Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) says the global economy is headed for a downturn and North America will be hardest hit. In related news: Canada’s First-Ministers on the Canadian economy; RBC Elements and TD Securities on forest-product headwinds, and the NAHB on pending changes to lumber duties and EPA burdens. Meanwhile, from International Pulp Week:

• ERA’s Kevin Mason: Key developments from the past and what’s coming next
• Numera’s Joaquin Kritz Lara: Tariffs, uncertainty, and the US economic outlook
• Metsä’s Mikko Antsalo and Suzano’s Leonardo Grimaldi: Softwood and hardwood pulp markets
• CO280’s Jonathan Rhone and Osapiens’ Parker Budding: Carbon and EUDR compliance

In Forestry/Wildfire news: the US Forest Service chief wants wildfires extinguished ASAP; no relief in sight for Saskatchewan communities under evacuation; wildfires prompt air quality statements across northwestern Ontario; here’s where wildfire smoke is spreading in Canada and the US; and how illegal logging funds cartels, terrorists, and rogue regimes.

Finally, the AWC’s Mass Timber Guide, and the latest Canada Wood market news.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Thousands are evacuated in three provinces as Canadian wildfires threaten air quality in some US states. In related news: Saskatchewan and Manitoba face their worst wildfire seasons in decades; PEI, Quebec and the USDA send resources to help; and why Canada’s wildfire crisis is happening so early this season. Meanwhile: California invests to reduce its wildfire risk; and wildfires persist in Ontario; but Nova Scotia is off to a slow start.

In Business news: Toyota secures a biofuel breakthrough; International Paper and Drax face biomass-energy opposition; Swiss Krono acquires Collins Pine in Oregon; UPM invests to upgrade its Tervasaari mill in Finland; and Russ Taylor opines on the coming increase in lumber prices. In Forestry news: a study on the role of FSC across 70 countries; brickbats for BC’s wolf kill program; Maine seeks info on its forest carbon participants; and the EU eyes non-wood forest products.

Finally, International Pulp Week kicks off in Vancouver—stay tuned for full coverage of the event.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Trump’s tariffs to remain in effect after appeals court grants stay to consider the government’s position. In related news: Prime Minister Carney welcomed the trade policy snag, as analysts weigh in on its potential impact and how Canada could win the trade war; tariff pause creates housing hopes amid affordability concerns; and the US economy shrank 0.2% in Q1, 2025. Meanwhile: South Carolina’s New Indy paper mill is called out for mercury pollution.

In Forestry news: the USDA invests $200M in active forest management; the EU Deforestation Regulation is panned for governance lapse; and wildfire challenge updates from Saskatchewan, Alberta; Ontario and southern Europe. Meanwhile: BC’s Sunshine Coast Community Forest is recognized for excellence; and the latest news from the BC Forest Enhancement Society, and the Wood Pellet Association of Canada.

Finally, Forest Safety Awareness weeks wraps with stories on extreme heat, crew talks and danger trees.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

In rare rebuke, a large share of tariffs are eliminated — for now. In other Business news: the US Lumber Coalition continues to push for US lumber reliance; Boeing invests millions to manufacture sustainable jet fuel in Canada; and home sales continue to slump in the face of economic uncertainty. Meanwhile: take a peek inside Canada’s first Mass Timber tower, or the tallest mass timber building on the East Coast.

In Forestry news: Quw’utsun Nation enters into a co-management Municipal Forest agreement but some disagree; World Wildlife Fund addresses the seed shortage; Elliot State Research Forest tightens conservation efforts; and legal actions attempt to defend the Tongass National Forest from old-growth logging.

In Wildfire news: Fire bans are introduced in coastal BC; the dichotomy of fire; Manitoba declares a state of emergency, and Kenora fires grow overnight.

Finally, Psychological Health, Training Smart and Emergency Preparedness and Response take the stage in today’s Safety features.

Suzanne Hopkinson, Tree Frog News Editor

Ottawa has no plans to penalize Canadian businesses for offshoring jobs to avoid American tariffs. In other Business news: Timberlab plans to build a CLT mill in Millersburg, Oregon; a Montana law aims to incentivize new wood facilities; and Atlas Engineered Products reports Q1, 2025. Meanwhile: US consumer confidence rebounds; and US home sales and building slump.

In Forestry news: Powell River’s mayor proposes upping BC’s allowable cut; Garry Merkel and Shannon Janzen co-chair BC’s new forestry council; Ontario invests in forest innovation; the 2025 International Model Forest Network Global Forum is underway in Kemptville, Ontario; Oregon researchers say slowly dying trees impact forest recovery post-fire; and wildfire updates from Northern Alberta; Ontario and Oregon. 

Finally, Wind, Roads, Innovation and Hearing take the stage in today’s Safety features.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Ontario First Nations leaders warn of ‘conflict on the ground’ if controversial Bill 5 passes. In other Business news: Ontario will spend more for less housing; and Domtar’s penalties at its Skookumchuck mill are reduced by half. Meanwhile: a CLT superstructure is ready to rise in Toronto; Quebec’s first Passive House-certified institutional building; and paper packaging is undergoing a resurgence.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada’s wildfire season is shaping up to be intense again; California’s tree mortality hits a 10-year low; Europe’s forests are at risk due to drought; the Amazon could survive drought—but at a high cost; trees are said to synchronize their signals during an eclipse; and if a tree falls in the forest—what’s the chance of it being a pine?

Finally, on Day 2 of Forest Safety Awareness Week—articles on PPE programs, musculoskeletal injuries, and steep slope harvesting risks.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Conservationists join US lawsuit protecting the northern spotted owl. In related news: the debate the US should be having on the Endangered Species Act; protecting Maine’s forests from the spruce budworm; and how prescribed burns are reshaping Oregon forests and communities. Meanwhile: Ontario invests more than $11M in forestry projects; University of Alberta research is showing how trees and fungi team up to survive; Manitoba woodland caribou might not recover from wildfire-caused habitat losses; and Vancouver’s new urban forest strategy faces challenges.

In other news: a conversation with Linda Coady on BC’s political and economic uncertainties; Stuart Culbertson opines on opportunities for BC softwood lumber; what bioregional design means for the climate; and how the BC Wildfire Service is fighting misinformation with compassion. 

Finally, Forest Safety Awareness Week kicks off with top tips from safety advisors on creating a safer workplace and how effective phase planning can help you manage worker safety. Stay tuned for more valuable content all week long!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US and Canada are classified as low risk by the European Commission anti-deforestation regulation. In related news: the WRI reports record global forest loss in 2024; Weyerhaeuser acquires timberlands from Roseburg; the Tongass Roadless Rule exemption is called propaganda; Canada’s first industrial-scale biochar plant; and BC leads Canada on methane reduction.

In Business news: West Fraser released its 2024 Sustainability Report; Sierra Pacific must pay for forest fire damages; Oregon looks to cap-and-trade to fund roads and wildfire prevention; US Hardwood Plywood Manufacturers file petition for duties; and the US Lumber Coalition pans a CNBC report on the impact of tariff uncertainty on home building.

Meanwhile: Paul Mackie is named Cedar Champion; BC First Nations Forestry Council recognizes Percy Guichon; more achievement awards by SFI; the US Endowment’s 2024 annual report; and the Softwood Lumber Board’s latest update.

Finally, back by popular demand—Forest Safety Awareness Week runs May 26–30. Tree Frog and the BC Forest Safety Council help keep forestry workers safe and sound.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The Gorman Group buys Weyerhaeuser’s lumber mill in Princeton, BC. In related news: Stora Enso sells 12% of its forest land; Homanit invests $250M in South Carolina; UBC’s Frank Lam and Western Forest Products work to expand hem-fir glulam; and West Fraser reduces its Alberta logging plan. Meanwhile: Ontario invests in forestry by-products; Derek Burney opines on US-Canada trade; Clemson’s Pat Layton receives SFI’s 2025 President’s Award; and Jimmy Bullock receives SFI’s Innovation and Leadership in Sustainability award.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: US ENGO’s take legal action to defend spotted owl habitat; an Olympic Peninsula tree-sitter continues his protest; Colorado’s Forest Tracker shows forests treated since 2,000; the USDA may deploy non-fire forest workers; Wildsight commends BC Timber Sales‘ caribou habitat promise; Alberta’s caribou conundrum; and the fight to save Saskatchewan’s forests.

Finally, how trees destroyed by the Los Angeles fires are being recycled into new lumber.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

California plans to extend its cap-and-trade program despite Trump’s order opposing climate initiatives. In related news: ground proofing forest carbon protocol assessments; Georgia launches carbon registry for mass timber projects; and Toronto’s prefab timber buildings could save carbon emissions. In Forestry news: weather conditions are expected to fuel Alberta’s wildfires; anxiety in Banff ahead of wildfire season; and Whistler, BC confronts wildfire with bold new plans.

In Business news: International Paper closes two paper plants in Texas; Richelieu Hardware consolidates its Canadian operations; industry groups question BC’s new forestry council; a UBC professor says Trump risks another great depression; Canada’s inflation rate drops to 1.7%; US consumer sentiment inches down; and Moody’s downgrades US credit rating for the first time ever.

Finally, the National Fire Protection Association releases new standard for combustible dust.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

BC launched a new forestry advisory council to balance forest health and industry success. In related news: the United Steelworkers welcomed the new council, while industry voiced concern over the lack of front-line representation. In other Business news: International Pulp Week is approaching; FPAC hired Darren Sleep as Chief Scientist; Mark Oulton receives King’s Counsel designation; April housing starts rebounded in the US and Canada; and US builder confidence fell. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: the first-ever National Risk Assessment for US forest biomass has been approved; a Michigan researcher looks at assisted tree migration; and Colorado brickbats for the Fix Our Forests Act. Meanwhile: do forest carbon credits actually work; BC’s wildfire forecast is bleak (but don’t worry); and Newfoundland’s wildfire season is underway. 

Finally, a moving forest in shopping carts is coming to Toronto. And Happy Victoria Day—the frogs are back on Tuesday.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

It was ‘another challenging day’ fighting Manitoba’s wildfires, officials say. In related news: Premier Eby to visit Asia; Georgia-Pacific to close operations this year; and low-interest loan programs hope to re-open sawmills. Meanwhile: Financial results for GreenFirst are announced; commercial construction statistics released; and Weyerhaeuser stays true to the message of its past.

In Forestry/Wood news: Public input for private land use sought on Vancouver Island; open house addressing recreation in West Bragg Creek; Oregon wildfire map could be repealed; and why some think significant logging won’t happen in the Tongass National Forest. Meanwhile: confidence in biomass exports from the UK; Michigan’s opens first mass timber building with local wood; and residents push back against proposed wood pellet plant in Nevada.

Lastly, would you cause a forest fire if you were a worm? The impacts of the spruce budworm in Montana.

Suzanne Hopkinson, Tree Frog News Editor

Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled a crisis-era Cabinet to confront Trump’s trade war. In related news: Carney’s cabinet signals softening on climate; experts opine on the US need for Canada’s exports; and US housing inflation remains elevated. Meanwhile: US lawmakers introduce tax credit to support hardwood manufacturers; a breakthrough for wood in New York; a mass timber shaft wall system; and tree rings age Atlanta’s historic buildings.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Unifor pans Quebec’s forestry regime; BC’s Forest Practices Board says 2023 burns were sound forestry; and wildfire alerts in eastern Manitoba; western Ontario and northeastern Minnesota. Meanwhile: a US group supports forest land transfers to private ownership; and New Zealand’s timber industry braces for tougher times.

Finally, Canada’s fire forecast looks bad. The impacts could spill into the US.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The great tariff rollback—why the US and China pulled back from the edge. In related news: reacting to US tariff policy; Alabama’s GOP seeks higher duties on lumber; what else is hurting BC’s forest sector; Kitselas First Nation buys A&A Trading’s tenure; and Biochar breathes new life into the Espanola mill. Meanwhile: the US inflation rate was 2.3% in April;  and lumber price continue to drop.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: a University of Alberta study says the boreal forest is understated by 1/3; the US Endowment supports wood product manufacturers; Colorado’s Jefferson county faces a pine beetle outbreak; the Centre for Biological Diversity says active forest management harms forests; and wildfire updates from Kenora and Northwestern Ontario; and northern Manitoba.

Finally, West Fraser Timber’s Henderson, Texas General Manager retires after 51 years!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US and China agreed to dramatically reduced tariffs for 90 days—in bid to defuse trade war. In related news: markets rebound as the grown-ups return to the room; US envoy puts a positive spin on Canadian tariffs; and sawmill companies brace for volatile wood prices. Meanwhile: International Paper is closing two Texas facilities; Georgia approves hurricane relieve package for timber owners; Port Alberni, BC sees fresh investment amid forestry woes; and Conifex and Taiga report positive Q1, 2025 results.

In Forestry/Safety news: US lawmakers introduce a Forest Protection and Woodland Firefight Safety Act; Texas researcher on emerging safety technology for fallers; Pacific Northwest leaders urge action as wildfire season nears; a Washington state judge halts watershed logging; and wildfire updates from BC; Saskatchewan and Ontario. 

Finally, Mark Oulton has been appointed King’s Counsel by the Lieutenant Governor of BC.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US will no longer track climate change-fuelled weathers disasters, including floods and wildfires. In related news: a new study says climate-fuelled wildfires contributed to US deaths; new data says CO2 emissions are levelling off but still rising; BC groups seek to drive the transition to wood-based biomass energy; Nova Scotia accelerates its clean energy reviews; and Michigan opens a new biomass facility in Grand Rapids.

In Business news: the US Lumber Coalition pans BC Premier Eby’s suggestion for a US-Canada resolution on softwood lumber; a podcast on America’s insatiable appetite for lumber; and how the EU deforestation law aggravates the US. Meanwhile: fibre shortages create downtime at two Tolko Okanagan mills; Minnesota’s Beltrami County approves West Fraser’s mill upgrade plan; Interfor reports Q1 net loss of $35 million; and the UPM Plywood strikes in Finland are ending.

Finally, can Carney’s prefab solution solve Canada’s housing crisis? Its complicated.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Canfor and Cascades report improved Q1, 2025 results—foresee Q2 market uncertainty. In related news: the US and UK announce a trade deal, China and the US agree to talk; BC says softwood lumber could lead the way on US-Canada trade; and US multifamily developer confidence is down. In Forest Product news: stories on paper recycling in the US; CLT bridges in Illinois, and mass timber passive homes in BC.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: ENGO’s say Canada’s woodlands have a health problem; Quebec First Nations seek more caribou protections; Washington state is encouraged to support forest and community health; and safety lessons from BC’s 2023 fire season. Meanwhile: BC Forest Minister Ravi Parmar’s journey into politics; and the latest on the upcoming Canadian Institute of Forestry AGM and award nominations.

Finally, kudos to firefighters who saved Timber Kings’ Pioneer Log Homes from blaze.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The Canadian American Business Council says the Oval Office meeting was exactly what we hoped for. In related news: Carney gets the Trump treatment; BC keeps its expectations in check; and the US imports more cars, lumber and oil. In other Business news: ERA’s Kevin Mason says Q1, 2025 could be lumber’s high-water mark; and FEA’s Paul Jannke clarifies timing of new US softwood duties. Meanwhile: Western Forest Products; Stella-Jones; and Louisiana Pacific all report positive Q1, 2025 earnings.

In Forestry news: Canadian forest leaders commit to sustaining Canada’s forests; Garry Merkel touts UBC’s indigenous land stewardship degree; the USDA announced $23 million to reduce wildfire risk and boost timber production; and Trump’s timber order spurs debate in Vermont’s woods.

Finally, Mosaic wants you to share your take on responsible recreation – take the survey!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

A Trump—Carney meeting today could ease tariff tensions or deepen the divide. In related news: ERA’s Kevin Mason on the high cost of replacing Canadian lumber; DHA’s Keith Christman speaks to decorative hardwood impacts; Mark Carney looks to prefabricated homes to address housing shortage; and lumber prices ease as futures hit yearly lows. Meanwhile: Georgia-Pacific is closing its Emporia, Virginia plywood mill; International Paper breaks ground at its Waterloo, Iowa packaging facility; a log yard fire at BC’s Pioneer Log Homes; and Boise Cascade reports Q1 net income of $40M.

In Forestry news: Trump’s budget proposal points to deep cuts to forest lands; Alaska and New Hampshire seek to boost forest conservation; new research on forest recovery challenges after severe fire; a new study on boreal forests at the UN Forum on Forests; New Zealand on track to ban full farm-to-forest conversions; and the latest news from FSC Canada.

Finally, meet the professionals at BCIT’s industry-driven Wood Processing Program.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Domtar’s Jackson Widjaja is planning for more growth in Canada. In related news: Northern Pulp secures extension of creditor protection; Kimberly-Clark plans to invest in Ohio and South Carolina; Greif Inc. will close its Los Angeles paperboard mill; Washington’s SDS plywood mill is closing next month; and Stora Enso completes acquisition of Finnish sawmill Junnikkala. Meanwhile: George Brown College’s 10-storey mass timber structure nears completion in Toronto; and the latest international market news courtesy of Canada Wood. 

In Forestry/Climate news: McGill University has become a safe place for US climate research data; a whistleblower sues Oregon Dept. of Forestry as its Board of Forestry seeks a new state forester; Calgary wants to double its urban forest canopy; BC’s overwintering fires are becoming more active; and the Ukraine war takes its toll on the forest.

Finally, legendary ponderosa pine Twin Peaks prop emerges for Portland forestry exhibit.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Mercer International, Clearwater Paper and Rayonier Inc. reported Q1, 2025 net losses. In related news: BC-based Cedar Valley Holdings will close in June; Millar Western is temporarily curtailing its BC and Alberta pulp mills; and Smurfit Westrock announced capacity reductions in the US and Germany. In other Business news: Drax abandons AGM due to protests—says pellet production is up; and advice for Prime Minister Carney courtesy of BC’s Premier Eby and the BC Real Estate industry.

In Climate Change news: Canada’s supreme court will not intervene in an Ontario climate case; BC admits its climate goals are out of reach; and the US is suing four states over their GHG reduction laws. In Forestry news: BC invests to address invasive plants; a BC First Nation acquires Interfor forest tenure; new research on how logging impacted Australia’s native forests; and California’s insurance industry wants reforms to prevent massive wildfires.

Finally, Harvard is building a new conference centre – and it’s made entirely of wood.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Kevin Lynch opines on how Canada can best navigate Trump’s trade war—as supply chain disruptions loom. In related news: BC’s forest industry seeks action on trade; Ontario’s premier plans to protect forestry; US Kitchen Cabinet manufacturers urge tariff action; and the US Lumber Coalition says Canada wants to avoid liability. Meanwhile: Northern Pulp seeks another extension of creditor protection; International Paper reports Q1, 2025 loss; and Builders FirstSource released its Social Responsibility report.

In other news: Ontario announced $6.8M for workplace safety; BC streamlines permitting for renewable-energy projects; Colorado lawmakers advocate for forestry-worker reinstatements; and Washington state launches thinning project near Mount Pilchuck. Meanwhile, registration is open for Boston’s Mass Timber+ Conference; and the latest from BC’s First Nations Forestry Council.

Finally, a guitar-shaped mass-timber airport terminal is set to be built in Macon, Georgia.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

A new Forest Products Association of Canada report underscores forestry’s contribution to Canada’s economy. In other Business news: FPAC has an action plan for Canada’s new government; PotlatchDeltic reports Q1, 2025 net income of $26M; and more on the closure of San Group’s Kingsley Trucking. On the Market front: both the Canadian and US economies are shrinking; while US consumer confidence plunged again and US job openings fell.

In Forestry/Climate news: BC says it will miss its climate targets by half; Montreal researchers use tree rings to assess climate change over 800 years; firefighting drones are being tested in BC; and Alaska is split on more logging in the Tongass. Meanwhile: Passive House Canada has a new CEO; the Softwood Lumber Board’s April update; CWC’s Wood Design & Building Awards call for submissions; and SFPA’s new load tables for machine-graded lumber.

Finally, in Ward Stamer—there’s a new logger at work in the BC legislature.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

In his victory speech—Canadian Prime Minister Carney pledged to double the number of homes built annually. Meanwhile: LEED’s new Green Building Standard [v5] focuses on health and well-being of occupants and communities; mass timber projects lead to greater workplace wellness; Domtar’s new wastewater system in Tennessee is still pending; UFP Industries and Stora Enso report positive Q1, 2025 results; and Oregon pursues a new lumber grading system.

In Forestry news: Fort Nelson Community Forest secures wildfire risk reduction grant; the US plan to increase logging is challenged by staff reductions—puts the Endangered Species Act at risk; and recent tweaks to simplify the EU deforestation law spark debate.

Finally, BC Premier David Eby honours those lost on Canada’s National Day of Mourning.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Trump’s trade war is already impacting US farmers, homebuilders and consumers. In related news: the risk of a global recession surges; while lumber futures stabilize. In other Business news: BC-based Kingsley Trucking is seized as part of San Group bankruptcy; a fire destroys Alberta’s Zavisha Sawmills; removing trade barriers is seen as a risk to New Brunswick wood manufacturers; and mass timber showcases courtesy of Ontario and Kansas.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC mayors encourage province to up its harvest; Weyerhaeuser’s logging said to threaten Alberta caribou; Manitoba invests in water bombers; ENGOs say US logging policy threatens 10 species; US Northwest swamps are carbon rich; and the search for a Oregon’s new state forester is underway.

Finally, BC Truck Loggers announce long-awaited tool for BC timber harvest rates.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

BC Forest Minister Ravi Parmar announced 64 new wildfire risk reduction projects. In related news; Alberta gears up for wildfire season; Quebec is modernizing its forestry regime; and the European Commission tries to simplify the EU Deforestation Regulation. Meanwhile: Nova Scotia invests in a BioInnovation Centre; Alberta looks to turn forestry waste into fuel; Clemson University is the first-ever recipient of SFI’s Urban and Community Forest Sustainability Certification; and what happens if Alaska’s carbon-credit forests burn.

In Business news: Weyerhaeuser and Södra report positive Q1, 2025 results; West Fraser has a buyer for its shuttered Perry, Florida sawmill; Drax’s subsidies are questioned by UK spending watchdog; America fears an economic recession; and Forests Canada appoints Christine Leduc new board chair.

Finally, whimsical telescoping castles out of gnarly pieces of Oregon burl wood.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Despite market headwinds, West Fraser Timber reported positive Q1, 2025 earnings of $42 million. In other Business news: Ohio-based Pixelle paused its paper mill closure plan; pushback on New Brunswick’s pulp & paper power subsidies, and a Eugene wood treatment plant CEO faces prison. Meanwhile, US lumber duties point to gloomy days for BC’s West Coast; a nuanced look at US-Canada lumber trade; and Trump looks to deescalate his trade war with China.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canfor passes BC Forest Practices Board audit—with accolades; ENGOs say Ontario Bill 5 will weaken species protection; BC’s Northeast faces drought conditions; a New Jersey wildfire begets State of emergency; Idaho ramps up its forest management; New Mexico’s tree mortality doubles; Oregon looks to increase prescribed burns; and a Tucson judge upholds the Grey Wolf Recovery program.

Finally, FSC’s Leadership Award nominations are now open for projects in Canada and the US.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

New Zealand, Canada, and even England look to innovative wood-frame building solutions in the housing market. In related news: tariff uncertainty dominates the construction industry; the BC Lumber Trade Council warns of soaring costs; New Hampshire sees issues already; and BC and Canada feel the impacts of a global trade war.

In Forestry news: David Elstone gets to the heart of the BC Timber Sales review; Port Alberni finalizes it’s waterfront deal; a pilot project for automated firefighting with drones; spring flooding still a concern in BC; reconciliation at the heart of a BC Supreme Court decision in Haida Gwaii; FSC responds to Swedish firm’s decision to self-terminate its certification; Michigan prepares to battle bark beetles; and NASA collaborates with the forestry team in Fort Stewart.

Finally, would you wear wood? Low carbon adventure shirts hit the market.

Hoppy Easter. See you Tuesday.

Suzanne Hopkinson, Tree Frog News Editor

Growing uncertainty stemming from Trump’s tariffs keep US builder sentiment in negative territory. In related news: reports on the tariff cost and tax hit by industry sector; Fannie Mae says US home prices will moderate; and Canada holds its interest rate steady. In other Business news: Pixelle is closing its paper mill in Chillicothe, Ohio; Sweden’s forest industry is struggling; Russia anticipates growth; and the latest from BC Wood, TimberWest Magazine and the Montreal Wood Convention.

In Forestry news: the Tyee opines on the Canadian election and BC forest workers; the outlook for Michigan’s ice-storm impacted forests; saving eastern oak forests will require more burning; three fire parameters that lead to safer and cleaner burns; and more on Trump’s push to solve wildfires by expanding logging.

Finally, University of BC’s ‘wood-detective’ tunes into sustainably grown guitars.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

International Paper to divest 5 European corrugated box plants as required per its DS Smith acquisition. In other Business news: tariffs may trip-up Godfrey Wood Products’ new OSB mill in Maine; Jasper Lumber’s Alabama sawmill upgrade nears completion; Unifor calls for a Team Canada approach on duties; Adera Development says trade war could boost mass-timber; BC’s Forest Minister says US customers are afraid to protest; and how Vanderhoof, BC is faring after its sawmill closed. Meanwhile: Canada’s housing starts fell in March, and a new report on Canada’s housing crisis.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: the European Space agency is launching a new biomass satellite; Clemson University awards honour forestry accomplishments; University of West Alabama expands its forestry program; BC’s firefighters gather to train; Wisconsin sees records start to wildfire season; California ups investments in wildfire prevention; Eastern White Pine is at risk in the US East; and US logging order sparks fear in the US Southeast.

Finally, research on the value of tropical forests as natural factories of plant chemicals.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News

Trump wants to create a new federal agency that will be responsible for wildland fire fighting nationwide. In related news: preventing a wildfire catastrophe in Alberta’s Bow Valley; BC prepares for its wildfire season, as Forest Minister says BC Timber Sales can help restore BC’s forests; ENGOs say BC old-growth is worth billions; mixed reviews for US plan to increase logging in California, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin; and an Idaho judge halts logging to protect grizzly habitat. 

In Business news: the US Lumber Coalition says Canadian violations of US trade law are an attack on US workers; how companies like Brink Forest Products and the Groman Group are gapping with US tariffs; saving BC forestry will take radical thinking; and the EU pulp & paper industry weighs in on US tariffs. In Market news: US Consumer sentiment fell for the 4th straight month; and US homebuilders fear cost increases.

Finally, Can fungi fight fires? This Alberta town plans to find out.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

BMI Group buys Domtar’s idled pulp and paper mill in Espanola, Ontario. In other Business news: Microsoft signs CO2 removal agreement on the Gulf Coast; citing log shortage—West Fraser Williams Lake mill goes to 4-day week; Stella-Jones appoints Wesley Bourland Senior VP and COO; Gerald Tuskan is awarded the 2025 Marcus Wallenberg Prize; and sadly—Steve Tolnai, Sopron Student and Distinguished BC Forester, dies at 89.

Meanwhile, on the tariff/duty front: United Steelworkers International says Canada is not the problem; Maine grapples with cross-border levies; a Quebec veneer plant pans Canada’s counter tariffs; the US Lumber Coalition reacts to media banter; and Vietnam’s timber sector wants to make a deal.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Alberta invests to upgrade wildfire monitoring; more support for the US Fix Our Forest Act (for wildfire resilience); and two US Senators introduce a Jobs in the Woods Act (for training).

Finally, on Day 5 of Wildfire Resilience and Awareness Week—the BC is Burning documentary; and How Businesses Can Prepare for the Wildfire Season.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Trump reverses course on global tariffs with 90-day pause (for all but China)—but won’t change current tariffs hitting Canada. Meanwhile: in response to the US plan to double lumber duties on Canada in August: 

• ERA’s Kevin Mason says lumber prices will move lower until higher duties kick in
• RISI’s Dustin Jaibert says US pivot-to-pine will come with substitution challenges
• BC’s Minister Ravi Parmar says Trump is ‘dead wrong’ about lumber trade 
• US Lumber Dealers say duties would be duplicative and counterproductive

In Forestry/Wildfire news: what Trump’s logging plan means for Colorado; Oklahoma’s governor stands by his Forest Service firings; the US Forest Service backtracks on Minnesota logging; behind the scenes at a Missouri tree nursery; a new documentary on BC Indigenous forestry practices; and how South Korea’s deadliest wildfire spread.

Finally, on Day 3 of Wildfire Resilience and Awareness Week—a documentary on BC’s worst fire season; and wildfire studies as a distinct academic discipline.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

China retaliates with 84% tariffs on US as trade tensions intensify, stock markets plunge, supply chains are strained, and more tariff announcements are coming. In related news: US homebuilders says lumber should be tariff-exempt for national security; the United Steelworkers and Unifor say US countervailing duties are unwarranted; and upping timber supply in the US West will be challenging. In other Business news: Pacific Woodtech and Domtar have a new agreement, Drax fails to secure Mississippi emission permit; and Norway will host the 2025 International Softwood Conference. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Trump fast-tracks reviews to ramp-up logging;  ENGOs pan Minister Parmar’s suggestion of wildfire treatments in BC parks; US exits carbon talks on shipping; Colorado faces new mountain pine bark beetle surge; and more firings at Oklahoma Forestry Services.

Finally, on Day 3 of Wildfire Resilience and Awareness Week—stories by Strategic Natural Resource Consultants, and Líl̓wat Forestry Ventures.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The US Department of Commerce released its preliminary countervailing duties on Canadian lumber, even before the Trump tariffs hit. In related news: Prime Minister Carney discusses softwood lumber duties with BC Premier Eby; Canada’s economy is starting to crack; US homebuilder stocks tumble; and the European Commission considers its tariff response. Meanwhile: the Decorative Hardwood Association on wood imports that affect US national security; and the Wood Pallet and Container Association has a new board.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: push back on Trump’s timber plans East and West; Oklahoma’s Governor resists calls to reconsider firing—says Forest Service held back; and BC ENGO’s put a price on old-growth forest protection. Meanwhile: charges laid in Grande Prairie lumber mill death; and (with apologies) a correction to the COFI panel on Fibre, and once again the overall conference wrap-up.

Finally, on Day 2 of Wildfire Resilience and Awareness Week: certificate training (MacLeod Forest Services), worker safety (BC Forest Safety Council), and lessons learned (Mosaic).

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Tariffs, Lumber Duties and COFI Conference Wrap-up:

On Trump’s Tariffs:

• Stock market reverses course on potential 90-day tariff pause
• Stocks swing down, up, down again as markets assess damage
• Global markets plunge on Trump’s tariff turmoil
• Tariff chaos puts White House on defence as markets tumble

On Softwood Lumber Duties:

• US set to significantly hike softwood lumber duties against Canada
• BC Premier calls out attack, plans to meet with Mark Carney on duties
• Alberta and Ontario warn of rising housing costs due to lumber duties
• US Lumber Coalition applauds the enforcement of US trade laws
• Tariffs and duties will hurt housing affordability, raise risk of recession

Feature presentations at the 2025 COFI Conference:

• BC Premier Eby and Minister Parmar on tariffs, timber and transformation 
• The Elephant in the Room isn’t just fibre, its the system itself
• The Next 4 Years: US relations and forest products trade
• Summary Wrap-up: all the conference sessions in chronolgoical order

In other news: Trump orders sweeping reforms, half of national forests open for logging; FSC extends suspension of Asia Pulp & Paper; Canada invests in several Kamloops-based forestry initiatives; and BC takes action to improve wildfire resiliency.

Finally, together with the Western Canada SFI Implementation Committee, we bring you our third annual Wildfire Resilience and Awareness Week. A series of stories focused on wildfire mitigation and best practices complemented by a Wildfire Resource Page.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The BC Council of Forest Industries Conference kicked off amidst high anxiety over softwood lumber—despite the tone change from the US. Conference highlights include: Chief Terry Teegee set the conference tone; Kurt Niquidet provided an economic outlook; Russ Taylor led on global markets; and others opined on trade and innovation. In related tariff news: China retaliated with 34% tariffs on US imports, sending stock markets down and recession fears up; while US homebuilders celebrate lumber’s exemption (for now), as lumber prices still fell. 

In other news: BC announces new Forestry Support Bureau for jobs; Steelworkers to gather for their national policy conference; Mercer power’s Walmart’s new mass timber campus; lawmakers panned suggestion to kill Oklahoma’s Forestry Service; and timber organizations seek revamp of Northwest Forest Plan.

Finally, the Global Buyers Mission 2025 date is set; and sadly—BC coast logging legend Mark Ponting dies at 66.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor