Climate change is making Canada’s forests far more prone to extreme wildfire, according to new research, as experts ask if we’re we’re doing enough, and warn of smoky summers. In related news: climate experts push back on Trump’s criticism of Canada’s response; Chief Terry Teegee makes the case for active forest management; and wildfire updates from Vancouver, Vernon, Boston Bar; and Spokane. Meanwhile: Australia’s Rob de Fégely says ending native forest harvesting is madness.
In Business news: Canada’s surtax on wood imports is called a good first step; Carney says Canada will maintain its constructive approach to US trade talks; and columnist Robert Ordway says the rise in US lumber prices in the absence of a housing recovery, should put the softwood dispute front and centre. Meanwhile: Mercer Peace River announced a fall maintenance shutdown; Valemount’s sawmill only has weeks of log supply left; Stella-Jones, Acadian Timber; Cascades and Rayonier report Q2 results; Hampton Lumber names Chris Walton as CEO; and the US Forest Service invests US$105M in wood innovation.
Finally, BC wildfire officials introduce the “treepedo“—dead trees that rocket down steep slopes.
Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor