Controversial EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt declared that burning trees is carbon neutral “when used for energy production at stationary sources”. Perspectives include:

• Reflects long-standing scientific principles and Congressional Direction (AF&PA)
• Encourages  landowners to keep their land in trees (Georgia Forestry Assoc.)
• The notion is contentious among scientists (Washington Post)
• Burning trees will exacerbate climate change and harm public health (Sierra Club)

In other news: CN Rail’s new boss is moving quickly to ease congestion; Halifax is considering restricting flyer delivery; and Treehugger has Michael Green’s presentation at the opening of StructureCraft’s new Dowel Laminated Timber plant in BC. 

Finally, flashback to Caddyshack! An attempt to burn a woodchuck out of a hole leads to a forest fire in Maine. 

–Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor