Finish firm UPM is closing a newsprint mill and shutting down one fine-paper machine in Germany. In other Business news: Ontario’s CHAR Tech will commence production of pelletized biocarbon; more provinces are saying yes to tall timber; Toronto recommends approval of world’s tallest timber building; and US consumer confidence ticks up, as Toronto’s housing starts plummet.

In Forestry/Wildfire news: a Narwhal review of BC’s old-growth forest promises; BC sets lower AAC for southern Vancouver Island; wildfire solutions the focus of UBC conference in Kelowna; Alberta ecologist on Alberta’s Bragg Creek logging plan; Oregon’s Governor nominates forestry board despite ENGO backlash; Oregon Women in Lumber host inaugural workshop; and the latest on Australia’s forest wars.

Finally, combatting distracted driving in the US lumber industry – Eyes on the Road.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor