Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

Third quarter financials by Mercer, Acadian Timber and International Paper reflect difficult market conditions. In related news from the Global Wood Summit: China’s pulp & paper growth triggers mill closures in North America; and the US perspective on Canadian softwood lumber duties. Elsewhere: a partial labour strike breaks out at the Port of Montreal; Microsoft builds with wood to reduce emissions; more on IP’s mill closures; and the latest on the True Value / Do It Right agreement.

In Forestry news: ENGOs urge rejection of biomass energy at UN biodiversity conference; a new study on climate change’s impact on permafrost forests; wildfire depressants dump toxic metals on US West forests; Washington timber sales are back on the chopping block; BC’s Sea to Sky forest fertilization project is underway; and forest fire season wrap-ups from Ontario and Alberta.

Finally, despite monsoon conditions, BC’s Sooke Potholes fire is only just declared to be out!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Strengthening demand in 2025 should boost lumber prices 20%: Global Wood Summit. In related news: BC business urges new government to focus on the economy; forest unions partner to save BC forest jobs; and wood trade is not impacted by worsening relations between Canada and India. Meanwhile: Bluelinx announced Q3,2024 earnings; Weyerhaeuser received Montana Governor’s award; and Cascades announced organizational changes.

In Safety news: Canada’s Transportation Safety Board rules on 2021 fatal logging helicopter crash; and the US National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety opines on forest operations safety. In other news: ENGO says Canada’s commitment to biodiversity is at risk; the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) touts its credentials at COP16; and Virginia Tech uses advances in AI to combat the illegal timber trade.

Finally, and just in time for Halloween, new research on ghost forests, and the oldest ever Giant Frog tadpole fossil.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Global Wood Summit kicked-off in Vancouver yesterday with forecasts of log and lumber woes. In related news: the world is running out of low-cost logs, and when will China start buying lumber again. Meanwhile: the US economy achieves its “soft landing” goal; UPM reports positive Q3, 2024 earnings; and Kelowna approves Tolko mill redevelopment plan.

In Forestry/Climate news: US Forest Service partners to conserve private forestlands; Oregon launches prescribed fire liability program; action against forest biomass subsidies gains momentum at COP16; six EU countries pledge money for biodiversity protection; and the new threat to Brazil’s forests—chemicals.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Incumbent David Eby clinches election for BC NDP, recounts will determine if it’s a majority. In related news: the United Steelworkers says both parties were pro-forestry; Geoff Russ says the potential minority is bad for forestry; and Nelson Bennett says the winners will face economic headwinds, regardless. In other Business news: Stora Enso acquires Finnish sawmill company Junnikkala; PotlatchDeltic reports Q3 earnings of $3.3 million; and lumber prices tick up again.

In Forestry/Climate news: prescribed burning is used to fight west Texas wildfires; the US Forest Service decision to halt prescribed burns in California is panned; putting Washington’s forests into carbon markets to address climate change; the UN says the world is on pace for more warming without action; COP16 reports trees at risk but also progress in biodiversity protection; and Australia is developing emissions standards for forestry.

Finally, the Global Wood Summit kicks off in Vancouver. Check here for daily updates.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canfor’s Q3 loss was driven by weak lumber prices and asset write-downs. In related news: COFI’s Linda Coady highlights common ground on forest sector reform; a Washington Supreme Court case is testing timberland owner’s immunity; Sierra Nevada’s newest sawmill is advancing forest health; RISI says stimulus measure could boost Chinese lumber demand; and Oregon seeks news funds to cover its wildfire cost shortage.

In Forestry news: wildfire salvage gives new life to Canada’s forests; the US Forest Service issues a hiring freeze; two Washington state reps seek old growth protections; a Texas ENGO says stop logging our oldest trees; Colorado finds new value in biochar production; and a North Carolina professor says hurricanes can increase wildfire risk.

Finally, the Global Wood Summit kicks off tonight in Vancouver, and the Softwood Lumber Board announced its 2025 Mass Timber Competition.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Weyerhaeuser reported Q3, 2024 earnings of $28 million, down from Q2’s $239 million. In other Company news: Georgia revokes permit for Telfair’s biomass plant; Allegheny Wood Products’ owners are charged with fraud; Kalesnikoff supports local fundraiser; and more on Paper Excellence’s rebrand as Domtar. In other Business news: US new home sales tick up; UK housing starts hit new low; the US Lumber Coalition addresses Global Wood Summit delegates; and the Softwood Lumber Board’s latest update.

In Forestry News: Canadian scientists fight to save North America’s largest fungi biobank; how Canada can better control wildfire risk; the US Forest Service halts prescribed burns in California; hurricane Helene’s impact on Georgia’s forest industry; Maine’s forest opportunity roadmap; and US ENGOs on wood pellet mill’s negative impacts.

Finally, a Q&A with FSC’s new Director General, and FPAC’s latest sustainability partnership.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

West Fraser Timber reported a Q3, 2024 loss, with lumber accounting for much of the lower revenues. In related news: Stora Enso faces similar headwinds; CPKC railway reports Q3, 2024 earnings; and Russ Taylor releases a global Forest Sector Outlook report. Meanwhile: Paper Excellence Group rebrands as Domtar; more US coverage of National Forest Products Week; and mass timber features—courtesy of the America Wood Council, Clemson University and Mississippi State University.

In Forestry news: countries clash over funding to restore biodiversity at COP16 as journalists bemoan US, Canadian, Colombian and UK inaction; Canadian wildfire fighters seek better pay and support; Canada looks to AI to optimize biomass sorting; and ENGOs pan California’s plan to build new wood pellet plants.

Finally, plagued by invasive plants? The Victoria Airport Authority is hiring goats.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Ontario’s Ian Dunn says forest bioenergy can help the province become an energy superpower. In other Business news: Mosaic updates its BigCoast Forest Climate Initiative; the Bank of Canada reduced its interest rates by a half point; CN Rail reported lower profits; and Rayonier AM restarted its Jesup, Georgia mill.

In Forestry/Climate news: Climate Proof Canada calls for an Adaptation Strategy; BC’s Okanagan sees record salmon run; Oregon puts a price on forest carbon; Colorado focuses on seedling survival; Montana approves a conservation easement; Mississippi’s wildfire season could get worse; Lake Tahoe thins its forests; and TrusTrace and FSC partner on EU Deforestation Regulation compliance.

Finally, the Canadian Wood Council announced its 40th annual Wood Design & Building Award winners.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

International Paper confirmed it will close four container and packaging facilities in Illinois, Missouri, North Carolina and Tennessee. In other Company news: Arcadia Paper Mills plans to reopen a former Cascades site in Oregon; Michigan invests in the Northern Hardwoods Lumber facility, Louisiana Pacific partners with the Forest Workforce Training Institute; and West Fraser and a BC First Nation sign an MOU.

In Forestry/Climate news: Minister Guilbeault’s statement on the opening of COP16; a new study links climate change and smoke-related deaths; Washington old-growth fight switches to second-growth forests; Tennessee closes Franklin State Forest due to tree spikers; and Washington’s Commission of Public Lands race centres on forest management.

Meanwhile: WoodWorks Summit continues in Toronto; one week to go until the Global Wood Summit in Vancouver; and registrations opens for the Wood Pellet and Bioenergy Safety Summit in Prince George.

Finally, record disaster claims raise concern over the cost of Canadian insurance.

Kelly McCloskey, 

President Joe Biden proclaimed Oct 20-26 National Forest Products Week in the US. In related news: Wisconsin notes Stella-Jones’ economic contribution, Missouri’s School of Natural Resources points to forest products’ carbon benefits; North Carolina State researchers highlight lignin’s ability to replace petroleum; US NGOs question the legality of Cambodian hardwood imports; and Paris celebrates Europe’s newest timber tower. Meanwhile: China looms over the US-Canada trade pact; North American lumber prices are up; and Canadian interest rates are coming down.

In Forestry/Climate news: amid dire claims, COP16—the UN’s Biodiversity Conference—kicks off this week; Ontario expands its wildland fire program; Nova Scotia reports its least active wildfire season on record; California employs controlled burns to build fire-resilient communities; and Team Tahoe accelerates forest heath in the Tahoe basin.

Finally, a new book on Paul Bunyan—Gentlemen of the Woods: Manhood, Myth, and the American Lumberjack.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Raymond James’ anticipates more mill closures as lumber duties are set to double in mid-2025. In other Business news: San Group curtails its Port Alberni operations due to log shortage; and Portland’s Westrock mill may be the source of a foul smell. Meanwhile: Canada’s investment in buildings is up; US builder confidence edges higher; US housing starts are mixed; the US economy is on a firmer footing; and Trevor Cutsinger joins the US Endowment for Forestry & Communities.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: a new study points to a global rise in forest fire and related carbon emissions; after death of firefighter the Northwest Territories’ coroner says more training is required; debate continues about role of beetles in Jasper wildfire; Nova Scotia expands its helicopter fleet; 2024 is called the year of wildfire in Idaho; Montana looks to a new forest model; and ENGO’s bemoan the EU Deforestation Regulation delay.

Finally, the Discovery Channel’s latest reality show: Lumberjacks put their lives on the line.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Tyee’s Ben Parfitt concludes the last of his series on forestry in BC. In related news: International Paper to cut jobs in San Antonio;  Hurricane Helene damage puts North Carolina rail line out of commission for months; and the European Central Bank lowers its key rate again this year. Meanwhile, the Canadian pulp industry struggles to replace retirees with new hires; and the benefits of building with mass timber are exhibited in Syracuse, New York.

In Forestry/Climate news: an Albertan pulp mill is fined for an unregulated release into fish-bearing waters; more transparency is needed about wildfire management; Europe is not ready for increasing climate change weather; and conservation groups in Canada celebrate a major funding milestone. Meanwhile: researchers promote assisted migration in tree-planting strategies; landslides are modelled in California with more precision; and a breakthrough in understanding the relationship between plant growth and disease resistance.

Finally, the ‘absurd’ idea of burying wood to store carbon.

Suzanne Hopkinson, Tree Frog Editor

Interfor is selling its two Quebec sawmills and one reman plant to Chantiers Chibougamau. In related news: International Paper is cutting 650 jobs; True Value hardware is selling to Do It Best; Drax is found to have burnt wood from old forests; and Canfor Pulp appoints Stephen Mackie as its new President and CEO. Meanwhile: Canadian housing starts rose 5% in September; BC’s manufacturing is nearing crisis levels; and if elected, BC Conservatives’ plan to return 20% of BC’s forests to First Nations.

In Forestry/Climate news: despite pushback—Europe is fast tracking its Deforestation Regulation delay; the American Forest Foundation will auction carbon credits for family forests; Oregon plans to put Elliot State Forest in a carbon market; and Brazil engages Indigenous communities on carbon offsets. Meanwhile: the Canadian Forest Service is celebrating its 125th B-day; and resilience and renewal stood out at Alberta Forest Products Association’s 82nd AGM.

Finally, the biophilic properties of wood are reaching Space Station design levels.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Economists Jock Finlayson and Ken Peacock opine on BC’s forestry decline and how to reverse course. In related news: why BC’s forests are an election issue; and the inaugural Global Wood Summit — what’s next for forest products. In Company news: Mercer’s Peace River, Alberta mill is fined for a Fisheries Act violation; PowerWood launched its new facility in Agassiz, BC; Kruger Kamloops employs AI technology; Rayonier (RYAM) reported a fire at its Jesup, Georgia mill; Enviva’s bankruptcy wipes out its shareholders; and International Paper’s shareholders approve acquisition of DS Smith.

In Forestry/Climate news: Bjorn Lomborg says despite green investments the world uses more fossil fuels than ever; Manitoba’s Interlake forests are back from the ashes; Stanley Park embarks on the next round of looper moth recovery; Ontario needs more Indigenous participation in forestry; Nebraska Tribes secure Arbor Day Foundation grants; and Oregon debates logging’s role in wildfire resiliency.

Finally, going back in time—the Pacific Northwest and Arizona logging history.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor 

Happy Thanksgiving to our readers in Canada! We’ll be back tomorrow with all the weekend News.

Whoever wins the New Brunswick election will face a land title claim for half of the province. In related news: Trump vows to renegotiate the US free trade agreement with Canada and Mexico; and Canada’s political leaders are in-step on the need for housing. Meanwhile: JD Irving loses its US antidumping duties appeal; 84 Lumber will open a truss plant in South Carolina; Massachusetts looks at mid-rise single-stair housing expansion; and the EU investigates illegal hardwood plywood imports from China.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Jasper’s mayor condemns finger pointing on wildfire; Calgary still faces extreme fire danger; Vancouver will continue its Stanley Park looper moth logging; hurricane Helene impacted $1.3 billion in timber resources in Georgia alone; California launches a wildfire resilience-work dashboard; the USDA and Arizona sign a stewardship agreement; and wildfire updates from Idaho; Oregon and North Dakota.

Finally, its Thanksgiving long weekend in Canada and the Frogs will be back on their i-PADs Tuesday.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Hurricane Milton spared Tampa as it plowed through Florida, compounding the damage wrought by Helene. In other news: forestry could shape BC North’s election outcome; Oregon’s Forestry Dept. is accused of being “bad for women”; Montana’s Stoltze Lumber is still thriving; and a virtual reality tool for sawmill training debuts in Australia. Meanwhile: the US GDP increased 3% in Q2, 2024, as inflation reached lowest point since 2021; and conference registration is open for the BC Professional Foresters, and the BC Truck Loggers, while COFI says Save the Date for their 2025 Convention.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: experts say the Jasper fire could have been prevented; US agencies battle over wildfire aviation policies in California; Washington state’s forester says forest management is key to wildfire mitigation; a Minnesota pilot survived crash of his fire-suppression plane; and the pivotal US Northwest Forest Plan is up for renewal.

Finally, a look at how Ukraine’s forests have been devastated by the hellscape of war.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Railroads move to high alert and residents evacuate as Hurricane Milton closes in on Florida.

In Business/Political news: Canada launches Indigenous Fisheries Monitoring Fund, and invests in Northern Alberta’s Institute of Technology and in firefighter health and safety; the UK Guardian features BC’s UNDRIP law; Community Forests see support in BC election platforms; Ben Parfitt opines on why BC forest companies invest in the US; and Montana’s Pyramid Mountain Lumber nears full closure.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: ENGO’s push back on FPAC’s caribou recovery research funding; FAIRY CREEK (the documentary) is set to premier in Toronto; Eucalyptus trees are fueling Portugal’s wildfires; and a new study say Germany’s forests are switching from carbon-sink to carbon-source.

Finally, a primer on the European Union Deforestation Regulation delay.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Citing market challenges, Western Forest Products plans to temporarily reduce lumber production across BC. In related news: US architects celebrate mass timber’s credentials, as Canadian producers see its potential for growth; and the latest insights from Canada Wood Group. Meanwhile: the USDA is still assessing Helene’s impact on forests, as Hurricane Milton bears down on the Florida coast.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC and New Brunswick elections beget perspectives on the importance of forests; Vancouver City Council debates logging in Stanley Park; a new study says Acadian forests are best left alone to fight climate change; while another study says diverse forests are better at CO2 capture; Idaho grapples with worsening fire season; and Wyoming’s Elk fire nears 73,000 acres. 

Finally, generating power, revenue and knowledge in UBC’s Alex Fraser Research Forest.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Hurricane Milton strengthened to a Category 4 as Florida prepares for a Wednesday landfall. In Company news: JD Irving pans New Brunswick’s electricity rate proposal; San Group owes BC millions in stumpage; Rosoboro plans expansion in Springfield, Oregon; Drax launches virtual tour of Mississippi plant; and Paper Excellence supports communities impacted by hurricane Helene. Meanwhile: Ian Dunn opines on the unitended fallout of the softwood lumber dispute; and Kristen Hopewell bemoans the demise of the World Trade Organization.

In Forestry/BC Election news: David Elstone says the BC vote will be pivotal; the Greens say they would stop all old growth logging; and the Steelworkers see promise in the NDP platform but want more urgency. Meanwhile, in Health & Safety news: Washington state fines Georgia Pacific for employee death; New Zealand’s WorkSafe targets high-risk industries; and wildfires still threaten communities in Alberta; Utah and North Dakota.

Finally, no — the port strike did not cause a toilet paper shortage.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

US dock workers and port operators have reached a tentative deal to end the East Coast port strike. In other Business news: an Ontario mayor pushes back on First Nation call for Dryden mill shutdown; Wisconsin’s Besse Forest Products puts six hardwood mills up for sale; Hancock Lumber curtails its Madison lumber mill; and one of Australia’s largest sawmills switches back to biomass power generation. 

In Forestry news: the European Union claims to be on-track with its biodiversity pledge despite deforestation u-turn—and it defends regulation delay despite pushback; BC ENGOs call for a new BC Forest Act; BC court denies bid to halt tree felling in Vancouver’s Stanley Park; USDA Chief Randy Moore celebrates his partnership with America’s loggers; Wisconsin groups urge Biden to protect more old-growth; and Brazil secures support for a forest fund to protect trees.

Finally, wildfires, drought and heatwaves are now the second-most-costly US insured loss.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The European Union proposed a 12-month delay to its deforestation regulation—conservatives cheer while green groups rage. In other Business news: the US House pushes for resilience in building codes; the US Dept of Commerce revised West Fraser’s antidumping rate; and BMI acquires another former paper mill. Meanwhile: Roseburg Forest Products elects Ronald Parker as chairman; and Ben Parfitt opines on BC’s forest industry crisis. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada and Nova Scotia invest in wildfire resilience; Oregon tries to recoup its wildfire costs from those who caused them; the incoming La Nina weather is expected to be a drought buster; a University of New Hampshire study on the effect of climate change on forests; and a UK Guardian story on wildfires and climate change.

Finally, the lack of toilet paper isn’t a result of the US port strike—it’s because of panic buying.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A growing number of governments and businesses urge the European Union to reconsider its deforestation regulation. In other Business news: the Supreme of Canada dismisses JD Irving’s appeal; Doman Building Materials expands into South Carolina; Suzano buys two of Pactiv Evergreen US Southeast mills; Hancock Lumber acquires tiny homes of Maine; and the Idaho Forest Group gifts easement to conservation.

In Forestry news: John Mullinder says Reuters’ report on Canadian forestry is misleading; Jim Givan says BC’s forestry decline was predictable; Bob Brash says BC should ‘vote for a standard of living’; Ontario’s wood pellet industry broadens its fibre supply; litigation looms over Washington timber sales; and new technology makes fighting forest fires more efficient from the air. 

Finally, Jack Daniel’s says people don’t care about regeneration until it impacts their bourbon.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US port strike is underway with major implications for the American and Canadian economies. In other Business news: a BC Resource Sector Coalition seeks a new approach to forest management; and the BC Conservative leader wants to repeal BC’s Indigenous rights law, while promising to promote economic reconciliation. Meanwhile: perspectives on the outlook for lumber prices, and a new study with implications for the softwood lumber dispute.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada invests in sustainable buildings and international forestry; BC ENGO’s say the new Lands Ministry is not protecting biodiversity; Jasper’s caribou breeding program was impacted by wildfire; and US prescribed fire efforts face regulatory roadblocks, while post-fire replanting efforts are falling short. 

Finally, Trevor Hancock opines on why carbon pricing is good for your health.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

No News today as Monday (Sept 30) is Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (also known as Orange Shirt Day), recognizing the history and ongoing impacts of the Canadian Indian residential school system. 

Hurricane Helene is lashing the US east coast as millions are without power. In related news: the looming east coast port strike could paralyze half of US trade, scramble the US election, and hit Canada hard. In other Business news: Canfor Pulp’s CEO Kevin Edgson is stepping down; BC Conservatives promise forest regulatory change; and the latest news from Softwood Lumber Board.

In Forestry news: Canada’s Guilbeault says his ministry not to blame for the Jasper fire devastation; Jeff McWilliams and Albert Koehler opine on the future of BC forestry; Nick Smith says US old growth requires active stewardship; and the US Hardwood Federation pushes back on Biden’s old-growth plan.

Finally, Oregon’s record wildfire season is expected to last into mid-October.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Tolko is temporarily curtailing its Soda Creek sawmill, while Mercer announced downtime at its Peace River pulp mill. In other Business news: Trump threatened John Deere with 200% tariffs; Biden is urged to pressure Europe to delay its deforestation ban—joining Sweden; and a DLA Piper primer on the EU Regulation. Meanwhile: the US economy grew 3% in Q2; US new home sales are down; and Canadian rental-construction is up.

In Forestry news: ENGO’s aim to overhaul BC’s forestry laws; the case for banning glyphosate in Ontario; Christine Gelowitz on the role of the professional forester in BC; National Forest Week stories from the Yukon, Ontario, and UBC; and a US financing model to speed up forest thinning. In Wildfire news: Canada’s 2024 wildfire season was bad, with the northwest being hardest hit; work begins on protecting Banff National Park; and Oregon secures funding for its firefighting costs. 

Finally, the Canadian Institute of Forestry announced its 2024 National Award Recipients.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The White House and forest industry expressed concern as US longshoremen from Maine to Texas appear ready to strike. In related news: US House approves ‘Fix our Forests Act‘ but Senate unlikely to consider it; and Drax launches new US-based subsidiary, plans to invest billions in biomass power plants. Meanwhile: the Softwood Lumber Board reports Q2 incremental demand generated; the USDA honours four R&D scientists; and Gorman’s Nick Arkle receives the King Charles III medal.

In Forestry/Climate news: ENGOs says Canada’s logging emissions rival the transportation sector; a BC Fairy Creek protester speaks out on wrongful arrest; Oregon gets pushback on plans to log dead and dying trees; Georgia seeks to expand forest innovation and investment; and Planet Labs releases AI-powered forest carbon monitoring.

Finally, a seed from an archaeological excavation germinated by Judean Desert researchers.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US Administration panned the Republic-led ‘Fix Our Forests Act’ set for consideration in the House. In related news: Trudeau tells Stephen Colbert Americans are paying too much for lumber; and BC’s John Brink submits price to acquire four Canfor sawmills. Meanwhile: the US mass timber revolution needs better data; Kamloop’s mayor wants a new mass timber bridge; and Stora Enso celebrates its new mass timber head office in Finland.

In Forestry/Climate news: Quebec’s pension fund plans to invest in US forestlands; the US Endowment invests in the health and vitality of working forests; the US Sierra Club calls for more action on old-growth; a new study says California should start counting GHGs from logging; and Florida’s forest landowners brace for another hurricane.

Finally, the Globe and Mail features three forest stories during National Forest Week.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor 

Federal Minister Steven Guilbeault dangles big money and invites Quebec to negotiate on caribou. In related news: the Wet’suwet’en First Nation’s fight to save BC old forests; transforming Canadian forestry and helping First Nations prosper; US ENGO’s highlight support for old-growth protections; Minnesota is short on seeds and the people to collect them; and Google invests in forestry-based carbon credits.

In wildfire news: a NY Times’ piece on the shortage of wildfire fighters; more regulations not the answer to US wildfire risks; and Oregon is running out of money, warns its fire season is not over yet.

In Business news: BC Conservative leader touts his forestry credentials; Washington State’s timber industry is front and centre in the November election; California’s new Yuba biomass plant secures local financing; the significant role of UK’s waste wood industry; and the US Biochar Initiative names Myles Gray as its new Executive Director.

Finally, it’s National Forest Week in Canada—how will you celebrate?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Governments and business groups up their efforts to persuade the EU to suspend its anti-deforestation law. In other Business news: West Fraser will curtail its Lake Butler, Florida sawmill; Ontario helps former Terrace Bay pulp mill employees; Restoration Bioproducts opens its Virginia biochar plant; Drax is fined for early start to Longview plant; and Weyerhaeuser’s North Carolina mill is fined for a safety accident. Meanwhile: Forestry Together launches ‘workforce inclusivity’ initiative; and FESBC’s Jason Fisher comments on his new post.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: wildfires stretch provincial resources to their limits; US puts seasonal hiring on hold; Indigenous fire stewardship can reduce BC’s wildfire risk and cost; and Oregon says the tide is turning on a historic fire season. Meanwhile: researchers says wood is good for our health; ENGO’s say toilet paper is a waste of boreal forests; and a BC regional district board say Forestry Works for BC.

Finally, climate change means we may have to learn to live with some invasive species.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Forest Products Association of Canada announced its 2024 Awards of Excellence, recognizing TOLKO’s Brad Thorlakson. In other Business news: Georgia Power looks to International Paper to expand its wood energy business; a BC arbitrator upholds Western Forest Products’ post-incident drug and alcohol test; Columbia Falls Weyerhaeuser MDF plant celebrates 50 years; and more on One Sky Forest Products’ OSB mill announcement. 

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada’s GHG emissions dropped in 2023; municipal leaders say’s Canada’s caribou plan will hurt rural communities; and more on Stanley Park’s dead-tree logging plan. In Wildfire news: Canada and BC invest in wildfire resilience; BC FireSmart efforts saved homes; more of northeast BC burned in 2023, 2024 than previous 60 years combined; Montana highlights impact of fuel reduction work; and Peru and Portugal declare states of emergency.

Finally, Japanese scientists unlock nature’s wood-eating secrets.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates today as housing starts and builder sentiment tick up. In other Business news: the BC Union of BC Municipalities conference focuses on forestry, as forestry unions seek action to protect jobs; the Grassy Narrow’s First Nation pans the Dryden pulp and paper mill; Georgia regulators approve Georgia Power’s biomass energy plan; Woodland Biofuels announced $1.35B biofuel plant at the Port of South Louisiana; and Weyerhaeuser announced a new partnership with The Nature Conservancy.

In other news: BC First Nation foresees economic benefits of tenure purchase; why caribou conservation in BC is challenging; the US’s misleadingly named ‘Fix Our Forests Act‘; and Norway says elevated radiation levels due to forest fire near Chernobyl. Meanwhile: COFI’s Linda Coady awarded King Charles III Coronation Medal.

Finally, Arkansas’ Dean MacKeith credited with mass timber’s progress, as Anthony Timberlands Center ‘tops out’.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Forest Products Association of Canada released a 13-part exposé on the importance of a healthy Canadian forest sector. In related news: a BC Council of Forest Industries report on its supply chain and community benefits; and Drax’s contribution to Canada’s economy. In other Business news: Washington governor Inslee fights repeal of cap-and-trade law; production of Madill logging equipment is back in Prince George, BC; and the Softwood Lumber Board has six new board members.

In Forestry news: Alberta works to mitigate the fungus threat to bats; Whistler, BC is unlikely to change its fuel-thinning policy; Washington ENGOs want to curb old-growth logging; the BC Forest Practice Board will audit Canfor’s Cranbrook forest operations; Ireland’s Glenveagh National Park is rewilding its degraded lands, and wildfire updates from Arizona, Portugal, Peru and Brazil.

Finally, BC’s Garry Merkel and Jennifer Gunter were honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada launches legal challenge after US hikes duties on softwood lumber imports. In related news: Canfor transfers Mackenzie TSA to McLeod Lake Indian Band and Tsay Keh Dene Nation; Russian targets India as new wood export market amid sanctions; and the Wood Pellet Association of Canada (WPAC) kicks off its annual conference in Victoria next week. 

In Forestry news: a federal decree to protect caribou could cost Quebec $900 million; BC may increase species at risk to protect critical habitat; forestry takes centre stage at Union of BC Municipalities conference; ENGOs sue Montana to block logging in Bitterroot National Forest; and new research says surface temperatures are warmer for 50 years after wildfires. Meanwhile, wildfire updates from British Columbia, Oregon, California and Brazil.

Finally, as some of you know, Sandy and I (Kelly) are in Ireland this week, while Heidi and Suzi are holding down the fort in BC! The demands of holiday schedules will change tomorrow through next Monday such that we won’t be producing the typically summary Takeaway, and so our email out to subscribers will simply direct you to our website where you can see the full list of daily coverage! 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Reuters takes on FSC and SFI, claims Canada is logging its climate fighting forests. In related news: an ex-BC constable says the BC forestry policing service has been hobbled; ENGOs and industry reach a new consensus on the US Northwest Forest Plan; Washington’s managed forests are critical to forest reliance; and California needs a lot more forest seed.

In Business news: First Nation Chief Colleen Erickson opines on Canfor’s mill closures, as the future of their tenure is questioned, BC announces retraining grants for mill workers; Port Alberni seeks dismissal of San Group lawsuit; LL Flooring stays alive (in part); and the Guardian on why the UK’s biggest carbon emitter (Drax) receives green subsidies.

Finally, the Line Fire in Southern California doubles in size, forcing thousands to evacuate.

Canfor mill closures spur calls for government action. They include:

• Vancouver Sun’s Derrick Penner: BC communities eye difficult transitions
• COFI’s Linda Coady: Closures underscore need for action to address root causes
• Steelworkers’ Jeff Bromley: Union is devastated. Say Canfor should lose tenures
• Conservative leader John Rustad: NDP forest policies blamed for mill closures
• First Nation Chief Colleen Erickson: Government leaders knew this was coming
• Spar Tree’s David Elstone: Canfor move a premonition of something worse

In other Business news: Tolko curtails logging to get inventories in line; Jasper’s wildfire will cost insurers $880 million; and CN Rail loses appeal of BC wildfire penalty.

In other news: FPAC responds to ENGO report of forest carbon emissions; BC’s forest watchdog releases report on Quadra Island old-growth; Oregon targets forest for wildfire reform; and understanding carbon-water tradeoffs in the Pacific Northwest.

Finally, four aged and scarred reformers ruminate over the future of BC’s forested lands.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canfor plans to close of its Plateau and Fort St. John, BC sawmills and reduce production in US South operations. In related news: BC’s forest minister, union and BC mayor respond to Canfor’s news; Ontario revokes Terrace Bay pulp mill fine; and Timberlab announces Millersburg, Oregon as new CLT plant site. In Wood Product/GHG reduction news: a conference at the University of Victoria, and report by the BC Council of Forest Industries.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Torchlight’s Jamie Stephen says CBC story on logging emissions makes no sense; Port Alberni to host inaugural Indigenous Forestry Conference; American Forests awards $25 million in  community grants; and wildfire updates from Oregon, California and Brazil.

Finally, a new online map by Heritage BC tells the story of BC’s industrial heritage.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A University of BC startup invented a wood-based filtration system that captures and neutralizes “forever chemicals“. In other Business news: US railways reach tentative agreement, as experts debate Canada’s move to end its rail shutdown; and Nova Scotia’s exempt status said to exacerbate lumber duties on other provinces. Meanwhile: Domtar is recognized by the Tennessee Recycling Coalition; US homebuilders raise housing as an election issue; Canada is set to reduce interest rates; and the latest from FSC Canada.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada’s 2023 wildfire season overwhelmed the federal emergency centre; Joe Nemeth says fuel management is the answer to BC’s wildfire challenge; Nature Canada wants logging emissions to be tracked; Oregon wildfires beget new evacuations; and the Southern pine beetle is threatening Alabama’s forest economy.

Finally, Western Forest Products hosts Global Buyers Mission delegates on eve of Whistler event.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The former head of BC’s public service says natural resource jobs contribute most to Canadians’ standard of living. In related news: lumber duties are set to rise but future increases are already causing concern. In Wood Product news: fire-prone California homes may soon say goodbye to wood fences; Massachusetts architects rethink their building materials; Florida researchers develop a CO2 absorbing polymer; and the bio-revolution is coming to UK construction.

In Forestry news: the Narwhal says BC doesn’t track unauthorized harvesting; Drax’s California wood pellet expansion faces ENGO pushback; a French oil giant is buying US hardwood forests for carbon credits; and Washington state to decide fate of carbon offset program. Meanwhile: Ireland falls short on its forestry targets, and Spain sees fewer forest fires this year.

Finally, from the archives—a 1935 strike by Humboldt lumber workers came to a violent end.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Marc Heller opines on what’s at stake for forests in November’s US election, while Ray Rivers wonders if Kamala Harris has a soft spot for Canada. In other Business news: Drax’s biomass penalty spurs call for review of energy subsidies; PotlatchDeltic completes its Arkansas sawmill upgrade; Georgia Power wants to burn wood for fuel; Milwaukee, is developing the world’s tallest timber tower (again); and the US GDP rose 3.0% in Q2, 2024.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC sets new harvest level near Squamish, clears the way for the salvage logging industry; managing Oregon’s fog belt forests with fire in mind; Silicon Valley wants to fight fires with fire; climate change is reducing land for growing timber; and the latest from the Forest Enhancement Society of BC.

Finally, Swiss researcher says nanoplastics interfere with tree photosynthesis.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Drax has agreed to pay a £25 million penalty for misreporting some data about biomass imports from Canada. In related news: the Williams Lake, BC biomass plant is still in jeopardy of closing; JD Irving slams New Brunswick utility rate hikes; Roseburg’s Medford MDF mill sustains fire damage; and the City of Port Alberni responds to the San Group lawsuit. In Wood Product news: 3D-printed concrete made from wood pulp; paper bottles and fabric applications; and adhesive-free joining of wood and metal.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada’s GHG emissions quadrupled in 2023 due to wildfires; the Northwest Territories releases report on its 2023 fire season; UK timber supply is threatened as climate change pushing food-crops northward; and how active forest management shapes Australia’s forests.

Finally, our editorial team has been enriched with the addition of a new (and former) Frog—we welcome Suzi Hopkinson back to the pond.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor