Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

Today’s Takeaway

Tolko reduces to one shift at its Lakeview mill in Williams Lake

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 5, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway
Region: Canada

Citing economic conditions, Tolko is temporarily reducing operations at its Williams Lake, BC mill. In related news: two Michigan biomass plants may be closing; Drax partners with Molpus Woodlands in US Southeast; WestRock reports Q1 net loss; West Fraser’s Hinton Pulp mill sale is completed; Richard Tremblay will head up Paper Excellence’s pulp and tissue unit; and Roseburg names Cybelle White Chief of Staff. 

In other news: ERA’s Kevin Mason opines on 2024 in the form of new market challenges; a UK study shows the path to net zero with timber; BC’s Northeast drought lingers as wildfires persist; Chile reports 112 deaths as it struggles to contain multiple fires; and Canada Wood’s latest market news and insights.

Finally; a weird ancient tree form before dinosaurs is found in a Canadian quarry.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Early signs point to another bad wildfire season

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 28, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The 2024 wildfire season has started and BC experts warn it’s likely to be another bad one. In related news: NASA quantifies how fire and drought effects the US West; Washington State is set to start prescribed burning; a NCASI webinar on fire ecology and forest resilience in Pacific Northwest; and Europe prepares for a challenging fire season of their own.

In Business news: the Baltimore bridge collapse impacts include lumber and pulpwood; the Financial Times opines on the DS Smith suitors; Canada’s forestry unions’ proposal to save BC’s forest industry; New England calls for more sustainable forestry; Conifex reports Q4, 2023 loss; and Belarus evades EU sanctions on imported timber. 

Finally, the Frogs are off for Easter, back Monday for the start of WildFire Resilience and Awareness Week [a Tree Frog News week-long feature in partnership with the Western Canada SFI Implementation Committee].

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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The Mother Tree idea is everywhere — but is it real?

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 27, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The journal Nature explores the Mother Tree idea as some ecologists say its been oversold. In related news: the US Supreme Court declines a challenge to California-Oregon’s National Monument; ENGOs say US consumption of palm oil is linked to deforestation; an EU group exposé on biomass as a renewable energy; and the EU’s Nature Restoration plan is deadlocked.

In Business news: International Paper creates bidding war over DS Smith; Montana mill closures a symptom of broader challenges; the looming shortage of Canadian wooden utility poles; Quebec supports FPInnovation’s truck platooning effort; US wood pallet industry secures exemption from EU requirement; Canada may precede US on interest rate cuts; and US consumer confidence remains stable in March.

Finally, a conversation with BC Forest Industry Leaders is coming to COFI in April.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Alarming trend of US mill closures comes with consequences

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 26, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The American Loggers Council calls ~50 mill curtailments in 18 months an ‘alarming trend with consequences‘. In related news: Michael Hoyt pans US logging as a means to improve forest resilience; BC considers new conservancies in Clayoquot Sound; Tree of Heaven called dangerous to BC’s Interior; and Florida researchers say tree diversity correlates well with US forest productivity.

In other news: US decarbonization targets big industry—including pulp & paper; EU members call for revision of anti-deforestation law; snowless winter sparks forest fire fears in Ottawa; and wildfire hot-spots include Wyoming, West Virginia, and Mexico.

Finally, conference updates by the BC Forest Safety Council and the BC First Nations Forestry Council.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Montana forest industry faces uncertain future amid closures

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 25, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Montana’s forest industry faces an uncertain future as Roseburg and Pyramid mill closures have a ripple effect. In related news: finally some truth on Montana’s mill closures; Missoula’s long history of lumber mills; Drax responds to report of chipping old-growth for pellets; and a Thunder Bay Pulp and Paper mill fire injures two. Meanwhile: the New Zealand Forest Owners have a new president; and the latest from the Softwood Lumber Board.

In Forestry/Climate Change news: the world is said to be warming faster than expected; Alberta scientists focus on the health impacts of global warming; researchers in Canada and South Africa look to the forestry value chain to mitigate climate effects; Ontario’s firefighter incentive payment plan is panned; and a new study on the effects of past fire-suppression bias in the US.

Finally, Captain Kirk shares his dream for life after death — I want to be a tree.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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West Virginia forest fires begets State of Emergency

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 22, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Extensive forest fires in several West Virginia counties resulted in a State of Emergency declaration. In related news: Ontario offers $5k bonuses to recruit wildland firefighters; and Northwest Ontario and Greece overhaul their response plans ahead of wildfire season. Meanwhile: Tolko passed its BC Forest Practice Board audit; BC’s new biodiversity framework may supersede the need for an endangered species law; and mill closures in Ontario suggest its time to ‘press reset‘ on the sector. 

In other news: Billerud is selling its idled Wisconsin Rapids mill; Drax faces air quality hearing on Washington pellet plant; the US EPA’s risk evaluation for formaldehyde is up for comment; and the Future Forest Economy Initiative invests $14 million in the US Northeast.

Finally, navigating transition— a 2024 COFI Convention preview.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Roseburg to close Montana particleboard plant, laying off 150

Tree Frog Forestry News
March 21, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Roseburg Forest Products will permanently close its Missoula, Montana particleboard plant. In related news: a call to action on the Seeley Lake mill closure; Mondi celebrates its Hinton pulp mill purchase; Tree Frog Veneer celebrates 20 years in Massachusetts; and mass timber showcases at Stirling Structural, Amazon Met Park, Clemson University and the University of Toronto. Meanwhile: FSC has a new US president; and previews of the  Montreal Wood Convention and the BC Log & Timber AGM.

In Forestry news: Canada’s Tree Seed Centre preserves genetic diversity; BC’s 2023 wildfire season caused ‘extreme glacier melt‘; dead trees present a fire hazard in BC’s Stanley Park and Ashland, Oregon’s watershed; and Arizona warns of explosive 2024 wildfire season. 

Finally, only you can prevent wildfires—Smokey Bear turns 80 this August.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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UN, Canada and US reports record warm winter warnings

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 20, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The warmest winter on record begets spring warnings in Canada, the US and around the world. In related news: David Suzuki says Ontario is logging too fast; unions want more say in the future of BC forest policy; a fired New Brunswick forestry college instructor seeks compensation; CalFire announces $10M for forest conservation; and Drax refutes ENGO old growth logging claims.

In Business news: what does Enviva’s bankruptcy mean for North Carolina; former Canfor Taylor mill to become a Western Canada logistics hub; the proposed Memphis urban lumber sawmill is rejected; more Seeley Lake, Montana mill closure aftershocks; and Mercer Mass Timber’s new construction services division.

Finally, tomorrow is the UN-declared International Day of Forests. How will you partake?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Positive data on Canadian inflation and US housing starts

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 19, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Canada’s inflation eased to an 8-month low in February, as US single-family housing starts approached a 2-year high, and US Builder sentiment rose for the 4th consecutive month. In other Business news: US senators say the EU deforestation regulation will harm the US industry; Pacific Northwest loggers seek to offset restrictions causing mill closures; Kruger is mum on new power agreement with Newfoundland; and West Fraser and Woodland Cree First Nation mark a new era of partnership.

In Forestry/Climate news: quantifying the impact of habitat disturbance on BC’s caribou herds; criticism mounts over tree clearing in Vancouver’s Stanley Park; BC launches new tracking technology, warns of pending wildfire challenges and early action on preparedness; and new warnings of unbridled wildfire in the Amazon rainforest.

Finally, can landmarks like the Eiffel Tower ever be truly green?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US announces $145M for climate resiliance and forest health

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 18, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The US Dept of Agriculture announced $145M for climate resilience and forest health… with $20M going to the US Endowment for underserved landowners, and half to projects throughout the US South. In related news: a new report says the US could triple its biomass production; Oregon’s wildfire funding legislation fails to pass; BC’s old-growth is under renewed scrutiny again—as the logging and forest hydrology debate continues; Australians protest native forest logging in Tasmania; and FSC certification faces a major challenge in Estonia.

In Business news: Nova Scotia grants an environmental assessment extension to Northern Pulp; Newfoundland & Labrador to support Corner Brook Pulp & Paper mill; Enviva’s bankruptcy could affect existing and planned mills in the US South; Timberlab plans to build a CLT mill in Oregon; and more on the Pyramid mill closure in Montana.

Finally, from sawmills to sports teams: The rise of Amar Doman’s business empire.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US plan will boost biomass supply chain, advance biomanufacturing

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 15, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The US Dept of Agriculture released a plan to boost biomass production and related manufacturing initiatives. In related news: US tax breaks could fuel a wood burning boom; South Carolina task force to address supply chain challenges; and more on Enviva’s bankruptcy plan. In other Business news: Pyramid Mountain is closing in Montana; Hoffman Family buys Besse Forest Products in Michigan; Western Forest Products curtails its Chemainus, BC sawmill for 2-weeks; and Kalesnikoff COO speaks to his new CLT plans.

In other news: a new report says plastic recycling may be a scam; a BC Labour Code change draws industry pushback; US Senator Romney leads hearings on US wildfire policies; BC issues its first fire ban as fire-awareness drives more job seekers; and California looks to forestry to reduce wildfire risks.

Finally, its St. Paddy’s Day… and these boots are made for loggin’

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Unions say BC needs a plan for stable, economic fibre supply

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 14, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Vaughn Palmer, Rob Shaw and Andrew McLeod opine on forest sector unions’ call for a BC fibre supply plan. In other news: Fort Frances drops the ball on Ontario biomass program; Europe asks Japan to ban Russian wood imports; Australia’s first CLT plant comes with $2M in government funding; and more on Enviva’s bankruptcy and restructuring. 

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada’s wildfires may impact US air quality again; wildfires reduce Quebec’s long-term harvest targets; a BC court clears Teal Jones on road access closures; Oregon’s logging-curb said to hurt rural communities; Idaho is facing forestry workforce challenges; a Montana court halts road building due to grizzly bears; and Washington’s family tree farms reduce GHGs.

Finally, Swedish researchers use wood tissue’s chemical footprint to track illegal loggers.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Unions: decline of BC’s forestry ‘neither inevitable nor acceptable’

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 13, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

A new report by three workers’ unions says the decline of BC’s forest sector is “neither inevitable nor acceptable“. In related news: BC Premier Eby keynotes Forestry Workers’ Summit; Nova Scotia’s Bird Construction looks to mass timber; Ontario’s CHAR Technologies to build a biomass facility; Enviva restructures and files for bankruptcy; and the Finnish strike is taking an economic toll on pulp & paper producers.

In Forestry/Climate news: taking stock of Canada’s record wildfire season; NDP critic on Canada’s untracked logging emissions; a new study on threatened wildlife in Quebec’s boreal forests; BC looks to expand Clayoquot Sound protected areas; old-power lines threaten Texas forests; Wyoming issues wildfire mitigation report; and forestry news from Oregon’s latest legislative session.

Finally, giant redwoods in Scotland and tree felling in Vancouver’s Stanley Park?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US Lumber Coalition says FPInnovations’ funding is a subsidy

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 12, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

In a Dept of Commerce complaint, the US Lumber Coalition says FPInnovations’ research gives Canadian producers an unfair advantage. In other Business news: Australia invests $100M in forest & wood research; Hampton Lumber responds to Oregon’s conservation plan; an Ontario company unveils world’s first paper bottle machine; labour action in Finland leads to paper mill closures by UPM, Stora Enso and Metsä; and the BC Centre for Innovation and Clear Energy appoints Sarah Goodman CEO.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada and Ontario commit funding for new protected areas; Ontario said to be ignoring the dangers forest firefighters face; BC is surprised by increase in firefighter applicants; and the National Council of Air and Stream Improvement (NCASI) launched a new webinar series on wildfire management. 

Finally, a 100-page visual extravaganza by the Forest History Association of Alberta.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Oregon protects endangered species by limiting logging

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 11, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Oregon narrowly approved a habitat plan that protects endangered species by limiting logging. In related news: unions call for action to save BC’s forest sector; mill closures have South Carolina loggers facing collapse; Vermont loggers look for relief due to wet weather; and Godfrey Forest Products is building an OSB plant in Jay, Maine. In Forest Product news: UK softwood imports are up; Clemson University breaks ground on a mass timber structure; and the Paris Olympics’ architectural icon is a wood showcase.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: lessons from a new study on Canada’s 2023 wildfire season; Ontario firefighters question their preparedness; wildfire smoke workshops teach Albertans about health impacts; Calgary is preparing for an early wildfire season; Maine looks to employ more controlled burns; and Arizona will reduce fire risk with thinned buffer zones.

Finally, bioplastics—a sustainable solution or distraction from plastic crisis?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Wood products key to reducing GHG emissions: new study

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 8, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

A new study says harnessing the ability of wood products to store carbon is key to reducing GHG emissions. In related news: New York leads the way with low carbon building announcements; mass timber makes headway with architects; Mondi recognized for StretchWrap—its paper replacement for plastic; IKEA looks to wood for sound-absorbing furniture; and more on Kalesnikoff’s expansion plans. Meanwhile: Conifex reports negative earnings; Canfor sees positive trends for lumber; and packaging manufacturers face reduce demand.

In Forestry/Climate news: Oregon narrowly approves conservation plan as loggers protest en mass; opposing views on forest restoration plans in Wisconsin and  California; a secret map suggests BC Forest Ministry is biased in favour of logging; and another First Nation expresses dismay over BC Land Act decision.

Finally, COFI adds keynotes Jason Krips and Louise Bender, celebrating a Private Forest Champion; and an auction for Evans Lake Forest Education camp.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Kalesnikoff to build mass timber mill in West Kootenays, BC

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 7, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Kalesnikoff announced plans to build a new mass timber facility in the West Kootenays, BC. In related news: JD Irving acquires Mill Services in Cobleskill, New York; workers lobby for restart of the shuttered Terrace Bay pulp mill; and the Steelworkers reach new deal with CN Rail. Meanwhile: the US trade czar opines on renewal of the North American trade pact; Brent Jang says natural gas is overtaking forestry in BC; and the latest market prognostications by ERA’s Kevin Mason.

In Forestry/Climate news: the US approved a new rule on GHG reporting by companies; a UK professor and climate scientist is sounding the alarm; Ontario braces for impacts of global warming; Minnesota experiments in forest assisted migration; Oregon is changing the rules governing logging; and a USDA feature on the origins of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Finally, WorkSafeBC’s first aid changes, and safety challenges faced by women in construction.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Canfor reports challenging year, Q4 loss of $117 million

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 6, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Canfor’s 2023 financial results included a fourth quarter loss of $117 million. In related news: Kruger invests to increase tissue production; Enviva gets extension on bond payment; and Interfor appoints Christina Sistrunk to its Board. In Mass Timber news: a new report says BC needs upskilling and rail upgrades to grow production; how to address builder’s risk; and featured projects from New York and Portland. Meanwhile: US multifamily starts to decline in 2024; single-family shows signs of stirring; and Canada holds interest rates at 5%.

In Forestry/Climate news: Biden is urged to move on old growth protection; Oregon’s state forester recommends habitat conservation plan; a BC First Nation is disheartened by Land Act reactions; cellulose nanocrystals an opportunity for Quebec’s forest industry; and Nature Canada says government GHG review must include logging emissions.

Finally, BC wildfire workers can now take the time to focus on their own mental health.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Canada’s accelerator fund to trigger 750,000 housing starts

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 5, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Canada says its housing accelerator fund will result in 750,000 new homes in the next decade. In related news: Mercer launched a mass timber erection division; Artificial Intelligence is coming to the construction sector; and forest investors must assess what to do with their trees.  Meanwhile: US LBM acquires Homestead Building Systems; and Do it Best and United Hardware plan to merge.

In Forestry/Climate news: BC seeks input on expanding the Great Bear Rainforest’s conservation area; BC’s fire prevention budget called inadequate given trends; a new Tongass forest plan will focus on climate change and tourism; ENGOs sue to block a California post-fire salvage logging project; and FSC says two of its New Zealand based certification bodies are required to improve.

Finally, David Elstone opines on the upside of British Columbia’s Land Act mess.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Sustainability organizations to share risk information on deforestation-free products

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 4, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Sustainability organizations, including FSC, formed a risk alliance to share info on deforestation-free products. In Wildfire news: Canada braces for another season of flames; Oregon sends a strike team to help fire-ravaged Texas; Michigan’s shaded fuel brakes prove effective; Alberta ups its wildfire emergency fund; a new study says BC’s forest fuel load data is inaccurate; and researchers say Washington’s wetter forests are at risk.

In Business news: Doman completes its acquisition of Southeast Forest Products; Millson Forestry Service secures an Ontario biomass grant; Irving upgrades its Saint John’s woodyard; UFP expands in Warrens, Wisconsin; opposition mounts to a biomass facility in Memphis; and Timberlink opens its new CLT mill in South Australia. Meanwhile: US construction spending is up, while the housing supply gap widens. 

Finally, NASA’s climate idea sounds like a children’s book, and 200 years of forest history through dioramas.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Ontario court judgement the largest First Nations’ settlement in Canadian history

The Tree Frog Forestry News
March 1, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

A $10B Ontario court judgement is Canada’s largest First Nations’ settlement in history. In other Business news: Drax awaits UK subsidy decision as US and UK opposition mounts; OrePac acquires Western Timber Products; fires are reported at West Fraser’s OSB mill in Texas, and JM Lumber in Ontario; and more on Allegheny Wood Products sudden closure.

In Forestry/Climate news: Ontario announces $60M for forest biomass innovation; University of Northern BC’s glyphosate research looks at aggregate effects; Home Depot expands its commitment to sustainable forestry; FSC responds to a Greenpeace complaint; and Australia announces two new forestry research centres.

Finally, its National Invasive Species Awareness Week – here’s what you need to know. Also, the BC Forest Safety Council turns 20. Here is their latest video.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Vancouver approves policies to encourage mass timber towers

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 29, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Vancouver City Council approved new policies to encourage more high-rise mass-timber construction. In related news: the ‘Future of Cities in Wood‘ exhibit comes to New York’s Skyscraper Museum; and related ‘game changers’ from Muskegon Lake, Michigan and Ottawa, Ontario. In Business news: Weyehaeuser announced a carbon sequestration agreement; Metsa’s Merikarvia, Finland mill is closing; Stella-Jones and Goodfellow report Q3 earnings; University of Georgia names Todd Petty forestry dean; and Forest’s Ontario announces award winners.

In Forestry/Climate news: fire expert Mike Flannigan tips his hand in favour of a National Wildfire Service; Suzanne Simard says climate bullying is in decline; Wood Mackenzie says bioenergy is a $500B opportunity; a lawsuit takes aim at US Forest Service’s timber targets; and an Oregon timber bill spurs lawsuit fears. On the Forest History front, Graeme Davis on Orillia, Ontario’s century of forest growth and renewal. 

Finally, must be a Leap Year… with efforts that focus on bamboo high-rises, and wood products without trees

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Texas wildfires force evacuations, prompt disaster declaration

Tree Frog Forestry News
February 28, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Massive wildfires burning in the Texas Panhandle forced evacuations and a disaster declaration. In related news: Arkansas is on heightened wildfire alert; Canada’s mild weather points to drought and wildfires; Arizona faces a critical situation; and Mississippi’s timber farmers face drought. Meanwhile: US and Oregon may sue PacificCorp for wildfire costs; how fatigue impacts log truck driver safety; Paul Fast’s new book on engineering with wood; and an overview of topics at this year’s approaching COFI conference.

In Business news: facing renewed pressure from ENGOs—Drax points to energy security benefits; Teal-Jones innovates with composite shingles; Rayonier Advanced Materials reports Q4 net loss; and more on Clearwater Paper’s acquisition of a Georgia paperboard mill.

Finally, John Mulinder says Nature Canada is “spinning” the truth on boreal logging.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Western Forest Products unveils first of 3 planned continuous dry kilns

Tree Frog Forestry News
February 27, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Western Forest Products celebrated the completion of the first continuous dry kiln on the Coast of BC. In related news: Paradigm Building Solutions will expand in Barriere, BC; Allegheny Wood Products closed suddenly in West Virginia; Domtar curtails paper production in Ashdown, Arkansas; and Enviva faces forbearance agreement deadline. Meanwhile: US new home sales are up in January; Southern Pine exports rose in 2023; and a Q&A with Wood Preservation Canada’s Natalie Tarini.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canadians are positive on idea of a national forest fire fighting force; a Yale symposium on the smoke problem coming from Canada’s forests; a California utility will pay $80M to settle a wildfire claim; and Washington’s wildfires are said to be driven more by fuel load than climate. Elsewhere: New Zealand may be too forest focused with its net-zero plans; and the EU backs new plan to protect its habitat and species.

Finally, ENGOs say Biden’s new Russian sanctions should also include timber exports.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

 

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Canadian forest sector leader John Allan dies at 78

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 26, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Starting on a sad note; John Allan, one of Canada most influential forest sector professionals, died February 23, 2024.

In Forestry and Climate news: BC and Ontario leaders express worry as fire season nears; a National Bank of Canada report says Canada could offset all its GHGs; the Wood Pellet Association of Canada’s upcoming trade mission to Taiwan; the pros and cons of California’s pellet mills; ENGOs pan changes to Ontario’s Endangered Species Act; and how European ecolabels promote sustainable forestry.

In other news: Mosaic and We Wai Kai First Nation sign logging agreement; US Forest Service Chief talks with Oregon loggers; Oregon officials are grilled over mill closures; Taiga Building Products reports positive Q4, 2023 earnings; US Homebuilders’ labour shortages ease; and EU’s pulp & paper demand is down.

Finally, a new category in the Tree Frog Forestry News — Forest History & Archives:

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Teamsters Canada warn of rail strike at CN and CPKC

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 23, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The union representing Canada’s rail workers warns that a strike looms after CN and CPKC filed notices of dispute. In other Business news: Canada-US trade is said to be at an inflection point ahead of US election; the Steelworkers commend BC’s budget endorsement of mass timber; Alabama’s Phenix Lumber faces heavy fines after second fatality; and more on the WorkSafeBC investigation of the Canfor employee death in Prince George.

In Forestry/Climate news: a Q&A with US Forest Service Chief Randy Moore; Quebec First Nations take the province to task on forest consultations; a new study on the climate-effects of expanding forests; simulations point to more fires in the Pacific Northwest; a Canadian researcher on how genetic testing can be used to curb illegal logging; and the EU plans to establish a carbon removals certification framework.

Finally, Dave Coletto will keynote at COFI and Andrew Dunn plans another tour of Europe’s mass timber industry.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Amid melee, BC pauses proposed Land Act changes

Tree Frog Forestry News
February 22, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The British Columbia government is pausing its proposed Land Act change, says it will further engage to ‘get this right’. Related perspectives include: 

In other news: a fire at Canfor’s Fort St. John mill was extinguished; Clearwater Paper buys Augusta, Georgia paperboard mill; Interfor winds down Philomath mill operations; Cascades reports Q4, 2023 loss; New Hampshire announces covid funding for pulp & paper mills; and Quebec launches call for northern development grants. Meanwhile, Russ Taylor’s China Outlook Report has been released and wildfire preparation updates from OregonOntario and BC.

Finally, the future of mass timber is good—or so say the pros in US, Brazil, and the UK.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Warm weather and holdover fires point to early start to Canada’s wildfire season

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 21, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Warm weather and holdover fires point to early start to Canada’s wildfire season. Here are the headlines:

In other news: a Wisconsin developer submits plans for a 50-storey timber tower; Alberta researchers point to fungi in fight against pine beetles; ENGOs sue US Forest Service to protect lynx from logging in Montana; and Boise Cascade and Bluelinx reported their Q3, 2024 results. On the Health and Safety front: sad news of a Canfor pulp mill worker who died of electrocution.

Finally, University of BC tops Working Forest’s Top-10 list of North American Forestry Schools. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US should unblock mass timber, incentivize adoption of new building code

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 20, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The Federation of American Scientists say the USDA should unblock mass timber by incentivizing adoption of the new building code. In related news: Utah developers pivot to mass timber; and light-frame wood construction may help solve Toronto’s missing-middle. In Business news: Interfor experiences a kiln fire in Bloomingdale, Georgia; Philomath’s sawmill closure is Oregon’s third this year; Universal Forest Products’ earnings drop in Q4, 2023; and US custom home building slows after recent gains.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: implementing UNDRIP sparks public debate in BC; firefighter attrition may impact Ontario’s pending wildfire season; union reps doubt Ontario’s effort to combat firefighter smoke exposure; the real story behind Oregon’s wildfire funding bill; and a podcast on firefighting health risks from firefighter gear. 

Finally, after 50 years, NatureServe says the US Endangered Species Act needs an upgrade.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Interfor to curtail lumber production in Oregon and BC

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 16, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

No News Today (Monday, February 19). In Canada, most provinces are celebrating Family Day. In the United States its Presidents Day. The Frogs are back tomorrow.

Interfor announced it will indefinitely curtail its Philomath, Oregon sawmill and reduce lumber production in BC. In related news: Mercer reported a Q4 net loss of $87M; West Fraser’s CEO remains optimistic despite Q4 challenges; Spruce Products, Manitoba fires up its continuous kiln; and US housing starts hit 5-month low, following Canada’s 10% drop yesterday. Meanwhile: BC Wood’s export readiness program launches (again), and Silvicom is named one of Alberta’s top employers.

In Forestry/Climate news: BC resets talks on proposed Land Act changes; ENGO’s protest Saskatchewan’s forest policy; illegal logging is alleged in a Wisconsin national forest; and FSC suspends a New Zealand firm’s certification over slash damage. Meanwhile: Colorado announces new wildfire mitigation grants; and research on a California wildfire supports more thinning and prescribed burns.

Finally, from fashion to burials, how fungi helps tackle climate change.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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West Fraser Timber reports net loss of $153M as sales soften

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 15, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

West Fraser Timber reported a net loss of $153 million as sales soften. In related news: Louisiana Pacific’s Q4 sales fell 7%; Enviva prepares to file for bankrupcty; North Carolina has a power pole problem; US builder sentiment rose again; Canadian housing starts fell 10%; and Europe’s pulp and paper production declined in 2023. Meanwhile, Forest Professionals BC honours its 2023 award winners; and Forest Ontario welcomes 4 new Board members.

In Forestry/Climate news: Albany researchers use molecular chemistry to protect trees; Maine researchers assess climate change risk on forests; Alberta is accused of running out the clock on caribou; BC is faced with a selling job on proposed changes to Land Act; and both Manitoba and Quebec First Nations express concern over local logging plans. 

Finally, scientists use wood nanocrystals to mend broken hearts. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Enviva is preparing to file for bankruptcy: Wall Street Journal

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 14, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The Wall Street Journal says wood pellet maker Enviva is preparing to file for bankruptcy within days. In other Company news: Cascades’ mill closures will impact 230 in Ontario; Western Forest Products reports Q4 net loss; Mosaic is named one of BC’s top employers; and Mondi signs an agreement with Hinton, Alberta. Meanwhile: US inflation remains sticky due to housing costs; and recovered paper slumps across Europe.

In Forestry/Climate news: Alberta Fire Chiefs call for wildfire strategy; BC energy minister says province is preparing for drought; and opposition mounts to BC’s proposed Land Act changes, as Lands Minister says First Nations will not have a veto. Elsewhere: North Carolina’s Governor signs an executive order to conserve 1 million acres of forests; and new research on reforestation and rising temperatures in the eastern US. 

Finally, Kevin Horsnell (Canfor), David Beleznay (Mosaic) and Peter Flett (Nk’Mip Forestry) are BC Forest Professional’s award winners.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Cascades closing two plants in Ontario, one in Connecticut

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 13, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Citing market conditions, Cascades is closing two containerboard plants in Ontario and one in Connecticut. In related news: packaging giant Mondi considers bid to buy GS Smith; Hasslacher invests in Ontario mass timber producer Element5; and the Pactiv Evergreen paper mill is hit with new water violations. Meanwhile: the US price rise of 3.1% and Canada’s strong job market push back timing of interest rate cuts. 

In Forestry/Climate news: FPAC unveils Roadmap Towards Net-Zero at GLOBE Forum; a new UN report points to species at risk due to habitat loss; University of Northern BC secures grant to study glyphosate effects; and a new report says global deforestation leads to more mercury pollution. Meanwhile; BC finally receives some much-needed snow, as Ontario reports a lack of snow pack before fire season.

Finally, US hemp builders say their homes contain no psychoactive properties. Darn?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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GLOBE Forum explores solutions for a transformed economy

Tree Frog Forestry News
February 12, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Starting this week, GLOBE Forum 2024 explores solutions for a reimagined economy—and per Linda Coady and Stéphane Renou, forestry is key. In related news: Trevor Hancock says BC’s biodiversity policy would radically transform governance; and Catherine Swift says BC’s co-managment of public lands proposal would be a disaster. In Business news: Drax is building a pellet plant in Washington, Rosboro’s plan includes a shift to glulam; Sumitomo invests in bio-fuels in Louisiana; and Owen Corning acquires Masonite.

In Forestry/Climate news: EU scientists say world temperatures hit a new record; Greenpeace says industry is lobbying for questionable carbon offsets; a new film on the upside of lower density forests in California; and BC’s premier is worried about drought—and it’s only February.

Finally, a BC First Nation is set to reclaim their village site 151 years after BC sold it.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

 

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The arrival of La Niña could slow global warming

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 9, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The arrival of La Niña could slow the rapid global warming that began with El Niño. In related news: sparse snowpack raises drought fears in BC; Alberta readies for a busy wildfire season; wildfire pollutants can damage your skin; carbon credits put New Hampshire timber at risk; not all EU carbon credits are created equal ; climate change shrinks good-burn days in Georgia; and Forestry Australia says prescribed burning is key.

In other news: NRDC pans Home Depot’s sourcing policy; Bob Brash on BC’s forest of opportunity; Rosboro idles its Springfield, Oregon stud mill; Interfor reports Q4, 2023 loss; and Acadian Timber reports positive Q4, 2023 results. On the mass timber front: US demand exceeds supply; the US Deputy Secretary tours Oregons’ advanced wood products lab; and why mass timber is exceling in Canada’s community centres.

Finally, please consider supporting the Tree Frog News as a Friend of the Frog (small companies and individuals) or as an official Sponsor. Suffice to say, without our supporters, North America’s only open-access forestry news aggregator (focused exclusively on the forest sector), simply wouldn’t exist. Have a great weekend!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US ups air quality standards on soot, industry objects

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 8, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The Biden administration announced tougher new standards for soot emissions—US forest industry says they defy common sense. In other Business news: a New Brunswick judge sides with forest companies in Aboriginal title claim; unions say the Quebec forestry roundables exclude workers; Canfor Pulp is selling it shuttered Taylor, BC pulp mill site; Norbord’s 100 Mile House plant site will be redeveloped; the Williams Lake, BC power plant may have to close due to lack of fibre; and Sonoco is closing its paperboard mill in Sumner, Washington.

In Forestry/Climate news: a report says Alberta lags progress on caribou protection; BC’s lack of snow foretells 2024 drought woes; a former scientist slams Canada’s climate plan; Randy Moore called the indictment of a US burn boss highly inappropriate; and six US governors pan Biden’s old-growth policy.

Finally, a new lignin study says inexpensive, carbon-neutral biofuels are finally possible.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Climate change behind snowpack drop in North America

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 7, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

A new US study says climate change is behind the drop in North America’s snowpack. In related news: a California study has snowpack at 73% of norm; a Washington bill aims to increase sustainable aviation fuel use; and ENGOs celebrate Canadian court ruling on Species At Risk Act. In Wood Product news: how wood can spur Canada’s green building drive; modular building can help with the affordable housing crisis; and a CWC webinar provides guidance for alternative wood solutions. 

In Business news: Unifor and Steelworkers are hosting a BC Forestry Workers Summitt; Quebec unions denounce provincial consultations on the future of the forest sector; fire damages Ozark Hardwood Pellets in Missouri; TimberHP is expanding its wood fibre insulation in Maine; and Georgia recognizes four forest landowners as Wildlife Partners.

Finally, 2024—or the Chinese Lunar year 4722—is the Year of the (Wood) Dragon.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Court Sides with ENGOs on Canada’s Species at Risk Act

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 6, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Ecojustice says a Federal Court Justice has ruled in favour of conservation groups on interpretation of the Species at Risk Act. In related news: SFI assesses it value with the EU Deforestation Regulation; Oregon is still split on who should pay for wildfire protection; sharing expertise to prevent biomass silo fires in Japan; and Chile’s death toll rises as megafires blamed in part on exotic species tree plantations.

In Business news: Canada considers making sustainability reporting mandatory; the Red Sea crisis hits Swedish forest products exports hard; recycled cardboard is still market-hot; Ontario looks to mass timber for affordable housing; and a 25-storey mass timber tower is approved in Vancouver. Meanwhile: Conifex loses its court bid on cryptocurrency mining; and Mondi completes its acquisition of the Hinton Pulp mill. 

Finally, wood cellulose replaces plastics in sunscreen as biodegradable glitter. Seriously.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US plans to raise tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 2, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The US Department of Commerce announced plans to raise softwood lumber duties from 8.05% to 13.86% for most Canadian producers. In response: 

In other Business news: more commentary on BC’s plan to co-manage public lands with First Nations; GreenFirst’s Rick Doman is retiring; Sonoco’s CEO Howard Coker is AF&PA’s new Chair; and International Paper reports Q4, 2023 loss. Meanwhile: Alberta fire chiefs call for a new wildfire strategy; PEI considers a new biomass policy; Saskatchewan researchers combine biomass recycling with CO2 capture; California policies on wildfire emissions and health; and mass timber updates from BC; Ontario; Massachusetts; and Utah.

Finally, a Tree Frog News reminder that February 1st marks the beginning of our 2024 year. Please consider supporting North America’s only open-access forestry news aggregator focused exclusively on the forest sector, either as a Friend of the Frog or a Sponsor.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Teal Cedar launches lawsuit against Fairy Creek protesters

The Tree Frog Forestry News
February 1, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Teal Cedar filed a lawsuit against Fairy Creek protestors alleging a conspiracy to harm the company. In related news: COFI remains bullish on the future of BC’s industry; BC minister Cullen admits error in lack of notice on Land Act changes; ENGOs sue the US Forest Service in South Carolina over logging plans; Stora Enso and UPM report reduced profits; Wooden Pallets celebrates its growth; and Tolko is recognized by the Vernon Chamber of Commerce. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada needs to get ready for a future fraught with fire; Alberta’s drought conditions raises questions; BC launches silviculture sector training on fire mitigation; and Washington lawmakers tweak wildfire protection rules for homes. Meanwhile: Minnesota’s forests and wildlife struggle with the warm winter; and ENGOs say BC is overstating its old growth.

Finally, Alice Palmer opines on EU’s definition of forest degradation; and Adrian Blocker on reinventing the buy/sell process for lumber.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor 

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