other Business news: Northern Pulp’s proposed $104M sale raises concerns about cleanup and pensions; Canfor is fined after injury at its Northwood pulp mill; Domtar breaks ground on its Rothschild Dam modernization; and firefighters douse fire at Montana’s F.H. Stoltze mill. Meanwhile: custom home building gains share despite weak starts; and higher softwood prices may boost hardwood pallets.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC Minister Ravi Parmar signals a crackdown on unused fibre licences; Canada is warned about downsides to prescribed burning; the BC Is Burning documentary screens in Williams Lake and Nakusp; Manitoba experts call for stronger wildfire mitigation; a US study says industry forests are more prone to megafires; researchers highlight wildfire-char’s role in methane suppression; a poplar trait could advance biofuels; and new warnings about the health risks of wildfire smoke.

Finally, APP moves closer to regaining its FSC credentials despite pending review.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Veteran industry leader Rick Doman has been appointed chair of BC’s Forestry Innovation Investment board. In other Business news: BC’s T-MAR Industries unveils the world’s first hybrid-electric logging yarder; US housing starts climb to 5-month high; and builder confidence remains stalled at low levels. Meanwhile: George Brcko departs Wells Gray Community Forest as Casey Macaulay steps in; BC Wood highlights the upcoming Global Buyers Mission, and the Southern Forest Products Association celebrates its largest EXPO since 2000.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada invests $.5M in firefighter training; forecasters say fire activity will extend into the fall; Indigenous leaders stress disproportionate impacts on their communities; and wildfire updates from Vancouver Island, Nova Scotia/New Brunswick, and Spain/Portugal. Meanwhile: BC’s Forest Practices Board announces audit of licence in spotted owl habitat; debate continues on the role of active management in the US West; CAL FIRE commits $5M for workforce training, and Oregon’s timber counties face a funding cliff.

Finally, Forestnet’s Anthony Robinson launches a new podcast series.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

According to the NY Times, the US Forest Service continues to send crews into toxic smoke without respirators, leaving firefighters sickened. In related news: Canada’s wildfires are shifting east to the Prairies and Atlantic; scientists say climate predictions linking warming to more intense fires are proving true; debate arises over whether governments or individuals bear responsibility for fire prevention; and wildfire updates from Vancouver Island; Nova Scotia; Newfoundland; Arizona; and Spain.

In other news: West Fraser’s proposed cut increase in Alberta faces pushback; Dallas Smith weighs in on LKSM Forestry strike on Vancouver Island; Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest is ramping up logging; controversial timber sales begin in Indiana’s Hoosier National Forest; and Montana signs a historic forest restoration agreement. Meanwhile: Brazilian wood exports face collapse under US tariffs; Canadian housing starts rise 4% in July; lumber futures continue to drop; US consumer sentiment dropped on inflation fears; and US building material prices continue to climb.

Finally, from Tongass spruce to Steinway pianos — why the music may soon stop.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Wildfires dominate today’s news (again) — from rain-relief and firefighter-progress in British Columbia and California; to evacuations and destruction in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Southern Europe. In other headlines: single-family housing starts slump; lumber duties ratchet up pricing pressure; and BC Wood features an impressive lineup of speakers for the Global Buyers Mission.

We’re back to our regular news coverage on Monday — but please keep visiting our website for your daily in-depth coverage. It’s the best way to see all the stories and give our sponsors the visibility they deserve.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Wildfires dominate today’s headlines — from the fast-growing blaze near Port Alberni to Europe’s heatwave-fuelled infernos — while rain relief is forecast for BC and Atlantic Canada. On the trade front, Trump’s lumber tariffs spur fresh debate, with the US Coalition claiming homebuilders are ‘peddling unfounded scare tactics’, and BC mills warning of closures.

For more coverage on these stories, and the Global Buyers Mission’s tariff panel, please go directly to our website. As noted, the Tree Frog News is taking a short break this week and our coverage may be “lighter” — without the detailed Takeaway. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Trump’s trade wars have become a defining characteristic of US economic policy—shaping both the pulp & paper and solid wood industries. For more coverage on these stories, the most recent wildfire news, and Premier Eby’s GBM plans, please go directly to our website. Bookmark it and check in anytime. 

Finally, a reminder that The Tree Frog News is taking a short summer break this week. While we’ll still bring you forestry news each morning, our coverage may be “lighter” — without the detailed Takeaway. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US Lumber Coalition says financial support pledged by Canada risks deepening the long-running trade dispute. The Quebec Forest Industry Council disagrees, saying that “even the Department of Commerce has long since ceased to consider loan guarantees as subsidies,” and Canada’s aid package also aims to boost domestic demand, thus reducing exports to the US. For more coverage on this story and others, please go directly to at website at this link: treefrogcreative.ca/news/. Bookmark it and check in anytime. 

Finally, a reminder that The Tree Frog News is taking a short summer break this week. While we’ll still bring you forestry news each morning, our coverage may be “lighter” — without the detailed Takeaway. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

US doubles countervailing duties on Canadian softwood lumber, bringing total duties to more than 35%. In response, BC and Ontario groups condemn the hike, the US Lumber Coalition says Canada’s support for lumber ‘knows no bounds’; and US Homebuilders fear duties could go much higher. Lots more news on our website—noteworthy headlines include:

• Canada’s 2025 wildfire season now second-worst on record
• Dry conditions taking a toll across New Brunswick
• Record temps, fires and floods roil weather across the USA
• Forest Service Faces Identity Crisis in USDA Overhaul Plan

Finally, a reminder that The Tree Frog News is taking a short summer break this week. While we’ll still bring you forestry news each day, our coverage may be “lighter” — without the detailed Takeaway. 

Don’t forget — our news stories are always available daily at this link: treefrogcreative.ca/news/. Bookmark it and check in anytime. We’ll be back to full strength next week. Thanks for reading, and we appreciate your support!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Western Forest Products, Interfor Corporation and Acadian Timber reported their Q2, 2025 financial results. In related news: US multifamily developer confidence ticks up; a fire is extinguished at Roseburg’s Medford, Oregon mill; and Kalesnikoff is recognized for role in Canada’s housing strategy. In Wood Product news: Santa Monica explores transitioning to wood construction; Seattle debates adding wood-floors to an existing structure; and Toronto’s George Town University and New York City leverage their mass timber accomplishments.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Manitoba’s premier calls out US complaints over wildfire smoke; as fires spread—Canada brings in the military; New Brunswick restricts forestry operations due to the Miramichi fire; a US agency investigates Nebraska’s wood pellet plant explosion; and Washington state communities bemoan lost federal logging revenue. Meanwhile: the latest newsletter from the Alberta Forest Products Association.

Finally, how much wood could a museum collect—more than a woodchuck could!

The Tree Frog News is taking a short summer break next week. While we’ll still bring you forestry news each day but our coverage will be “lighter” — without the detailed Takeaway. We’ll be back to full strength the following week. Thanks for reading, and we appreciate your support!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

More Republican lawmakers are demanding action from Canada as wildfire smoke continues to drift south. In related news: a Toronto columnist calls on Ottawa to ramp up its response; smoke lingers over Quebec despite a tame fire season; BC is faring well after 70,000 lightning strikes; Washington braces for an inevitable megafire; and wildfires force evacuations in Manitoba, Newfoundland, and France. In Forestry news: SFI backs American Forest Congress resolutions; Alaska operators decry lack of timber sales; and a Yale study finds trees host trillions of microbes.

In Business news: a fire damages Kalesnikoff Lumber’s Castlegar, BC mill; Weyerhaeuser celebrates 125 years in Mississippi; Riverside Forest Products plans a new sawmill in Forks, Washington; Domtar faces odour complaints in Tennessee; Cascades posts a Q2 loss, while Suzano reports gains; and concerns mount over housing supply in Canada and the US. Meanwhile: more commentary on Carney’s forestry aid package by journalist Rob Shaw, BC Forest Minister Ravi Parmar; Steelworkers’ Nicolas Lapierre; Carlton University’s Fen Osler Hampson; and forest industry experts Domenico Iannidinardo and David Elstone.

Finally, BC Wildfire Service warns of sharing AI-generated images of fires.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Prime Minister Carney announced support measures for Canada’s lumber industry, and federal investment in forestry innovation and housing—as the US ratchets up duties on softwood lumber. Welcoming the support were FPAC’s Derek Nighbor, CWC’s Rick Jeffrey, COFI’s Kim Haakstad, Steelworkers’ Jeff Bromley; Alberta’s Jason Krips, and BC’s Kurt Niquidet. Select interviews/news commentary includes:  

• Castanet: Nick Arkle and Doug Tracey of the Gorman Group
• CBC News: Brian Menzies of the Independent Wood Processors Association
• Prince George Citizen: John Brink of Brink Forest Products

In related news: Carney hints at dropping some Canadian tariffs; US ambassador to Canada says trade talks will take a while; US homebuilders warn of higher costs; and Canada’s trade deficit widens as exports to the US decline. Meanwhile: Boise Cascade reports Q2 income of $64 million. In Forestry/Wildfire news: Minnesota is cleared by federal logging audit; researchers test climate adaptation strategies in Michigan; SFI launches forest literacy programs across North America; wildfires force Newfoundland towns to evacuate; fires spread across BC’s West Kootenay and Vancouver Island; California’s Gifford Fire tops 83,000 acres; and Arizona’s fire season drags.

Finally, engineers trim time and risk with prefabricated mass timber decking in Quebec.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Toronto ranks among the worst for air quality as wildfire smoke blankets Eastern Canada and the US Midwest. In related news: a report on the climate-fire feedback loop; a call for a global response; and wildfire updates from Vancouver Island, the Yukon, and Newfoundland. In Forestry news: FSC Canada launches consultations on intact forests; BC’s Community Forests defend their model; the US may limit public input on federal land use; and a a call for more community forests in Scotland.

In Business news: The US Forest Service is investing in wood innovation; US Senators introduce a Forest Bioeconomy Act; the Trump Administration posts guidance on its tariff rollout; a BC Minister urges Ottawa to negotiate hard; Quebec’s Scierie St-Michel lumber mill suspends operations; Maine’s forest sector feels the tariff pain; Brazil wood exporters rush to beat the US deadline; and lumber futures hit a 3-year high. Meanwhile: a fire at Domtar’s Plymouth facility is extinguished; and Chartwell Resource Group and DWB Consulting are merging.

Finally, see inside the ruins of Oregon’s timber past at Vernonia’s ghost mill.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News

Today (Monaday) is a public holiday in Canada. The Tree Frog News team will be baking on Tuesday with your full dose of forestry news and insight.

Kelly, Sandy, Heidi and Suzi

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President Trump escalated his trade war with Canada, upping tariffs on imports not covered by the USMCA free trade agreement. In related news: Prime Minister Carney expressed disappointment, US markets tumbled; Canadian premiers want lumber on the table; Russ Taylor and David Elstone set the record straight (again); Brian Menzies says tariffs are a ‘lose-lose’ game; and a US appeals court questions Trump’s legal basis. Meanwhile: RYAM explores aviation fuels; and Canfor, Mercer and International Paper report their Q2 earnings.

In Forestry news: Alberta’s Jason Krips says we need to rethink forest management in our national parks; Western Forest Products and ‘Namgis First Nation have a forest landscape plan; and the Wood Pellet Association of Canada has a new Associate Executive Director. South of the 49th, the USDA invests $106M in working forests; Alaska timber companies are hit by China’s log import ban; ENGOs sue to stop logging in Montana; and Portland’s Forest Museum gets a tourism boost. In Safety news: the Nebraska wood pellet plant fire was a dust explosion.

Finally, WFCA’s John Betts sees a cascading concatenation of consequences creating a congeries of collapsed trees. …Ok.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The United States (@4.5%) and Canada (@2.75%) hold their benchmark interest rates steady. On the Canada-US trade front: Carney says Aug 1 deadline may not be met; Premier Eby wants to keep lumber on the table; and Ontario’s Kevin Holland and Guy Bourgouin bemoan the US antidumping rate hike. Meanwhile, Vaughn Palmer says BC NDP brush off industry solutions; Campbell River’s Mayor calls for permit action; BPWood expands its supplier network; MNP helps with BC’s Motor Fuel Tax; Boise Cascade faces strike in Billings, Montana; Clearwater Paper and Smurfit WestRock report Q2 earnings; and Georgia-Pacific’s CEO is retiring.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada’s Annual Report on the State of its Forests begets ENGO pushback; logging in California said to benefit water and species; Oregon’s wildfire bill cut landowner costs; Washington ENGO’s say collaboration gives way to timber interests; and wildfires, smoke and evacuations dominate the Pacific Northwest. Meanwhile, and tragically, the Nebraska wood pellet explosion resulted in 3 deaths.

Finally, a UK study says global wood harvest is sufficient for climate-friendly timber cities.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US Lumber Coalition is ‘astounded’ by Canada’s response to duty hike, says statements are biased, demonstrate misunderstanding of US trade laws. In related news: the new duties are officially published; BC faces cascading risks, as small sawmills brace for bigger hit; and an analyst comments on why the US still needs Canadian imports. Meanwhile: Railroaders Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are merging; Cascades invests in its Quebec tissue plant; an explosion at a Nebraska wood pellet plant; and Clemson University has a new director of Wood Utilization & Design.

In Forestry/Climate news: the US plans to revoke underpinning claim that GHGs pose a threat to public health; the US timber industry and forest carbon credits can coexist; a study says Ontario’s forest management is falling short; bobcats make a comeback in Ohio; and the EU deforestation law may boost Russian timber. Meanwhile: Arizona, Oregon and BC wildfires beget alerts; while Whistler’s fire danger is forecast to hit extreme.

Finally, a new BC Wildfire Service video on factors that influence fire behaviour.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Former prime minister Stephen Harper says Canada needs to diversify trade, as backlash to the US decision to hike duties on Canadian softwood continues:

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US Department of Commerce decision to raise duties on Canadian Softwood lumber is widely condemned:

• BC Minister Ravi Parmar: Duties will hurt both sides of the border
• Gov’t of Ontario: Duties put our shared competitiveness at risk
• Council of Forest Industries: Calls for a resolution to the softwood dispute
• The BC Lumber Trade Council: Disappointed in ongoing US protectionism
• BC Independent Wood Manufacturers: Retroactivity of duties will force small producers to close

Meanwhile: the US lumber Coalition applauds the duty announcement; the Wall Street Journal points to Trump’s timber revival goal; while Russ Taylor and David Elstone say Canadian lumber is not a threat to the US lumber sector’s businesses’ success. In other Business news: Kruger is negotiating support for its Corner Brook revitalization plan; and the US and EU strike a new trade deal imposing a 15% tariff on most European goods.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Unifor calls for a coordinated strategy to support Canada’s forest sector; MLA Ward Stammer questions BC’s harvest targets; and an interview with UBC wildfire expert Lori Daniels. Meanwhile: wildfire goats take to the hills in Reno, drones drop fire-starting ping pong balls in California, Washington’s funding cut stokes wildfire concern; and fires continue to rage in Greece and Turkey.

Finally: Doug “The Duke” Dyson—is remembered as a larger-than-life BC logger.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

As deadly wildfires claim lives in Turkey and force emergency rescues in Greece, experts call for greater forest management to reduce fire risks in BC and California. In related news: Newfoundland’s wildfire threat eases; wildfires are hampering forest carbon sequestration; a new US documentary and BC ENGO report call for changes to Canada’s forestry practices; a US bill proposes new forestry career training; and a UN court ruling on climate change opens the door to legal action.

In Business new: West Fraser reports Q2, 2025 loss amid slowing demand; UPM sees Q2 earnings fall; DR Horton downplays the impact of rising duties; and lumber prices remain flat, while lumber futures rise. Meanwhile: the US Lumber Coalition pans Canada for use of ‘scare tactics’; and a trade panel remands elements of the US Commerce Department’s methodology.

Finally, mass timber’s antimicrobial potential; and Woodrise 2025 opens registration in Vancouver.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Canfor is expanding its lumber footprint in Sweden, via its subsidiary, Vida AB. In other Business news: First Nations in Quebec walk away from forestry bill talks; Washington’s dormant Cosmopolis pulp mill is fined for leaks; Texas timber markets remain steady; the Canadian Chamber of Commerce says Trump’s tariffs will add $14,000 to the cost of a US home; and Stora Enso beats Q2, 2025 earnings forecasts.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC transfers 700 hectares to the Snuneymuxw First Nation; a BC wildfire contractor is granted an appeal extension on a wildfire penalty; and B.A. Blackwell renews its Stanley Park tree-removal contract. South of the 49th: the US administration fast-tracks the repeal of roadless-area logging bans; a Montana logging project proceeds despite environmental concerns; Wisconsin’s governor wants to reverse forestry-related staff cuts; and lightning is identified as a major driver of tree mortality. Meanwhile: two wildfires are out of control on Vancouver Island; and Forestry England’s approach to forest resilience.

Finally, a look at megafires as an Oregon wildfire approaches the 100,000-acre mark.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Canada–US trade tensions dominate talks as Prime Minister Carney briefs Canada’s premiers, and meets with four US senators. In other Business news: Domtar’s Skookumchuck mill faces effluent penalties; Maine’s Hammond Lumber buys its competitor; CWC applauds Nova Scotia’s wood use initiative; and Wales launches its first timber strategy. Meanwhile: a Fraser Institute report on Canada’s housing crisis; the US economy signals recession risk; WoodWorks BC and FSC Canada are hiring; and kind remembrances for longtime employees at Gorman Bros (Ray Van Ingen) and SFPA (Lionel Landry).

In Forestry/Climate news: Ottawa pledges $125 million to regrow Alberta forests; an interview with Kim Haakstad and Jess Ketchum on BC forestry; the US plan to shoot barred owls could be in jeopardy; red tree vole protections are sought in Oregon; a NY Times report says climate change makes fires worse; the US Forest Service faces a firefighter shortage; Trump’s new law is called bad for US emissions; and two stories on wildfire risk-reduction and US timber harvests. Meanwhile, wildfire conditions improve in northern BC; and a fire evacuation alert in Slave Lake, Alberta.

Finally, BC Wood will celebrate 22 years of excellence at the 2025 Global Buyers Mission.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor