Citing weak markets, Interfor indefinitely curtails its Nairn Centre and Gogama sawmills in Ontario. In related news: Na̱mǥis Corp. explores new future for Atli wood chip facility; BC’s value added-mills are harmed by lumber duties; France’s paper mill closures signal broad sector decline; and the the Acorn Forest Products mill fire triggers lawsuit with arson accusation. Meanwhile, the US is at odds on trade as Prime Minister Carney rejects pressure and US Trade Rep. Greer signals action; FPAC launches Economic Impact Dashboard highlighting industry metrics; and Softwood Lumber Board’s annual report is now available.
In Forestry/Wildfire news: Georgia governor Kemp declares state of emergence as wildfires burn across Georgia and Florida; Ben Parfitt says BC is pushing First Nations to log rather than conserve forests; Canfor released its 2025 Sustainability Report; and Mosaic Forest Management works to reduce illegal dumping. Meanwhile: Evan’s Lake fire recovery donations are still needed; and it’s your last chance to register for the SFI Annual Conference.
Finally, an essential resource for architects designing with wood – Cedar Book XVIII is out!
Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog News Editor
OTTAWA — The Canadian Kitchen Cabinet Association (CKCA) supports the Government of Canada’s launch of a 
Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) has launched a new 
A disputed $31-million fire loss at a Delta, B.C., sawmill has triggered three separate lawsuits involving Lloyd’s Underwriters, Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and BFL Canada, with arson allegations now at the center of the coverage battle. The case stems from an April 8, 2024, blaze that gutted Acorn Forest Products’ remanufacturing facility on the Fraser River, burning a 30-meter swath through the plant despite a response from 30 firefighters in seven trucks. Lloyd’s has since voided Acorn’s primary and excess policies, alleging the loss was caused by arson carried out by, or under the guidance of, the company’s “directing minds,” according to a report from Business in Vancouver. In court filings, Acorn and its parent company, the San Group, denied the allegation and said the London market is using arson as a pretext to avoid a nearly $31 million payout. …The Delta fire is not the first large sawmill loss involving the San Group and Lloyd’s.
Seven paper mills have closed in France since the beginning of 2024, raising concerns about a broader decline in the country’s paper and pulp industry. The warning comes from COPACEL, which highlighted the trend during its annual press conference. The industry group also pointed to a fragile outlook for several production sites entering 2026. Out of a total of 81 paper mills in France, seven have permanently ceased operations. According to COPACEL, the closures have significant consequences for employment, regional development and industrial sovereignty. France is already a net importer of pulp, paper and cardboard, increasing its reliance on foreign supply. At the same time, two packaging paper companies are undergoing court-led restructuring, while a group operating two large pulp mills is in conciliation proceedings. Several other companies are considered financially vulnerable. Meanwhile, French manufacturers face persistently high production costs linked to energy prices, taxation and administrative complexity.
JAKARTA — The Industry Ministry is pushing for packaging diversification and the development of alternative materials to strengthen the competitiveness of domestic manufacturers, particularly in the food and beverage sector, as global dynamics continue to drive up plastic prices …“We see the geopolitical situation in the Middle East as a catalyst to improve efficiency and accelerate innovation in more sustainable packaging alternatives,” said Putu Juli Ardika. In response, industry players have begun diversifying packaging materials, turning to paper, glass, metal and recycled plastics such as recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), according to the ministry. Putu noted that the shift reflects both cost considerations and a broader push toward sustainability. Furthermore, the ministry sees strong potential in paper-based packaging, supported by Indonesia’s well-established pulp and paper industry. Paper packaging is increasingly being adopted across the retail, food and beverage, e-commerce and logistics sectors.
More efficient use of lumber byproducts leads to more sustainable forest management. That’s why Michigan Technological University researchers are developing a biomaterial lighter than steel and just as strong, made from leftover wood waste, that could revolutionize the lumber industry. …Xinfeng Xie, associate professor of forest biomaterials, and his team have partnered with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Waste Upcycling for Defense (WUD) program to turn scrap wood into a strong, sustainable building material. …Led by Xie, students began by using a group of wood-decay fungi, also known as xylophagous fungi, to break down lignin, the tough, rigid structural polymer in plant cell walls. This biological approach leaves behind cellulose nanofibers that are stronger than steel, and its only byproducts are carbon dioxide and water. …The project also provides a physical product that has a positive impact on the future of their industry.
MISSISSAUGA, ON
The Sunshine Coast Regional District Board is set to weigh in on 15 new or modified cutblocks BC Timber Sales is proposing over the next five years — and may withhold support for eight of those. On April 30, the SCRD board is slated to consider a large package of local comments responding to 
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, a fire at Evans Lake resulted in the loss of two buildings, including four cabins. We are deeply grateful that no campers were on site and all staff are safe—but the loss to our community is significant. We want to sincerely thank Squamish Fire & Rescue, Britannia Beach Volunteer Fire Department, RCMP, Conservation Officers, our team, and a member of our community for their quick and compassionate response. Right now, our focus is on recovery. While we are insured, there are always substantial costs that aren’t fully covered. As we begin to rebuild, many have asked how they can help. Donations made here will directly support urgent recovery needs, replacement of essential spaces, and ongoing operations—helping ensure we can continue to provide meaningful outdoor experiences for thousands of children and families.
GEORGIA — Smoke has filled the air across parts of the Peach State this week as wildfires continue to burn out of control in southern Georgia, forcing evacuations and destroying homes. According to the Georgia Forestry Commission, crews responded to 34 new wildfires Wednesday that burned about 75 acres statewide. But officials say the biggest concern remains two large, active fires that have already scorched tens of thousands of acres. The Pineland Road Fire in Clinch County has grown to nearly 29,606 acres and is about 10% contained. In Brantley County, the Highway 82 Fire has burned more than 4,400 acres and is roughly 15% contained. Officials say dry conditions, high winds, and a lack of rain are making the fires harder to control. …The growing wildfire threat prompted Brian Kemp to declare a state of emergency, allowing more state and federal resources to assist, including expected support from FEMA.