Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

In its new report, the Canadian Institute for Climate Choices provides a sober assessment of where Canada stands. If anything—says Jock Finlayson—they underplay the challenge. In related news: the Forest Stewardship Council and Rainforest Action Network comment on COP26 Deforestation Declaration; the potential for green fuels to gain a foothold; new studies on the value of protecting soil carbon, and on the location of Canada’s carbon stores; and BC plans to up-its-game on carbon credits.

On the BC old-growth deferral front:

• Best science and data not used to develop old growth deferrals (David Elstone)
• Forestry has the potential to increase forest carbon sinks (Nelson Bennett)
• BC Needs a Forest Revolution (Phillip, Bercov, Coste and Parfitt )
• Deferrals should be viewed as a tool on route to a plan (Bob Simpson)
• Deferrals will allow us to have a more managed transition (Darwin Coxson)

Finally, first-ever use of tree DNA in prosecution sends poacher to prison.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Government says 4,500 jobs are at risk with old growth deferrals, industry says 18,000 — BC’s Forest Minister weighs in. In related news: Bob Brash says impacted workers are distraught; and Kevin Kriese says landscape plans will take 8-10 years. Elsewhere: Nova Scotia’s old growth policy is said to fall short; California’s governor focuses on saving forests; the Timber Trade Federation on embodied carbon; and the EU’s reliance on forest biomass.

In other news: a log yard fire erupts at West Fraser Quesnel; an abandoned sawmill burns in Thunder Bay; Tolko renews its forest management agreement with Alberta; Conifex reports lower Q3 results; and updates on US building material prices, and the Japan and China markets.

Finally, don’t forget to commemorate (virtually if need be) Remembrance Day in Canada, Veterans Day in the USA. The Frogs will be back on Friday.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Transportation, manufacturing and reforestation are set to benefit from the US Infrastructure Bill. In other Business news: the pending increase in softwood lumber duties, BC’s old-growth plan adds uncertainty to lumber trade; and Nova Scotia seeks input on its old-growth, as their forest minister says the Lahey report will take time to implement. Meanwhile: Boise Cascade expands in Ohio; Steel River and Trans-Pacific Trading partner in Alberta; Stella-Jones reports Q3 results; and Conifex pursues a share repurchase program.

In Forestry/COP26 news: a Tropical Timber Accord is launched; UK researchers test CO2’s impact on Amazon forests; and a perspective on the world’s promise to end deforestation. Meanwhile: Alberta invests in the bioindustry; and artificial intelligence is coming to a log turner near you.

Finally, the Softwood Lumber Board pledges to match the USDA Wood Innovation Grants.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US launched the Forest Investor Club at COP26. In related news: Canada commits funds for biodiversity loss prevention; BC wins award for GHG investment programs; and Louisiana Governor speaks of climate perils but also clean energy solutions. In other news: Intelligent City opens its urban housing factory in BC; Weyerhaeuser bets on a strong housing market; and US wood chip & pulpwood price trends. 

In Forestry news: more commentary on BC’s old-growth deferrals by Teal Jones; BC First Nations; Justine Hunter; Derrick Penner; Jim Hilton; Zoe Yunker; Taryn Skalbania; James Steidle; and Gerry Warner. Meanwhile: a judge halts Oregon post-fire logging; and the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest has a new plan.

Finally, charred tree rings point to an Antartica that was once a land of fire and not ice.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

BC’s Forest Minister Katrine Conroy defends plan, denies government handed decision-making over to environmentalists. Other perspectives include:

• Value-added manufacturers will bear a disproportional share of job losses (Brian Hawrysh)
• The timeline is too short, lack of financial support (Indigenous leaders)
• Taxpayer subsidies mean NDP can ignore Steelworkers (Vaughn Palmer)
• Activists and foresters share concern for communities (Revelstoke Mountaineer)
• Government efforts do not appear to apply to private lands (The Discourse)

In other news: Biden’s mixed messages on old-growth forests; Resolute’s CEO on possible lumber duty increase; Stella-Jones purchases Alabama treated wood plant; Enviva’s plant update/construction plans; Northern Pulp wastewater options; Interfor reports positive Q3 2021; and Nova Scotia slow-walks the Lahey report recommendations. 

Finally, Diane Frances says Lomborg is a rare breath of fresh air in the climate debate.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

RBC Capital Markets and Dodge Data say, respectively, the Canadian and US housing markets will cool, not collapse. In other news: an advisory panel says Nova Scotia is dragging its feet on the Lahey report; Wisconsin lawmakers seek to keep Verso Paper mill viable; global shipping times increased by 23%; and positive Q3’s are reported by Western Forest Products; Resolute Forest Products; and LP Building Solutions.

Meanwhile, more perspectives on BC’s old growth deferral announcement:

• It will be devastating to workers, families and communities (Steelworkers)
• Concerned but look forward to working with First Nations (Tolko)
• Counter to goal of encouraging more value-added manufacturing (Brian Menzies)
• What is actually protected will depends on talks with First Nations (Tom Fletcher)
• Hard to imagine logging resuming in those areas to any degree (Les Leyne)
• Facilitates the required paradigm shift in forest management (Garry Merkel)
• First Nations need more time to respond (BC First Nations Forestry Council)

Finally, beetles have more sex when it’s hot, and it’s killing California’s pine trees.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The BC government’s plan to defer logging in its ‘most-at-risk’ old-growth forests will be devastating to business, drive investment elsewhere; and hurt the value-added sector the most. Other perspectives include: 

• 14 to 20 sawmills and two pulp mills will close (Susan Yurkovich, COFI)
• Lack of consultation with those impacted unacceptable (Bob Brash, TLA)
• Economic viability is jeopardized (Annita Huberman, Surrey Board of Trade)
• Our processes will determine our land-use decisions (Huu-ay-aht First Nations)
• Giving in to the forces of ‘No’. Not modernizing (Steward Muir, Resource Works)
• An essential first step but funding clarity required (Sonia Furstenau, Green Party)
• Encouraging, but a lack of action (Torrance Coste, Wilderness Committee)

In other news, the COP26 Deforestation Pledge: is lauded by Canada’s forest industry; called a losing battle by two US NGOs; is better than the last one in 2014 per WWF. Meanwhile: Northern Pulp secures extension of creditor protection; the Huu-ay-aht First Nation hosts old growth logging summit; and the Oregon timber accord is said to come with more restrictions.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

At COP26, more than 100 world leaders representing 85% of the world’s forests pledge to halt deforestation. In BC Forestry news: as the province’s old-growth panel deliberates; a report by Forsite Consultants says 30% not 3% of BC’s old forests remain; BC’s First Nations say the consultation process is flawed; and Ancient Forest Alliance co-founder TJ Watt wins prestigious award. Elsewhere: 2021 was a record fire season in Ontario; rising temperatures are said to threaten the Canadian boreal; and US fire experts dispel misconceptions about forest management.

In other news: Lumber, panel and pulp outlooks amid labour woes; CP Rail and Kansas City Southern file merger application; Boise Cascade reports positive Q3; and Trex targets wood with new Arkansas plant. 

Finally, its Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week – here are some tips to keep you safe.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The BC industry is bracing for bad news on old growth logging, says journalist Nelson Bennett. In related news: Derrick Penner reports on industry’s effort to  get its voice back; Jim Stiring asks—is it an aura of calm… or is it quiet desperation; and Virgina Thompson says we too are frustrated—in response to the Truck Loggers call for a collective vision. Meanwhile: could Bill 23 put BC back into the driver’s seat?

In other news: Biden’s spending plan is lauded for its climate benefits; an international wood manifesto is launched in concert with COP26; Westervelt’s Alabama sawmill built during the time of covid; Oregon reaches deal to overhaul private forest management; and a feature story on the Native American Tribes’ way of fighting wildfires.

Finally, Cal Mukumoto is chosen as Oregon’s new state forester.

Kelly McCloskey Tree Frog Editor

More than 275 BC industry leaders are calling for a balanced approach on old-growth. In related news: a new report raises questions, suggests BC is not running out of old-growth; BC’s GHG emissions continue to rise; and an ENGO report suggesting Canada’s forest carbon emissions are understated is “not supported by the science”, according to Werner Kurz. Elsewhere: 128 ENGOs asked Biden to stop logging in old forests; and the “Darwin Effect” may help forests better tackle climate change.

In other Business news: Nova Scotia pushes back on Northern Pulp lawsuit; Catalyst Crofton on its supply chain woes, Weyerhaeuser and Mercer report positive Q3 results and US economic growth decelerated in Q3.

Finally, is hemp the next disruptor in construction after wood?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Despite challenges, West Fraser’s Ray Ferris says Q3-2021 was one of the company’s strongest ever. In related news: Acadian Timber reports positive Q3 results; Canadian Craft Paper’s output is in high demand; and Paper Excellence receives a US EPA award, announces two-week curtailment at its Crofton mill. In market news: US interest in new-built homes declines; while US manufacturing continues to expand.

In other news: BC pursues a forestry reconciliation agreement with ‘Na̲mg̲is First Nation; Forests Ontario partners with Ontario’s Greenbelt Foundation; a US House Committee considers wildfire firefighter pay; and COP26 newsmakers debate forestry’s positive and negative role.

Finally, and sadly—the 2 workers trapped trapped under debris at Quebec mill have died.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canfor reports positive Q3 results from both its lumber and pulp and paper segments. In related news: International Paper is up 90% year over year; Mercer’s Dave Gandossi is recognized as CEO of the Year; Western’s Cowichan Bay mill may face local restrictions; and White Mountain Paper resumes tissue production in New Hampshire. In Market news: expensive lumber makes a return; US new home sales post solid gains; and US consumer confidence rises.

In Forestry/Climate news: Biden to cancel Trump’s endangered species rules; Trudeau roils oil patch with Greenpeace activist as climate chief; Putin looks to forests for carbon neutrality; timber and concrete are Canada’s green construction future; FSC launches its two-part General Assembly, while ENGO’s say FSC is no longer fit for climate purpose.

Finally, Part 2 of Dave Elstone’s view on BC’s proposed forest policy changes.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

West Fraser is expanding again with the purchase of Georgia Pacific’s OSB mill near Allendale, South Carolina. In related news: Saskatchewan’s Premier trumpets forest industry growth; Canfor wins Benefits Canada Workplace Award; Kimberly-Clark warns of supply chain disruptions; and PotlatchDeltic and Simpson Strong-Tie report positive Q3 earnings. Meanwhile, the International Mass Timber Conference returns to Portland as an in-person event.

In Forestry/Climate news: a new study demonstrates the importance of protecting tropical forests; black spruce struggles to regenerate after arctic fires; BC updates its climate plan as overall emissions rise; and Brazil offers to hasten end to illegal deforestation. 

Finally, 10 injured, two still under collapsed scaffolding at Domtar’s Windsor Quebec plant.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A historically deep low pressure system is bringing heavy rain and strong winds to BC and US-West states. In market news: lumber supply is catching up with UK demand; the desire for homeownership cools in the US—as does housing starts; and the remodelling industry remains strong, despite headwinds. 

In Forestry/Climate news: preserving BC’s old-growth forests could cost billions; and COP26 begets efforts to regulate global bankers; to standardize carbon offset rules; to leverage sustainable forestry; to reforest our cities; to curb old-growth logging; and to increase wood use. Oh my!

Finally, author Hannah Fries says forget forest bathing, just take a hike!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A study commissioned by COFI and executed by Forsite Consultants says the remaining productive old growth in BC is 30%, not 3%. In related news: another day, another dubious claim—says Resource Works’ Stewart Muir; while Teen Vogue says violence at Fairy Creek is part of a police reckoning. Meanwhile, opining on BC’s revamped forest policy—are Kevin Kriese (it’s a good start); and David Elstone (these are exciting times).

In Climate news: COP26 begets a world of wood festival; a policy shift towards wood use in the UK; a declaration on biodiversity and climate by the world geography community; and an international day of action against big biomass. 

Finally, how millennial’s view the lumber industry is a recruitment dilemma.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The BC government introduced a bill to revamp its forest policy, claiming it will increase local community and First Nation involvement. In other Business news: US homebuilders ask Congress to lift lumber tariffs; and wheat straw pulp and paper makes headway in Washington state and Saskatchewan. In Wood Product news: US WoodWorks releases mass timber construction manual; BC Wood returns to the European market; and the University of Idaho will study re-engineering refuse from construction for 3D printing.

In Forestry news: the RCMP say the Fairy Creek roads have been cleared for forestry; the Huu-ay-aht First Nations seeks input on the Teal Jones injunction appeal; and ENGO’s target Enviva’s wood pellet operations in North Carolina. 

Finally, a recyclable home built with 100 different plant-based materials.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Edit

Northern Pulp signals legal action against Nova Scotia, commits to use funds to restart Pictou pulp mill. In related news: a Fort Frances councillor bemoans demolition of former Resolute mill; and Wisconsin paper mill closures are putting loggers out of work. On the market front: lower US housing starts; lower paper shipments, more supply chain constraints and panic ordering by retailers. 

In Forestry news: a US study looks at the sideways flow of water and forests; a BC First Nation says no more logging without consent; and experts say thinning and fire-resistant homes can best offset wildfire losses. Meanwhile: BC establishes new award for renowned artist Judson Beaumont; the Softwood Lumber Board and USDA announce a mass timber competition; and Ontario Wood WORKS! is accepting design award nominations.

Finally, the driver of this logging truck escaped injury after dip in the Elk River.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Supply chain difficulties with steel (and brick & mortar) create opportunity for mass timber in Canada. In related news: mass timber growth exceeds overall construction in United States; the American Wood Council celebrates National Forest Products Week; and the UK industry promotes the carbon benefits of wood use. Meanwhile: wood showcases in Arkansas and Colorado; and eight books for architect lovers. 

In Forestry news: BC proceeds with 172 criminal charges against anti-logging protesters; police resume enforcement at Fairy Creek as protesters dig in; and old-growth blockades continue in Revelstoke and Nelson. Elsewhere: Drax is dropped from S&P index of green energy firms; JD Irving’s view on glyphosate; Nova Scotia funds two more forest innovation projects; and [sadly] Penn State forestry professor emeritus Jim Finley dies at the age 72. 

Finally: architect Michael Green on sustainable wood design and Greenpeace’s birthday.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Strong consumer demand helped push US builder confidence higher despite rising material prices, labour challenges, and supply chain woes. In related news: Canada’s housing starts trend lower; and China’s construction starts slumped for a 6th straight month. 

In Safety news: Terrace Bay Pulp and Paper is fined over worker injury; Ontario pulp mill workers says their health still compromised two decades later; and Judy Village is appointed to WorkSafeBC’s board. 

In other news: President Biden issues a proclamation on National Forest Products Week, recognizing the forests’ essential role in the environment and economy; Oregon needs to do more to reduce forest fuels; and big gains are made against California wildfire.

Finally: the FSC annual report is released and awards winners announced.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Industry slams a UK report claiming biomass energy is worse than coal, calls the study flawed and counter to UN IPPC. In related news: a shuttered Fort St. James bioenergy plant to restart; and New Zealand coal boilers are being replaced with wood pellets. In other Business news: BC Safety Board finds no evidence linking railway with Lytton wildfire; and updates on/from GreenFirst (Board changes); Weyerhaeuser (wildfire efforts); San Group (award nomination); EACOM (donation); and Capital Forest Products (employee-owned).

In Forestry news: columnists Keith Baldrey and Vaughn Palmer on the BC government’s approach to old-growth logging protests; a US ENGO sues the Forest Service due to grizzly concerns; and calmer winds aid California firefighters.

Finally, a BC firm taps robotics to assemble mass timber buildings.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The EU Commission is investigating whether wood pulp companies have violated antitrust rules that prohibit cartels. In related news: Drax calls NRDC’s report on biomass neutrality ‘ill-informed‘; big energy pitches carbon-neutral oil and gas; a climate change contrarian reinforces the import of science; and wood pellet use falls as a source of US home heating. Meanwhile: lumber markets show signs of another price run; and the US consumer price index is on the rise.

In other news: California’s wildfire dilemma—houses or forests first?; the long road to recovery—three years after Hurricane Michael; a Vancouver Island Wood Industry Forum emphasizes collaboration; and this Swedish town is what a climate-conscious future looks like.

Finally, after 2 years hiding in the forest, a Colorado elk is freed from its tire necklace.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

President Biden seeks to ease supply-chain bottlenecks amid rising concerns by truckers and lumber dealers. Companies making news include: West Fraser expands again with purchase of Angelina Forest Products in Texas; International Paper announces share repurchase program; the Segezha Group purchases Inter Forest assets; and Aspen Planers considers the impact of timber lost to wildfires.

In Forestry/Climate news: a US bipartisan bill would treat deforestation as a crime; Brazil reports an increase in Amazon logging; police assess resources after court reinstates Fairy Creek injunction; Canada’s forest sector and climate change; and what can trees really do to mitigate emissions.

Finally, Captain James T Kirk says BC’s old-growth forests ‘should live long and prosper‘.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Mill curtailments and the pending softwood lumber review stoke fears of another price spike. In related news: lumber prices fail to budge New Brunswick property assessments; US homebuilders ask Biden to address supply chain issues; and the value of investing in forestry rather than softwood disputes. In Company news: Teal Jones secures a temporary injunction at Fairy Creek (as protesters carry on and celebs sign-on); EACOM recruits offshore; and Binderholz purchases UK forest company.

In Forestry/Climate news: the USDA integrates climate adaptation into its mission; a Wall Street firm pursues forest carbon offsets; and the impact of forest thinning in California creates divisions. Meanwhile: BC recognizes three Woodlot owners; San Francisco’s first CLT building is complete; and New York City endorses tall wood construction.

Finally, the fight to protect giant sequoias turns experimental with ‘goopy fire-retardant gel‘.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The BC government reached a deal with the Blueberry River First Nations to redress past treaty infringement, and keep most of existing industry going. In other Business news: Biden restores 3 national monuments cut by Trump; Sierra Pacific finalizes its acquisition of Seneca; and a law banning foreign logging truck drivers in Maine is challenged. On the market front: stumpage prices make the BC Interior a high-cost producer; a Timber Exchange panel pontificates on the North American timber market.; and Forbes on US housing.

In Forestry/Climate news: Bob Brash says it time we start talking to each other; David Suzuki says its time to start healing the wounds; US forests owners are encouraged to store more carbon; EU groups seek to end the status of biofuels as ‘renewable‘; and some of California’s sequoias are seared by recent wildfires.

Finally, it’s Thanksgiving in Canada and the frogs will be off Monday celebrating with their armies and colonies. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Greenpeace is calling for an end to carbon offsets, claims it allows companies to continue polluting. In related news: a UK report ranks countries by their CO2 emissions; carbon insurance is recommended to offset wildfire risk; and the NRDC’s latest exposé on Canada’s pulp producers. Other releases include: a BC study on the price of nature; the BC Forest Practices annual report; and a book on the bounty of mushrooms.

In Business news: Canfor’s biofuel investment is a first in Canada; three buyers revealed for Oregon mill and timberlands; an EU firm makes paper with grass and wood pulp; and housing updates from Ontario, the US, Japan, and South Korea.

Finally, as Halloween approaches, it’s time to start countering the bat myths.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canfor updated its management team in concert with its decision to develop a biofuel plant in Prince George, BC. In other Business news: Walmart signs up Home Depot for its new home delivery business; and California governor vetoes bill that could impact Canada’s forest sector. 

In Forestry news: TLA’s Brash says BC forestry vision needed to ensure sector’s future, Canopy calls Walmart’s forestry commitment a game-changer; and billions in proposed spending on US wildfire mitigation is called unworkable. Meanwhile: the Canadian Institute of Forestry AGM kicks-off today; and CFI’s top 10 under 40 includes AFPA’s Janis Simpkins.

Finally, how Canada’s forests are critical to transitioning to a net-zero carbon economy.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Land use decisions could devastate the BC forest industry, according to a report by the BC Pulp and Paper Coalition. In related news: BC’s Minister of Forests says change is coming; the Tyee on Horgan’s Fairy Creek excuses, and old-growth protesters stage sit-in at the legistature. In other Business news: the US homebuilding juggernaut keeps on rolling; Canada’s permits are tailing off; and what’s next with lumber and pulpwood prices.

In other news: the Nature Conservancy on tackling climate change; the debate over biomass as a carbon neutral fuel; and wood product news from California; New Zealand; Japan and Italy.

Finally, the EU forestry strategy: a debate over economic, social and environmental goals.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

BC to introduce legislation aimed at transformative change in forest management. In related news: the National Post on the tarantella (whirling dance) at the old-growth protests; not the first RCMP rebuke says the New York Times; Suzanne Simard on science over politics; and the Canadian Press adds an important clarification to its coverage. Elsewhere: ENGO’s challenge CSA certification; Weyerhaeuser on the future of sustainable forestry; and Oregon activists leave the trees in favour of the courts. 

In other news: the US and Vietnam avert tariffs over illegally traded timber; a Quebec firm designs a hybrid forestry truck; New Brunswick reviews the fees it charged during the lumber price surge; and fire restrictions ease in Oregon, while Saskatchewan and West Virginia face new threats.

Finally, the TLA’s Bob Brash on why BC still logs old growth forests!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Lumber prices stage a late season rally, and analysts say “we’re not done yet“. In related news: Paul Quinn’s view on the potential impact of vaccine mandates; the life and legacy of Canfor’s Peter Bentley; and Sundher Timber reassesses China as an export market. In Wood Product news: the UK Wood Awards shortlist is revealed, and the World of Wood Festival gears up for COP26.

In Forestry news: legal affairs columnist Ian Mulgrew says the Fairy Creek judgment has broadened the notion of public interest, which will have an impact on other disputes; while Post’s Terrence Corcoran says the protest is part of a campaign with greater ambitions than halting logging. Meanwhile, how indigenous cultural burns can replenish BC’s forests; a judge halts logging in Central Oregon; a Seattle-based drone seeding innovator secures financing; and California researchers assess the toxicity risks of fire retardants.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Teal Jones says it plans to appeal the BC court decision to end its Fairy Creek injunction, as the RCMP defend their actions. In related news: the bombshell decision has logging protesters digging in; the RCMP departing; Premier Horgan defending and the opposition finger pointing. 

In other news: the US will declare 23 species extinct; USFS Chief speaks out on mitigating wildfires; Google Maps adds an alert to avoid forest fires; Georgia Pacific is upgrading its Alabama sawmill; and the lumber/timber crunch hits Australian builders. 

Finally, today is Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, honouring the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Take some time today to explore the voices, experiences and stories of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. You can start your journey with these Government of Canada resources.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A BC Supreme Court judge denies extension of Fairy Creek injunction, cites public interest in protecting the court from depreciation of its reputation. In related news: old-growth protesters claim victory; and Premier Horgan won’t negotiate with protesters, says transformative change is coming. In Wildfire news: Oregon to employ home-hardening measures; and fighting fire at night is featured on 60 Minutes.

Companies making headlines include: EACOM (Gogama housing facility); PowerWood (new reman facility); Hampton Lumber (winery purchase); Phoenix Connect (partnership with Forsite Consultants); and Nine Dragons Paper (growth plans). Meanwhile, lumber prices flatten, Canada’s housing market wobbles and US consumer confidence falls.

Finally, BC’s Foresters and Community Forests support National Day for Truth and Reconciliation; as the BC First Nations Forestry Council advances their workforce.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Developers are increasingly aware that wood sequesters more carbon than it emits. In related news: health and wellness emphasized in new school construction; Texas A&M on the role of agriculture and forestry; and the Softwood Lumber Board’s latest carbon tracking and timber education initiatives. Meanwhile: Ontario helps Mirmil Products expand; Catalyst Powell River changes site-name to TLA’amin; and the US LBM announces leadership changes.

In Forestry news: Alberta plants 100 million trees in one season; tensions at BC’s Fairy Creek heighten risk of injury; fires and forest management are said to threaten California’s giants; an Oregon study says fire intensity can be calmed by thinning; and why everything California knows about wildfires may be wrong.

Finally, FPAC’s Derek Nighbor says NRDC’s toilet paper scorecard misrepresents the facts.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Forestry related options are well positioned to mitigate climate change with tree planting, the use of wood products, and carbon markets. In other Business news: US housing starts inch up but single-family building continues to slow; Japan surpasses China as Canada’s second largest lumber export market; and the US Trade Court again knocks down duties on Chinese plywood.

In Forestry news: an Indigenous Protected Area is declared by Northwest BC First Nation; Teal Jones pauses operations to honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation; Ottawa’s offer to resolve BC’s old-growth conflict is called insufficient; while the Steelworkers condemn protest tactics at Fairy Creek; and Bill Dumont speaks to the facts and the fairy tales.

Finally, after a devastating wildfire season, calls for change in BC, Oregon and Europe. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The pandemic and associated supply chain delays will continue to dog the housing industry into 2022, says Fannie Mae. In related news: Costco starts limiting purchases of toilet paper (again); Bloomberg says the US housing market is shifting again; while Canada’s construction boom is missing in Toronto. In other Business news: BC’s White Rock Lake wildfire caused $77 million in insurance damage; a women is arrested for starting California’s Fawn Fire; and the iconic MacBlo building is renamed for its architect Arthur Erickson.

On the punditry front: Diane Nichlolls on the science and art of forestry; Christine Gelowitz says forestry’s about people too; Gaby Wickstrom on the little town that would; Brian Butler on the concerns of workers; and Peter Wood on logging’s impact on climate change risk.

Finally, David Elstone on the US-South of Canada, and Russ Taylor on lumber-buyer power.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Western Forest Products and the Public and Private Workers of Canada – Local 8 reached an 8-year collective agreement in BC. In other Business news: insurers are cutting back on coverage for sawmills; Northern Pulp investigates an onsite treatment facility; Verso is in acquisition talks with Atlas Holdings; timber prices rise in the Lake States; and a new consumer report claims to combat deforestation.

In Forestry news: Ontario releases State of Natural Resources report; new research says Maine’s forest are getting denser; an interview with the new US Forest Service Chief; and more National Forest Week coverage from Kamloops and Port Alberni.

Finally, some Global Buyers Mission highlights on Asia and Japan. Next up—WoodTALKS.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Mass timber buildings make new-firsts in San Francisco and Brunswick, Maine; the world’s largest wood-pellet fired power plant bails out Ontario; and paper recovery is up 9%. In other Business news: a Paper Excellence report lauds its use of renewable energy; Walmart plans to tag products deemed better for the planet; and it saddens us to report that Quebec’s mill explosion killed three, others critically injured.

In other news: an exposé on the mountain pine beetle; JD Irving speaks out in support of glyphosate use; Biden needs US landowners’ help for conservation; Greenpeace counters Brazillian president’s UN speech; and global wildfire CO2 emissions are at a record high. 

Finally, the People’s Party of Canada provides inadvertent lesson on invasive species.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Expectations for US GDP growth were revised downward, despite upward trend in housing starts and builder confidence. In other Business news: a lumber yard fire in Quebec injures 8; Paper Excellence lauds UNESCO Biosphere decision in Howe Sound,BC; and Simcoe County, Ontario is named Forest Capital of Canada. Meanwhile, National Forestry Week perspectives from Alberta and Saskatchewan forest ministers.

In other news: FPInnovations replaces bitumen with lignin in Ontario asphalt test; NRDC releases a report card on toilet paper producers; Japan develops earthquake-resistant CLT; a plan to fight America’s raging wildfire crisis; and BC Forest Professionals encourage dialogue on the practice of professional forestry.

Finally, and sadly, Canadian forestry leader and advocate Chris Lee (RPF) has died at 66.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The BC court injunction against old-growth logging protests will remain in effect says the judge who will rule on its future. In related news: Premier Horgan tells Fairy Creek protesters to go home; and Stuart Muir says a more balanced approach is needed. In other Forestry news: Newfoundland Minister first out on National Forest Week; Georgian’s age and women are increasingly forest land owners; and forest policy splits Nordic lawmakers in EU Parliament.

In Business news: a log yard fire hits West Fraser in Chetwynd, BC; construction begins on Drax Group’s Arkansas pellet plant; and Eunice Gorman—Gorman Bros.’ last surviving founder, dies at 100. Meanwhile: FPAC announced its Awards of Excellence, CWC/Wood WORKS BC recognized community leadership in wood use; and 21 communities now support BC’s 12-storey mass timber buildings initiative.

Finally, the world’s largest tree is wrapped in protective foil to ward off wildfires.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A BC Supreme Court judge says the Fairy Creek injunction isn’t working and he will consider changes. In related news: a survey says most in BC support RCMP enforcement, while the protesters says police are intentionally terrorizing them. In Wood Product news: how timber can enhance the future of factory buildings, and help communities face natural disasters. 

In Business news: a Q&A on the Norbord/West Fraser merger; First Nations and Paper Excellence sign MOU in Saskatchewan; Global Plywood sentenced for importing illegally-source timber; and Ida takes its toll on Louisiana’s timber industry. Meanwhile, builder confidence declines; and custom home building share trends down.

Finally, Cedar is Sexy, and some self-serving news on the Tree Frog News headquarters.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Except for the Conservatives, the party election platforms are mostly negative to resource development, says Nelson Bennett. In other Business news: a new report suggests Canada’s housing boom is not a bubble waiting to burst, Canadian housing starts slowed in August; and the lumber price crash is leading to blowout sales. Meanwhile: Kruger moves to acquire all-electric semi-trailer trucks; Ipe Woods receives FSC certification; and another 12-storey mass timber tower is proposed in Port Moody, BC.

In Forestry/Climate news: BC municipalities want more say in the future of logging; how to start breaking BC’s forest-fire cycle; climate change and logging collide in South Dakota; and anti-forestry drive gets push back in New Zealand.

Finally, a Pooh inspired vacation in a hollow tree in Hundred Acre Woods!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor