BC will punitively increase the surcharge on logs for export—initially for BC Timber Sales only—in an attempt to increase fibre availability to local mills. In other Business news: Canada’s premiers want feds to redouble efforts on softwood trade; the NY Times speaks to how US lumber companies are faring post-duties; and unions up the pressure on Western Forest Products.

On BC mill curtailments: Fort St. John, North Thompson and Prince George leaders look to minimize the impacts; Interfor seeks support for Canfor timber transfer; and add Powell River paper mill to the downtime list. Elsewhere: the BC Forest Practices Board on proposed amendments to forest practices; and an Ontario group that helps you track forest fire smoke. 

Finally, despite help from Saskatchewan and Thunder Bay, Ontario’s evacuation plans put on hold. 

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor