Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

Frustrated with inflation, a record 85% of US consumers say it’s a ‘bad time’ to buy a home. In related news: politicians spar over funding to address Canada’s housing crisis;  home building falls to new lows in the UK; and the end is nigh for Australia’s home-building boom. In other Business news: Canada’s Supreme Court hears Ontario’s appeal of landmark ‘treaties annuities case‘; the US announced $2B for low-embodied carbon materials; Drax enhances its carbon credit offering; and Western Forest Products, Conifex Timber, and Rayonier AM reported Q3, 2023 net loses.

In Forestry/Climate news: Greenpeace says Paper Excellence should lose its sustainability credentials—despite FSC’s approval; 100 scientists call on Canada to stop the degradation of undisturbed forests; Alaska’s national forests said to be key to meeting US climate goals; experts predict ecosystem collapse of UK forests; and BC acquires 109 hectares to expand five provincial parks.

Finally, wood-based protective foam packaging options are on the rise.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Kentucky and North Carolina counties declared state of emergencies due to multiple forest fires. In related news: dry conditions and wildfires bedevil Virginia, Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama; Whitehorse, Yukon is building Canada’s first permanent firebreak; and Colorado researchers study the frequency of large fires given climate change trends. 

In Business news: the US invests $653 million in ports to improve supply chains; BC invests $1.2 million in value-added manufacturing companies; Conner joins forces with Anderson Pallet and Crate; Stella-Jones reports positive Q3 earnings; two Peace Region mills win Canfor President’s Safety Award; and GreenFirst appoints Joel Fournier as CEO.

Finally, ERA’s Kevin Mason opines on US housing and the stuck-in-the-mud lumber prices.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada, BC and First Nations Leadership Council sign $1 billion conservation agreement — aim is to protect 30% of land by 2030. In related news: activists applaud BC’s new agreement; and Andrew Petter on BC’s shift from to value-extraction to value-addition. Meanwhile: Alabama invests in a timber-related DNA tool; mass timber breakthroughs in Milwaukee and Boston; and the US economy is booming while Canada stalls.

In other news: Canada defends its law to protect species at risk; RCMP rejects most complaints from Fairy Creek protestors; NRDC on paper products from Canada’s boreal forest; ENGOs oppose old-growth logging in Colorado; Arizona employs prescribed burns to protect its forest; Alberta’s wildfire season was 10x worse than average; and Louisiana wildfires top 50,000 acres to date.

Finally, the weather conditions are magic for mushrooms but be careful what you eat.

Correction: In our first message, the Tree Frog News incorrectly attributed the Indigenous participation in today’s “tripartite nature conservation agreement” story to the BC First Nations Forestry Council rather than the First Nations Leadership Council. Our apologies for the confusion. It has been corrected. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Citing market conditions, Canfor, Interfor and Mercer reported negative third quarter, 2023 earnings. In related news: Doman reported positive earnings, Rayonier’s CEO David Nunes is retiring; and more Canadian lumber producers file anti-dumping complaints with the US Trade Court. Meanwhile: Lytton finally issues its first building permit 2+ years after a wildfire decimated the village.

In Forestry/Climate news: the boreal forest may be shrinking as it migrates northward; scientists fail to agree on whether global warming is accelerating; and Climate Proof Canada calls for funding to reduce climate-related risks.

Finally, the world’s tallest hybrid timber tower breaks ground in Sydney, Australia.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US Federal Reserve paused its interest rates again, following last week’s rate freeze in Canada. In related news: the National Bank calls Canada’s housing outlook ‘moribund‘, Europe’s housing crisis is just starting; US lumber prices should rise in 2024; and tropical hardwood demand remains firm. Meanwhile: Lake Nipigon Ontario’s proposed biochar plant is on hold; and Acadian Timber reported positive Q3 earnings.

In Forestry/Climate news: a new report says a climate warming threshold nears; the good and bad of wood-based fabrics; sustaining wildlife in the face of fire; Drax at the centre of the UK’s push for net zero; a new book says conservation and forestry can coexist; and a WoodWorks Summit on the future of sustainable construction.

Finally, UBC Forestry to ensure students’ immersion in environmental problems prior to selection of major. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Unifor is seeking a meeting with RYAM over the potential sale of its Temiscaming, Ontario mill. In other Business news: Gorman Bros. prioritizes Indigenous relationships; US lumber companies see no reason for a duty reprieve; Nelson Bennett says lumber is no longer king in BC; and Jim Stirling says it time for a different approach to BC’s wildfire problem. In Market news: Canada’s GDP is unchanged; US consumer confidence falls; US containerboard production is down and Q3 earnings declined at Louisiana-Pacific, BlueLinx and UPM. 

In Forestry news: BC to give legal standing to prescribed burns; drought conditions increase the risk of hazardous trees; fire threatens California’s redwoods; illegal Indonesia palm plantations will be converted back into forests; and a Zimbabwean forest carbon credit scheme is under investigation.

Finally, event registrations open at the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF) and Forest Professionals BC (FPBC).

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Ships start moving again as Unifor reaches tentative agreement with St. Lawrence Seaway. In other Business news: PotlatchDeltic and Clearwater Paper report positive Q3 earnings; the homebuilding slump is weighing down lumber prices; and global sawlog prices fell in 2022. In Product news: Derek Nighbor celebrates Canada’s pro-wood legislation; and the Washington Post and the Royal Bank of Canada embrace mass timber’s future.

In Forestry news: BC introduces changes to how its forests are managed; Nova Scotia reports 2023 record for area impacted by wildfire; NRCan supports Ontario effort to plant 31 million trees; a California wildfire prompts new evacuation order; Oregon’s research forest to manage for old-growth; the Narwal on closing backcountry forest roads; and ENGO’s on clearcut logging and the spotted owl.

Finally, Celtic Ireland and the history of the jack-o’-lantern. Oh… and Happy Halloween!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Pulp and paper mill closures making headlines today include BC’s Port Alice (mill demolition) and Power River (future of mill site), and Ontario’s Espanola mill (pending shutdown). In other Business news: the Softwood Lumber Board reports positive Q2 results; more on Oregon’s mass timber Tech Hub; the compelling case for biophic design; New Hampshire upholds Burgess BioPower veto; and a BC project turns low-grade fibre into densified engineered wood.

In Forestry/Climate news: Ontario’s forests are besieged by numerous stressors; Wisconsin proposes heavier truck loads on more routes; despite critics of carbon credits—a new study says participating companies are leaders, not laggards; researchers examine the impact of climate change on glaciers; and a EU study focuses on glyphosate’s cancer link. 

Finally, Houston’s Jon Seinen receives award for Excellence in Woodlot Management.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

BC introduced a crowd-sourcing mechanism to protect more old-growth forests. In response: industry calls the fund an innovative approach; the Sierra Club says its a huge shift forward; and the Narwhal says the fund is poised to grow. In other Forestry news: US financial security laws may enable Amazon exploitation; how AI can help prevent the spread of tree diseases; and fire’s impact on California’s prized forests.

In Business news: Canada will not repeal its Impact Assessment Act despite court ruling; the US economy grew by 3.5% in the third quarter as mortgage rates edged up; Weyerhaeuser reported positive Q3 earnings on lower sales; Billerud plans to reduce 350 positions globally; ResourceWise opines on the Smurfit Westrock merger; and Boise Cascade announced four executive promotions.

Finally, here’s how smoky it was in BC and Canada compared to previous years.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

West Fraser and International Paper reported positive Q3 earnings. In related news: Perry, Florida seeks new buyer for GP’s Foley mill; Masonite acquires Fleetwood Aluminum; the Bank of Canada says interest rates may fall before inflation target is reached; the TD says Canadian homebuilding is holding up ‘pretty well’; and US new home sales rose as prices dropped.

In Forestry/Climate news: a study by Forest Declaration Assessment says deforestation worsened in 2022 despite pledges to restore them; Jennifer Skene, one the report’s authors, says Canada failed to prevent forest degradation; a new study on how American’s view the harms of climate change; and a EU study assesses volumes of tree coverage outside of traditional forests.

Finally, Rob Keen heads up the new Canadian Tree Nursery Association;  Interfor appoints Geoffrey Evans director; and Lynn MacKinlay succeeds Richard Lipman as president of the Wood Manufacturing Council.

Kelly McCloskey

The news is interrupted today as the Frogs do not have power this morning!  When it returns we will finish the news but there are a few stories to read in the meantime.   Stay safe and warm out there. 

Alberta looks to harness AI, while BC considers a new research institute and improving wildfire prediction models. In related news: the USDA on prescribed fire vs wildfires; a Bloomberg report on preventing forest fires by building with wood; two US Reps. say California is preventing good wildfire practices; and Rayonier on why forest products are good for the environment.

In Business news: BC invests in Creston’s J.H. Huscroft expansion; First Nations petition Canfor to stop logging near Chetwynd; Tolko and Vernon Chamber secure support for a national forestry strategy; Western Forest Products/First Nations partnership called the ‘future of forestry‘ in BC; Huber Engineered breaks ground on its Mississippi OSB plant; and Maine is designated a federal hub for forest products. Meanwhile: an RBC report on the future of mass timber in Canada; and US new home sales jumps 12% in September.

Finally, today’s new was interrupted by an early winter storm. Thanks for your patience!

Kelly McCloskey

First Nations reach agreement to acquire 34% interest in Western Forest Products’ TFL 39, in forestry partnership. In other Business news: Atco Wood Products contained a small fire in Fruitvale, BC; Highland Pellets plans to expand into Grenada, Mississippi; the Port of Prince Rupert launches $750,000 expansion project; UPM-Kymmene has a new CEO; and US spending on remodelling is expected to decline 7.7% in 2024. 

In Forestry news: US to create a mass timber hub at Oregon State University, USDA releases report in support of Forest Carbon Markets; a Northern Ontario workshop seeks to resolve caribou protection challenges; ENGOs say the world is off track to end deforestation by 2030; and Australia’s industry releases three new forest position statements.

Finally, can you guess which US state has the most old-growth forests?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Paper operations at the Paper Excellence Catalyst Crofton mill are being curtailed another month. In related news: Paper Excellence’s CEO may receive a summons from Canada’s Natural Resources committee; Domtar’s Espanola mill is set to close November 30th; and Drax failed to submit an emissions report for its Alberta biomass plant. On the Market front: RBC’s Paul Quinn expects “mixed” Q3 financial results; Canada’s residential construction rose in August; and US homebuyer interest ticked up in Q3.

In Forestry news: BC and Washington collaborate on flood risk; BC data may understate priority old-growth areas; Nova Scotia has a new insecticide for the hemlock woolly adelgid; and California researchers say tree migration is lagging climate zone changes.

Finally, care to test yourself… here’s the 1908 Forest Service Ranger exam.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A new report says US forests are a critical component of the US strategy to mitigate climate change. In related news: BC funds Quatsino First Nation and Western Forest project to measure fertilization’s CO2 impact; and younger trees are found to excell in carbon capture in Europe. In other Forestry news: Canada tables legislation to increase protected park lands; a federal judge probes the delay in minister Guilbeault’s spotted owl order; and Saskatchewan reports a record high fire season, while Oregon experienced a quiet one.

In Business news: Mercer wins court appeal for employee dismissal; Europe may benefit from Canada’s dwindling lumber supply; and inflation is fading in the US, Canada and Europe. Meanwhile: Richard Cannings’ on the truth about Canada’s carbon tax; and David Elstone on why the status quo on wildfire management is no longer a viable path for BC.

Finally, the Softwood Lumber Board announces it’s Mass Timber Competition winners.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

International Paper is closing its containerboard mill in Texas and ceasing two pulp machines (in North Carolina & Florida). In other Business news: Canfor tackles a fire at its Radium Hot Springs mill; BC Institute of Technology presents its vision for a new Trades & Technology Complex; and APA names Doug Asian chair of its Board of Trustees. On the Market front: US single-family housing starts jumped 7% in September, matching Canada’s unexpected rise rise reported yesterday.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: overviews of Canada’s astonishing and record breaking fire season; leveraging indigenous-led forest restoration in BC; a wildfire research centre is proposed for Kamloops, BC; the fundraising potential of Canada’s Mini-Forests; and drought is imperilling the CO2 upside of Europe’s forests. 

Finally, Anne of Green Gables author commemorated with P.E.I. mass timber centre.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Rayonier Advanced Materials is exploring the sale of its pulp and paperboard assets in Temiscaming, Quebec. In other Business news: US lumber dealers elect a new leadership team; the Engineered Wood Association honours John Murphy; and Forest Professional BC seeks a new Deputy Director. On the Market front: Canada’s housing starts jumped 8% in September, the country’s inflation rate slowed to 3.8%; and construction prices no longer driving US inflation.

In Forestry news: a BC First Nation and ENGO’s head to court to save the spotted owl; Dalhousie University will study Nova Scotia’s shift to ecological forestry; Colorado plans to burn slash to reduce wildfire fuels; and New Mexico’s planting program is adjusting for climate impacts.

Finally, Alabama and Virginia debate the impact of biomass’s carbon footprint.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

President Biden recognized the import of US forests and forest products during National Forest Products Week, as did the USDA’s Cynthia West and Brian Brashaw, and the U of Wisconsin. In other Business news: ENGO’s accuse Weyerhaeuser of illegal wastewater release; BC’s Forest Practices Board to audit Tolko’s Revelstoke operations; and Weyerhaeuser wins a worker discrimination claim. Meanwhile: mortgage rates push US builder confidence down again; and recovered paper prices stabilize.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Ontario secures fed funding for tree planting; Nova Scotia defers some herbicide treatments; insurers unite to support BC wildfire victims; what extreme fires seasons of the past can tell us; and new research on the fire resilience of subalpine forests. Meanwhile: tomorrow is National Bioenergy Day which promotes wood-waste energy; and wildfires and drought threaten climate-crucial gains in the Amazon.

Finally, DEMO International 2024 comes to Gatineau and Vancouver to host Woodrise International Congress 2025.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada’s Supreme Court ruled that the fed’s environmental impact legislation is largely unconstitutional. In response: Canada’s premiers are pleased, ENGOs raise concerns and Minister Guilbeault plans to ‘course correct’. In other Business news: the staggering impact of Georgia Pacific’s Florida mill closure; and the shuttered Port Alberni mill is hit with a fire. Meanwhile: Jennifer Gunter on BC’s Community Forests; Seth Cassell is Pennsylvania’s new state forester; and Bob Barker, U of Georgia professor and GIS pioneer, dies at 94.

In Forestry news: New York State announces funds for community forestry; Ontario bolsters monies for fire fighting; Alberta’s short window to salvage fire-killed trees; wildfire investigations are launched in BC and the Northwest Territories; and thinking about conservation on a paleontologist’s timescale.

Finally, celebrating the life of Dr. John Worrall via a slideshow, video and event images.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

BC launched three ‘accelerator tables’ to increase fibre flow between primary and value-added wood manufacturers. In related news: Mercer Mass Timber helps reduce forest waste; and Michigan’s mass timber momentum spurs carpenter training programs. In other Business news: Kamloops Kruger pulp mill looks to utilize burnt wood; the EPA fines DR Johnson Lumber; and certain Louisiana Pacific product claims are found to be ‘uncertain’.

In Forestry news: Ontario adds funding to fight future wildfires; BC’s forest watchdog to investigate massive Shuswap wildfire; an Oregon judge rules ‘large tree’ logging rule is unlawful in Malhuer National Forest; the US Securities Commission looks at climate rules for financial reporting; and a new US study says emerging tree diseases are on the rise.

Finally, yesterday was National Loggers Day in the US. Here’s how some celebrated it. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Canadian government rejected an emergency order request—from its own minister—to prevent logging in two BC watersheds (to protect spotted owls). In related news: BC conservationists say grizzly bears need more habitat protection; the good and bad uses of California biomass; and Indonesia launches a new carbon trading scheme. 

In Business news: BC invests in Woodtone Specialties, and Stuwix Resources; Fastmarkets forecasts growth for Southern Yellow Pine; Russia places restrictions on forest product exporters; Dick’s Lumber acquires Zytech Building Systems; and JPI agrees to a purchase offer by Sumitomo Forestry. 

Finally, 51 days that gripped BC—a look back the fire that jumped Lake Okanagan.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The 2023 Marcus Wallenberg Prize was awarded to Drs Darius Adams, Joseph Buongiorno and Richard Haynes for their forest economic models. In related news: International Paper Grande Prairie receives Alberta Forest Products Association President’s Award; and COFI’s Shawn Lawlor is honoured with a Japanese Housing award. In other Business news: European pulp prices remain fragile; as Sappi closes its Stockstadt mill in Germany and starts consultations on its Belgium pulp mill closure.

In other news: Canada invests in Nova Scotia nature conservation; the US Endowment explores forest carbon market growth; the US government plan seeks to repopulate the Cascades’ grizzlies; Swedish researchers study forest fire’s impact on the ozone layer; and the World Economic Forum speaks to why planting trees matters in the fight against climate change.

Finally, Japan seeks to convert some of its cedar forests to counter hay fever.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

BC Lumber Trade Council, Ontario and New Brunswick add their voices to last week’s US lumber duty ruling. In other Business news: Rayonier AM to idle its Témiscaming paperboard mill; the ripple-effects of Georgia-Pacific’s Florida mill closure; Resolute’s Wisconsin mill bounce back; ENGO’s want to block Enviva’s energy tax credit; and Paper Excellence owner declines to speak to Canadian committee again. Meanwhile; a sobering View from the Stump forecast on the future of BC’s forest industry.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canadian health associations said climate change is a ‘health emergency‘; a new study says restoring degraded forests may be key for climate; BC encouraged to take bold action on wildfires; and how to stop barred owls from killing spotted owls.  

Finally, what lichens can tell us about climate change and pollution.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A NAFTA Panel says anti-dumping duties applied to Canadian lumber are inconsistent with US law. In related news: Canada’s federal minister Ng and BC Forest Minister Ralston applaud the panel’s ruling. In other Business news: West Fraser is expanding its Newberry, South Carolina sawmill; Ontario invests in two forest projects in the Northwest; Asset Management Group acquires Forico in Australia; and ENGO’s pan Tasmania’s VicForests despite positive audit results.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada’s wildfires take a toll on wildlife; US embraces logging to reduce fire risk; BC is on verge of declaring end of fire season; Vancouver police expect environmental protests to rise; a Kananaskis logging bridge is in hot water again; and Prince George’s urban forest are threatened by edge effect.

Finally, Two Sides pushes back on plastic industry’s claims about paper-based packaging.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A California study says improving the health of forests reduces wildfire risks and benefits human health. In related news: Revelstoke, BC to feature its energy system at bio-heat summit; and biomass electricity production fell in the UK in 2022. In other news: Canfor is challenging the US softwood duty test; Canada announced $2.9 million for Ontario’s wood manufacturers; Canadian wood treaters say chemical ban could shut them down; and the BC government named 14 members of its Task Force on Emergencies.

In Forestry news: the Natural Resources Defence Council released its 5th report on North American tissue manufacturers; the ‘Bachelorette star’ panned Ontario’s loss of caribou habitat; and the Sierra Club say BC’s old-growth logging is understated.

Finally, half of the world’s amphibian species are said to be threatened, and BC’s mule deer are stressed.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A report credits the US Endowment and Softwood Lumber Board for mass timber’s growing appeal. In related news: three wood projects lead the way in Canadian innovation; Weyerhaeuser makes the case for forest carbon credits; a study on using proactive forest management to prevent carbon loss; new research on young forests as growing carbon sinks; and Russ Taylor’s not-so-optimistic look ahead at 2024’s lumber market.

In other News: BC is eliminating single-use plastics from tree planting, and boosting its emergency preparedness for climate-fueled disasters; environmental protesters target Procter & Gamble’s AGM meeting; the Forest Stewardship Council is revising its complaint and appeals process; and Mosaic’s shares its in-house learning event on Truth and Reconciliation Day.

Finally, the Forest History Society recognizes historian Jamie Lewis and author Mark Kuhlberg.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Western Australia has joined Victoria state in banning commercial logging of native forests. In related news: BC Premier Eby touts old-growth protections amid weekend protests; US senators introduce bill to promote active forest management; Stimson Lumber voices displeasure with US Forest Service; Arizona doubles area treated with prescribed fires; and Montana appeals climate change ruling that says the state isn’t doing enough to protect youth.

In other news: Nelson Bennett writes that reconciliation with First Nations needs to includes economics; Michael Green says its time to move away from steel and concrete; Andrew Waugh creates a warranty-approved timber frame system in the UK; Pallet Enterprise points to new innovations with wood; the BBC says despite the digital trend—paper still rules the waves; and Bloomberg says a US recession is still likely and its coming soon.

Finally, the Prince George helicopter deaths are disclosed; and more on Dr. Worrall’s memorial hike.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A Senate bill encouraging wood use in public buildings passed unanimously in the House of Commons. In related news: Chicago showcases why future cities should be built with wood; the world’s tallest hybrid timber tower is approved in Perth; mass timber is on the rise but what about insurance costs; and a new report on buildings and embodied carbon. Meanwhile: Canada’s GDP was essentially unchanged, while the US reported a 2.1% increase. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: the US government released a report on addressing its wildfire crisis; the US Endowment responds to a report on wildfire smoke mitigation; BC’s 2023 wildfire season was the most destructive and costly on record; and researcher say temporary carbon storage in forest has climate value. Meanwhile: reimagining or ruining iconic stories—Winnie, poo and deforestation.

Finally, Sept 30 marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada and Orange Shirt Day.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada’s GHG emissions rose 2.1% in 2022 but are still 6.4% below 2005 levels. In related news: Minister Wilkinson released Canada’s Carbon Management Strategy; and Jesse Kline makes the case for leveraging free markets to create GHG change. In other Business news: Weyerhaeuser downgraded its 3rd quarter outlook; West Fraser contributed to indigenous housing; updates on the Catalyst Crofton and Skeena Sawmill situations; and no names yet on helicopter that crashed, killing two near Prince George.

In Forestry/Climate news: EU forest degradation regulations in Canada’s crosshairs; court order preventing logging protests at Fairy Creek expires; windows smashed at World Forestry Center conference; new efforts launched to save the Whitebark Pines on US national park lands; and what’s in store for 2024 after Canada’s record wildfire season. 

Finally, the Canadian Institute of Forestry announced it 2023 award winners; and the Canadian Wood Council has a new-look brand.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Paper Excellence announced the resumption of pulp operations at its Catalyst Crofton mill, but paper operations remain curtailed. In other Business news: two die in a helicopter crash involving forestry surveyors in Prince George; Microsoft signs a carbon capture deal for biochar; McDonald’s uses mass timber in Brazil, opens Lead Zero Carbon restaurant in Hong Kong; and Structurlam, LP, Boise and Tolko win APA Safety and Health Awards.

In Forestry/Climate news: FSC Canada launched a new standard for smaller forest holders; Arizona’s timber industry faces near collapse; Brazil declares emergency as drought hits Amazon forests; the Pacific Logging Congress features high-tech advancements; and ENGOs plan forestry protests in British Columbia and Oregon. 

Finally, state-of-the-art robotic dog employed by Drax UK will enhance safety.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The BC Supreme Court has appointed a receiver for Skeena Sawmills and its affiliates. In other Business news: Canfor’s VIDA signs deal to buy a sawmill in Ingar, Sweden; a fire broke out at Weyerhaeuser’s Buckhannon sawmill in West Virgina; and hurricane Idalia reaked havoc on Florida’s timber resource. Meanwhile: Brazil risks losing sales over the new European deforestation law, and SFPA explains how its lumber manufacturers can comply with the pending regulation. 

In other news: France’s new climate commitments include more biomass energy; US firefighters face a looming pay cut; Canadian firefighters struggle to get compensated for health risks; Montana employs AI to slow future wildfires; and most evacuation orders and alerts are lifted in BC’s Okanagan valley.

Finally, its Truth and Reconciliation Week in Canada. Read Percy Guichon’s forest inspired journey.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The threat of wildfires is rising. Artificial intelligence, robots and satellite sensors are helping to fight them. In related news: severe wildfires are said to have a longterm impact on Canada’s boreal forests; experts say fire impacts on wildlife vary by season and species; and climate change is having an impact on Fall’s colours. Meanwhile: the Canadian Wood Pellet Industry celebrated 25 years; BC released two spotted owls into the wild; and tree seeds that orbited the moon on Apollo 14, are now growing on earth. 

In other news: West Fraser Timber’s pulp mill sale marks realignment of BC forest industry; Maine Forest Products Council recognizes Don Keliner; Robert Mavsar is appointed new head of European Forest Institute; and the Columbia River Treaty negotiations are a critical test for both the US and Canada.

Finally, Maui’s banyan tree shows signs of life after devastating Lahaina fire.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

West Fraser is selling its Quesnel River and Slave Lake pulp mills to Atlas Holdings; Millar Western will operate them. In other Business news: relief available for some of Skeena Sawmill’s laid off workers; EPA to assess Smurfit-Stone’s Frenchtown mill site; and Weyerhaeuser pursues two more carbon offset projects. Meanwhile: Nelson Bennett on BC’s rare blip of good forestry news; BC Wood wraps its 2023 Global Buyers Mission; BCIT celebrates Mosaic’s Molly Hudson; and UBC hosts Celebration of Life for Dr. John Worrall.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canadian fire chiefs deliver climate change message to the United Nations; Canada’s wildfire emissions said to exceed the country’s annual carbon footprint by 3x; a new satellite system to help monitor wildfires; and a UK study undercuts California’s cap and trade program.

Finally, the Canadian Institute of Forestry’s 2023 AGM opens this weekend in Nanaimo, BC.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

New York City launched a technical assistance program; aims to be a national leader in mass timber use. In related news: Canadian Wood Council fire tests validate tall wood building applications; Georgia-Pacific’s Fritz Mason concurs on the potentiality; but stone construction advocates beg to differ. In other Business news: Weyerhaeuser’s first carbon removal project is approved; and Houston Town Council is pleased with Canfor’s mill build decision.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Indigenous participation in Canada’s forest management is on the rise; communities say BC needs to step up its wildfire mitigation work, BC Wildlife Fed says the new wildfire normal is anything but normal; Oregon researchers seek to predict wildfire behaviour; and wildfire smoke in the US is eroding decades of air quality improvement. Meanwhile, for those of you who owe your forest acumen to Dr. John Worrall, his Celebration of Life will take place October 14th at UBC.

Finally, and tragically, four wildfire fighters died in a car crash near Kamloops, BC.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

A Spar Tree Group survey confirms job losses associated with BC’s old growth policy. In other Business news: Hood Industries closes its Metcalfe, Georgia mill; Metsä starts up new mills in Kemi, Finland; and Stora Enso appoints Hans Sohlström CEO. Meanwhile, on the market front: US housing starts declines 11.3% in August; and Canada’s inflation rate is on the rise again.

In other news: NASA imagery shows scale of logging in Oregon; a UK study says most forest carbon credits are junk; Wisconsin Senator Baldwin secures money to fight climate change; the University of Arkansas Monticello hires new forest/climate expert; Wood Solutions Australia has new leadership; and more evacuation alerts for BC’s southern Interior.

Finally, an economist on why market incentives should be used to mitigate wildfires.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Georgia-Pacific announced the permanent closure of its Perry, Florida Cellulose mill, impacting 525 jobs. In other Business news: a Prince George activist says Canfor owes us; Lowe’s gifts $750k to Seattle’s Wood Technology Center; and a Nebraska researcher converts lignin into antimicrobials. Meanwhile: Pino Pucci is appointed Tolko COO and eventual CEO successor to Brad Thorlakson; Jeremy Jones is West Virginia’s new State Forester; and the CIF has extended the registration deadline for its National Conference.

In other news: Steven Guilbeault takes Canada’s climate policy to the UN; New Brunswick’s woodlot owners say they are on the verge of collapse; Christine Gelowitz says its time for a proactive approach to BC’s wildfire situation; the Tyee Climate Project says wildfire smoke is threatening tree planters; and Giorgia Giove makes the environmental case for virgin paper fibers.

Finally, a European start-up that seeks to solve food scarcity with sawdust.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

US homebuilders and Canada’s Housing Corporation’s outlook for housing has weakened. In other Business news: West Fraser reaches agreement with Montana First Nation, as its Spray Lakes Sawmills purchase makes news; International Paper sells its Russian joint venture, opens corrugated packaging mill in Pennsylvania; Pratt Industries opens a recycled paper mill in Kentucky; California’s  proposed paper receipts ban is defeated; and Marks & Spencers ditches plastic for paper bags. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC issued three new evacuation orders in Central BC, as Interior Logging Association said its ready to lend a hand and an entomologist warns of the infestations that may follow. Meanwhile; a Northwest Territories First Nation sees fire protection a biofuel opportunity.

Finally, its National Forest Week with a focus on Canada’s Forests & Biological Diversity.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canfor announced its plan to build a state-of-the-art sawmill in Houston BC—to the delight of Houston’s Mayor and the BC Forest Minister. In other Business news: RISI sees upside to the Smurfit WestRock merger; a shuttered Michigan paper mill fire is declared safe and under control; Jason Trips says sustainable forestry in Alberta’s Kananaskis is ‘business as usual’; and BC Timber Sales is panned for allowing road building and logging prior to First Nation consent.

In other news: UNESCO outlines threats to Alberta’s Wood Buffalo National Park; the US invest $1 billion in Urban and Community Forestry Programs; the US wildfire fighter exodus could get worse; an Alaska coalition files suite against reimposition of the Roadless Rule; and a new report says achieving net zero will cost trillions. 

Finally, BC is ending its state of emergency as wildfire risks wind down.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The major creditor for Skeena Sawmills and Skeena Bioenergy is seeking a sale of assets. In other Company news: Western Forest Products supports Port McNeill development; Ontario’s Szeder Sunset Cedar Mill secures a fibre agreement and Espanola says the town’s future could still include a pulp mill. Meanwhile: the US revised its softwood duty rates slightly; the US remodelling sector is set to decline in 2024; and US inflation ticks up again. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: BC announces 42 projects to utilize waste-wood use and mitigate wildfires—which are expected to continue through the Fall; the US House passed a bill to improve wildfire prevention; and most carbon offset credits in the US are for forest management not tree planting. Elsewhere: former Canadian ambassador to the US, Gary Doer may return to the trade file; and longtime MP Richard Cannings says he will not seek re-election.

Finally, 1,200 still on evacuation order in BC, close to 400 wildfires still burning.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Smurfit Kappa / WestRock merger will create the world’s largest paper and packaging company. In related news: the merger’s rational and why analysts say it’s a good deal. In other Business news: anxiety grips Espanola, Ontario with Domtar’s mill closure; Vermont’s Mill River Lumber catches fire; and Russia’s war is driving mill closures in Finland. Meanwhile: mass timber construction is celebrated in Portland, Oregon; Osaka, Japan; and London, England; makes its case for use at Ontario’s minesites.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Jim Petersen slams Montana court’s rejection of forest restoration; ENGOs says BC hasn’t fulfilled its old-growth promise; Elliott State Forests to become the largest research forest in the US; and California researchers say they can predict when drought will kill a forest; while a UBC hydrologist warns of the flood risks that follow them.

Finally, another very special 100th birthday party for Gerry Burch!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor