Category Archives: Today’s Takeaway

As 2023 draws to a close, the US economy is showing momentum while Canada hits a soft patch. In other Business news: Teal-Jones’ lawsuit against BC puts a price tag on reconciliation; rebuilding begins two-years after the Lytton fire; Louisiana is impacted by drought and wildfires; and mass timber’s rise may help with the housing crisis. Meanwhile, Woodtone promotes Brad Rosse to CEO.

In Forestry/Climate news: Biden’s old-growth plan may or may not backfire, but ENGOs want Canada to follow the US lead; Alberta’s forests are thriving as the mountain pine beetle declines; Congress shows support for expansion of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument; and Bjorn Lomborg opines on the high cost of going green.

Finally, Canada signs an historic agreement with Santa… and barring breaking news, the Frogs are back Jan 2. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canadian Press editors voted wildfire devastation as the news story of 2023. In related news: Nova Scotia designates five new protected areas; the US Forest Service will assess the impact of its old-growth plan; ENGOs say BC can do more to protect biodiversity; a known carcinogen is found in California’s wildfire ash; and globally, forests absorb more carbon than they they emit, but a surge in forest fires continues to fuel global emissions.

In other news: CWC awards the Catherine Lalonde Memorial Scholarship; ENGOs preempt BC trade delegation with negative forest-use message; BC Minister says lack of fibre still the hot-button issue for industry; and two more value-added wood firms get BC funding. Meanwhile: on the Safety front, fatal injuries result in sixable fines for Resolute Forest Products and Florence Hardwoods.

Finally, as 2023 winds down, US home sales surge; consumer confidence is up, and lumber prices end where they started.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Bank of Canada says inflation is still too high at 3.1%, but strip out mortgage costs and it’s pretty much on target. In other Business news: American Forest & Paper Association CEO urges New York to veto the Deforestation-Free Procurement Act; Mississippi is on pace for a record timber harvest; Canada told to end its obsession with trade diversification; and green technology funding given to Origin Materials should benefit Canada’s forest industry.

In Forestry/Climate news: researchers say wood products and managed forests are necessary for climate mitigation; scientists are teaming up to restore the Whitebark pine; wildfires are on the rise across the eastern US; a new book on why US forests need more fire, not less; and more coverage of Biden’s move to protect old-growth forests under federal management plans. 

Finally, as Canadian Christmas tree farmers retire, who will take over? 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US government announced plans to ban most old-growth logging in all 128 of its national forests. In related news: Oregon proposes 2,000 acres of forest conservation; New Zealand looks to plantations and native trees for carbon capture; and an Alberta Kananaskis clearcut may be on hold. Meanwhile: Nova Scotia is replacing its firefighting helicopters; reducing wildfire risks to Canadian buildings; and grassland fires burn more homes in the US.

In Business news: Canadian Kraft Paper Industries is fined for Saskatchewan River leak; PacificCorp settles with timber companies in Oregon; and Weyerhaeuser withdraws plans for log fumigation plant in Georgia. On the Market front: Russ Taylor speaks to what lies ahead for BC’s forest sector; BCIT is anticipating a mass timber worker shortage; US single-family starts surged in November; and Russian lumber shipments plunged in 2023.

Finally, UBC and SFU to study cumulative threats of development on BC salmon.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Falling mortgage rates helped end a four-month decline in US builder confidence. In other Business news: Canada considers establishing a national emergency response agency; Ontario fines Resolute Forest Products for worker’s death in Ignace, Ontario; the Softwood Lumber Board seeks new board candidates; and BC forest industry pioneer Lawrence Carpentier dies at 84. 

In other news: Canada’s wood pellet industry focuses on safety; Vancouver’s Stanley Park tree removal is turning heads; Oregon is considering its Forest Plan’s impact on county revenues; California Redwoods revive after wildfire destruction; the status of COP15’s biodiversity promise one-year-on; if a tree burns in Canada’s forest—does anyone count the carbon; and the two sides of the US old-trees-and-carbon debate.

Finally, tree shopping? Look out for freeloaders like opossums, praying mantises & owls.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

No deal between Nova Scotia and Northern Pulp but there are hints to what’s being considered. In other Business news: Cascade’s Lemaire brothers exchange leadership roles; the Gitanyo Nation seeks Skeena Sawmills forest licence; and FPAC welcomes Ottawa’s housing initiative. Meanwhile: Canadian housing starts fell 22% in November; building material prices inched higher; wood manufacturing apprenticeships surged; and US mortgage rates are now under 7%.

In Forestry/Climate news: an Oregon lawmaker calls for more federal wood usage; ENGOs push for old-growth preserve near Sudbury; how BC’s wildfire plan went awry; and the end of native logging in Western Australia is in sight. Meanwhile, Smokey Bear turns 80; FSC-US announces 2023 leadership awards; and the International Sustainable Forestry Coalition appoints directors.

Finally, international forest product experts Russ Taylor and Kevin Mason combine forces on a new Global Wood Summit. Save the Date!

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The  2023 International Mass timber Report speaks to all things mass timber: e.g. Emily Dawson on what it costs (see page 13) and Peter Moonen on its future (see page 17). In related news: Ontario invests in value added technologies; the 7 priorities of UK’s timber roadmap; 8 architectural trends for 2023; and Andrew Waugh celebrates that he’s no long the ‘wood weirdo‘. Meanwhile: the US Fed plans to cut interest rates in 2024; and Sarah Johnson succeeds Charles Trevor at the SFPA.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canadian ENGOs call for clarity on forest degradation, post COP28; New Brunswick’s energy strategy leans to nuclear; Indigenous communities are recovering forest leadership roles in BC; scientists sequence genome for threatened whitebark pine; and SFI released its 2023 progress report.

Finally, ever wonder how forests smell? Why don’t frogs see mosquitoes? Me neither.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

COP28 ended with deal to transition away from fossil fuels in an orderly manner… so as to achieve net zero by 2050. In related news: COP28 looks to nature and carbon credits are eyed generate the needed cash; and ENGOs pan European reliance on forest biomass. Meanwhile: how to advance the mass timber bio-based revolution; and California confirms that thinned forests are more fire resilient.

In Business news: Northern Pulp’s creditor protection is extended as settlement with Nova Scotia nears; laid-off Domtar Espanola workers get support to find work;  West Fraser appoints incoming CEO Sean McLaren to its Board; and CN Rail acquires Iowa Northern Railway. In other news: Canada reboots its war-time housing policy to address current shortage; Ontario and BC focus on getting more homes built; and US economists forecast a housing turnaround in 2024, although costs put upward pressure on inflation.

Finally, John Brink says BC forestry is broken, while Joe Nemeth addresses BC’s wildfire toll.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

US and Canada renewed their commitment to combat climate change and increase benefits from collaboration. In related news: critics pan the current COP28 proposal; Yale School of Environment on the import of net-zero goals; and how Canada’s indigenous-led restoration can help. Meanwhile; UBC forestry creates a wildfire research foundation; Ontario takes action against invasive species; and the first of a four-part series on the impact of the US Endangered Species Act.

In Mass Timber news: BC will allow timber buildings up to 18 storeys; naturally:wood on how local governments can help; and the UK government on insurer fears related to its roadmap forward. In other news: an update on Peak Renewables’ pellet project in Fort Nelson, BC; RY-Timber is reopening in Livingston, Montana; and Riceboro, Georgia officials oppose Weyerhaeuser’s log-fumigation plant.

Finally, remembering Dr. Jerry Leech, an Australian forestry icon.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Tolko’s Lavington mill will be curtailed for a period following a transformer malfunction. In related news: a fire at Interfor’s Philomath sawmill is extinguished; US reinstates the softwood duty exclusion of four Canadian companies; and Acadian Timber kicks off land title case in New Brunswick. Meanwhile, RayOMartin makes donation to Louisiana Tech’s Forest Products Innovation Center; and England looks to boost timber use in housing.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada announces wildfire training fund and nature accountability bill; Thompson Rivers University establishes wildfire research institute; Oregon State University receives wildfire resilience research grant; old-growth forests promoted as a guard against wildfires; and reduced logging creates revenue shortages in BC’s North Cowichan and Western Oregon.

Finally, John Betts’ dismay with the floccinaucinihilipilification of planting trees.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada needs to build 5.8 million affordable homes by 2030 and Canada’s forest sector is well positioned to help. In related news: Canada’s 10-year National Housing Strategy; BC Premier Eby’s road map to adding homes; Ontario is filling the gap with tiny shelters; and Maine looks to bio-based 3D-printed homes. In other Business news: BC’s forest minister leads Japan trade mission; FSC Canada adds two new directors; and a sizeable holiday contribution by Western Forest Products to several communities.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canadian MPs urge government to track logging emissions; BC is panned for leveraging reserve areas to maintain harvest levels; Oregon’s habitat plan could reduce timber revenues for counties; and sensors help determine how forests can help fight climate change.

Finally, Bob Saul says we can’t stop cutting trees. We need to grow more and protect more.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

JD Irving, Acadia Timber and others are in court over a land title claim covering half of New Brunswick. In other Business news: Canfor’s Swedish subsidiary VIDA invests to increase its lumber capacity; Oregon electric utility PacifiCorp settles its wildfire lawsuit; forest carbon deals are starting to pay off; Western Retail Lumber honours Murray Finkbiner; and the Oregon Dept. of Forestry recognizes Plikat Logging.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada is bending the curve on GHG emissions; researchers says permanent carbon storage is needed to achieve net zero; forest companies say sustainable forestry can help with climate change—while the FAO toutes agroforestry; and Oregon plans to shoot barred owls to save the spotted owl. Meanwhile: Alice Palmer opines on BC’s new conservation framework; and Dr. Ira Sutherland speaks to whether conservation is working in BC.

Finally, reaping the health benefits of establishing forests next to healthcare centres.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

In Forestry/Climate news: American Forests partners with USDA to expand reforestation on national forests; the BC Forest Practices Board releases its 2022-23 annual report; the Tyee opines on how BC is tackling it forest paradigm shift; the Nature Conservancy harvests timber at Slate River Reserve; Justin Catanoso pans Enviva’s environmental assertions; and Lebanon’s cedar trees are reported to be threatened by climate change.

Finally, Canada’s roadmap to net-zero concrete, and wood shingles made of steel.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada’s fire chiefs are in Ottawa to press for financial assistance in advance of the 2024 wildfire season. In related news: after a mild fire year—California looks ahead; a new documentary Trees and Other Entanglements premieres on HBO December 12; a US plan proposes to help the snow-dependent Canada lynx; EU rules said to hamper Irish tree planting efforts; and the world’s largest hockey stick is now a risk to public safety.

In Business news: Canfor extends its Christmas downtime in three BC mills; the government of BC expands manufacturing requirements for some Interior wood products; the UK report on Drax’s biomass strategy nears; US LBM acquires a truss operation in Fort Worth; and US sanctions Russian plywood imports from Segezha. Meanwhile: pulp mill waste tests positive as an organic fertilizer; and a Wall Street Journal piece on why builders stick with wood in hurricane-prone Florida.

Finally, yesterday, the Tree Frog News incorrectly attributed FSC’s new Senior Manager, Indigenous Capacity Support Canada, Satnam Manhas. Our apologies for the confusion.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Correction: In an earlier version of Today’s Takeaway, the Tree Frog News incorrectly attributed FSC’s new Senior Manager, Indigenous Capacity Support Canada, Satnam Manhas. Our apologies for the confusion. It has been corrected. 

COP28 opened with a focus on financing biodiversity goals and the climate’s contagious effect on human health. In related news: designing the forest and other mass timber futures; Wildsight seeks to ground-truth BC Timber Sales claims; concrete and cement’s roadmap to net-zero emissions; Australia recognizes the climate importance of forestry and wood products; and why the rubber tree is driving tropical forest loss.

In Business news: Alberta budgets for fires, floods and drought; Weyerhaeuser to mondernize its Dodson Louisiana lumber mill; and more on Spray Lake Sawmills—West Fraser’s latest acquisition. Meanwhile; Billerud appoints Ivar Vatne CEO; Peter Xotta will head the Vancouver Port Authority; and FSC has a new Indigenous manager in Satnam Manhas.

Finally, three benefits of genetically improved Christmas trees.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The US Trade Commission says Canadian lumber duties will remain in place, revoking them would injure the US Industry. In related news: the US Lumber Coalition applauds the ruling, while Canada, BC and Ontario are disappointed. In other Business news: BC supports 6 value-added manufacturers, Ontario invests in 15 biomass projects; Weyerhaeuser rationalizes its southern timberlands; Enviva is accused of exceeding its pollution limits; and an emotional final day for Domtar in Espanola.

In Climate news: COP28 announces agreement on loss and damage fund; to achieve climate progress we need to increase green energy R&D; and the faux-pas of excluding wildfires from the official carbon tally. Meanwhile: the USDA appoints Tony Dixon as Regional Forester Eastern Division; the San Antonio Spurs to play in the largest mass timber training centre; and a First Nation in Quebec wants to double its protected area.

Finally, the Doman family donates $50k for a new building at the BC Forest Discovery Centre.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

COP 28—the UN Conference on Climate Change—kicks off tomorrow with the goal of assessing progress made since the 2015 Paris Agreement. Here are a few stories of note:

• Voice of America: Scientists Warn of Irreversible, Catastrophic Change
• CBC News: Canada looks for breakthrough on ‘loss and damage fund’ 
• National Observer: Less future warming projected, yet there’s more current pain
• National Observer: The UN climate conference doesn’t matter — and that’s OK
• WWF: High-stakes COP28 Climate Summit ignites at end of hottest year ever
• Ecosystem Marketplace: What to Watch for re: Forests and Markets

In Business news: Marc Busch opines on how to solve the softwood lumber dispute; Nova Scotia—Northern Pulp mediation should wrap up by Christmas; the Espanola Domtar mill is set to close its doors; and the latest on US and Canadian GDP. In other news: a Dovetail report on old-growth forests; a new report on managing combustible dust; and the lastest from the BC Forest Safety Council.

Finally, which is better: new forests or solar farms? How about real or fake Xmas trees?

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

FPAC’s Derek Nighbor says, to thrive, Canada needs to put more of a rural lens on the impacts of policy. In related news: Houston, BC, pellet plant to undergo extended Christmas shutdown; the untimely loss of 1000 Canadian Christmas tree farms; softer sales and prices in the US and Canadian housing markets; and the ‘jarring’ difference between BC and Canada’s job market. 

In Forestry/Climate news: First Nation’s salmon parks aim to spare BC old-growth forests; David Wear on counting carbon in US forests; Amazon deforestation is down in 2023; Australia will produce carbon-neutral car fuel; and carbon credit certifier Verra updates its accounting method.

Finally, the sad story of the death of a 16-year old working in a Wisconsin lumber mill.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Citing profitability concerns, Boise Cascade is curtailing lumber operations in Chapman, Alabama. In related news: Home Depot acquires design firm focused on servicing professional contractors; and Atlas Engineering reports lower Q3, 2023 earnings. On the Market front: RBC forecasts lumber prices to edge up; US new home sales fell 5.6% in October; and multifamily construction remains muddled.

In Forestry/Climate news: ENGOs sue the US National Park Service to prevent tree planting; Washington state’s cap-and-trade system is in jeopardy; US forest expert says managed forests are critical to fighting climate change; New Brunswick researchers are teaching artificial intelligence how to find wildfires faster; Australia is focused on embodied carbon emissions; and Greenpeace pans Chinese-based forest carbon offsets. 

Finally, snow squalls to wallop Ontario as Alberta is still monitoring 19 forest fires.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Paper Excellence announced a 3-month extension to its curtailment of paper operations at Catalyst Crofton. In related news: Maine’s Woodland Pulp mill strikers accept new deal; food packaging boosts Maine’s struggling forest industries; Drax applauds Canada’s inclusion of biomass-using technologies in Clean Tech tax credits; and the WPAC pays tribute to John Swaan—godfather of the pellet sector. Meanwhile, FSC International launches search for its next Director General.

In Forestry/Climate news: protesters expand opposition to logging in Kananaskis, Alberta; ENGOs say BC biodiversity policy could be a game changer; BC foresters return from Finland with ideas for better forest management; RCMP watchdog says police are delaying probe of BC protest unit; the UK announces new forest research funding; and Brazil pitches forest conservation fund at COP28.

Finally, the surprising reappearance of a rare marsupial frog has scientist’s leaping.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada’s Standing Committee on International Trade released a report with recommendations for government on US duties on Canadian softwood lumber. In other news: Canada plans to build water bombers for the European market; US and Canadian housing markets get some good news for a change; recovered paper markets remain depressed; and UK forestry assets fall for the first time in 10 years.

In Forestry/Climate news: Brazil proposes financing plan to protect Amazon forests; the pros and cons of Portugal’s eucalyptus trees; the GHG gap between scientific models and national inventories; and WorkSafeBC approves new regulations on less-accessible workplaces and emergency transportation.

Finally, a 6-meter heavy duty drone that can thin forests from above.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

The Canadian forest sector mourns the loss of John Dunford, RPF who passed away October 26th. 

In Business news; Jock Finlayson and Ken Peacock unpack the CleanBC plan while BC United leader says he wants to scrap it; UPM may see temporary layoffs; and a study demonstrates the value of apprentices.

In Forestry news: European environmental groups worry new packaging regulations will threaten forests; satellite tracking could save forests; and Parks Canada resumes wildfire risk reduction.

Wood construction shines in the tallest building, an entire neighbourhood, and myth busting. 

Finally, we wish all of our US readers a Happy Thanksgiving long weekend. 

By Sandy McKellar, Tree Frog Editor

Canada’s fiscal update sees higher deficits and debt. In related news: despite Canada’s gloomy outlook and fiscal restraint goals, FPAC finds silver lining in recognition of biomass technologies. In other Business news: Meadow Lake Pulp mill ordered to pay fine; Enviva is at a crossroads due to a wrong-way bet on pellets; US home size trends down again; UPM announces first ever wood-based fleece jacket; and Australia is building a new paper recycling plant.

In Forestry/Climate news: Minister Heyman defends CleanBC climate plan; drought causes die-offs of Pacific Northwest red cedars; timber wars redux comes to Montana’s Yaak Valley; European wildfires called a climate change warning; and Sweden branches out with bioeconomy startups.

Finally, Christmas Tree Syndrome sends Ohio woman to the hospital.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor 

US growth is expected to decline in Q4, 2023 and remain tepid in 2024. In related news: Canada’s inflation rate cools to 3.1%; US custom home building slows; and offshore log and lumber markets may be worse than you think. Meanwhile: Canadian wildfires caused millions in insured damage; five striking workers at Woodland Pulp mill are arrested; an Eastern Oregon timber antitrust lawsuit is revived; and the Wood Products Manufacturers Association has a new board of directors.

In other news: Canada will appeal the court ruling on single-use plastics; wildfire smoke is said to impact First Nations the most; wildfires bring wolves back to California after 150 years; Washington State to increase wildfire awareness with Smokey Bear license plates; the US Endowment seeks to improve forest revitalization measurements; and an Australian study says plants may absorb more CO2 in a changing climate.

Finally, and sadly, a fatality at Weyerhaeuser Grande Prairie, Alberta lumber mill. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Following US lead, Canada will start paying subsidies to spur low-carbon technologies. In related news: a UN report says global CO2 emissions have reached a record high; Parks Canada says forests are integral to fighting climate change; efforts are underway to bring back California’s redwoods; and Nova Scotia is importing BC beetles to protect its hemlocks.

In other news: BC is helping PowerWood and Western Wood Preservers expand; West Fraser completes its acquisition of Spray Lake Sawmills; US Senator Angus King calls for mass timber in federal projects; the US EPA invests in a Seattle wood-salvage company; BC Wood celebrates a successful Global Buyers Mission; and the latest update from the Softwood Lumber Board. 

Finally, the world’s first wooden satellite seeks to make space junk biodegradable.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canada’s ban on single-use plastics overstepped its bounds—a Federal Court ruled. In other Business news: La Crete Sawmills pleads guilty under Alberta’s OH&S Act in death of worker; Ingenuity is closing its Louisiana pine chemicals plant; Paper Excellence contributes to Nature Trust of BC; AF&PA elects four new Board members; and the US Endowment announces three new directors. On the Market front: US single-family starts held steady in October; as Canada’s Product Price Index fell 1%.

In Forestry news: Canada establishes Research Chair in Global Change Ecology of Northern Ecosystems; ENGO’s welcome BC’s draft biodiversity plan; Oregon State University walks away from Elliot Forest research plan; US wildland firefighters avert pending pay cut; and Michigan battles the invasive woolly adelgid.

Finally, HGTV Timber King founder Bryan Reid reflects on 50 years of log home building.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

ENGOs call for an end to burning biomass to generate energy, as bio-heat facilities are reviewed in PEI, and gain favour in BC. In related news: a global prize for bio-based construction materials; and Vermont sees potential in pellets. In other Business news: Canfor’s Polar mill curtailment generates concerns; Canadian housing starts trend upward; US homebuilder sentiment is down again; and building material prices are lower. 

In Forestry/Climate news: Alberta’s minister of forests on logging in Kananaskis Country; a BC ecologist stresses the import of prescribed burns; the National Observer on Canada’s unreachable GHG challenge; and New Hampshire looks to carbon credits to address climate change. 

Finally, early bird pricing ends Friday for the 79th annual TLA convention—Solutions from Our Forests. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Canfor announced an extended curtailment of its Bear Lake, BC mill; and Kruger’s Corner Brook, NL mill is shutting down for a week. In related news: Clearwater Paper’s Idaho mill faces a natural gas incident; Roseburg is selling its Simsboro particleboard plant; and Skeena Sawmills is now officially for sale. Meanwhile: US inflation cools; and construction input prices fall.

In Forestry/Climate news: Canada launches an Indigenous leadership fund; the US released its fifth National Climate Assessment report; a US report says sustainable timber harvests reduce GHG emissions; BC forest residue projects secure clean energy funding; Quebec plans to improve its forest fire adaptation; and ENGO’s seek more forest conservation in Western Oregon.

Finally, building the future with wood: a focus on British Columbia and the UK.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Home Depot, GreenFirst Forest Products, and Taiga Building Products all reported lower Q3, 2023 earnings. In other Business news: Alberta invests in Fort Macloud truss plant; Manulife secures $225 million in commitments for its Forest Climate fund; the American Forest & Paper Association announces its 2023 Sustainability Award winners; the UK is sued for saying biomass is carbon neutral; and Germany’s rise as a forest powerhouse.

In Forestry/Climate news: a new study says trees can help tackle climate change; low-intensity wildfires can reduce fire risk; how wildfires threaten the global supply of wood, as well as damage US West timberlands; and what drought in the Amazon means for the planet. Meanwhile; the National Parks Conservation Association adds 11 conservation areas; and renewed advocacy for Canada’s endangered spotted owl.

Finally, a Bill Gates startup sterilizes and buries biomass to prevent GHG emissions. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

Enviva, America’s biggest wood pellet exporter, says its future is in jeopardy. In related news: US infrastructure spending is driving a ‘pole-boom’; downbeat forecasts are reported at UK timber conference; and Billerud reported positive Q3 earnings. In other Business news: Andrew Coyne opines on Canada’s carbon taxes and GHG reductions; and Cam Brown speaks to what British Columbia can learn from forest management in Finland.

In Forestry/Climate news: a new report says FSC certified forests in Canada and the US store more carbon; concerns rise over Canada’s carbon emissions, as Canada’s wildfire season reverberates around the world; four US agencies sign an MOU on wildfire risk and smoke management; US grassland fires are more destructive than forest fires; and California’s seed banks and nurseries need attention – ‘desperately‘. 

Finally, the Sierra Club’s boss is at war with his staff. He blames them.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

FPAC’s Derek Nighbor says ENGO call to restrict forest management is wrong-headed and would make future fire seasons worse. In related news: Two Sides calls Citigroup’s decision to go paperless ‘greenwashing’; Stand.earth says BC is understating its old-growth harvests; Greenpeace is protesting logging in Czechia; how best to save California’s sequoias; and a cross-country mission to save Nova Scotia’s hemlocks.

In Business news: Teal-Jones’ Louisiana sawmill is on-target to open in 2024; a biomass dome is set to open in Panama City, Florida; Northwest Forest Link will export logs from the Port of Astoria; and a new report on biomass use in the European Union. Meanwhile: Cascades reported positive Q3 earnings, while Sappi and Enviva reported net loses.

Finally, Cascades announced the death of its cofounder Bernard Lemaire at age 87.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor

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