Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

Domtar Wood Products announced it is curtailing lumber production by 100 million bf in 2025. In related news: Domtar’s Crofton pulp mill closure underscores the urgency of BC’s forest crisis; Darron Kloster (Times Colonist) says industry blames province for mill closure; Penny Daflow (CTV) says Crofton had been importing US pulp to reduce costs; Rob Shaw (CHEK) says Eby rules out old growth logging to extend life of mill; and Kruger says pulp business in still good in Kamloops.

In other news: despite warnings, Trump dangles CUSMA trade deal withdrawal; US hardwood mills warn of closures; Roseburg closes Weed, California veneer plant; and RoyOMartin announces CEO change. Meanwhile: Canfor is acquiring 100% of Canfor Pulp’s shares; Vancouver Island forestry strike enters 6th month; and Ontario launches advance wood construction working group.

Finally, wooden skyscrapers and research advancements in wood fibre fabrics.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Domtar announced the permanent closure of its pulp mill in Crofton, BC, impacting 350 workers. Comments on the announcement include:

• Forest Minister Ravi Parmar: We owe it to the workers to leave no stone unturned to paying good paying forestry jobs
• COFI President Kim Haakstad: BC must act with urgency to stabilize wood supply
• North Cowichan Mayor Rob Douglas: This is devastating news for the workers and community

In other Business news: Ottawa declines industry request for lumber duty payouts; US WoodWorks opens call for nominations for Wood in Architecture Awards; and WoodWorks BC appoints Annabelle Hamilton as new executive director.

In Forestry/Climate news: David Elstone and Jim Girvan push back on Business in Vancouver article on BC’s allowable cut determinations; a BC resource sector coalition urges governments to pause DRIPA; and the UK’s reliance on biomass energy generation reaches new heights.

Finally, Walbran logging protesters employ unsafe behaviours with substantial safety risks.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Metsä Fibre looks to curtail four sawmills for up to 90 days—affecting 350 workers. In related news: the fed’s tariff initiatives may help Canadian forestry stocks; Canada’s lawmakers get a forestry update; a fire damages Tolko’s Williams Lake mill; Sweden’s forest industry reports sharp decline; and construction prices rise despite lumber woes. 

In Forestry/Climate news: West Fraser faces a logging blockade in Alberta; and the Washington Forest Protection Association is suing over the state’s new stream buffer rule. Meanwhile: UBC names tree scientist Shawn Mansfield Distinguished Scholar; Western Forestry Contractors announce their 2026 AGM speakers; the Wood Pellet Association of Canada names Michael Fantillo a Safety Hero; and the latest news from FSC Canada and the Canada Wood Group.

Finally, a Chicago County tackles invasive species with grazing goats rather than herbicides.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Ahead of public hearings, US industry groups urge renewal of Canada-US-Mexico trade agreement. In other Business news: New Brunswick woodlot owner says the tariff situation is not sustainable; BC looks for new markets in the Far East; and no injuries reported at BiOrigin paper mill fire in Ontario. Meanwhile: Roy O. Martin III is recognized by Louisiana Tech; New Zealand welcomes the world’s first mass timber aircraft maintenance hangar; and Burnaby, BC, employs mass timber to add warmth to new ice arena.

In Forestry/Climate news: no roadmap emerged to end deforestation, but COP30 still delivered for forests; ENGO questions AAC determinations in BC; Montana thins to create grizzly bear habitat; ENGOs sue the US Forest Service over Nolichucky River logging; Colorado’s burned forests hold less snowpack; and Metsä Group sets up its own PEFC certification group. Meanwhile: the Forest History Association of BC’s AGM is tonight.

Finally, the BC Marmot Recovery Foundation is making progress, and it has the video to prove it. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Conifex Timber announced it will temporarily curtail operations at its Mackenzie, BC sawmill. In related news: the United Steelworkers and Unifor welcomed Prime Minister Carney’s forest sector aid; New Brunswick and British Columbia leaders express worry over looming closures; and Nova Scotia’s Northern Pulp bid is defended as supporting forestry. Meanwhile: mass timber makes news in Castlegar and Penticton, BC; Japan’s housing starts turn positive, and Russia’s forestry is contracting.

In Forestry/Climate news: researchers says Africa’s forests have turned from a carbon sink to a carbon source; more arrests are made at BC’s Walbran valley protest; Arizona loggers want to keep thinning projects funded; Jason Fisher’s latest update on the Forest Enhancement Society of BC; the Wood Pellet Association of Canada’s Arctic Bioenergy Summit; and Tom Radovich is appointed Minnesota Forest Industries’ new CEO. 

Finally, how drones are making steep-slope layout and post-fire assessments safer in BC.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Prime Minister Carney announced new tariff support for Canada’s lumber and steel industries. In related news: Carney pins hopes on domestic consumption; FPAC emphasizes need for a softwood lumber agreement; COFI says BC also needs to take action on competitiveness; BC’s Forest Minister says its a good start; a New Brunswick insider says it won’t make a difference; and the US Lumber Coalition says its an abuse of the US market. In other Business news: Williams Lake mayor is blindsided by Drax’s announcement of pellet plant closure; and more on New Brunswick’s fallout from Maine mill wood suspension.

In Forestry/Climate news: the European Parliament approved a one-year extension to its deforestation law; the European Union adopted a new Bioeconomy strategy; Domtar plans to continue reporting GHGs despite EPA’s reporting change; and Drax responds to ENGO claims of tree-burning. Meanwhile: protesters returned to BC’s Walbran valley after arrests; and North Cowichan reaffirmed its forestry plan commitments.

Finally: Ken Kalesnikoff announced his company’s transition to fourth generation family leadership.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

RCMP enforced an injunction on logging protests in the Walbran Valley near Port Renfrew, BC. In related news: ENGO’s sue the US Forest Service over logging in Pisgah National Forest; FSC to modify its rule on logging in Intact Forest Landscapes; a new report says big banks are still investing in tropical deforestation; and Brazil’s COP30 star faces environmental challenges of her own. Meanwhile: BC is hosting a national wildfire symposium; and Oregon senators seek wildfire disaster relief.

In Business news: Canada will increase loan support for struggling lumber companies; Maple Transport is opening a logistics hub in Kincheloe, Michigan; and US Forest Owner’s David Tenny opines on America’s sawdust problem. Meanwhile: US consumer confidence fell sharply; US building material prices rose; bamboo scaffolding contributed to high-rise fires in Hong Kong; and a UBC professor pokes holes in mass timber’s climate credentials.

Finally, an 1887 California redwood crusader’s untimely death at the hands of a dentist.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

COP30’s focus on a fossil fuel phase-out may have doomed progress on deforestation roadmap. In related news: Canada stays the course with net zero future; and ENGOs say a wide tapestry of climate actions still remain. In Forestry news: the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation bans herbicide use in Northern BC; the US Forest Service honours its Native American heritage; and BC responds to reports of chronic wasting disease in deer. 

In Business news: two US senators introduce The Sawmill Act to help local mills grow; Ottawa’s pending softwood package linked to the BC-Alberta pipeline fight; Northern Ontario’s forest industry seeks market diversification; and Fannie Mae anticipates some improvement in US housing starts in 2026. Meanwhile: Monadnock Paper Mills appoints Andrew Manns as CEO.

Finally, RONA joins DoorDash to offer on-demand delivery for home improvement projects.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

COP30 ends with a compromise deal, but fails to create roadmaps to phase out fossil fuels and deforestation. In other Forestry/Climate news: Canada winds down its 2-B planting program; why zombie fires are bad for boreal forests; and how US longleaf pine forests have changed over time. Meanwhile: BC reduces TFL 49’s allowable cut 26%; Prince Edward Island’s new waste-powered energy facility; and a new book on how wood-frame buildings shaped five US cities.

In Business news: Trump holds off on additional 10% tariff on Canada; US senators say relations with Canada are suffering; US industries weigh in on the pending CUSMA review; Pierre Poilievre says tariffs would be different if he was PM; why a lack of timber is causing BC mills to close; rebalancing Europe’s wood resources; and US consumer sentiment remains on edge.

Finally, UBC’s Lori Daniels is honoured with an award; and sadly, BC Distinguished Forester Bruce Devitt dies at 92.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Nova Scotia enters bidding for Northern Pulp assets, challenging Macer’s stalking horse bid. In related news: Nova Scotia invests $1.8 million in support of forestry innovation; Maine’s senators want tariff relief for forest products; the mayor of Williams Lake, BC says tariffs are killing my town; and the shuttered Acorn sawmill in Delta, BC is consumed by fire. Meanwhile: the Softwood Lumber Board’s solution to industry’s demand problem; Michigan’s support for mass timber use; and the UK’s 2025 Wood Award winners. 

In Forestry/Climate news: a UN report says forests drive agricultural success; NRCan helps forest pest managers understand climate change impacts; Canada launches a new Climate Competitive Strategy, roles back it anti-greenwashing rules; Ontario’s opposition tables bill to address urban wildfire risks; Canada’s wood pellet industry on turning wildfire recovery into renewable energy; and Woodlots BC updates its tool kit.

Finally, considering the TLA Convention and Trade Show as an investment opportunity. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

BC’s trade mission to Japan and South Korea is expected to boost demand for BC lumber. In related news: the US Lumber Coalition pans Massachusetts Governor Healey’s call to lift Canadian tariffs; while Dovetail Partners says tariffs are short-sighted and bad for trade. In Company news: Arbec suspends OSB operations at Quebec mill; the USDA funds sawmill expansion at Wisconsin’s Timber Professionals; PotlatchDeltic loses its FSC certification in Minnesota; Domtar reports waste leak at Kingsport mill; and ThirdGen Timber acquires majority share of BC’s True North Log & Timber. 

In Forestry/Climate news: the US plans to roll back protections for endangered species; the US EPA unveils changes to the Clean Water Act; and the Council of European Union pushes for delay of EU deforestation regulation. Meanwhile: Forest minister Parmar defends BC’s harvesting practices; David Suzuki headlines BC-wide forestry protests; and newsletter updates from BC Wood and WorkSafeBC.

Finally, the use of this rare wood pits violinists against environmentalists in Brazil. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US Lumber Coalition and American Loggers Council pan Canadian subsidies, call on Trump to increase tariff measures. In related news: Prime Minister Carney’s budget includes carbon targets; Maine’s Woodland Pulp curtails operations, stops using New Brunswick softwoods; West Fraser workers are heartbroken over BC mill closure; Hampton Lumber breaks ground on its South Carolina mill; and EU and UK timber industry groups unite over illegal imports from Russia.

In Forestry/Climate news: a leaked report claims BC’s timber harvest is overstated; BC forestry protests urge reduced AACs, forestry reforms; Brazil pushes for climate progress at COP30; CO280 completes carbon capture pilot as US pulp mill; California researchers say prescribed burning helps store forest carbon; and Virginia Tech to advance remote sensing technologies.

Finally, the Softwood Lumber Board expands its mass timber Accelerator Cities Program.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

International Paper is closing two packaging plants (in California and Kentucky) amid weak demand. In related news: Ontario’s Kap Paper seeks to reinvent itself; BMI ends plans to re-open the long-shuttered Prince Alberta pulp mill; BC hopes to attract private sector investment; and a new federal softwood support package is in the works. Meanwhile: Canada’s inflation rates eases as housing starts fall; and mass timber is featured in Toronto and Delta, Alabama.

In Forestry news: Parks Canada is planting endangered whitebark pine in Alberta; a BC First Nation turns forest waste into biochar; an ENGO group kicks off a BC-wide protest; South Carolina conserves 62,000 acres of forest; and firefighters respond to wildfire in Mark Twain National Forest.

Finally, University of BC researchers launch a mushroom-powered, waterless toilet.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Global deforestation slows but forests remain under pressure—FAO report shows. In COP30 news: fossil fuel transition emerges as key fight; the push for carbon pricing; and rewriting the economics of conservation. In Forestry/Wildfire news: Alberta directs West Fraser’s harvest to high-risk areas; Newfoundland builds firebreaks on Avalon Peninsula; Canada’s wood pellet sector’s support for sustainable forestry; and new research on the impact of drift-logs on intertidal ecosystems.

In Business news: Interfor reopens mill with one shift in Grand Forks; Port McNeill’s mayor points to Asia diversification; South Korea signs trade-pact with US; New Zealand targets India for growth; Tennessee hardwood firms seek tariff relief; and Georgia’s industry pins its future on innovation not tariffs. Meanwhile: the BC Forest Practices Board is seeking a new chair; Jeff Ward is elected head of international lumber fraternity; and a new book features the bowels of a pulp mill.

Finally, Western Forest Products, Tolko and Bear Safety Services honoured by BC Forest Safety Council.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

International Paper announced it plans to close five sites in Germany as part of its integration with DS Smith. In related news: Stora Enso considers the future of its European sawmills, plans to spin off its Swedish forest assets; West Fraser answers questions on BC sawmill closure; Corner Brook Pulp and Paper remains shutdown; and Conifex reports Q3 2025 loss of $16.6 million. Meanwhile: Canada works to diversify its lumber markets; and BC Steelworkers want more stability.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada endorsed Brazil’s tropical forest declaration at COP30; Forest Stewardship Council passes motion to control false claims; BC ENGOs protest old-growth logging; and Washington state votes to increase riparian buffer zones. Meanwhile, University of Northern BC’s Oscar Venter is recognized for his conservation research; the University of New Brunswick’s Yukun Lu advances autonomous trucking technology; and the Forest Professionals BC conference looks at the Forest Economy Under Pressure.

Finally, USDA searched for ‘diversity and climate modeling’ to target grants for cancellation.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

European lawmakers backed delay of EU’s anti-deforestation law for a second time—to late 2026. In related news: Canada announced funding for new climate adaptation measures; Built by Nature’s CEO promotes bio-based materials; IBM’s new AI initiative for forestry supply chains; Timbeter’s AI-powered timber measurement tool; and a BC Wood seminar on using AI to improve productivity.

In Business news: Trump’s trade war pushes Canada closer to China; US Building Material Dealers want a new softwood lumber agreement; premier Legault says half of Quebec’s forestry workforce is at risk; and Metsä looks to curtail four sawmills in Finland. Meanwhile, Stoltze Lumber received Montana Governor’s award; Dean Assinewe is appointed President of CIF’s Board of Directors; and perspectives on Canada-US trade by analysts Russ Taylor and Håkan Ekström/Glen O’Kelly. 

Finally, a new study finds dangerous stew of proteins in the blood of wildlands firefighters.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Veteran analyst Russ Taylor weighs in on the Canada–US lumber dispute — separating fact from fiction amid an era of protectionism. In related news: the US Lumber Coalition responded to Tree Frog’s op-ed without addressing the source of past bias; and Canada highlights budget investments in the forest sector. Meanwhile: RBC says PotlatchDeltic’s merger with Rayonier will dilute the benefit of lumber duties; GreenFirst reports Q3 loss of $57 million, and more on West Fraser’s mill closures from Augusta, Georgia.

In Forestry/Climate news: the Fraser Institute says BC should focus on actual environmental problems; the Sierra Club says BC’s feast on big, old trees is approaching its end; the Washington forestland owners’ riparian-buffer battle; Oregon offices say Trump’s policies increase wildfire risk; and a new study says climate change expands wildfire dangers worldwide.

Finally, BC-focused documentaries in the news address wildfires, flooding and old-growth.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Tuesday Note: Don’t forget to commemorate (virtually if need be) Remembrance Day in Canada, Veterans Day in the USA. The Frogs will be back on Wednesday.

Monday’s News: The UN climate talks kicked off today in Brazil, absent the United States. In related news: what does a successful COP30 look like; what’s Canada’s role; the US says the summit is misguided; and Germany supports UN’s tropical forest protection scheme. In Forestry news: Pacific Regeneration Technologies is concerned about the end of Canada’s 2B Tree program; California has a seed collection crisis; new research on how Redwoods fare amid wildfires; the unpredictability of Oregon’s landslides; and why Sweden’s forest policy matters.

In Business/Politics news: Zoltan van Heyningen says US duties exist because of past and ongoing harm; Bob Brash says BC needs to own its role in undermining the forest sector’s prosperity; Vaughn Palmer and Mayor Maureen Pinkney opine on West Fraser’s 100 Mile House mill closure; and CTV interviews Derek Nighbor on the fed’s support for lumber. Meanwhile: JD Irving’s Dixfield, Maine mill was damaged by fire; and Doman and Taiga report Q3, 2025 earnings.

Finally, WorkSafeBC fines the BC government for two wildfire fighting incidents from 2023.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The UN climate talks kicked off today in Brazil, absent the United States. In related news: what does a successful COP30 look like; what’s Canada’s role; the US says the summit is misguided; and Germany supports UN’s tropical forest protection scheme. In Forestry news: Pacific Regeneration Technologies is concerned about the end of Canada’s 2B Tree program; California has a seed collection crisis; new research on how Redwoods fare amid wildfires; the unpredictability of Oregon’s landslides; and why Sweden’s forest policy matters.

In Business/Politics news: Zoltan van Heyningen says US duties exist because of past and ongoing harm; Bob Brash says BC needs to own its role in undermining the forest sector’s prosperity; Vaughn Palmer and Mayor Maureen Pinkney opine on West Fraser’s 100 Mile House mill closure; and CTV interviews Derek Nighbor on the fed’s support for lumber. Meanwhile: JD Irving’s Dixfield, Maine mill was damaged by fire; and Doman and Taiga report Q3, 2025 earnings.

Finally, WorkSafeBC fines the BC government for two wildfire fighting incidents from 2023.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Citing timber supply challenges and soft lumber markets—West Fraser Timber is permanently closing both its 100 Mile House, BC, and Augusta, Georgia, sawmills. In related news: Maine’s Woodland Pulp pauses until January; Interfor (-$216M); Mercer (-81M); and Suzano ($115M) report their Q3 net earnings; Oregon’s Chinook Forest Partners acquires South Coast Lumber; and Appalachian Wood Pellets responds to a fire in West Virginia.

In Wood Product news: Alberta looks to grow the Asian market; BC and Michigan seek to advance mass timber’s prospects; and the UK addresses timber’s fire safety and construction standards. In Forestry/Climate news: Canada’s private land forests demand recognition; Oregon State researchers say wildfire risk is reducing timberland values; the loss of the Roadless Rule could trigger new timber wars; and Brazil’s new forest fund gets a $5B start at COP30. 

Finally, Rigged by design? How method and policy keep US lumber duties high.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Ottawa’s Budget 2025 set aside $1.25 billion to retool Canada’s softwood industry. In related news: the United Steelworkers see progress; Ontario wood manufacturers welcome the support; BC seeks buyers in Asia; and a new report says Trump’s lumber self-sufficiency goal is unrealistic. Meanwhile: Drax retains UK support for wood pellets; CPKC announces new labour agreements, and Canfor (-$172M), Cascades ($29M), Rayonier ($43M), and LP ($9M) report their Q3, 2025 earnings.

In Forestry/Climate news: forest resilience takes centre stage, as the UN’s COP30 climate summit kicks off in Brazil; Asia-Pacific forestry leaders meet on forest health; Google strikes a forest carbon deal in Brazil; and Interpol fights illegal deforestation. Meanwhile: BC’s forest critic speaks out; and the latest from the Forest Genetics Council of BC.

Finally, drink Red Legged Ale and save Oregon’s Northern Red-Legged Frogs.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The Forest Products Association of Canada welcomes softwood package in Budget 2025; trade certainty with US remains top priority. In related news: New Brunswick eyes the federal budget; BC’s finance minister seeks equal treatment; and dropping the 2-billion tree planting program is panned by the Canadian Tree Nursery Association. In other Business news: the US Supreme Court enters the lion’s den on Trump tariffs; Weyerhaeuser secures financing for Arkansas TimberStrand facility; and Western Forest Products (-$61M), Stella-Jones ($88M), PotlatchDeltic ($26M), and BlueLinx ($1.7M) reported their Q3, 2025 earnings.

In Forestry/Climate news: the EU agrees to weaken their climate target in final-hour deal for COP30; Ontario wildfires were well above 10-year average; Mosaic underscores importance of wildfire mitigation; a Montana judge halts logging project due to grizzlies; and a new study says the 2021 heat dome took its toll on Oregon’s forest canopy. 

Finally, ERA’s Kevin Mason says markets struggle as confidence erodes and housing stalls. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The Softwood Summit affirmed the importance of BC’s forest sector; formed working group to address tariffs. Feedback from affected groups include:

• Steelworkers: Forestry workers need action now
• TLA :Timber harvesting contractors must get Fed support
• COFI’s Kim Haakstad: Focus should include BC policy changes
• Resource Works: The future of forestry is still unclear despite promises

In related news: Eby says BC won’t run anti-tariff ads alone; New Brunswick Minister backs cap on softwood to secure deal; Rob Shaw says the summit was just a photo op in disguise; Les Leyne says lumber subsidies make for a vicious circle; and the US Lumber Coalition wants to eliminate third-party reviews.

In other news: the US Supreme Court prepares to weigh tariffs-fight in test of Trump’s power—while the ghost of Ronald Reagan looks on; BC’s private forests don’t require changes; Ontario’s species decline challenge; and climate change falls as top concern in survey. Meanwhile: FSC Canada announces new board members; LP Building Solutions has a new CEO; and Boise Cascade reports Q3 earnings.

Finally, Forsite and BGS acquire Forcorp to expand forestry analytics across Canada.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor 

Kleenex maker Kimberly-Clark announced it will acquire Tylenol maker in $49 billion deal. In other Company news: Kruger’s Corner Brook mill shutdown begins today; and Ontario’s Kap Paper restarts with pivot plan. In other Business news unfolding this week: BC’s forestry summit takes place today as Canadian and US industry reps speak out; FPAC’s Derek Nighbor seeks clear signals in Tuesday’s federal budget; and the US Supreme Court will consider the legality of Trump’s tariffs on Wednesday. 

In Forestry/Climate news: wildfires spark disagreement as US pushes Canada to lean into forest management; how Trump’s costs hinder wildfire prevention; and fire-season wrap-ups from BC and Alberta. Meanwhile: a new film marks anniversary of Haida logging blockade; EU ministers consider GHG brake-clause, as their ambassadors seek delay of anti-deforestation laws; and bamboo tissue may not be as eco-friendly as thought.

Finally, why the continuation of the SLB is vital to the future of the lumber industry.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Canada’s lumber industry is warning of a crisis as BC and Ottawa prepare for softwood summit. In related news: the feds bank on housing-push to help the sector; and Kelowna MP Helena Konanz, Alberta’s Jason Krips and industry analyst Russ Taylor opine on Canada’s dilemma. Meanwhile: Kruger’s Corner Brook mill will pause due to low water levels; Weyerhaeuser reports Q3 net earnings and timberland sales; and the latest from the Softwood Lumber Board; BC’s Value-Added Accelerators; and the Forest Enhancement Society of BC.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: FSC collaborates to support biobased supply chains; the Fix our Forest Act is poised to pass the US Senate; a new forest plan is coming to the Pacific Northwest; the plan to kill barred owls creates odd bedfellows; Washington state has a mountain pine beetle problem; New Brunswick honours its firefighters; Banff takes lessons from Jasper’s 2024 fire; and Northwest Ontario burned eight-times more area this year. 

Finally, a doctor recommended forest remedy that may help protect against dementia.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The Softwood Lumber Board and USDA drive a mass timber revolution in sustainable school design. In related news: Kalesnikoff Mass Timber wins gold for Oceanfront Squamish, BC building; and Lyocell cellulose fibre trumps cotton for sustainability. In Business news: the US Senate votes—symbolically—to nullify tariffs on Canada; more background and fallout from Trump’s decision to halt trade discussions due to the Reagan ad; and Vancouver Island’s economic report is called a warning. Meanwhile: Acadian Timber reports Q3 earnings; Domtar celebrates one-year under united brand; and BCIT launches programs to support workforce development. 

In Forestry news: WWF Canada creates a fund to accelerate nature restoration; a First Nation files lawsuit for land title in western Quebec; Tribal leaders applaud the US Senate’s move on barred owl management; Washington’s Farm Forestry Association rejects new forestry rule; and Arizona says biomass power is needed to support forest thinning efforts.

Finally, the Port of Everett restores and reopens historic Weyerhaeuser Building.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

BC announced it will convene a softwood summit to address lumber tariffs and industry struggles. In other Business news: the log fire at Domtar’s Meadow Lake mill is still smouldering; International Paper Savannah mill closure is having an impact; UPM reported reduced earnings; Canada’s exports dropped 7.5% in Q2; the Bank of Canada cut its interest rate to 2.25%; lumber futures dropped to a 7-week low; and US homebuilders continue to struggle. Meanwhile: TAPPI appoints Lawton Roberts president and CEO. 

In Forestry news: BC First Nation pushes back on North Cowichan’s support for logging; Jim Stirling opines on the gap between Quebec and BC land use planning efforts; a BC community forest takes hold in Quesnel; Indiana employs fire to maintain forest health; and a new report says wildfires are taking an increasing toll on Canadian’s health.

Finally, GHG reduction proponent Bill Gates makes stunning claim about climate change.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Amid allegations of false claims, the Forest Stewardship Council will consider new traceability rules (at its General Assembly 2025 Panama). In related news: IKEA’s head of forestry says forest tensions are a sign of FSC’s strength; and US and European wood groups urge EU deforestation law delay. Meanwhile: BC Truck Loggers say the Forest Advisory Council has identified key issues to address; North Cowichan’s mayor wants action on BC harvest levels; Forests Canada reaches tree planting milestone; Wisconsin’s wood basket decimated by ice storm; and a Washington state forest rule change threatens tax-losses.

In Business news: FPAC’s Derek Nighbor says industry is poised for a transformative comeback; the USDA has a 3-point plan to increase exports; BC opens a new forest trade office in London; Ear Falls, Ontario rallies in support of idled sawmill; Arkansas feels strain from trade disputes too; and what lumber futures say about housing trends.

Finally, a Kelowna developer unveils a plan for a 300-room mass timber hotel.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Canada’s lumber industry is at a tipping point, as Trump calls for more tariffs in response to Ontario’s Reagan TV ad. In related news: industry leaders say the additional tariff is uncalled for; Carney distances himself from provincial ads; Trump declines to meet Carney; West Fraser’s James Gorman says BC’s system needs reform; Greg Stewart explains Sinclar’s production reductions; and trade-expert John Weekes says don’t count on USMCA negotiations resolving the matter. Meanwhile: US inflation ticks up; US cabinet sales decline; and Fannie Mae’s GDP forecast rises.

In Forestry news: BC’s Forest Advisory Council says changes are needed; Quebec’s Safety Board releases report on skidder-operator  death; Nova Scotia debuts the Fairy Creek documentary; and Oregon seeks input on Public Lands Rule. Meanwhile: World Resources Institute says wildfires are burning at twice the rate of 20 years ago; BC Forest Professionals and Nova Scotia Woodlot Owners focus on wildfire prevention; and the US government shutdown is impacting wildfire mitigation in Oregon.

Finally, after 16 years, BC Forest Safety Council CEO Rob Moonen is retiring in March 2026.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Sinclar Group (British Columbia), Interfor and Domtar (Ontario) production reductions trigger a call (COFI) to make the US-Canada lumber dispute a national priority. In related news: a CIBC report says BC and New Brunswick economies are most at risk; Arkansas timber industry is in crisis; Ohio’s hardwood industry seeks tariff relief; Mercer secures support for expansion in Spokane; Mississippi celebrates Southeast Timber’s expansion; and Metsä and  Billerud report Q3 earnings.

In other news: First Nations pan Nova Scotia’s law blocking protests; Oregon looks to forests to tackle climate change; and Drax faces lawsuit over wood dust health problems. Meanwhile: CWC promotes mass timber solutions in healthcare; forester Dan Macmaster receives a UBC Alumni Builder Award; and two plastics industry organizations are merging.

Finally, a 1930 Temple Lumber No. 20 steam locomotive is on the move again.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

West Fraser Timber reported a Q3, 2025 net loss of $240M as duties, tariffs and weak housing demand cut into earnings. In other Business news: Canada’s lumber industry worries it’s being left out of potential US trade deal; Domtar’s Skookumchuck mill is fined for permit violations; New Brunswick Power plans to convert its Belledune station from coal to wood; and researcher Alice Palmer says US duty calculations on Canadian lumber are flawed.

In other news: FPAC’s Derek Nighbor says EU Deforestation Regulation should recognize low-risk countries; AFRC’s Travis Joseph says wildfire is the  greatest threat to Oregon’s big trees; wildfire workers join BC public service job action; BC Wood’s Export Readiness Training Program starts November 13; Michigan launches Mass Timber Catalyst Program; Ireland is encouraged to use timber to meet its housing and climate needs; and Ledcor’s Larry Jones wins award for Safety Leader of the Year.

Finally, new research on how fire-loving fungi help BC’s forests recover under the ash.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act cleared the US Senate Agriculture Committee with support from wildfire and homebuilding groups, but critics warn it could weaken environmental protections. In related news: Parks Canada confirmed the cause of the 2024 Jasper fire; Louisiana Pacific announced a partnership with the BC First Nations Forestry Council; Marks Lumber is adapting to Montana’s mill closures; and Michigan State University promotes its Forestry Innovation Center.

In other news: the Forest Products Association of Canada released a plan to defend forestry jobs in US trade talks; Google expanded its climate change strategy; NASA may turn off a key CO2-tracking satellite; Enviva works to extinguish a wood pellet fire in Mississippi; and Tolko’s former Kelowna mill site plan is reading for viewing. Meanwhile: rising inflation and widening trade deficits complicate Canada’s interest rate decision; and how Covid-19 reshaped US labour and housing demand. 

Finally, Russ Clinton wins BC’s 2025 Minister’s Award for Innovation and Excellence in Woodlot Management.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

A US-Canada trade deal may be ready by month end—without lumber and autos. In related news: Northern Ontario forestry remains in peril despite Kap Paper bailout; Trump’s tariffs put Canadian cabinet-makers and US cabinet-importers in jeopardy; and lawmakers in Georgia and Arkansas are seeking tariff relief. Meanwhile: the National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association honoured Scott Yates with a distinguished service award; and Ontario’s Building Show 2025 explores the future of wood-based construction.

In Forestry news: the European Union plans to shorten by half its deforestation regulation delay; NGOs seek repeal of Protect Ontario By Unleashing Our Economy Act; forest development projects continue despite US government shutdown; and a BC MLA is outraged by cutting permit delays; while ENGOs seek biodiversity legislation.

Finally, winter is coming—does your safety program cover winter driving?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Canada-US lumber trade is at a crossroads—Robert McKellar warns protectionism is not a passing phase; and Andrew Miller declares this is America’s market. In related news: BC Premier Eby rules out retaliatory action; Minister Ravi Parmar says BC’s workers deserve treatment equal to Ontario; Ikea plans to boost its US production; and Interfor’s curtailment hits home in Adams Lake, BC and Ear Falls, Ontario. Meanwhile: Kapuskasing Paper resumes operation with federal and provincial support; 9Wood lays off 9% its workforce in Springfield, Oregon; BMI completes purchase of the Espanola mill; and the US building material dealers elect Frank Addiego as Chair. 

In other news: President Trump and the Softwood Lumber Board celebrate National Forest Products Week; and Domtar’s Kingsport mill is recognized by the National Recycling Coalition. Meanwhile: Michelle Gray highlights the University of New Brunswick’s new approaches in digital forestry and forest resilience; and more on the Wildfire Resilience Consortium at Thompson Rivers University. 

Finally, tomorrow, Dr. Barry Cooke will discuss the history of debate on budworms—a BC Forest History Association online seminar.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Interfor raised its Q4 lumber production curtailment to 26%, split evenly between its US and Canadian operations. In related news: Georgia Pacific is closing its Memphis Cellulose mill; Kimberly Clark is looking to expand in Warren, Michigan; Van Urban Timber is expanding in Squamish, BC; Mercer Celgar Pulp is fined for sulphur emissions; and Mississippi residents sue Drax over wood pellet emissions. Meanwhile: Carney rules out hitting the US with retaliatory tariffs; a Canadian MP asks why lumber jobs are going south; Saskatchewan producers want to diversify; and a Kentucky hardwood mill owner says his future is in doubt.  

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada launches a Clean Energy task force; the BC Conservative leader says the NDP is responsible for forestry’s decline; the US government shutdown is stopping vital wood research; SFPA joins the simplification call for EU Deforestation Regulation; and Survival in a Mill Town—a new book by Oregon’s Von Braschler.

Finally, a Tree Frog special feature on Trump’s second term and political risk in the Canadian forest sector.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

US lumber tariffs have reached unprecedented levels, and Canadian layoffs are looming east to west. In related news: Minister Joly says relief is coming; chaos reigns at New Brunswick-Maine border; and US cabinetmakers look for a silver lining. In other Business news: West Fraser Cochrane’s permit sparks debate; Mississippi allows Drax to boost emissions; Canadian housing starts rebound; and FPAC says we should build more Canadian homes with Canadian wood.

In Forestry/Climate news: the UN says CO2 levels hit record high last year; a youth activist climate lawsuit in Montana is dismissed; electric power could help North Carolina’s paper mills; a Saskatchewan MLA says burnt lands need to be reforested; and Parks Canada is logging near Banff to reduce fire risk. Meanwhile, the US Endowment administers $5M in wood innovation grants; and the 2025 Australian Timber Design Award winners are announced.

Finally, a new report says the Mass Timber Tipping Point is closer than you think.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

BC’s Premier and forest industry leaders demand Ottawa treat lumber tariffs as a national priority. In related news: Gorman’s Nick Arkle is pushing for “equal treatment”; BC Conservatives say “BC should get tougher”; The Conversation argues that tariffs won’t drive much US investment, and Realtor.com and the Wall Street Journal focus on rising lumber and homebuilding costs.

In other news: Canadian Forest Owners support carbon storage research; Ontario launches Boreal Springboard to grow the sector; BC First Nations push to reshape forestry; and the University of Idaho has a new Forest Innovations Institute. Meanwhile: six UBC forestry faculty receive Canada Foundation for Innovation awards; UBC’s Malcolm Knapp Research Forest is recognized by the CIF; registration opens for the TLA’s 81st convention; and the latest market news from Canada Wood.

Finally, how China’s pulp and paper overcapacity is reshaping global competitiveness.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Rayonier and PotlatchDeltic have agreed to merge, leveraging their lumber, timberland and real estate enterprises. In other Business news: Trump’s lumber tariffs take effect today; FPAC says urgent action is required; US homebuilders say the tariffs will hike costs; the US Lumber Coalition says that’s not so; and lumber futures rise. Meanwhile: Washington state invests in timber jobs; US tariffs reshape containerboard trade; Boise Cascade faces headwinds; and Lowes completes acquisition. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canadians debate the need for a national wildfire agency; fire experts speak out at the Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada conference; Manitoba considers a more active role to curb fires; and the US West report less land burned this year. Meanwhile: logging in Oregon’s national forests continues despite government shutdown; a new report says global forests are still in crisis due to farms and fire; and more pushback on the EU Deforestation delay.

Finally, former premier Pat Binns and his wife are PEI’s woodlot owners of the year.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Happy Thanksgiving to our readers in Canada! The Frogs will be back Tuesday.

Canada’s forest sector expressed disappointment that the Carney-Trump talks were silent on lumber tariffs. In related commentary: reciprocal tariffs ‘are not enough’ for some US hardwood producers; there’s no national security basis for Trump’s furniture tariffs; and the Vietnam wood industry is in shock. In other Business news: BC’s expanding strike includes professional engineers and foresters; US remodellers remain optimistic; the UK faces challenges despite record sales; and a new report on construction’s plastic problem.

In Forestry/Climate news: demand for wood fibre has changed in the US; new research on why some carbon projects overestimate their CO2 benefits; and an Arctic Bioenergy Summit and Tour is announced. Meanwhile: CIF’s 2025 National Award recipients; and BC’s latest mass timber project-support recipients.

Finally, The Oak and the Larch: A Forest History of Russia and Its Empires.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Interfor’s lumber mill in Grand Forks, BC to take an extended maintenance shutdown. In related news: MLA Ward Stamer says BC’s industry is in crisis; Trump and Carney avoid collision (save for a nasty comment or two); FPAC’s Derek Nighbor says lumber can’t be left behind; and lumber production continues to outpace demand. Meanwhile: Unifor is reassured on future of Domtar’s Kénogami plant; Sappi and  UPM plan to reduce their paper production in Finland; and the EU imposes duties on Brazil plywood. 

In Forestry/Climate news: Interfor’s news has BC Timber Sales bracing for selling problems; US groups urge Brussels not to cave on deforestation law; and Amazon rainforest hits record CO2 emissions from forest fires.

Finally, Rooted in Strength: Forestry Technician program in Pembroke, Ontario enters 58th year.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor