Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

Oregon narrowly approved a habitat plan that protects endangered species by limiting logging. In related news: unions call for action to save BC’s forest sector; mill closures have South Carolina loggers facing collapse; Vermont loggers look for relief due to wet weather; and Godfrey Forest Products is building an OSB plant in Jay, Maine. In Forest Product news: UK softwood imports are up; Clemson University breaks ground on a mass timber structure; and the Paris Olympics’ architectural icon is a wood showcase.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: lessons from a new study on Canada’s 2023 wildfire season; Ontario firefighters question their preparedness; wildfire smoke workshops teach Albertans about health impacts; Calgary is preparing for an early wildfire season; Maine looks to employ more controlled burns; and Arizona will reduce fire risk with thinned buffer zones.

Finally, bioplastics—a sustainable solution or distraction from plastic crisis?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A new study says harnessing the ability of wood products to store carbon is key to reducing GHG emissions. In related news: New York leads the way with low carbon building announcements; mass timber makes headway with architects; Mondi recognized for StretchWrap—its paper replacement for plastic; IKEA looks to wood for sound-absorbing furniture; and more on Kalesnikoff’s expansion plans. Meanwhile: Conifex reports negative earnings; Canfor sees positive trends for lumber; and packaging manufacturers face reduce demand.

In Forestry/Climate news: Oregon narrowly approves conservation plan as loggers protest en mass; opposing views on forest restoration plans in Wisconsin and  California; a secret map suggests BC Forest Ministry is biased in favour of logging; and another First Nation expresses dismay over BC Land Act decision.

Finally, COFI adds keynotes Jason Krips and Louise Bender, celebrating a Private Forest Champion; and an auction for Evans Lake Forest Education camp.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Kalesnikoff announced plans to build a new mass timber facility in the West Kootenays, BC. In related news: JD Irving acquires Mill Services in Cobleskill, New York; workers lobby for restart of the shuttered Terrace Bay pulp mill; and the Steelworkers reach new deal with CN Rail. Meanwhile: the US trade czar opines on renewal of the North American trade pact; Brent Jang says natural gas is overtaking forestry in BC; and the latest market prognostications by ERA’s Kevin Mason.

In Forestry/Climate news: the US approved a new rule on GHG reporting by companies; a UK professor and climate scientist is sounding the alarm; Ontario braces for impacts of global warming; Minnesota experiments in forest assisted migration; Oregon is changing the rules governing logging; and a USDA feature on the origins of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Finally, WorkSafeBC’s first aid changes, and safety challenges faced by women in construction.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canfor’s 2023 financial results included a fourth quarter loss of $117 million. In related news: Kruger invests to increase tissue production; Enviva gets extension on bond payment; and Interfor appoints Christina Sistrunk to its Board. In Mass Timber news: a new report says BC needs upskilling and rail upgrades to grow production; how to address builder’s risk; and featured projects from New York and Portland. Meanwhile: US multifamily starts to decline in 2024; single-family shows signs of stirring; and Canada holds interest rates at 5%.

In Forestry/Climate news: Biden is urged to move on old growth protection; Oregon’s state forester recommends habitat conservation plan; a BC First Nation is disheartened by Land Act reactions; cellulose nanocrystals an opportunity for Quebec’s forest industry; and Nature Canada says government GHG review must include logging emissions.

Finally, BC wildfire workers can now take the time to focus on their own mental health.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada says its housing accelerator fund will result in 750,000 new homes in the next decade. In related news: Mercer launched a mass timber erection division; Artificial Intelligence is coming to the construction sector; and forest investors must assess what to do with their trees.  Meanwhile: US LBM acquires Homestead Building Systems; and Do it Best and United Hardware plan to merge.

In Forestry/Climate news: BC seeks input on expanding the Great Bear Rainforest’s conservation area; BC’s fire prevention budget called inadequate given trends; a new Tongass forest plan will focus on climate change and tourism; ENGOs sue to block a California post-fire salvage logging project; and FSC says two of its New Zealand based certification bodies are required to improve.

Finally, David Elstone opines on the upside of British Columbia’s Land Act mess.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Sustainability organizations, including FSC, formed a risk alliance to share info on deforestation-free products. In Wildfire news: Canada braces for another season of flames; Oregon sends a strike team to help fire-ravaged Texas; Michigan’s shaded fuel brakes prove effective; Alberta ups its wildfire emergency fund; a new study says BC’s forest fuel load data is inaccurate; and researchers say Washington’s wetter forests are at risk.

In Business news: Doman completes its acquisition of Southeast Forest Products; Millson Forestry Service secures an Ontario biomass grant; Irving upgrades its Saint John’s woodyard; UFP expands in Warrens, Wisconsin; opposition mounts to a biomass facility in Memphis; and Timberlink opens its new CLT mill in South Australia. Meanwhile: US construction spending is up, while the housing supply gap widens. 

Finally, NASA’s climate idea sounds like a children’s book, and 200 years of forest history through dioramas.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A $10B Ontario court judgement is Canada’s largest First Nations’ settlement in history. In other Business news: Drax awaits UK subsidy decision as US and UK opposition mounts; OrePac acquires Western Timber Products; fires are reported at West Fraser’s OSB mill in Texas, and JM Lumber in Ontario; and more on Allegheny Wood Products sudden closure.

In Forestry/Climate news: Ontario announces $60M for forest biomass innovation; University of Northern BC’s glyphosate research looks at aggregate effects; Home Depot expands its commitment to sustainable forestry; FSC responds to a Greenpeace complaint; and Australia announces two new forestry research centres.

Finally, its National Invasive Species Awareness Week – here’s what you need to know. Also, the BC Forest Safety Council turns 20. Here is their latest video.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Vancouver City Council approved new policies to encourage more high-rise mass-timber construction. In related news: the ‘Future of Cities in Wood‘ exhibit comes to New York’s Skyscraper Museum; and related ‘game changers’ from Muskegon Lake, Michigan and Ottawa, Ontario. In Business news: Weyehaeuser announced a carbon sequestration agreement; Metsa’s Merikarvia, Finland mill is closing; Stella-Jones and Goodfellow report Q3 earnings; University of Georgia names Todd Petty forestry dean; and Forest’s Ontario announces award winners.

In Forestry/Climate news: fire expert Mike Flannigan tips his hand in favour of a National Wildfire Service; Suzanne Simard says climate bullying is in decline; Wood Mackenzie says bioenergy is a $500B opportunity; a lawsuit takes aim at US Forest Service’s timber targets; and an Oregon timber bill spurs lawsuit fears. On the Forest History front, Graeme Davis on Orillia, Ontario’s century of forest growth and renewal. 

Finally, must be a Leap Year… with efforts that focus on bamboo high-rises, and wood products without trees. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Massive wildfires burning in the Texas Panhandle forced evacuations and a disaster declaration. In related news: Arkansas is on heightened wildfire alert; Canada’s mild weather points to drought and wildfires; Arizona faces a critical situation; and Mississippi’s timber farmers face drought. Meanwhile: US and Oregon may sue PacificCorp for wildfire costs; how fatigue impacts log truck driver safety; Paul Fast’s new book on engineering with wood; and an overview of topics at this year’s approaching COFI conference.

In Business news: facing renewed pressure from ENGOs—Drax points to energy security benefits; Teal-Jones innovates with composite shingles; Rayonier Advanced Materials reports Q4 net loss; and more on Clearwater Paper’s acquisition of a Georgia paperboard mill.

Finally, John Mulinder says Nature Canada is “spinning” the truth on boreal logging.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Western Forest Products celebrated the completion of the first continuous dry kiln on the Coast of BC. In related news: Paradigm Building Solutions will expand in Barriere, BC; Allegheny Wood Products closed suddenly in West Virginia; Domtar curtails paper production in Ashdown, Arkansas; and Enviva faces forbearance agreement deadline. Meanwhile: US new home sales are up in January; Southern Pine exports rose in 2023; and a Q&A with Wood Preservation Canada’s Natalie Tarini.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canadians are positive on idea of a national forest fire fighting force; a Yale symposium on the smoke problem coming from Canada’s forests; a California utility will pay $80M to settle a wildfire claim; and Washington’s wildfires are said to be driven more by fuel load than climate. Elsewhere: New Zealand may be too forest focused with its net-zero plans; and the EU backs new plan to protect its habitat and species.

Finally, ENGOs say Biden’s new Russian sanctions should also include timber exports.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Starting on a sad note; John Allan, one of Canada most influential forest sector professionals, died February 23, 2024.

In Forestry and Climate news: BC and Ontario leaders express worry as fire season nears; a National Bank of Canada report says Canada could offset all its GHGs; the Wood Pellet Association of Canada’s upcoming trade mission to Taiwan; the pros and cons of California’s pellet mills; ENGOs pan changes to Ontario’s Endangered Species Act; and how European ecolabels promote sustainable forestry.

In other news: Mosaic and We Wai Kai First Nation sign logging agreement; US Forest Service Chief talks with Oregon loggers; Oregon officials are grilled over mill closures; Taiga Building Products reports positive Q4, 2023 earnings; US Homebuilders’ labour shortages ease; and EU’s pulp & paper demand is down.

Finally, a new category in the Tree Frog Forestry News — Forest History & Archives:

• Restoring an 1895 schooner used to carry Puget Sound lumber as far as Australia
• The legacy of timber: A historical journey through Truckee, California

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The union representing Canada’s rail workers warns that a strike looms after CN and CPKC filed notices of dispute. In other Business news: Canada-US trade is said to be at an inflection point ahead of US election; the Steelworkers commend BC’s budget endorsement of mass timber; Alabama’s Phenix Lumber faces heavy fines after second fatality; and more on the WorkSafeBC investigation of the Canfor employee death in Prince George.

In Forestry/Climate news: a Q&A with US Forest Service Chief Randy Moore; Quebec First Nations take the province to task on forest consultations; a new study on the climate-effects of expanding forests; simulations point to more fires in the Pacific Northwest; a Canadian researcher on how genetic testing can be used to curb illegal logging; and the EU plans to establish a carbon removals certification framework.

Finally, Dave Coletto will keynote at COFI and Andrew Dunn plans another tour of Europe’s mass timber industry.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The British Columbia government is pausing its proposed Land Act change, says it will further engage to ‘get this right’. Related perspectives include: 

• Kevin Falcon: announcement does not mark the end of hidden agenda
• Terry Teegee: veto suggestion for First Nations is false and inflammatory
• Vaughn Palmer: Indigenous people are bearing the brunt of the outrage 
• Les Leyne: despite assurances, concern & suspicion has been building for weeks
• Andrew MacLeod: opposition forced government to relaunch consultations
• Keerit Jutla: changes should ensure predictability for mineral exploration

In other news: a fire at Canfor’s Fort St. John mill was extinguished; Clearwater Paper buys Augusta, Georgia paperboard mill; Interfor winds down Philomath mill operations; Cascades reports Q4, 2023 loss; New Hampshire announces covid funding for pulp & paper mills; and Quebec launches call for northern development grants. Meanwhile, Russ Taylor’s China Outlook Report has been released and wildfire preparation updates from Oregon, Ontario and BC.

Finally, the future of mass timber is good—or so say the pros in US, Brazil, and the UK.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Warm weather and holdover fires point to early start to Canada’s wildfire season. Here are the headlines:

• It’s still winter, and more than 100 wildfires are still smouldering
• B.C. is seeing a record number of ‘zombie fires’. What does this mean?
• Alberta plans to hire 100 more firefighters but questions remain about readiness
• Warm and dry weather prompts Alberta to declare an early start to season
• Ontario Firefighting agency prepares as spring and wildfire season approach
• Ontario Public Service Employees Union calls for action on firefighter ‘crisis’
• USDA announces $500 million to confront wildfire crisis in the US West

In other news: a Wisconsin developer submits plans for a 50-storey timber tower; Alberta researchers point to fungi in fight against pine beetles; ENGOs sue US Forest Service to protect lynx from logging in Montana; and Boise Cascade and Bluelinx reported their Q3, 2024 results. On the Health and Safety front: sad news of a Canfor pulp mill worker who died of electrocution.

Finally, University of BC tops Working Forest’s Top-10 list of North American Forestry Schools. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Federation of American Scientists say the USDA should unblock mass timber by incentivizing adoption of the new building code. In related news: Utah developers pivot to mass timber; and light-frame wood construction may help solve Toronto’s missing-middle. In Business news: Interfor experiences a kiln fire in Bloomingdale, Georgia; Philomath’s sawmill closure is Oregon’s third this year; Universal Forest Products’ earnings drop in Q4, 2023; and US custom home building slows after recent gains.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: implementing UNDRIP sparks public debate in BC; firefighter attrition may impact Ontario’s pending wildfire season; union reps doubt Ontario’s effort to combat firefighter smoke exposure; the real story behind Oregon’s wildfire funding bill; and a podcast on firefighting health risks from firefighter gear. 

Finally, after 50 years, NatureServe says the US Endangered Species Act needs an upgrade.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

No News Today (Monday, February 19). In Canada, most provinces are celebrating Family Day. In the United States its Presidents Day. The Frogs are back tomorrow.

Interfor announced it will indefinitely curtail its Philomath, Oregon sawmill and reduce lumber production in BC. In related news: Mercer reported a Q4 net loss of $87M; West Fraser’s CEO remains optimistic despite Q4 challenges; Spruce Products, Manitoba fires up its continuous kiln; and US housing starts hit 5-month low, following Canada’s 10% drop yesterday. Meanwhile: BC Wood’s export readiness program launches (again), and Silvicom is named one of Alberta’s top employers.

In Forestry/Climate news: BC resets talks on proposed Land Act changes; ENGO’s protest Saskatchewan’s forest policy; illegal logging is alleged in a Wisconsin national forest; and FSC suspends a New Zealand firm’s certification over slash damage. Meanwhile: Colorado announces new wildfire mitigation grants; and research on a California wildfire supports more thinning and prescribed burns.

Finally, from fashion to burials, how fungi helps tackle climate change.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

West Fraser Timber reported a net loss of $153 million as sales soften. In related news: Louisiana Pacific’s Q4 sales fell 7%; Enviva prepares to file for bankrupcty; North Carolina has a power pole problem; US builder sentiment rose again; Canadian housing starts fell 10%; and Europe’s pulp and paper production declined in 2023. Meanwhile, Forest Professionals BC honours its 2023 award winners; and Forest Ontario welcomes 4 new Board members.

In Forestry/Climate news: Albany researchers use molecular chemistry to protect trees; Maine researchers assess climate change risk on forests; Alberta is accused of running out the clock on caribou; BC is faced with a selling job on proposed changes to Land Act; and both Manitoba and Quebec First Nations express concern over local logging plans. 

Finally, scientists use wood nanocrystals to mend broken hearts. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Wall Street Journal says wood pellet maker Enviva is preparing to file for bankruptcy within days. In other Company news: Cascades’ mill closures will impact 230 in Ontario; Western Forest Products reports Q4 net loss; Mosaic is named one of BC’s top employers; and Mondi signs an agreement with Hinton, Alberta. Meanwhile: US inflation remains sticky due to housing costs; and recovered paper slumps across Europe.

In Forestry/Climate news: Alberta Fire Chiefs call for wildfire strategy; BC energy minister says province is preparing for drought; and opposition mounts to BC’s proposed Land Act changes, as Lands Minister says First Nations will not have a veto. Elsewhere: North Carolina’s Governor signs an executive order to conserve 1 million acres of forests; and new research on reforestation and rising temperatures in the eastern US. 

Finally, Kevin Horsnell (Canfor), David Beleznay (Mosaic) and Peter Flett (Nk’Mip Forestry) are BC Forest Professional’s award winners.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Citing market conditions, Cascades is closing two containerboard plants in Ontario and one in Connecticut. In related news: packaging giant Mondi considers bid to buy GS Smith; Hasslacher invests in Ontario mass timber producer Element5; and the Pactiv Evergreen paper mill is hit with new water violations. Meanwhile: the US price rise of 3.1% and Canada’s strong job market push back timing of interest rate cuts. 

In Forestry/Climate news: FPAC unveils Roadmap Towards Net-Zero at GLOBE Forum; a new UN report points to species at risk due to habitat loss; University of Northern BC secures grant to study glyphosate effects; and a new report says global deforestation leads to more mercury pollution. Meanwhile; BC finally receives some much-needed snow, as Ontario reports a lack of snow pack before fire season.

Finally, US hemp builders say their homes contain no psychoactive properties. Darn?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Starting this week, GLOBE Forum 2024 explores solutions for a reimagined economy—and per Linda Coady and Stéphane Renou, forestry is key. In related news: Trevor Hancock says BC’s biodiversity policy would radically transform governance; and Catherine Swift says BC’s co-managment of public lands proposal would be a disaster. In Business news: Drax is building a pellet plant in Washington, Rosboro’s plan includes a shift to glulam; Sumitomo invests in bio-fuels in Louisiana; and Owen Corning acquires Masonite.

In Forestry/Climate news: EU scientists say world temperatures hit a new record; Greenpeace says industry is lobbying for questionable carbon offsets; a new film on the upside of lower density forests in California; and BC’s premier is worried about drought—and it’s only February.

Finally, a BC First Nation is set to reclaim their village site 151 years after BC sold it.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The arrival of La Niña could slow the rapid global warming that began with El Niño. In related news: sparse snowpack raises drought fears in BC; Alberta readies for a busy wildfire season; wildfire pollutants can damage your skin; carbon credits put New Hampshire timber at risk; not all EU carbon credits are created equal ; climate change shrinks good-burn days in Georgia; and Forestry Australia says prescribed burning is key.

In other news: NRDC pans Home Depot’s sourcing policy; Bob Brash on BC’s forest of opportunity; Rosboro idles its Springfield, Oregon stud mill; Interfor reports Q4, 2023 loss; and Acadian Timber reports positive Q4, 2023 results. On the mass timber front: US demand exceeds supply; the US Deputy Secretary tours Oregons’ advanced wood products lab; and why mass timber is exceling in Canada’s community centres.

Finally, please consider supporting the Tree Frog News as a Friend of the Frog (small companies and individuals) or as an official Sponsor. Suffice to say, without our supporters, North America’s only open-access forestry news aggregator (focused exclusively on the forest sector), simply wouldn’t exist. Have a great weekend!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Biden administration announced tougher new standards for soot emissions—US forest industry says they defy common sense. In other Business news: a New Brunswick judge sides with forest companies in Aboriginal title claim; unions say the Quebec forestry roundables exclude workers; Canfor Pulp is selling it shuttered Taylor, BC pulp mill site; Norbord’s 100 Mile House plant site will be redeveloped; the Williams Lake, BC power plant may have to close due to lack of fibre; and Sonoco is closing its paperboard mill in Sumner, Washington.

In Forestry/Climate news: a report says Alberta lags progress on caribou protection; BC’s lack of snow foretells 2024 drought woes; a former scientist slams Canada’s climate plan; Randy Moore called the indictment of a US burn boss highly inappropriate; and six US governors pan Biden’s old-growth policy.

Finally, a new lignin study says inexpensive, carbon-neutral biofuels are finally possible.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A new US study says climate change is behind the drop in North America’s snowpack. In related news: a California study has snowpack at 73% of norm; a Washington bill aims to increase sustainable aviation fuel use; and ENGOs celebrate Canadian court ruling on Species At Risk Act. In Wood Product news: how wood can spur Canada’s green building drive; modular building can help with the affordable housing crisis; and a CWC webinar provides guidance for alternative wood solutions. 

In Business news: Unifor and Steelworkers are hosting a BC Forestry Workers Summitt; Quebec unions denounce provincial consultations on the future of the forest sector; fire damages Ozark Hardwood Pellets in Missouri; TimberHP is expanding its wood fibre insulation in Maine; and Georgia recognizes four forest landowners as Wildlife Partners.

Finally, 2024—or the Chinese Lunar year 4722—is the Year of the (Wood) Dragon.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Ecojustice says a Federal Court Justice has ruled in favour of conservation groups on interpretation of the Species at Risk Act. In related news: SFI assesses it value with the EU Deforestation Regulation; Oregon is still split on who should pay for wildfire protection; sharing expertise to prevent biomass silo fires in Japan; and Chile’s death toll rises as megafires blamed in part on exotic species tree plantations.

In Business news: Canada considers making sustainability reporting mandatory; the Red Sea crisis hits Swedish forest products exports hard; recycled cardboard is still market-hot; Ontario looks to mass timber for affordable housing; and a 25-storey mass timber tower is approved in Vancouver. Meanwhile: Conifex loses its court bid on cryptocurrency mining; and Mondi completes its acquisition of the Hinton Pulp mill. 

Finally, wood cellulose replaces plastics in sunscreen as biodegradable glitter. Seriously.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US Department of Commerce announced plans to raise softwood lumber duties from 8.05% to 13.86% for most Canadian producers. In response: 

• The BC Lumber Trade Council says Commerce appears to have departed from past methodologies
• The US Lumber Coalition supports continued enforcement US laws
• The Government of BC says US decision is, once again, deeply disappointing

In other Business news: more commentary on BC’s plan to co-manage public lands with First Nations; GreenFirst’s Rick Doman is retiring; Sonoco’s CEO Howard Coker is AF&PA’s new Chair; and International Paper reports Q4, 2023 loss. Meanwhile: Alberta fire chiefs call for a new wildfire strategy; PEI considers a new biomass policy; Saskatchewan researchers combine biomass recycling with CO2 capture; California policies on wildfire emissions and health; and mass timber updates from BC; Ontario; Massachusetts; and Utah.

Finally, a Tree Frog News reminder that February 1st marks the beginning of our 2024 year. Please consider supporting North America’s only open-access forestry news aggregator focused exclusively on the forest sector, either as a Friend of the Frog or a Sponsor.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Teal Cedar filed a lawsuit against Fairy Creek protestors alleging a conspiracy to harm the company. In related news: COFI remains bullish on the future of BC’s industry; BC minister Cullen admits error in lack of notice on Land Act changes; ENGOs sue the US Forest Service in South Carolina over logging plans; Stora Enso and UPM report reduced profits; Wooden Pallets celebrates its growth; and Tolko is recognized by the Vernon Chamber of Commerce. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada needs to get ready for a future fraught with fire; Alberta’s drought conditions raises questions; BC launches silviculture sector training on fire mitigation; and Washington lawmakers tweak wildfire protection rules for homes. Meanwhile: Minnesota’s forests and wildlife struggle with the warm winter; and ENGOs say BC is overstating its old growth.

Finally, Alice Palmer opines on EU’s definition of forest degradation; and Adrian Blocker on reinventing the buy/sell process for lumber.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor 

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor 

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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

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

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

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor