Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

Today’s Takeaway

Tolko’s Lavington lumber mill is back to full operations

The Tree Frog Forestry News
January 31, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Tolko’s lumber mill in Lavington, BC is operating again after a two-month interruption. In related news: Arizona’s Restoration Forest Products filed for bankruptcy; Enviva’s woes could lead to stock exchange loss; and PotlatchDeltic reported a slight loss in Q4, 2023.

In other news: three Canadian provinces push for mass timber code changes; Ontario invests in its forest sector; BC’s proposed Land Act changes are called ‘huge’; US consumer confidence is up; Canadian home builders are increasingly pessimistic, and the US Federal Reserve is in no hurry to cut interest rates. Meanwhile: the latest from the Wood Pellet Association of Canada; Think Wood, and the Global Wood Summit.

Finally, the Tree Frog News is proud to share that in 2023, our steady growth continued with over 74,300 unique visitors/readers. Without our supporters, North America’s only open-access forestry news aggregator focused exclusively on the forest sector, simply wouldn’t exist. February 1st marks the beginning of our 2024 year. Please consider supporting the Tree Frog, either as a Friend of the Frog or a Sponsor.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Ontario invests $9.4 million in 14 forest biomass projects

The Tree Frog Forestry News
January 30, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Ontario is investing $9.4 million in 14 projects to develop untapped potential of forest biomass. In related news: BC supports value-added wood manufacturing; a Canadian report on the potential of modular construction; the US looks to mass timber for military projects; and an Oregon firm is testing wood hybrid flooring in highrises. Company headlines include: Northern Pulp (terminating recall rights); Teal Jones (Fairy Creek lawsuits); Timberwest Manufacturing (mill fire); Drax (carbon capture and storage); and Domtar Elk County (mill injuries).

In Forestry/Climate news: a US Supreme Court review of the national monuments Act called overdue; an ENGO report say BC overcounts its protected old-growth; Bruce Blackwell on the potential of post-fire timber salvaging; and more on BC’s plan to share Crown land decision making with First Nations.

Finally, new research on whether trees filter air pollution that can stiffen human arteries.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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BC looks at sweeping changes to managing public lands

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

Columnist Vaughn Palmer says BC is quietly looking to co-manage public lands with First Nations. In related news: the Snuneymuxw First Nation adds to its reserve; TLA addresses BC’s forestry challenges; and a UBC professor says its time for a rethink. In other news: Quebec sawmills were unprofitable in 2023; no date set for Tolko High Prairie mill reopening; CC Allis & Sons’ mill rebuild in Pennsylvania; and Hayward Lumber expands in California.

In Forestry/Climate news: a US bipartisan effort to combat wildfires; a California bill seeks to monitor fire smoke; Oregon trainers look to put more good fire on the ground; Ontario firefighters are exposed to toxin risk; and the Amazon’s record drought is fuelled by climate change. Meanwhile: the American Wood Council announces its new Board; and forest communicator Jess Ketchum branches out again.

Finally the first full-height laminated veneer lumber wind turbine goes for a spin.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor 

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Paper Excellence to indefinitely curtail Crofton, BC paper mill

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

Paper Excellence announced the indefinite curtailment of its paper operations at Catalyst Crofton. In related news: Unifor calls on government to take action on Crofton; Steelworkers and First Nations bemoan Fraser Lake mill’s closure; Resolute reports fatality at Thunder Bay mill; Mosaic finalizes land sale to Homalco First Nation and Weyerhaeuser reports positive Q4, 2023 results. In Market news: US GDP was up 3.3% in Q4; and US new home sales rose, while China’s fell to new low.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada invests in indigenous climate solutions; the US pay increase for firefighters is still pending; California announces a conservation easement for Mt. Shasta; and ENGOs push back on North Carolina timber project. Meanwhile: Albany chemists develop new technique to fight illegal logging; Tree Canada releases a carbon footprint app; and the Canadian Wood Council turns 65!

Finally, how many law students does it take to steal Berth the forestry moose (7+).

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Boise Cascade, WestRock announce new investments

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

Boise Cascade is growing its engineered wood production in Alabama and Louisiana, while WestRock plans to build a corrugated box plant in Wisconsin. In related news: BC First Nations are upset over Fraser Lake sawmill closure; and Paper Excellence says equipment failure led to discharge fine. Meanwhile: Georgia secures grant to upgrade the Port of Brunswick; and industry veteran Adrian Blocker joins the Yesler board.

In Forestry/Climate news: UBC researchers on the effect of forests on floods; David Suzuki on how to fix forest degradation; Alberta researchers on fungal infections and pine beetles; more questions raised in UK watchdog’s warning on biomass burning; and the governor of Wisconsin approves a new conservation easement. 

Finally, the new Snark of the Universe is forest industry CEO Paul Beltgens. Hoo-Hoo new?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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UK auditor endorses biomass energy provided it meets sustainability rules

The Tree Frog Forestry News
January 24, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

The UK’s National Audit Office supports biomass energy provided the government can prove it meets sustainability rules. In related news: Jock Finlayson says the decline in BC’s timber harvesting reflects beetle infestation and government policy; Fraser Lake leaders hold emergency meeting to deal with mill closure; and West Fraser reflects on changes to its Quesnel operations in 2023. Meanwhile: Two Sides’ Kathi Rowzie is retiring; CWC’s Wood Design & Building magazine is moving to digital only; and the Forest Enhancement Society of BC released its accomplishments report.

In Forestry/Climate news: BC’s monoculture forests are called less ecologically intelligent; Oregon postpones Applegate Valley timber sale again; Washington’s Skagit County Extension closes its forestry program; a Maine investment fund makes its first forest purchase; and the pros and cons of the carbon market.

Finally, a study on the effectiveness of creating standing dead trees for wildlife habitat.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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West Fraser to permanently close sawmill in Fraser Lake, BC

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

Citing fibre shortages, West Fraser announced it will close its sawmill in Fraser Lake, BC. In related news: Richmond Plywood secures funds to upgrade its equipment; Lumber Plus expands distribution in New York; and Freres Lumber sues the US Forest Service for wildfire inaction. On the US Market front, more downs-than-ups for remodelling, pulp and paper and the economy in general; and what’s up with Southern Pine exports.

In Forestry/Climate news: NRCan’s Werner Kurz on wildfires’ GHG impact; Alberta looks to fight wildfires with night-vision equipped helicopters, the recent cold spell helps manage the pine beetle; ENGOs are optimistic about BC’s biodiversity plan; Colorado passes a wildfire awareness bill; and a new paper on how forest carbon markets impact forest health and communities.

Finally, FSC Canada bids farewell to two; posts job for Director of Policy & Standards.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Politicians weigh in on Ontario and Oregon mill closures

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

Politicians weigh in on the impact of mill closures in Terrace Bay, Ontario and Banks, Oregon. In related news: San Group secures $2.5 million for equipment; Catalyst is fined for 2021 waste discharge; and Kevin Falcon wants to move BC’s forestry ministry to Prince George. In Market news: US mortgage rates trend down; US population growth returns to pre-pandemic levels; and the latest on wood promotion from the Softwood Lumber Board.

In Forestry/Climate news: reframing the climate-role of forests in the US and Canada; ENGO’s say State of Canada’s Forests Report is replete with ‘spin’; Nick Smith calls for more active wildfire management; and the US is set to strengthen limits on fine particular matter. Meanwhile: a BC Green leader is convicted for participating in the Fairy Creek blockades; and the Adam’s Lake Indian Band’s logging fine is reduced.

Finally, you wouldn’t download a modular house. Or would you?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US home builders expect ‘pivot to great growth’ in 2024

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

The National Association of Home Builders’ CEO expects to pivot to an era of great growth in 2024. In related news: economists say rate cuts are not likely until June; remodeller sentiment is up; young adults are flying the coop; and Canada’s forestry GDP ticks up. In other Business news: Canada transfers land to Nunavut territory; an Ontario First Nations claim could cost billions; Canada invests in Kalesnikoff and Daizen Joinery; BC helps Downie Timber reduce its reliance on old-growth; and what’s next for ‘beset’ Enviva.

In Forestry/Climate news: an ENGO report pans Canada’s logging sector; US researchers say old forests are critical for slowing climate change; a study on restoring western US dry forests; and an EU report on British Columbia’s 2023 wildfire GHGs. Meanwhile: Heidi Brock on AF&PA’s Sustainability Awards; and Andrew De Vires succeeds JP Martell at the Canadian Forest Owners organization.

Finally, winterizing nursery seedlings to protect them from extreme cold.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Canada to challenge US decision to maintain lumber duties

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

Canada announced its plan to challenge the US decision to maintain duties on softwood lumber. In other Business news: Canada’s lumber mills grapple with unfilled jobs; BC announced funding for 6 value-added wood manufacturers; Canfor adopts a hydrogen energy system; Western Archrib is expanding its glulam production; Catalyst Crofton is fined for 2021 waste discharge; JD Irving reports record hiring in 2023; Weyerhaeuser is working with Habitat for Humanity; and the UK is panned for supporting Drax’s wood energy initiative.

In Forestry/Climate news: BC can reduce impending wildfire risks; Oregon drops its wildfire funding proposal; Wisconsin’s paper industry fights EPA rule; industry promotes forest carbon management in Washington; and a research consortium is working on emission-free pulping in Finland.

Finally, US building permits jump as builder sentiment surges on falling interest rates.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Black Press newspaper empire to be restructured and sold

The Tree Frog Forestry News
January 17, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Black Press Ltd., a West Coast community-news empire, is being restructured and sold. In related news: Pixelle sold its paper mill assets in Jay, Maine; Enviva missed a payment to its bondholders; Cascades is celebrating 60 years; Canfor adds hydrogen power to its Prince George pulp mill; and more on Ontario’s Terrace Bay pulp mill closure.

In other news: Atlantic Canada looks to modular housing to increase its housing supply; Canada’s inflation rate dashes hope of an early interest rate cut; a Saskatchewan First Nation is raising logging concerns; Montana pushes back on Senator Daines’ wilderness proposal; researchers are assessing smoke hazards from California prescribed burns; and a story on keeping Idaho’s ‘working forests working’.

Finally, stay safe as frigid and snowy weather is hitting much of Canada and the US.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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UK approves Drax’s bioenergy with carbon capture project

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

The UK government approved Drax’s bioenergy with ‘carbon capture and storage‘ project, despite opposition. In other Business news: BC’s Premier Eby appoints Andrew Mercier Minister of State for Sustainable Forestry Innovation; COFI’s Linda Coady says we need to invest to transform BC’s industry; and David Elstone opines on what’s coming in 2024. Elsewhere: Resolute’s Calhoun mill had a small fire; GreenFirst announced Terry Skiffington as new paper mill CEO; and Boise Cascade’s Tom Hoffman is retiring.

In Forestry/Climate news: the debate continues on how Canada’s forest emissions are tallied; climate change is reshaping forests differently across the US; a Quebec man has confessed to setting 14 forest fires; and West Virginia reports out on its very active 2023 fire season

Finally, despite the cold front—more than 100 wildfires are still burning in BC.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Tallest Mass Timber Building to Break Ground in Milwaukee

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

At 32 storeys, North America’s tallest mass timber building is coming to Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 2024. In related news: the aesthetic and architectural appeal of wood; and a mass timber design course for manufacturing and assembly. In Business news: US Senators blame conservation plan for Hampton sawmill closure; US building material prices tick up at year-end after plummeting in 2023; and Fastmarkets predictions for housing and lumber in 2024.

In forestry news: the Council of Canadians takes aim at BC forest laws; Quebec is urged to publish its caribou protection plan; Oregon State University says short rotations maximize carbon storage; and ENGOs file lawsuit against logging and thinning plans in Montana. Meanwhile: an NRCan researcher says Canada should be on high alert for the 2024 wildfire season, and insurance lessons abound courtesy of a 20-year old BC Okanagan fire.

Finally, building guitars from old window frames, barns and river bottom logs.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US greenhouse gas emissions down 1.9% in 2023

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

Despite economic growth, US greenhouse gas emissions declined nearly 2% in 2023. In related news: researchers study the carbon potential of bio-based products, prefab buildings have proven climate advantages; forestry byproducts that can be turned into biochemicals; and carbon capture and storage gets a boost with CO2-binding microbes.

In other news: BC’s snow-pack is 44% below normal on heels of drought; the government of BC is transferring forest land to Vancouver Island First Nation; the two perspectives on the US plan to protect old-growth forests; Verso’s Duluth paper mill has a new owner; Terrace Bay mill workers say they were blindsided; West Fraser’s Maxville mill closure impacts 79 workers; and Australian hardwood producers look to imports to offset native forest logging ban.

Finally, how olive wood waste can be repurposed into durable auto parts.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Follow-up and fallout from lumber and pulp mill curtailments

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

Recent curtailments by West Fraser, Hampton Lumber, Terrace Bay Pulp and Catalyst Crofton dominate today’s news. In other Business news: SustainAgro abandons PEI—looks to Thunder Bay for biomass fuel plant; Huber Engineering acquires more forests in Maine; US inflation ticks up as mortgage rate cuts for the US and Canada are tempered.

In other news: can the whitebark pine be saved; the ‘Grinch storm’ pummelled Maine’s loggers; forest management is shown to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risks in Idaho and California; and wood/mass timber highlights courtesy of Vancouver, Seattle, Springfield and London.

Finally, TLA panel to focus on forest advocacy as a means to a positive end.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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West Fraser to close/curtail two US Southeast sawmills

The Tree Frog Forestry News
January 10, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

West Fraser announced that it will close its sawmill in Maxville, Florida and curtail its Huttig, Arkansas mill. In related news: Hampton Lumber’s Banks Oregon mill will remain shuttered; Rayonier AM awaits approval on Florida bioethanol plant; Montana’s R-Y Timber is rescued by Sun Mountain Lumber; and Wisconsin fines Tigerton Lumber for safety risks. 

In Forestry/Climate news: a push to protect Quebec’s old-growth forests; the American Hardwood Export Council assesses risks related to EU’s new deforestation regulation; how current are US wildfire risk maps; and Oregon timber companies linked to wildfire protection cost proposal.

Finally, common sense prevails as Australia judge rejects call to ban logging in native forests.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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UK to greenlight Drax’s power generation plan, coupling biomass with CO2 capture and storage

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

The UK government is set to greenlight Drax’s power generation plan, coupling biomass with carbon capture & storage. In related news: Enviva enters 2024 on a tightrope; Sumitomo looks to biodiesel in Japan; Hampton Lumber is buying Rebuilt from Atlas; and the Espanola Action Centre is preparing for more Domtar layoffs. In Market news: wood pellet exports are up; mortgage rates are down, and housing starts are better positioned than you think.

In other news: an Oregon timber tax could pay for wildfire prevention; a new study says Michigan’s forests can support a mass timber plant; Mongabay says Indonesia’s deforestation rates are on the rise again; and an Australian court is set to decide if native forest logging can continue in New South Wales.

Finally, CBC latest to boost NRDC funded study on logging and caribou.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Winter drought called a forewarning for 2024’s fire season

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

Winter drought conditions is being called a harbinger of potentially dire 2024 wildfire season. In related news: BC resource industries look for slivers of hope in 2024; economists see turning point in housing markets; and ResourceWise forecasts a surge in bio-economy production. Meanwhile: North Cowichan’s mayor seeks support for Catalyst Crofton mill; Enviva Biomass takes heat for sawdust pollution; Stratton Lumber is fined for employee injury; and Metsä is closing a sawmill in Finland.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada’s Nature Agreement underscores the need for reconciliation; the US old-growth plan may affect national forest permitting; a prescribed burn saves lives on this BC First Nation; cold weather sends Alberta’s pine beetles into decline; Poland orders halt to logging in old forests; and mixed forests protect from tsunami impacts best.

Finally, forest carbon offsets are making news in BC, Prince Edward Island and Maine.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Terrace Bay pulp mill shutdown a surprise announcement

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

The curtailment announcement by Ontario’s Terrace Bay pulp mill caught the community and Steelworkers Union by surprise. In related news: Port Hawkesbury Paper’s wind farm project gets underway; Russ Taylor opines on what China’s housing slump means for BC lumber; an update on BC funding for value-added wood manufacturers; and 2024 economic updates for the US, Canada and the Eurozone.

In Forestry/Climate news: 2024 is shaping up as a wildfire repeat-season for Canada and Alberta; the USDA awards $1 million for a forestry initiative in Hanford, California; a conservation group is buying rights in BC’s Great Bear Rainforest; Massachusetts ends its tree cutting pause; and Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry receives a forest education award. 

Finally, why the voluntary carbon market is worth salvaging.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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NRDC funded study says Canada’s logging industry devours boreal forests crucial to fighting climate change

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

An NRDC funded study says Canada’s logging industry devours boreal forests crucial to fighting climate change. In related news: MLA Mike Morris says BC needs to stop clearcutting; Massachusetts invests in forests as a climate solution initiative; Louisiana approves underground CO2 storage; a UK report urges action on global deforestation; and Ireland switches its last peat-fuel power plant to biomass.

In other news: Ontario mayors/MLAs opine on the Terrance Bay mill curtailment; FSC publishes a new Controlled Forest Management standard; Deloitte forecasts improved economics for 2024; interest in forests as an asset fund is on the rise; and Clemson University is on the lookout for a new dean of Forestry.

Finally, and sadly, Randle Jones, founder of Windsor Plywood died at 89.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Premier says forestry is the foundation of BC’s economy

The Tree Frog Forestry News
January 3, 2024
Category: Today's Takeaway

Writing in Truck LoggerBC Magazine: BC Premier David Eby says forestry is the foundation of BC’s economy, the TLA’s President Aaron Service says industry is being ignored, and Bob Brash says BC needs definitive harvest targets. In other Business news: the Canadian Chamber of Commerce urges outreach on trade with the United States; Ontario’s Terrace Bay pulp mill is curtailing temporarily; and Oregon fined the Tangent lumber mill for late reporting.

In Forestry/Climate news: after a year of disasters, where should Canada’s climate policy go; early 2024 weather leads to early wildfire warnings for Western Canada; BC is fined for ‘unsafe’ wildfire mitigation workers; and Oregon debates how to secure more funding to fight wildfires.

Finally, Trinity College, Ontario and Cincinnati celebrate ‘firsts’ with mass timber.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Rapid descent of mortgage rates to continue in 2024

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

Year-end mortgage rate cuts in Canada and the US are forecast to continue in 2024. In other Business news: Tolko’s Lavington mill should be running by month’s end; Weyerhaeuser completes its first carbon credit sale; no injuries reported at Kruger’s Corner Brook mill fire; and Pork Hawksbury Paper to develop wind power to operate its mill. Elsewhere: the latest updates from the Softwood Lumber Board and the Paper and Packaging Board.

In Forestry/Climate news: Biden’s old-growth plan receives ENGO endorsements, although not everybody agrees; Canada’s climate adaptation strategy is said to lack funding; wildfires test the limits of Canada’s aging water bombers; assisted migration faces challenges in the Pacific Northwest—and extreme heat is a new threat; pine beetles threaten Wyoming’s white park pines again; and how the palm oil industry stopped deforestation in a decade.

Finally, 2023 — the year that proved why forestry matters.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US economy shows momentum as Canada hits a soft patch

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 22, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

As 2023 draws to a close, the US economy is showing momentum while Canada hits a soft patch. In other Business news: Teal-Jones’ lawsuit against BC puts a price tag on reconciliation; rebuilding begins two-years after the Lytton fire; Louisiana is impacted by drought and wildfires; and mass timber’s rise may help with the housing crisis. Meanwhile, Woodtone promotes Brad Rosse to CEO.

In Forestry/Climate news: Biden’s old-growth plan may or may not backfire, but ENGOs want Canada to follow the US lead; Alberta’s forests are thriving as the mountain pine beetle declines; Congress shows support for expansion of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument; and Bjorn Lomborg opines on the high cost of going green.

Finally, Canada signs an historic agreement with Santa… and barring breaking news, the Frogs are back Jan 2. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Wildfire devastation voted 2023 news story of the year

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 21, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

Canadian Press editors voted wildfire devastation as the news story of 2023. In related news: Nova Scotia designates five new protected areas; the US Forest Service will assess the impact of its old-growth plan; ENGOs say BC can do more to protect biodiversity; a known carcinogen is found in California’s wildfire ash; and globally, forests absorb more carbon than they they emit, but a surge in forest fires continues to fuel global emissions.

In other news: CWC awards the Catherine Lalonde Memorial Scholarship; ENGOs preempt BC trade delegation with negative forest-use message; BC Minister says lack of fibre still the hot-button issue for industry; and two more value-added wood firms get BC funding. Meanwhile: on the Safety front, fatal injuries result in sixable fines for Resolute Forest Products and Florence Hardwoods.

Finally, as 2023 winds down, US home sales surge; consumer confidence is up, and lumber prices end where they started.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Canadian inflation holds steady at 3.1% in November

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 20, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

The Bank of Canada says inflation is still too high at 3.1%, but strip out mortgage costs and it’s pretty much on target. In other Business news: American Forest & Paper Association CEO urges New York to veto the Deforestation-Free Procurement Act; Mississippi is on pace for a record timber harvest; Canada told to end its obsession with trade diversification; and green technology funding given to Origin Materials should benefit Canada’s forest industry.

In Forestry/Climate news: researchers say wood products and managed forests are necessary for climate mitigation; scientists are teaming up to restore the Whitebark pine; wildfires are on the rise across the eastern US; a new book on why US forests need more fire, not less; and more coverage of Biden’s move to protect old-growth forests under federal management plans

Finally, as Canadian Christmas tree farmers retire, who will take over? 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US to conserve and steward old-growth in national forests

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 19, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

The US government announced plans to ban most old-growth logging in all 128 of its national forests. In related news: Oregon proposes 2,000 acres of forest conservation; New Zealand looks to plantations and native trees for carbon capture; and an Alberta Kananaskis clearcut may be on hold. Meanwhile: Nova Scotia is replacing its firefighting helicopters; reducing wildfire risks to Canadian buildings; and grassland fires burn more homes in the US.

In Business news: Canadian Kraft Paper Industries is fined for Saskatchewan River leak; PacificCorp settles with timber companies in Oregon; and Weyerhaeuser withdraws plans for log fumigation plant in Georgia. On the Market front: Russ Taylor speaks to what lies ahead for BC’s forest sector; BCIT is anticipating a mass timber worker shortage; US single-family starts surged in November; and Russian lumber shipments plunged in 2023.

Finally, UBC and SFU to study cumulative threats of development on BC salmon.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US Builder Sentiment Rises on Falling Interest Rates

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 18, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

Falling mortgage rates helped end a four-month decline in US builder confidence. In other Business news: Canada considers establishing a national emergency response agency; Ontario fines Resolute Forest Products for worker’s death in Ignace, Ontario; the Softwood Lumber Board seeks new board candidates; and BC forest industry pioneer Lawrence Carpentier dies at 84. 

In other news: Canada’s wood pellet industry focuses on safety; Vancouver’s Stanley Park tree removal is turning heads; Oregon is considering its Forest Plan’s impact on county revenues; California Redwoods revive after wildfire destruction; the status of COP15’s biodiversity promise one-year-on; if a tree burns in Canada’s forest—does anyone count the carbon; and the two sides of the US old-trees-and-carbon debate.

Finally, tree shopping? Look out for freeloaders like opossums, praying mantises & owls.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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No deal yet between Nova Scotia and Northern Pulp

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 15, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

No deal between Nova Scotia and Northern Pulp but there are hints to what’s being considered. In other Business news: Cascade’s Lemaire brothers exchange leadership roles; the Gitanyo Nation seeks Skeena Sawmills forest licence; and FPAC welcomes Ottawa’s housing initiative. Meanwhile: Canadian housing starts fell 22% in November; building material prices inched higher; wood manufacturing apprenticeships surged; and US mortgage rates are now under 7%.

In Forestry/Climate news: an Oregon lawmaker calls for more federal wood usage; ENGOs push for old-growth preserve near Sudbury; how BC’s wildfire plan went awry; and the end of native logging in Western Australia is in sight. Meanwhile, Smokey Bear turns 80; FSC-US announces 2023 leadership awards; and the International Sustainable Forestry Coalition appoints directors.

Finally, international forest product experts Russ Taylor and Kevin Mason combine forces on a new Global Wood Summit. Save the Date!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Industry’s comprehensive guide to all things mass timber

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 14, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

The  2023 International Mass timber Report speaks to all things mass timber: e.g. Emily Dawson on what it costs (see page 13) and Peter Moonen on its future (see page 17). In related news: Ontario invests in value added technologies; the 7 priorities of UK’s timber roadmap; 8 architectural trends for 2023; and Andrew Waugh celebrates that he’s no long the ‘wood weirdo‘. Meanwhile: the US Fed plans to cut interest rates in 2024; and Sarah Johnson succeeds Charles Trevor at the SFPA.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canadian ENGOs call for clarity on forest degradation, post COP28; New Brunswick’s energy strategy leans to nuclear; Indigenous communities are recovering forest leadership roles in BC; scientists sequence genome for threatened whitebark pine; and SFI released its 2023 progress report.

Finally, ever wonder how forests smell? Why don’t frogs see mosquitoes? Me neither.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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COP28 ends with deal to transition away from fossil fuels

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 13, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

COP28 ended with deal to transition away from fossil fuels in an orderly manner… so as to achieve net zero by 2050. In related news: COP28 looks to nature and carbon credits are eyed generate the needed cash; and ENGOs pan European reliance on forest biomass. Meanwhile: how to advance the mass timber bio-based revolution; and California confirms that thinned forests are more fire resilient.

In Business news: Northern Pulp’s creditor protection is extended as settlement with Nova Scotia nears; laid-off Domtar Espanola workers get support to find work;  West Fraser appoints incoming CEO Sean McLaren to its Board; and CN Rail acquires Iowa Northern Railway. In other news: Canada reboots its war-time housing policy to address current shortage; Ontario and BC focus on getting more homes built; and US economists forecast a housing turnaround in 2024, although costs put upward pressure on inflation.

Finally, John Brink says BC forestry is broken, while Joe Nemeth addresses BC’s wildfire toll.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US and Canada renew commitment to combat climate change

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 12, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

US and Canada renewed their commitment to combat climate change and increase benefits from collaboration. In related news: critics pan the current COP28 proposal; Yale School of Environment on the import of net-zero goals; and how Canada’s indigenous-led restoration can help. Meanwhile; UBC forestry creates a wildfire research foundation; Ontario takes action against invasive species; and the first of a four-part series on the impact of the US Endangered Species Act.

In Mass Timber news: BC will allow timber buildings up to 18 storeys; naturally:wood on how local governments can help; and the UK government on insurer fears related to its roadmap forward. In other news: an update on Peak Renewables’ pellet project in Fort Nelson, BC; RY-Timber is reopening in Livingston, Montana; and Riceboro, Georgia officials oppose Weyerhaeuser’s log-fumigation plant.

Finally, remembering Dr. Jerry Leech, an Australian forestry icon.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Transformer issue curtails Tolko’s Lavington lumber mill

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 11, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

Tolko’s Lavington mill will be curtailed for a period following a transformer malfunction. In related news: a fire at Interfor’s Philomath sawmill is extinguished; US reinstates the softwood duty exclusion of four Canadian companies; and Acadian Timber kicks off land title case in New Brunswick. Meanwhile, RayOMartin makes donation to Louisiana Tech’s Forest Products Innovation Center; and England looks to boost timber use in housing.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada announces wildfire training fund and nature accountability bill; Thompson Rivers University establishes wildfire research institute; Oregon State University receives wildfire resilience research grant; old-growth forests promoted as a guard against wildfires; and reduced logging creates revenue shortages in BC’s North Cowichan and Western Oregon.

Finally, John Betts’ dismay with the floccinaucinihilipilification of planting trees.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Canada’s forest sector key to tackling the housing crisis

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 8, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

Canada needs to build 5.8 million affordable homes by 2030 and Canada’s forest sector is well positioned to help. In related news: Canada’s 10-year National Housing Strategy; BC Premier Eby’s road map to adding homes; Ontario is filling the gap with tiny shelters; and Maine looks to bio-based 3D-printed homes. In other Business news: BC’s forest minister leads Japan trade mission; FSC Canada adds two new directors; and a sizeable holiday contribution by Western Forest Products to several communities.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canadian MPs urge government to track logging emissions; BC is panned for leveraging reserve areas to maintain harvest levels; Oregon’s habitat plan could reduce timber revenues for counties; and sensors help determine how forests can help fight climate change.

Finally, Bob Saul says we can’t stop cutting trees. We need to grow more and protect more.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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New Brunswick forestry firms in court over land title claim

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 7, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

JD Irving, Acadia Timber and others are in court over a land title claim covering half of New Brunswick. In other Business news: Canfor’s Swedish subsidiary VIDA invests to increase its lumber capacity; Oregon electric utility PacifiCorp settles its wildfire lawsuit; forest carbon deals are starting to pay off; Western Retail Lumber honours Murray Finkbiner; and the Oregon Dept. of Forestry recognizes Plikat Logging.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada is bending the curve on GHG emissions; researchers says permanent carbon storage is needed to achieve net zero; forest companies say sustainable forestry can help with climate change—while the FAO toutes agroforestry; and Oregon plans to shoot barred owls to save the spotted owl. Meanwhile: Alice Palmer opines on BC’s new conservation framework; and Dr. Ira Sutherland speaks to whether conservation is working in BC.

Finally, reaping the health benefits of establishing forests next to healthcare centres.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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First Nation buys Interfor’s logging rights on BC Coast

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 6, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

The Klahoose First Nation is buying Interfor’s forest tenure rights on the BC Sunshine Coast. In other Business news: BC moves to reduce raw log exports—boost higher-value wood manufacturing; BC helps S&R Sawmills upgrade its equipment; Phenix City, Alabama revokes Phenix Lumber’s business licence; and the Bank of Canada maintains interest rates at 5%. 

In Forestry/Climate news: American Forests partners with USDA to expand reforestation on national forests; the BC Forest Practices Board releases its 2022-23 annual report; the Tyee opines on how BC is tackling it forest paradigm shift; the Nature Conservancy harvests timber at Slate River Reserve; Justin Catanoso pans Enviva’s environmental assertions; and Lebanon’s cedar trees are reported to be threatened by climate change.

Finally, Canada’s roadmap to net-zero concrete, and wood shingles made of steel.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Canada’s fire chiefs sound the alarm in advance of 2024

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 5, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

Canada’s fire chiefs are in Ottawa to press for financial assistance in advance of the 2024 wildfire season. In related news: after a mild fire year—California looks ahead; a new documentary Trees and Other Entanglements premieres on HBO December 12; a US plan proposes to help the snow-dependent Canada lynx; EU rules said to hamper Irish tree planting efforts; and the world’s largest hockey stick is now a risk to public safety.

In Business news: Canfor extends its Christmas downtime in three BC mills; the government of BC expands manufacturing requirements for some Interior wood products; the UK report on Drax’s biomass strategy nears; US LBM acquires a truss operation in Fort Worth; and US sanctions Russian plywood imports from Segezha. Meanwhile: pulp mill waste tests positive as an organic fertilizer; and a Wall Street Journal piece on why builders stick with wood in hurricane-prone Florida.

Finally, yesterday, the Tree Frog News incorrectly attributed FSC’s new Senior Manager, Indigenous Capacity Support Canada, Satnam Manhas. Our apologies for the confusion.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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COP28 focuses on nature, biodiversity and human health

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 4, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

Correction: In an earlier version of Today’s Takeaway, the Tree Frog News incorrectly attributed FSC’s new Senior Manager, Indigenous Capacity Support Canada, Satnam Manhas. Our apologies for the confusion. It has been corrected. 

COP28 opened with a focus on financing biodiversity goals and the climate’s contagious effect on human health. In related news: designing the forest and other mass timber futures; Wildsight seeks to ground-truth BC Timber Sales claims; concrete and cement’s roadmap to net-zero emissions; Australia recognizes the climate importance of forestry and wood products; and why the rubber tree is driving tropical forest loss.

In Business news: Alberta budgets for fires, floods and drought; Weyerhaeuser to mondernize its Dodson Louisiana lumber mill; and more on Spray Lake Sawmills—West Fraser’s latest acquisition. Meanwhile; Billerud appoints Ivar Vatne CEO; Peter Xotta will head the Vancouver Port Authority; and FSC has a new Indigenous manager in Satnam Manhas.

Finally, three benefits of genetically improved Christmas trees.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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US says softwood lumber duties will remain in place

The Tree Frog Forestry News
December 1, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

The US Trade Commission says Canadian lumber duties will remain in place, revoking them would injure the US Industry. In related news: the US Lumber Coalition applauds the ruling, while Canada, BC and Ontario are disappointed. In other Business news: BC supports 6 value-added manufacturers, Ontario invests in 15 biomass projects; Weyerhaeuser rationalizes its southern timberlands; Enviva is accused of exceeding its pollution limits; and an emotional final day for Domtar in Espanola.

In Climate news: COP28 announces agreement on loss and damage fund; to achieve climate progress we need to increase green energy R&D; and the faux-pas of excluding wildfires from the official carbon tally. Meanwhile: the USDA appoints Tony Dixon as Regional Forester Eastern Division; the San Antonio Spurs to play in the largest mass timber training centre; and a First Nation in Quebec wants to double its protected area.

Finally, the Doman family donates $50k for a new building at the BC Forest Discovery Centre.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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COP28 to assess progress since the 2015 Paris Agreement

The Tree Frog Forestry News
November 30, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

COP 28—the UN Conference on Climate Change—kicks off tomorrow with the goal of assessing progress made since the 2015 Paris Agreement. Here are a few stories of note:

In Business news: Marc Busch opines on how to solve the softwood lumber dispute; Nova Scotia—Northern Pulp mediation should wrap up by Christmas; the Espanola Domtar mill is set to close its doors; and the latest on US and Canadian GDP. In other news: a Dovetail report on old-growth forests; a new report on managing combustible dust; and the lastest from the BC Forest Safety Council.

Finally, which is better: new forests or solar farms? How about real or fake Xmas trees?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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Canadian policy initiatives need a rural lens: Derek Nighbor

The Tree Frog Forestry News
November 29, 2023
Category: Today's Takeaway

FPAC’s Derek Nighbor says, to thrive, Canada needs to put more of a rural lens on the impacts of policy. In related news: Houston, BC, pellet plant to undergo extended Christmas shutdown; the untimely loss of 1000 Canadian Christmas tree farms; softer sales and prices in the US and Canadian housing markets; and the ‘jarring’ difference between BC and Canada’s job market

In Forestry/Climate news: First Nation’s salmon parks aim to spare BC old-growth forests; David Wear on counting carbon in US forests; Amazon deforestation is down in 2023; Australia will produce carbon-neutral car fuel; and carbon credit certifier Verra updates its accounting method.

Finally, the sad story of the death of a 16-year old working in a Wisconsin lumber mill.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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