Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News

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

Kelly, Sandy, Heidi and Suzi

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Wildfire lessons from Jasper, Alberta suggest forest management helped save the town. But as Parks Canada offers tours ahead of the fire’s anniversary, Alberta’s Premier is demanding an apology over a critical report. In related news: Canada launches a wildfire resilience hub; Ontario scientists probe northern fire trends; BC is Burning aims to ignite change in forest policy; Oregon’s Skyline Forest tests new burning technology; evacuations are ordered in Musgrave Harbour, Newfoundland; Grand Canyon’s North Rim fire was unstoppable; and Oregon’s largest fire nears megafire status. Meanwhile: Vancouver’s Stanley Park weighs more looper moth tree removals; BC ENGOs push for access to private forests; and Colorado’s old-growth ponderosa pines are protected.

In Business news: Bloomberg and the National Post offer softwood lumber explainers, as Canada’s premiers meet to talk trade; US Secretary Lutnick says tariffs are coming; and Daniel Dorman says Trump’s tariffs will enable China’s rise. Meanwhile: why Nova Scotia missed out on a new pulp mill; slower growth is projected for US remodelling; and US Consumer sentiment is unchanged in July.

Finally, mass timber news via Vancouver’s PNE Amphitheatre, and Saanich’s Fire Station #2.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

WorkSafeBC surplus spurs debate over possible breaks in forestry premiums. In other Business news: New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt and BC Forests Minister Ravi Parmar are open to lumber quotas to end the US trade fight; the US investigates Brazil’s forestry practices; AF&PA warns that EU rules risk $3.5B in exports; and the USDA commits $80M to expand timber markets. Meanwhile: Nova Scotia promises more wood heat and buildings following Northern Pulp’s asset sale; BC Premier Eby shuffles his cabinet; Cascades invests in its Quebec tissue plant; and US single-family housing starts fall while multifamily climbs.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: wilderness groups call for reform on private forest land; Canada partners with Trees for Life on urban planting; Woodlots BC seeks new board members; longleaf pine seed prospects are poor in the US Southeast; the Grand Canyon’s North Rim fire sparks debate on forest health; Sooke, BC’s fire danger rating hits extreme; Mount Hood hikers are ordered to evacuate; and the University of Oregon’s mass timber innovation project earns national recognition.

Finally, the Globe & Mail Editorial Board say it’s time to fight fire with fire in Canada.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Lumber quotas could be part of a Canada–US trade deal, said Prime Minister Carney. In response, the US Lumber Coalition panned the idea, while a Canadian litigator thinks the idea is unwise. In other Business news: Nova Scotia promotes more wood use in construction; Kalesnikoff’s Andrew Stiffman talks mass timber; Drax is called a top UK polluter; US industries brace for Trump’s tariffs; and US homebuilder confidence edges up.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: UBC researchers link clear-cutting to a rise in flooding; logging in Ontario’s boreal forest is called unsustainable; Northern Pulp’s asset sale raises questions about who pays for the cleanup; Oregon declares a state of emergency due to wildfire threat; California debuts a burn severity mapping tool; and Trump’s 20-year logging contracts could tie up the land. Meanwhile: dogs sniff out lanternfly eggs, wasps battle emerald ash borers, and golden oyster mushrooms spread unchecked across eastern forests.

Finally, a new study says mass timber could spur intensive forest management and reduce GHGs.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Canada is open to considering limits on softwood lumber exports to the US to ease trade friction, says BC Premier David Eby. In other Business news: Georgia-Pacific is upgrading its Englehart, Ontario OSB mill; Ontario fines AV Terrace Bay pulp mill for air emissions breach; and more on Northern Pulp’s decision to sell its Nova Scotia mill assets. Meanwhile: US inflation picks up as tariffs take hold; lumber futures rise past $650; and Canadian housing starts surprise with June jump. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: experts warn of another fish die-off in BC’s Cowichan River; a campfire ban is announced for coastal BC; Oregon invokes Conflagration Act to help with wildfires; and Trump’s bill may worsen US wildfire risks. Meanwhile: New Brunswick polluters fall short of emissions goals; Kaitlin Lovell will lead Oregon’s state lands agency; a New York collage invests in Northern Forest resilience; and Russia’s timber sector struggles under sanctions.

Finally, the industry-leading 2025 Global Buyers Mission is coming—and booth space is filling up fast!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Northern Pulp announced it will sell it assets after failing to secure new mill funding—Nova Scotia minister says province will continue to pursue a new mill. In other Business news: Amix Marine moves to Port Alberni, BC; two Idaho forestry businesses are devastated by wildfire; and Drax has a new VP of Corporate Affairs. Meanwhile: Trump strikes a trade deal with Indonesia; the EU threatens counter-tariffs; Earthsight exposes illegal Russian wood; and Canada’s inflation nudges up to 1.9%.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: air quality concerns linger as new wildfires are confirmed, and smoke blankets central Canada; Australian crews deploy to help fight Canadian fires; BC Forest Practices Board audits BCTS operations near Merritt; the Tłı̨chǫ Nation launches a reforestation plan; and Eastern Oregon’s old-growth trees are in decline. Meanwhile: leaders in BC’s North Cowichan, South Dakota’s Black Hills, and Oregon call for forest policy support.

Finally, and sadly, logger Ron Hollingsworth, died in a workplace accident on BC’s Sunshine Coast.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

The historic Grand Canyon Lodge was destroyed by wildfire in Arizona. In related news: smoke from Canadian fires hits Ontario and the US Midwest; one-third of northeast BC could burn this year; Oregon firefighters have restrained early-season fires; the USDA issues Code Red Extreme Forest Fire Risk; and both US and Canadian groups are accused of spreading wildfire misinformation. In Forestry news: BC releases new measures to support caribou recovery; and more perspectives on the impact of the US Roadless Rule change.

In Business news: New Brunswick Power’s plan to burn wood pellets is under fire; the clean-up required at shuttered Port Alice pulp mill; Louisiana Pacific extinguishes fire at Thomasville, Alabama mill; and a US fund that supports wood innovation is on the chopping block. Meanwhile: UBC Forestry is recruiting for a research chair in Natural Resource Governance; and FSC Canada seeks two senior managers.

Finally, David Suzuki hasn’t given up the climate fight, he’s just changing his battle plan.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Canada and US ramp up negotiations ahead of Trump’s August 1 tariff deadline. In related news: a trade deal seems unlikely, as Trump threatens higher tariffs, and Carney seeks to avoid conflict. In other Business news: Kruger expands its Memphis tissue facility; Goodfellow reports stable Q2 sales; the US Lumber Coalition calls for an end to expedited duty reviews, Vancouver’s container port expansion goes out for bid; Canada’s job surge cools talk of a rate cut; US remodeler sentiment dips; and Toronto’s Hälsa project showcases mass timber innovation.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC First Nations protest timber sales on unceded territory; Manitoba renews its state of wildfire emergency as wildfires rage and air quality deteriorates; Senator Lee applauds US repeal of the Roadless Rule, as fire-focused budget cuts dominate US Forest Service hearings; a look at a Louisiana wildfire two years post-fire; and Estonia looks to employ more controlled burns.

Finally, FPAC names its 2025 Green Dream Interns; and Oregon’s legendary smokejumper base museum.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Six Republican lawmakers asked Ottawa to curb wildfire smoke impacting their states, claim Canada’s lack of ‘active forest management’ is to blame. In related news: Canadian experts push back on US claims; BC Wildfire crews are assisting with the Hope Fire in Washington, the Yukon looks to bioenergy to reduce fire risk; and the fire emergency in Marseille, France is under control. In other Forestry news: Parks Canada and BC invest in ecological connectivity; and Hydro-Quebec uses AI to reduce power outages caused by trees.

In Business news: US homebuilders say the housing crisis trumps imported lumber as a national security risk; CNN says tariffs are finally starting to impact prices; UK softwood traders report strong Q2 demand; and investments in European forests are on the rise. Meanwhile; COFI’s Kim Haakstad is named to BC influential leaders list; Ontario announced funding for five biomass projects; and Oregon and Idaho timber sales are on the rise.

Finally, a new study confirms FSC certification contributes to increased forest cover.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Cascades will permanently close its Niagara Falls, New York, corrugated medium facility, affecting 123 workers. In related news: Newfoundland’s Corner Brook pulp mill faces contamination claim; the US Hardwood Forestry Fund winds down after 35 years; and the US moves forward on trade cases targeting hardwood plywood from China et al. Meanwhile, Trump has pushed his tariff deadline to August 1; the Bank of America warns tariffs could raise US homebuilding costs; Oregon researchers say wood outperforms plastic in healthcare settings; and Ireland launches a new timber construction R&D strategy.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC’s fire season is quieter than past years but risks persist; BC Timber Sales proposes logging and fire mitigation near Nelson; Montana advances a forest conservation deal with Green Diamond; New Zealand supports Manitoba’s wildfire efforts; Spain reports progress on the Paüls wildfire, and France battles a fire near Marseille. Meanwhile: Canada’s wood pellet industry conference touts biomass for a low-carbon future; while David Suzuki says the fight against climate change is lost.

Finally, could support-exoskeletons reduce forestry’s injury rate? Texas researchers say yes.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

2025 is a ‘supply-side story’, says ERA’s Kevin Mason—as weak demand plagues all forest product segments. In related news: Russ Taylor highlights the looming 34.5% US duties on Canadian lumber; Metsä warns of a weak Q2 amid poor pulp demand; US homebuilders continue to consolidate; Fannie Mae sees housing sentiment slip; and 18 buyers have eyed Pixelle’s shuttered Ohio mill. Meanwhile: Ontario invests in forest biomass, Oregon researchers show that wood resists microbes better than plastic; and Wisconsin pulp mills are encouraging women to the workforce.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC’s wildfires fuel debate over thinning vs clearcutting, as new guides on hazard assessment and abatement are released; Ontario’s largest fire is now being held; the massive post-fire tree-clearing effort in Jasper; and Washington protects cool water in forest streams. Meanwhile: wildfire smoke brings a forgotten danger to the arctic; and solving one of forestry’s safety challenges—phase congestion.

Finally, a PBS video explores stone tree trunks in Canada’s arctic.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Wildfires are on the move again in Canada, the United States and Europe. In related news: Ontario wildfire crews sound the alarm over fatigue and funding. In Forestry news: Colorado fights a beetle outbreak with synthetic pheromones; BC groups pan logging in caribou habitat; Finland unveils new carbon sink measures; Australia releases a national Timber Fibre Strategy; and the Maine Forest Products Council slams media for misrepresenting biomass. 

In Business news: Sumitomo announces its first US timber industrial complex; Trump extends the tariff deadline to August 1; homebuilders brace for construction cost spike; and 2024 US multifamily completions hit a 38-year high.

Finally, BCIT is looking for Natural Resource instructors; the CIF’s 2025 conference registration is open; and BCCFA launched a new wildfire outreach tool.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

BC Forests Minister Ravi Parmar salutes forestry crews “grinding it out every day” following his tour of Wahkash Contracting and Mosaic’s TFL 47, while Peter Lister returns to his roots to lead the BC Truck Loggers Association. In other Business news: fire destroys Nova Scotia’s L.E. Elliott Lumber mill; L.A.’s Angel City Lumber gives street trees new life; Oregon approves $1M for the World Forestry Center; and Finland’s Metsä readies its Kemi mills after major repairs.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: in Canada—wildfires now emit more GHGs than all other sources combined; Canada and Yukon invest $17M to reduce wildfire risk; a poor choice of protective gear put Halifax firefighters at greater risk; and climate change is increasingly blamed for making fires worse. Meanwhile: Trump’s tax-and-spending bill passes Congress—slashing programs and timber funding in Oregon—while New Zealand warns of US tariffs as the Section 232 deadline approaches. 

Finally, to our US readers—wishing you Safe and Happy Independence Day.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

With Trump’s 90-day tariff pause set to expire July 9, the US Lumber Coalition renews its attack on Canadian lumber. In other Business news: Tolko and Meadow Lake Tribal Council sign an MOU; BC builders welcome development cost changes; South Carolina turns to biomass to revive its forest economy; and Sweden’s VIDA names Måns Johansson as Vice Chair. Meanwhile: the USDA boosts mass timber capacity; North Carolina researchers develop Styrofoam packaging alternatives; Cincinnati unveils the first mass timber broadcast facility; and Finland’s Spinnova uses spiderweb science to turn wood pulp into textiles.

In Forestry news: FSC supports the EU’s anti-greenwashing directive; FSC Canada releases its annual report; SFI backs the G7 Wildfire Charter; Canada’s signature waterbomber gets a upgrade; BC faces tree canopy shortages; and Michigan trials assisted tree migration. In Wildfire news: the fire near Lytton, BC is being held, but a new fire grows to the north; and crews respond to an “out of control” blaze on Vancouver Island.

Finally, the EU will allow international carbon credits in its binding GHG emissions target.

Kelly McCloskey, Editor

A fire at Western Forest Products’ Columbia Vista mill in Washington rendered it inoperable. In other Company news: International Paper plans major facility closures and exits the moulded fibre market; Domtar finalizes Powell River land sale, and advances its anaerobic digester in Tennessee; and Woodgrain is closing its Pilot Rock mill in Oregon. Meanwhile: Brink Forest Products is fined for a worker injury; BC community leaders strategize over Western’s Chemainus mill curtailment; and more accolades for Kalesnikoff”s new mass timber facility in BC.

In Forestry news: BC Timber Sales faces opposition over Walker Creek cutblocks; High Bar First Nation and West Fraser ink a Development Agreement; and the Forest Practices Board launches a biodiversity audit near Terrace, BC. South of the border, the US public lands sell-off is dropped from policy bill; the USDA and Montana sign a wildfire mitigation pact, and debate continues over the rollback of roadless protections in California, Tennessee and Oregon. In Wildfire news: a fire near Lytton, BC prompts local state of emergency; and thousands flee fires in Turkey amid Europe’s heatwave.

Finally, APA’s 2024 Safety Awards and the Canadian Wood Council’s 2024 Annual Report. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Canfor announced the closure of its Darlington and Estill sawmills in South Carolina. In other Business news: Indiana highlights its $10B hardwood industry; Harvard reports worsening US housing affordability; the Western Governors release a new housing plan; and Europe’s timber industry undergoes a consolidation wave. On the Wood Promotion front: Ontario launches an advanced wood construction plan; BC’s Forestry Innovation Investment shares its 2024/25 year in review; and the Softwood Lumber Board June program highlights.

In Forestry/Climate news: four US senators push back on the Forest Service reorganization; more debate over the benefits and risks with Trump’s roadless rule rollback; Montana advances the Bonanza timber project; debates continue over carbon capture’s role in climate policy; a California nonprofit pivots from pellets to wood chips; the Squamish Nation and BC strengthen forest stewardship; and Mosaic hears from 7,600 respondents on outdoor access. 

Finally, with summer here, so is the wildfire season—here’s the latest from FESBC.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Experts agree that the G7’s Wildfire Charter is positive but needs to shift from response to prevention. In related news: Tom Fletcher speaks to fighting fires in a fog of misinformation; Statistics Canada assesses GPD impact of 2023 fires; Ontario improves working conditions for firefighters; Oregon passes bill to repeal Wildfire Hazard Map; and American Scientists give mixed review of US wildfire orders. Meanwhile, Senator Mike Lee vows to resurrect US public lands sale; ENGOs say logging continues in BC’s caribou habitat; and the WWF asks business to help reverse forest loss. 

In Business news: Domtar reaches settlement agreement with Michigan over waste materials; a California nonprofit scales back wood pellet mill plans; the US investigates hardwood plywood trade; and Mackenzie, BC rebounds after mill closures. Meanwhile: the US economy shrank more than expected in Q1, 2025; Deloitte says a mild recession is likely in Canada; the latest newsletter from Woodlots BC; and Canadian retail lumberman Michael Westrum dies at 79.

Finally, researchers explore use of tree bark waste to reduce radar detection. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Oregon-based Hampton Lumber bucks South Carolina’s mill closure trend with new sawmill announcement. In related news: SmartLam’s Alabama expansion is paying dividends; US homebuilders wonder if lumber self-reliance is possible; Southern Pine exports are up; and US consumer confidence is down again. Meanwhile: the BC lawsuit over RCMP actions at Fairy Creek is dismissed;  BC First Nations want to expand their forest economy; and the Softwood Lumber Board reports Q1, 2025 lumber demand generated.

In Forestry news: Trump’s Roadless Rule change garners support while raising concerns; the US plan to sell public land hits Senate roadblock; and Vietnam aims to up its FSC and PEFC certification. Meanwhile, new studies on climate mitigation via burying forest waste; natural-regeneration and carbon-credit schemes. 

Finally, the BC is Burning documentary premiers in Vernon tomorrow!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

To the delight of some and dismay of others—the US plans to rollback the 2001 Roadless Rule, allowing logging and thinning in 58 million acres of federal lands. In Business news: San Group’s Port Alberni holdings are sold; mill-fire updates at East Fraser Fibre in Quesnel, BC and K&D Products in Panguitch, Utah; lumber futures ease down; and Canadian inflation holds steady. Meanwhile: Perkins&Will is recognized at the 2025 Carbon Leadership Forum; and Kelowna, BC and Chico, California celebrate mass timber milestones. 

In Forestry/Climate news: Manitoba’s premier ends wildfire state of emergency; JD Irving employs heavy-lift drones to support planting; RBC says BC businesses may up their spending on climate adaptation; and the Great Bear Rainforest is selling carbon offsets. Meanwhile: a European Commission report on biomass supply and use; and the UK plans to scrap green levies to boost growth, while bioenergy subsidies may increase demand for wood pellets.

Finally, another study says wildfire heat and smoke combine to increase mortality risk.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

A New Brunswick judge signaled that private forest land is off the table in Wolastoqey Nation title claim. In related news: Premier Eby says BC’s economic fast-track plan won’t trample indigenous interests; and Idaho Senators came out against US public land-sale provision. Meanwhile: a new study says private reforestation in the US South is profitable; Weyerhaeuser invests in Arkansas’ small-tree forests; how robots are talking Canada’s prefab-housing to the next level; and Phoenix authorizes 18-storey mass timber buildings. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: why Canada’s wildfire smoke is tormenting Minnesotans; Ontario has a water bomber pilot shortage; Coulson Aviation brings night-vision technology to firefighting; the hidden impact of clear-cut logging in BC; gutting the US Forest Service will cause irreparable damage; and the EU biomass satellite reveals its striking first images of forests and more.

Finally, the dangerous bully doing the most harm to our ecosystem and wildlife.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

BC Forest Practices Board says forestry can be a powerful wildfire-defence tool. In related news: WorkSafeBC says employers must protect forestry workers during the wildfire season; UBC researchers say wildfires are effecting Fraser River water quality; and high-tech planes lead BC’s wildfire response. In other Forestry news: a new study questions glyphosate use in New Brunswick; a judge rules in favour of Teal-Jones forest licence sale; and a UK forester promotes Grown in Britain trees.

In other news: the top six issues to review in US-Mexico-Canada trade; the Wolastoqey seek the return of New Brunswick land owned by forest companies; a new report on paper mills and greenhouse gases; Louisiana Pacific names Tony Hamill COO; and Roseburg FP promotes Matt Holt and Alexandre Ouellette.

Finally, to squeeze or not-to-squeeze the Charmin – a new documentary premieres July 1.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor

Three New Brunswick timber companies are appealing to have their land excluded from Wolastoqey title claim. In other Business news: Weyerhaeuser breaks ground on its Arkansas TimberStrand plant; Sierra Pacific invests to upgrade its Eugene, Washington sawmill; and DS Smith employs biomass waste to power its Normandy, France paper mill.

In Economic & Finance news, perspectives abound courtesy of:

• Business in Vancouver: Manufacturing is crucial to BC but policy is falling short
• PricewaterhouseCoopers: Canadian economic transformation amid uncertainty
• C.D. Howe Institute: Urgency and Caution: Charting a Path to the CUSMA Review
• National Association of Home Builders: The US Fed Rate Pause Continues

In Forestry news: FPAC welcomes G7 wildfire commitment; Oregon researchers monitor forest health; Yellowstone’s wolf reintroduction program is having an impact; what’s at stake for Alaska with Trump’s Big, Beautiful Bill; a new UN report on planting fast-growing trees; and changes to urban tree management comes to Whistler, BC and Portland, Oregon.

Finally, researchers turn forestry-waste into biopharmaceuticals, and agri-waste into cellulose fibres.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor