As the US July 4th holiday approaches, dangerously high heat begets wildfire and safety warnings. In related news: hot dry conditions continue to fuel risk in northern Alberta; and despite BC’s quiet wildfire season—fire concerns persist. In BC Forestry news: BC Forest Minister Ralston decides not to run for a 6th term; Bob Brash opines on the meaning of ‘forest resilience’; Russ Taylor laments BC becoming ‘univestable’; and Bill Kordyban supports First Nations’ plea to restore local decision making.

In Business news: Canada’s railway unions vote to reauthorize strikes at CN and CPKC; Kalesnikoff Lumber celebrates 85 years in business; Pyramid Lumber runs its last shift in Montana; and New Zealand’s new trade deal removes wood tariffs. Meanwhile: BC Wood announces WOODTALKS at its Global Buyers Mission; reclaimed wood trends up at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair; and the latest newsletter headlines from FSC Canada.

Finally, Japanese crayons that use the true pigment of cedar, cypress and magnolia trees.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor