Lumber futures hit 8-month high, amid rising costs for Canadian softwood and tighter supply. In related news: a Harvard study says housing affordability is dragging housing demand; and the US Conference Board’s economic index rose in May. In other Business news: Cascades invests to increase tissue production in Quebec; Nova Scotia considers alternatives for Northern Pulp’s old sludge; a decision on the future of France’s Fibre Excellence is postponed; and Forbes recognizes Boise Cascade and Georgia Pacific as Best Employers.

In other news: Louisiana governor signs wood pellet bill, a US House bill would give mass timber preference in building projects; Idaho’s Boise and Payette national forests received restoration funding; a new study links heat waves to area burned in the US west; and ENGOs criticize Indonesia-based APRIL for sustainability commitments. Meanwhile: WorkSafeBC’s June safety checklist; Woodlots BC on the role of snags as bee habitat; and the exhibit floor at Mass Timber+ 2026 is almost sold out.

Finally, a Safety Board report says glassy-water conditions contributed to a 2024 fatal seaplane crash.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor