US housing starts fell for the second time in April, adding to the woes of tight supply and rising prices. But does the downfall matter? According to Zacks, “no” – as the larger picture is still overwhelming. In other Business news: a Georgian Senator joins the effort to halt newsprint tariffs; Madisons joins Forest2Market on their cloud-based platform; and Vancouver forestry reporter Gord Hoekstra is up for another award.

In Forestry news: Canadian wildfire experts forecast a long, hot wildfire season; Michigan researchers say whole-tree logging does not hinder biodiversity;  a Maryland researcher questions studies that say natural regeneration is more effective; and Indiana climate experts say the state’s forests will likely benefit from longer growing seasons while facing increased floods and droughts.

Finally, APA – the Engineered Wood Association recognized safety excellence of more than two dozen structural panel and engineered wood companies.

–Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor