Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

Interfor announced that it will indefinitely curtail its sawmills in Meldrim, Georgia and Summerville, South Carolina. In other Business news: Ontario has a new Associate Minister of Forests; Nova Scotia sees pushback on its aerial spraying plans; Fort St. John First Nation’s resource development is questioned; and the US doubling of lumber tariffs is bemoaned by the National Association of Homebuilders, Canadian MP Rob Morrison, and non-profit Resource Works. Meanwhile, Canadian businesses brace for a possible railway shutdown that will impact supply chains across North America.

In other news: BC is proposing to expand boreal caribou habitat in the Northeast; Brown University receives grant to study the health impacts of wood pellet production; California researchers say less severe fires can reduce future blazes; and Oregon debates a plan to manage the Elliot State Research Forest for carbon credits.

Finally, a new course seeks clarity on why it matters how we talk about climate change. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Concerns rise as Canada’s two main railways appear set for a work stoppage. In other Business news: Interfor sells its closed Philomath, Oregon sawmill; a fire destroys Port Alberni’s old Somass mill site; the United Steelworkers call the increase in US lumber duties ‘pure protectionism’; a feature on Kalesnikoff Lumber’s mass timber pivot; taking stock of Suzano’s purchase of Arkansas’ Pine Bluff mill; and NY State announces forestry grants, while Georgia looks to boost its timber industry.

In Forestry news: a professor says Jasper’s wildfire is not a catastrophe from an ecological perspective; an ecologist says a fire deficit is helping fuel California’s wildfires; Turkey continues to battle forest fires amid evacuations; forest loss is said to intensify climate change in Africa; and Australia seeks consultation on its new illegal logging laws. 

Finally, is it time for Canadian forest products firms to focus on political risk management? (Part 2 of 2).

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The world’s largest mass timber airport (nine acres of roof) opened for business in Portland, Oregon. In other Business news: Canada rejects call for binding arbitration on potential rail strike; Canada invests in GHG emission technology; the aftermath of Cochrane, Ontario’s veneer mill fire; and more on the recent US lumber duty increase. Meanwhile, Canadian housing starts jump 16% in July, while US housing starts plunge to a four-year low.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: wildfire smoke is impacting most of Canada; the 2023 fire season released 10 years worth of CO2; Alberta wants to see more aggressive fire mitigation efforts; California has a new wildfire forecasting tool; a Washington judge rejects an anti-forestry lawsuit; ENGOs say logging near Revelstoke threatens BC caribou habitat; and the anti-wood sentiment facing US wood pellet manufacturers.

Finally, is it time for Canadian forest products firms to focus on political risk management? (Part 1 of 2).

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US Department of Commerce released the final determinations of its softwood lumber review. In related news: Canada will challenge US rates via dispute panel; and BC MP calls on Ottawa to protect forestry jobs. Meanwhile: Canadian industry fears economic fallout of rail strike, as railroads begin network shutdown; Burlington’s wood-fired generator is losing money; Canadian GDP growth is up, US inflation falls; US home builder confidence moves lower; and Europe’s wood pellet market declined.

In Wildfire news: the World Resources Institute says forest fires are getting worse; wildfires impact mercury levels in Idaho streams; BC’s wildfires are smaller this year; and 37% of Athens forest area has burnt since 2017. In Safety news: Idaho firefighter Justin Shaw remains in critical condition; and WorkSafeBC says safety failures contributed to Devyn Gales death in 2023.

Finally, how the Canadian Forest Service got its humble beginning 125 years ago.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US is increasing the duty it charges on softwood lumber from Canada to 14.5%. In response:

• Gov’t of Canada: Duties harm consumers and producers
• BC Government: We are immensely disappointed with US decision
• US Lumber Coalition: Substantiates that Canada subsidizes its lumber
• BC Lumber Trade Council: Lumber Coalition’s claims are without merit
• Independent Wood Processors Association of BC: Enough is enough!
• Nelson Bennett in Business in Vancouver: US to double lumber duties

In other Business news: railways begin to halt shipments as strike looms; San Group files 2nd lawsuit against Port Alberni; Drax exceeds emission limits in Louisiana; Conifex reports Q2, 2024 net loss; Tolko joins SFPA; IP’s Tom Plath is retiring; and Michigan-based Green Timber acquires Grossman Forestry.

In other news: temporary foreign workers logging in Canada are on the rise; NRCan and Ontario invest in wildfire equipment; a veteran forester worries about Jasper’s neighbours; and the University of Northern BC touts resiliency of its Wood Innovation Lab a year after blast. 

Finally, from a reader: science mimics nature to improve aerial tree planting.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A union leader says Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM) should sell, as layoffs in Témiscaming, Ontario begin. In other Business news: a fire was extinguished at the Rockshield Engineered plywood plant in Cochrane, Ontario; LL Flooring filed for bankruptcy; GreenFirst and Taiga Building Products report reduced Q2 sales; and more on Barr BGS’s acquisition of Forsite Consultants. Meanwhile: the value of Canadian building permits fell 14% in June; and wood-framed home’s market share decreased in 2023.

In Forestry news: a John Muir Project ecologist pushes back on Fix Our Fires Act bill; SFI develops tool to demonstrate compliance with EU deforestation reg; climate change may have made summer heat waves more likely; and the Amazon forest could flip from sink to CO2-source. Meanwhile: air quality warnings in northern Ontario; Oregon hits record for area burned; and an Idaho firefighter is in critical condition after being hit by a tree.

Finally, Olympic initiatives that inspire change have been drowned in a negative debate.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Business groups say a railway strike could be catastrophic—after regulators clear the way and CPKC and Union respond. In other Business news: a new study on the timber impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; the US EPA unveils its label program for green construction materials; Portland’s mass timber-roofed airport expansion opens this Wednesday; and the Australian timber industry battles shift to man-made power poles. 

In other news: the US launched a wildland firefighter health and wellbeing program; US forestry lawsuits said to prevent progress on addressing climate change; David Suzuki says climate change is fuelling wildfires worldwide; Germany’s climate goals spark debate over wood energy; the CBC has a feature story on the Jasper wildfire; and wildfires continue to rage out of control in Greece.

Finally, the historic Martin Mars water bomber completes its final flight.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Interfor reported a Q2, 2024 net loss of $76 million, plans to reduce lumber production in balance of year. In related news: Mercer reported a Q2 net loss of $68 million; a northern California biomass plant is approved; and BC’s economy is threatened by looming rail and port strikes. Meanwhile: Ontario’s Advanced Wood Construction Plan is praised; Michael Green plans the world’s tallest timber skyscraper; and Mercer’s Nick Milestone opines on mass timber’s revolution.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada’s Indigenous seed collection program begins cross-country tour; Ontario secures monies for new tree planting program; BC’s recent landslide surge is settling but more are expected; U of Northern BC researchers to study impacts of climate change; California’s Park Fire consumes acres of carbon credits; and wildfire updates from the BC Coast and Interior; Ontario; Oregon; and California.

Finally, July ends 13-month streak of global heat records as El Nino ebbs.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Louisiana Pacific surprises with strong Q2, 2024 earnings of $160 million. In other Company news: Cascades’ Q2 earnings were $1 million; and International Paper commits $15.3 million for conservation. On the Market front: Fannie Mae says US consumers are frustrated by housing costs; RISI forecasts housing to rise 11%; and global recovered paper trade trends remains in flux. Meanwhile: more on Vancouver’s six-storey wood-frame construction fire; and the 2024 FSC conference in Nashville is open for registration. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada invests to conserve 1600 hectares in Ontario; a UBC Okanagan professor’s wildfire sensors pinpoint susceptible forests; ENGOs question BC’s move to expedite salvage logging after fire; the Jasper Alberta wildfire could burn for months; Arizona employs thinning to reduce risk; and Tennessee undergoes a state-wide forest inventory update.

Finally, Brazil said Amazon deforestation is down to its lowest level since 2016.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Wisconsin-based Besse Forest Products closed three wood product mills, drawing union complaint. In related news: Willamette Falls Paper is closing its West Linn, Oregon mill; Canfor to curtail its Fort St. John sawmill for two weeks; New Zealand’s Winstone Pulp curtails operations; AZEK is partnering with Doman Building Materials and Clearwater Paper and Rayonier Advanced Materials report Q2 results. Meanwhile: the University of Maine is turning wood products into jet fuel; and a fire destroyed an under-construction 6-storey wood frame development in Vancouver.

In Forestry news: Canada extends the consultation period to protect Quebec caribou; debris from BC’s landslide raises concerns over salmon runs; a BC Forest Practices Board audit finds issues with BCTS road and bridge maintenance; University of Arkansas researchers develop remote sensing breakthrough; and an Oregon study on managing regrowth for climate mitigation.

Finally, Oregon nears record for forest area burned as fire season approaches its apex.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canadian shippers fear a strike by railworkers that would halt freight traffic and clog ports. In related news: Wisconsin’s Besse Forest Products closes permanently; pushback on Georgia’s Telfair Forest Products expansion plan; and Boise Cascade and BlueLinx report positive earnings. Meanwhile: the Softwood Lumber Board announced new funding for mass timber; FSC expressed concern over bamboo supply chains; Paper Excellence appointed Luc Theriault President of Wood Products; and lumber dealer leader Walter Foxworth died August 2 at 89.

In Wildfire news: a firefighter died fighting the Jasper Alberta wildfire, as evacuees get first look at damage; two perspectives on Park fires and who/what’s to blame; boreal forests said to emit carbon long after they burn; and wildfire updates from Manning Park and Princeton, BC; Alberta, Washington, Oregon, and California. Meanwhile: ENGOs push New Brunswick to triple protected areas; and an Oregon study may help northern forests weather climate change.

Finally, wildfire smoke could interfere with the safety of surgeries, a new US study warns.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

No (new) News Today – it’s a holiday in British Columbia. We’re back tomorrow with all the weekend news!

Crews are holding the Jasper, Alberta wildfire, but warmer weekend weather looms. In related news: Canada invests in more wildfire equipment; a climate expert says the key is to spend more on adaptation; the federal government’s claim of being faultless is panned; a BC mayor’s call for more logging is questioned; the future of forest reclamation lies in seedpods; and the U of Arkansas’ new Forest Health Center is on track.

In Business news: Tolko renews agreement with Splatsin First Nation; Canfor completes Union Country, Arkansas acquisition; Weyerhaeuser’s Longview mill is fined for stormwater violations; more on San Group’s lawsuit with City of Port Alberni; Oregon companies sue utilities over 2020 fire; Acadian Timber reports positive Q2, 2024 results; and West Fraser’s Inverness mill shines in the UK Timber Trades Journal. Meanwhile, AF&PA’s Heidi Brock takes on International Council role.

Finally, Alabama is the state where money does grow on trees. $36.3 billion to be exact.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News

The San Group filed a Notice of Claim in lawsuit against the City of Port Alberni. In other Business news: Western Forest Products narrows loss in Q2, appoints Glen Nontell as CFO; Oregon’s Western Cascades Industries is shutting down; the impact of AHF Products’ mill closure on South Arkansas; a chip pile fire at GreenFirst’s Cochrane, Ontario mill; and a suspicious log pile fire in Springfield, Oregon.

In Forestry news: Quebec reports progress on caribou fawns born in captivity; ENGOs say the US is failing to protect its old growth trees; the USDA funds climate-smart forestry projects in Maine; and restoring Australia’s logged forests doesn’t mean locking them up. Meanwhile: an exposé on Jasper’s moving monster, and two calls for more active forest management to prevent another one, and wildfire updates from BC, Manitoba and Colorado.

Finally, the US Fed reports progress on inflation, has September rate cut in view.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Alberta Forest Products Association’s Jason Krips says it time to talk about how Alberta’s forests are managed, calls for more active management. In related news: Bruce Uzelman says irresponsible forest management is to blame; Stuart Taylor says he raised the alarm years ago and a Jasper biologist explains how animals dodge wildfires. In other Forestry news: people are illegally climbing California’s redwoods; and wildfire updates from the BC Interior, Northern Ontario and Greece.

In Business news: Oregonians scramble to keep Malheur Lumber running; Ontario invests $3.5 M in mass timber manufacturer Element5; Williams Lake First Nation and West Fraser sign forestry agreement; CPKC Rail celebrates its expanded network and biomass power grows in Japan.

Finally, UK scientists discover a new wood type, while UBC researchers create super-black ‘light absorbing’ wood.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor discover 

Jasper’s mayor defends Parks Canada over wildfire management, citing “no injuries and most of town spared“. In related news: some scientists were advising more logging and prescribed fires for Jasper; but Parks Canada and federal officials defend their forest manage practices. Meanwhile: progress is reported on the Fort McMurray, Alberta and Sooke, BC wildfires, but hundreds remain on evacuation order; California’s Park Fire is the state’s 6th largest ever; Colorado’s Alexander Mountain fire grew to 992 acres; and millions are under air quality alerts in Canada and the US. 

In other news: New Hampshire seeks to offset the impact of carbon offset on timber tax revenues; PotlatchDeltic reports positive Q2, 2024 results; Forestry Australia looks to increase carbon credits through active forest management; Philadelphia celebrates a complex mass timber project; and a new website is launched to elevate hardwood’s use in design.

Finally, a U of Colorado study says trees don’t like to breathe wildfire smoke either.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

In Business news: North Cowichan’s Mayor wants BC to speed up timber permits, and Drax reports positive first half 2024 results, seeks extension on UK financial support.

On the Jasper wildfire front: expert Mike Flannigan says the fire was too powerful to stop, some say the causes are complex, but most want to point fingers:

In other news: Canada invests in fire-detecting satellites; Boise is the command centre responsible for deploying US’s firefighting resources; a Saskatchewan scientist says soot from wildfires is adding to glacial melt; and a California study says exposure to smoke raises the risk of dementia.

Finally, Domenico Iannidinardo is appointed CEO of Strategic Natural Resource Consultants.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Citing low log availability, Hampton Lumber announced a five week mill curtailment in Fort St. James, BC. In related news: Terrace Bay, Ontario pulp mill workers want action on shuttered mill; Canfor and Weyerhaeuser report Q2, 2024 results; and Raymond James’ Daryl Swetlishoff opines about their earnings (in video). Meanwhile: Michigan eases the path for mass timber schools; and the lastest newsletters from the Softwood Lumber Board, and BC Forest Enhancement Society.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Alberta’s premier says up to half of all Jasper buildings have been destroyed by fire; the fire in Golden, BC fire spurs evacuations; Canada’s wildfires are captured in satellite imagery; the Pacific Northwest fires send smoke southeastward; Nick Smith says Montana’s Horse Gulch fire could have been prevented; New Hampshire debates logging in the  White Mountain National Forest; and Australia keeps the Pine Wood Nematode at bay.

Finally, an early look at the rebuild of Notre-Dame’s wooden roof, 5-years after fire.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A wildfire reached the town of Jasper, Alberta on Wednesday, one of hundreds ravaging Alberta and BC. In related news: Jasper’s wildfire preparedness is being put to the test; Canada looks to Indigenous use of fire to combat risks; the US Endowment and USDA announce grants to enhance protections and reduce wildfire risk; Lake Tahoe employs forest thinning; and an eastern Oregon fire is creating storms of its own. Meanwhile: Quebec refuses to participate in federal consultations on emergency decree to protect caribou.

In Business news: Competition Bureau Canada defines legal risks of corporate greenwashing; journalist Keith Baldrey opines on the US protectionist policies of both political parties; Russ Taylor resurrects his global conference on forest products trade; West Fraser Timber and International Paper report positive Q2, 2024 results; and more on Clearwater Paper’s tissue operations sale.

Finally, a UK study says tree bark plays vital role in removing methane gas.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Two perspectives on what a Kamala Harris presidency would mean for Canada-US trade. In other Business news: Canada supports Sturgeon Falls, Ontario forest contractor; Louisiana Pacific released its 2024 Sustainability Report; TimberHP secured a grant for environmental product declarations; and Dole Packaged Foods turns to FSC paperboard. Meanwhile: US mortgage rates ease; US existing home sales pull back, US new home forecasts are downgraded; UK new homes built plunge; but Southern Pine exports reach 3-year high.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC MP Richard Canning says Canada needs a national wildfire force; thousands evacuated from Jasper National Park; Oregon hopes for better reception of wildfire hazard map; 75 days without rain in Oregon and Washington forests; and BC fire updates from the Central Okanagan, Barkerville, Pemberton; and the Sooke Potholes Park. Meanwhile: carbon cowboys cash-in on Amazon forests; and a new study says heat-sensitive trees in Brazil are moving up the hill.

Finally, butt flickers beware—Okanagan on guard for careless cigarettes, illegal campfires.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canfor, CEO Don Kayne is stepping down at end of 2024 and Susan Yurkovich is his successor. In other Business news: Jason Fisher is appointed Executive Director of the Forest Enhancement Society of BC; Premier Eby talks lumber tariffs with US ambassador Cohen; Clearwater Paper sells its tissue business to Sofidel America; and Suzano starts-up the world’s largest pulp production line.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Pennsylvania has a new plan for forestry; Yale360 on killing one owl species to save another; BC ENGOs say salvage logging after fire makes things worse; New Zealand researchers tout the benefits of short rotation forestry; out of control wildfires threaten Jasper, Alberta; Williams Lake and Revelstoke, BC; Oregon researchers predict where and when fires will occur; and Istanbul deploys AI and drones.

Finally, per the EU climate service Copernicus, Sunday was the world’s hottest day ever.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The UN State of the World’s Forests 2024 report says deforestation is slowing, forests are under pressure from climate-related stressors and forest product demand is increasing. In other news: a California sawmill proposal sparks public pushback; US paper and packaging shipments are on the rise; Michigan Tech promotes mass timber construction; and the University of Cambridge celebrates carbon negative housing.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: lightning and record heat fuelled wildfires across the West—resulting in ‘states of emergency‘ and evacuations in British Columbia; Alberta; Oregon, California and Utah. Meanwhile: wildfire smoke looms in Alberta; Ontario’s top forest sector diseases in 2023; forest restoration efforts pay off in Arizona; and a California wildfire burns a carbon offset project area.

Finally, David Elstone opines on wildfire risk and the need to rethink forest conservation.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Government of Canada announced $89M for GHG reduction projects and biodiversity protection in British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Quebec. In related news: Minister Guilbeault battles Quebec over caribou habitat; BC’s latest old-growth conservation is mostly second-growth; BC reduces Slocan Valley and Arrow Lake harvest levels; and wildfire updates from BC, Labrador and Oregon.

In Business news: Steelworkers call on Ontario Premier to save the AV Terrace Bay pulp mill; Weyerhaeuser to shut down its New Bern, South Carolina sawmill; and a fire hits Baillie Lumber’s hardwood mill in Missouri. Meanwhile: US remodeling holds steady as spending firms up; the US Conference Board is less negative and US mortgage rates tick down.

Finally, a new study says more than 1 trillion microbes live inside the average tree trunk.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Mercer Mass Timber to receive $7M to modernize and grow its BC glulam production by 25%. In other Business news: Unifor speaks out on the closure of RYAM’s Témiscaming, Quebec plant; the Maine Pellet Fuels Association received $100K for market development; and US housing starts, building permits and completions all rose in June. Meanwhile, the Canadian Wood Council is encouraged by Canada’s Green Building Strategy; the National Wood Flooring Summit kicked off in Washington DC; and the latest on Australia’s Timber Construct 2024.

In Wildfire news: 14 states urge feds to declare wildfire smoke and extreme heat as major disasters; Portland State researchers work to strengthen Oregon’s defences; US Forest Service helicopter pilot hikes to safety after crash in Idaho; wildfire smoke from Canada sweeps into NY City; 47 new wildfires reported in Alberta; BC is at the mercy of weather with thunderstorms in the forecast; wildfire danger raised to extreme on Vancouver Island; and rain is welcomed in Labrador City’s wildfire battle. 

Finally, a new study says the world’s forests continue to capture carbon despite climate challenges.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Suzano, the world’s largest pulp producer, announced the acquisition of two Pactiv Evergreen mills. In related news: ABC News has a feature on Montana’s lumber woes; West Fraser 100 Mile House had a dust silo fire; the Port of Vancouver is increasing its rail capacity; Canada’s housing starts dropped 9% in June; and the US share of homes built on slab foundations rose again. Meanwhile, the University of BC and Apple released a white paper on the future of bioproducts; and Forest Products EXPO 2025 early-bird prices end this week.

In Forestry news: Stand Earth calls for BC to protect its old-growth; the NY Times challenges traditional toilet paper; the City of Vancouver is being sued for logging in Stanley Park; and Arizona restores spotted owl habitat, while California’s wildfires may be creating more of it.  In Safety news: a Northwest Territories’ firefighter is remembered, as Worker’s Safety Commission says they are not laying charges.

Finally, NASA says climate change is making each day longer—by melting the earth’s ice caps.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada’s wildfire season is close to its 10-year average heading into summer peak weather. In related news: crews continue to battle wildfires near Labrador City, Newfoundland; BC’s Chun T’oh Whudujut Park; Idaho’s Bench Lake; the Blue River, Oregon; and Montana’s Horse Gulch area.

In other News: the Harmac’s grounds fire in Nanaimo, BC was human-caused; the AP Group laments the impact of its mill closure in Merritt, BC; and Michigan’s forest products industry hits a new revenue peak. Meanwhile: the value of Canadian building permits fall; US material prices rise; and US consumer sentiment is unchanged.

Finally, climate scientist Andrew Weaver opines on the BC NDP and the missed ‘innovation opportunity’. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada’s proposed spotted owl recovery strategy will double protected old-growth habitat in Southwest BC. In related news: Alberta’s Swan River First Nation and Ducks Unlimited collaborate on boreal conservation; and a lawsuit is launched over Vancouver’s Stanley Park tree removal. Meanwhile: BC seeks help as heat triggers wildfire activity and evacuation alerts; and Alberta and Utah firefighters face another tough day.

In Business news, another BC community urges support for BC’s forestry sector; an Ontario biomass electricity station is one of North America’s largest; Barr Geospatial Solutions (BGS) acquires BC-based Forsite Consultants; UK’s timber import volume deficit halves; the US Hardwood Industry launches a new tool for architects; and US inflation eases further in June.

Finally, and sadly, an Idaho pilot was killed in plane crash while fighting Montana wildfire.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The heat wave and a surge in wildfire numbers results in fire bans in BC and Alberta. In related news: Oregon released its new wildfire hazard map; and two wildfires rage out of control in Southern Utah. Elsewhere: Maine will pay forest owners to increase carbon storage; the BC Forest Practices Board released its 2023-2024 Annual Report; and the Society of American Foresters honors Purdue professor Songlin Fei.

In Business news: San Group may sue Port Alberni over worker allegations; Domtar invests to reduce mill odors in Tennessee; a lack of product standardization is said to hinder mass timber’s growth; and a Federal judge stops Montana forest plan over endangered species. Meanwhile: June’s rate cut didn’t revive Canada’s housing market; and contractors remain confident despite US economic downturn.

Finally, Frog ‘saunas’ may help threatened frogs fight off deadly fungus. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

US Paper makers say the EU deforestation regulation will disrupt markets; FSC seeks to support company compliance. In related news: Clearwater Paper is fined for a chlorine release; Michigan rescinds Billerud’s tax break; Smurfit Westrock makes its debut; and kudos for Louisiana Pacific’s CEO. Meanwhile, Minneapolis enters the biochar business, Russ Taylor opines on lumber markets; and ruminations on BC’s next forest minister.

In other news: Canada’s heat wave raises spectre of campfire bans; BC announces new rules for First Nations’ environmental assessments; USDA focuses on forest restoration, as industry warns of economic risks, and ENGOs call for more of old-growth protection; and creating a state-of-the-art showcase to tell America’s conservation story.

Finally, the wood wide web theory once charmed us. Now it’s the subject of a bitter fight.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

As temperatures rise across the West, so too will the risk of wildfire in the US and Canada. In related news: a solutions-based documentary to help save BC’s forests from devastating wildfires; Alberta firefighters prepare for challenging conditions; as wildfires worsen—wild salmon take a hit; and a new report on Yellowknife’s 2023 wildfire evacuation response. 

In other news: the recent US Supreme Court’s Chervon decision may reignite the Northwest’s timber wars; Montana secures federal monies to train laid off lumber workers; Wagner Forest Management may sell its Ontario carbon-forward property; and US wood pellet exports are on the rise.

Finally, is cellulose as a food additive in pre-shredded cheese good or bad for you?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

FPAC’s Derek Nighbor says Canada needs to rethink forest management’s role as a wildfire mitigation tool. In related news: the US Forest Service looks to prescribed fire to improve safety; ENGOs seek end to spraying of BC’s broadleaf trees; Louisiana considers emergency declaration due to beetle infestation; and the uncertain role of forestry in Northern Ireland. Elsewhere: UBC Faculty of Forestry announces Sustainability Education Fellows: and Canada Wood features seismic performance and tall-wood examples in Japan.

In Wildfire news: a UBC Okanagan professor creates sensors that predict wildfires, Vernon equips resort with AI-based detection systems and Greece builds first country-wide wildfire monitoring system. Meanwhile; a fire continues to burn near Fort McMurray, Alberta; California braces for more fires, as 19,000 acres are scorched near Santa Barbara; and July 4th fireworks blamed for a major fire in New Jersey.

Finally, San Group denies allegation of worker mistreatment, plans to sue City. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Misery continues in lumber and panel markets but logs, pulp & paper and containerboard are faring better. In other Business news: Port Alberni Mayor speaks out on San Group allegations; Irving showcases proposed pulp mill expansion; and Canada’s Natural Resources Minister says more carbon capture projects are on the way. Meanwhile, and on a sad note, Wayne Trusty, Athena Institute’s co-founder and LCA (life cycle assessment) trail-blazer, died on June 21 at the age of 82.

In Forestry/Climate news: the Spruce budworm is trending up in Ontario; a UBC professor says climate change isn’t the only driver of BC’s drought; Maryland celebrates FSC and SFI recertification; and a NY Times feature on the Haida people and Haidi Gwaii in BC.

Finally, the unconventional journey of a Timbers victory log, from sapling to celebration.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Thousands have been ordered to evacuate near Oroville, California, as Governor Newsom declared a local state of emergency. In related news: how the US Forest Service is preparing for the heat wave; Idaho and Kansas secure funds for wildfire mitigation; lightning triggers a wildfire spike in the Yukon; and how wildfire smoke is hazardous for human health. In other Forestry news: US Fish & Wildlife released its strategy to save the spotted owl; activists urge action on BC old-growth logging; and new research on how climate change is impacting tree migration.

In Business news: GreenFirst to spin-out its newsprint mill Cap Paper; San Group denies mistreatment of temporary foreign workers; Linda Coady’s solution to BC’s fibre supply challenge; BC’s Manufacturing Jobs Fund focuses on value-added manufacturing; and as the Pellet Association of Canada announces its Annual Conference–a feature on John Swaan, the godfather of Canada’s pellet industry.

Finally, ERA’s Kevin Mason opines on the range of reactions to the EU Deforestation Regulation.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

As the US July 4th holiday approaches, dangerously high heat begets wildfire and safety warnings. In related news: hot dry conditions continue to fuel risk in northern Alberta; and despite BC’s quiet wildfire season—fire concerns persist. In BC Forestry news: BC Forest Minister Ralston decides not to run for a 6th term; Bob Brash opines on the meaning of ‘forest resilience’; Russ Taylor laments BC becoming ‘univestable’; and Bill Kordyban supports First Nations’ plea to restore local decision making.

In Business news: Canada’s railway unions vote to reauthorize strikes at CN and CPKC; Kalesnikoff Lumber celebrates 85 years in business; Pyramid Lumber runs its last shift in Montana; and New Zealand’s new trade deal removes wood tariffs. Meanwhile: BC Wood announces WOODTALKS at its Global Buyers Mission; reclaimed wood trends up at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair; and the latest newsletter headlines from FSC Canada.

Finally, Japanese crayons that use the true pigment of cedar, cypress and magnolia trees.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

It’s home building season and lumber prices are plunging due to ailing demand and over supply. In other Business news: JD Irving presents plan for $1.1B Saint John’s pulp mill upgrade; Manitoba will create 20-year forestry plan with three First Nations; and two BC First Nations chiefs say the province’s permit process is handcuffing industry. Meanwhile: positive timber stories thanks to BC’s Mass Timber Demonstration Program; an Oakland, California developer; the Insurance Journal; and the 2024 Paris Olympics.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Chief Randy Moore updates US Forest Service’s hiring & retention plan; federal judges rule on logging and road building in two of Montana’s National Forests; BC moves to protect 300 hectares of old-growth at eight sites; controversy in Oregon State University’s research forest; and Arizona attacks wildfire that forced evacuations near Phoenix.

Finally, BC wildfire ecologist Bob Gray opines on the need to rethink wildfires.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

International Paper’s stock fell 9% on news that Brazilian pulpmaker Suzano terminated their acquisition talks. In other Business news: Stimson Lumber invests $50M to increase production; Weyerhaeuser sells 600 acres of timberlands; Ontario forest firefighters seek reclassification to increase wages; New Brunswick’s coal-fired Belledune plant may have a future with wood pellets; and severe weather continues to wreak havoc across the US. Meanwhile: the Cabinet Makers Association has a new board; and the Softwood Lumber Board released its Q1, 2024 Report.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: the US Environmental Protection Agency issued wildfire smoke information; Maine secures funds to foster resilient forest communities; the Churchill Falls fire threat diminishes; wildfires continue to ravage the Arctic Circle; Finland seeks to increase the GHG efficiency of its forests; and the list of internationally threatened species is up by 1000. 

Finally, the frogs will be celebrating Canada Day this long weekend. Back on the lillypad Tuesday! 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

New Brunswick’s pulp and paper mills get electricity rate subsidy. In other Business news: Ontario supports laid off Cascade workers; Element5 expansion will double its mass timber production; Surrey BC’s growth is upping the tax burden for S&R Sawmills; and Smurfit Kappa sees benefit with switch to S&P 500 listing. 

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada funds species at risk efforts, as ministers meet on biodiversity conservation; a new report on Canada’s 2023 wildfire season; and research on the impact of wildfires on lakes. Meanwhile: another BC timber supply area sees reduced harvests; First Nations secure $335M for BC Coast marine protection; an Oregon court blocks logging in Elliott State Forest; and two Australian states are at cross purposes when it comes to the timber industry.

Finally, wood species, particularly spruce, are found to have natural antiviral properties.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Kruger and Unifor reached a four-year agreement, ending the strike at Trois-Rivières, Quebec mill. In other Business news: JD Irving says New Brunswick Power is working hard to justify energy rate hikes; International Paper makes progress on DS Smith merger; Bar Pole and Piling revives a Mississippi mill; BC’s Liberal leader says NDP has turned its back on BC forestry; and Paper Excellence Canada released its fourth sustainability report.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: the Churchill Falls wildfire jumps river in Labrador as essential workers keep town running; gusty winds prompt evacuations in central Oregon; the market-downside of US Wildland-Urban Interface code changes; US invests to reduce wildfire risk in the West; and California prescribed burns reach new record. Meanwhile: BC First Nations celebrate conservation milestone; and US old-growth plans cast shadow on existing timber projects.

Finally, an interview with Dr. Simon Ellis, UBC Faculty of Forestry Assoc. Professor Emeritus.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

65 million Americans are under heat alerts as the life-threatening heat dome continues for second week. In related news: the USDA says fuel treatments reduce wildfire severity; extreme wildfire risk has doubled in the US; a Michigan professor promotes climate-smart forestry; Southeast Oregon expects its fire risk to worsen; and BC Indigenous leaders promote cultural burns. Meanwhile: BC’s Thompson Rivers University is looking to hire wildfire experts; and more calls for a delay in the EU’s deforestation regulation.

In other news: a New Hampshire sawmill is destroyed by fire; Kruger’s Corner Brook mill failed to inspect its boiler system; BC seeks fibre for shuttered Aspen Planer mill; Powell River Community Forest sets timber harvest record; the Southern Forest Products Association announced its 2023 Sawmill Award winners; and registration is now open for the Global Wood Summit 2024.

Finally, Canada’s inflation rose 2.9% in May, casting doubt on a July rate cut.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A rail strike in Canada is deemed more likely now, as Union votes on whether to extend strike threat. In other Business news: BC’s Conservative leader outlines forest-friendly election platform; Maine’s T&D Wood Energy is fined for excess emissions; Timberlab’s South Carolina mill reaches full capacity; Forestry Innovation Investment releases its 2023/24 Year in Review; and Massachusetts Institute of Technology features famed timber architect Schim Menges.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: USDA seeks comment on old-growth guidance report; ENGOs say US old-growth plan is wanting; a Montana judge is set to rule on the Pintler logging project; Quebec’s Port-Cartier wildfire is slowed by weather; an evacuation alert is announced for Zama City, Alberta; and the Churchill Falls, NL evacuation order remains in place.

Finally, and sadly, forestry billionaire James K. Irving, has died at the age of 96.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor