Higher inflation and mortgage rates in the US reduced builder confidence in May, leading to lower housing starts. In other Business news: Resolute and Greenpeace conclude long-running litigation; Richmond Plywood unveils robotic repair system; and three Maine wood companies get federal grants. Meanwhile: Linda Coady on BC’s forest industry challenge; WorkSafeBC on worker fatigue-risk; and BC Wood’s 2024 Global Buyers Mission preview. 

In Forestry/Wildfire news: Canada announces urban tree planting program; Canada and Ontario agree to collaborate on caribou conservation; US announces bioenergy/biochar grants; Canada’s wildfires expose rural infrastructure fragility; emotions run high in Fort Nelson, BC as wildfire risks ease; Fort McMurray, Alberta fire remains volatile; and Canadian water bombers readiness.

Finally, China’s pursuit of Canada’s pulp & paper industry called a ‘national security issue‘.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor