Forest Products Industry
After Nvidia's Stock Split and 150% First-Half Gain, Will It Soar in the Second Half? Here's What History Says.
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How Nancy Pelosi's Husband Is Profiting Big-Time on Nvidia -- and Why His Strategy Could Be Smart for You Too
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1 Unstoppable Stock That Could Join Microsoft, Apple, Nvidia, Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta in the $1 Trillion Club
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Stock market today: Asian shares advance ahead of U.S. inflation report
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Analysis-Election and Fed risks loom for US stocks after strong first half of 2024
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Bitcoin Eclipsed by Ether, Solana in Crypto Bets Tapping ETF Hype
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Five new skid steer and track loaders from John Deere
John Deere has five new P-Tier Skid Steer Loader (SSL) and Compact Track Loader (CTL) models. Entering the market, the 330 and 334 P-Tier SSLs and the 331, 333 and 335 P-Tier CTLs boast a brand-new one-piece cab design with premium options, enhanced technology features, and an overall increase in operating power. Source: Timberbiz With the introduction of new CTLs and SSLs also comes the debut of three brand new attachments, including the MK76 and MH72D mulching heads and the CP40G cold planer. Expanding offerings in grade management solutions on compact models, the 333 and 335 P-Tier machines can be equipped with John Deere SmartGrade technology, helping to boost productivity on the job. Prioritizing operator comfort and capability, the new P-Tier models boast larger, fully redesigned operator stations. Built from the ground up with direct feedback provided by customers, the new models feature multiple styling upgrades. The new operator station is sealed, pressurized, and isolated from the frame to help improve operator comfort and productivity. This means that outside noise will be lowered, and the cab interior is better protected from the elements. Utilizing the eight-inch premium touch-screen display interface, available on the full line-up of P-Tier models and standard on the 334 and 335 P-Tier. Customers can experience better insight and customization of machine settings and viewing information. When the premium display is selected, a range of standard features and benefits are included within the software. Also enhancing comfort, a new premium heated and ventilated seat allows those working in all types of climates to be comfortable during hot summers or frigid winters. Aiding operators to focus on the task at hand, hands-free Bluetooth calling capabilities allow the operator to easily communicate. The pairing of Bluetooth devices is enabled on the touchscreen display and enables the answering of calls and control of streaming audio, making for seamless operation. Onboard Grade Indicate is standard on the new touchscreen display. This feature displays the cross-slope and main-fall of the machine in either degrees or percent and allows operators to use a relative benchmark to assist in maintaining a desired grade. Helping take control to the next level; the optimized joystick controllers enable more tasks to be completed with easy to reach and adjustable controls that offer personalized setup. The new 25 Button SSM puts all functions in one spot, eliminates rocker switches, and makes it easier to quickly make machine adjustments while operating. With a focus on serviceability, the new cab tilts up in one piece, giving ground-level, all around access to the engine, drivetrain, and undercarriage of the machine. A single operator or technician can raise the boom and enable the mechanical lock out from within the cab. In addition, visibility has increased 20% over G-Series, improving visibility out the front, sides, and back to the machine. Built upon the legacy of the large frame G-Series machines, the new P-Tier machines take technology capabilities and performance to a whole new level. The 333 and 335 P-Tier Compact Track Loaders can be equipped with SmartGrade Ready including 2D grade control or 3D SmartGrade with Topcon. Not only will operators have more power at their command but will also have more capabilities and control than ever before, with a new hydraulic system designed to help operators maximize efforts on the job. In addition, On Board Diagnostics enable an operator to easily navigate through a diagnostic and settings menu structure to look up detailed information on current machine settings and any active codes. With the new monitor option, any active diagnostic trouble codes will also contain more detailed descriptions about the issue and not just a code number. Two brand new technology capabilities make their debut with the rollout of these models, including Attachment Manager and Surround View. Attachment Manager, available as an upgrade on the 330, 331 and 333 P-Tier Machines and standard on the 334 and 335 P-Tier models, takes the guesswork out of determining optimal attachment performance parameters by enabling preprogrammed flow and pressure for John Deere attachments, resulting in optimal productivity. From displaying the key attachment parameters on the screen while running to being able to save or select performance parameters depending on the tool, this new feature helps increase operator confidence and productivity, and helps prevent damage to the attachment correlated to incorrect machine settings during usage. Surround View technology, available on all P-Tier models, stitches together views from around the machine to provide a birds-eye-view image to the operator to assist with increasing situational awareness and giving more confidence to operators to navigate jobsites with ease. When reversing, the display will automatically switch to the rearview camera which gives the operator a closer view of what’s behind the machine. Surround View dynamically integrates two boom mounted cameras in addition to a rear camera onto a dedicated monitor that provides a 270-degress view of the sides and rear of the machine. Adding enhanced visibility and situational awareness for operators can help prevent damage and keep operators safer on the job. Lastly, the John Deere Operations Centre will continue to be included on all large-frame CTL and SSL, enabling fleet managers to monitor machine location, codes, fuel usage and other key features more efficiently. Enabling data sharing with a dealer streamlines maintenance and repairs and can help prevent downtime when issues are identified early. As John Deere rolls out the latest P-Tier CTL and SSL options, it also debuts strategic Quick-Tatch system updates and three new attachment offerings. A full overhaul of the John Deere Quik-Tatch coupler means customers can experience less downtime and continue to easily switch back and forth between attachments. Also, both install implementation and design improvements have been made to increase customer and confidence, making for a more efficient jobsite. Entering the market as part of the over-100 attachment offerings available by John Deere, the CP40G Cold Planer, and MK76 and MH72D Mulching Heads help expand jobsite capabilities with ease. The CP40G Cold Planer, powered by industry-leading Wirtgen Group milling machine and cutting technology, provides […]
Categories: Forest Products Industry
US taking the next step to conserve old growth forests
The US Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service is taking the next step to advance President Biden’s commitment to conserve old growth forests by publishing a draft environmental impact statement for the proposed national old growth forest plan amendment. Source: Timberbiz The purpose of this amendment is to provide consistent guidance for the stewardship, conservation, and recruitment of old growth across national forests. The proposed amendment highlights the importance of proactive stewardship actions in managing threats to old growth forests, and to reduce wildfire risk, considering current and emerging climate-driven threats. It also calls for adaptive management strategies to be developed using local, geographically relevant information and the best available science, including Indigenous Knowledge. “Recent scientific analysis shows us that many old-growth forests are under significant threat from climate change,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The Forest Service’s plan will help safeguard these iconic stands of trees through science-based management and conservation strategies that can be adapted to unique local circumstances on national forests. USDA is looking forward to receiving feedback on today’s draft proposal from Tribal, state and local governments, industry partners, conservation organizations, and many others; all of whom will be critical partners in the forest management and conservation actions needed to ensure the maintenance and growth of old-growth forests into the future.” White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory said: “Under President Biden’s leadership, we are taking action to ensure that millions of acres of old growth forests across the nation are conserved, resilient, and abundant for future generations,” At President Biden’s direction, the Forest Service and the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) completed the first-ever nationwide inventory of old and mature forests and developed definitions for more than 200 forest types in the United States. This initial inventory report showed that the BLM and Forest Service manage approximately 32 million acres of old growth and 80 million acres of mature forests on federally managed lands, for a total of 112 million acres. Old-growth forests represent 18% and mature forest another 45% of all forested land managed by the two agencies. The Forest Service also recently finalized The Mature and Old Growth Threat Analysis, which identifies threats to mature and old growth forests on Forest Service and BLM lands. The report informed the Forest Service’s proposed national amendment and highlights the urgent need for action, suggesting current management is not responsive enough to address disturbances driven by climate change such as wildfire, insects and disease. The Forest Service evaluated Tribal and public input from the initial scoping period, which closed 2 February 2024. Extensive feedback from a diverse range of audiences was vital in the development of the draft environmental impact statement and were incorporated into the proposed action and used to develop alternatives. The agency will continue to learn from the input and feedback received during this public comment period, as well as through ongoing Tribal roundtables and consultation sessions, and dialogue with cooperating agencies, and state and local governments. This work is part of larger agency efforts to support healthy, resilient forests and ecosystems by integrating climate change considerations into all aspects of planning and operations to support healthy resilient forests and ecosystems. The work is consistent with the Inflation Reduction Act which directed US$50 million to fund old growth conservation and stewardship as well as Executive Order 14072, Strengthening the Nation’s Forests, Communities, and Local Economies, issued by President Biden on 22 April 2022. It also supports the Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy and Reforestation Strategy. In addition, USDA announced updates to its Climate Adaptation Plan in concert with other agencies acting to advance climate resilience. Throughout the comment period, the Forest Service will conduct public engagements and field tours, including virtual information sessions. The agency will also continue formal consultation with Tribes, and work with state and local governments, conservation districts and other cooperating agencies. Additional information on engagement opportunities is available on the Forest Service National Old Growth Amendment website.
Categories: Forest Products Industry
Sodra aims to be world leader in kraft lignin
Södra is establishing a new business to become a world leader in the production of kraft lignin. Södra’s production facility will be the first commercial facility in Sweden and the largest of its kind in the world. Source: Timberbiz This is an investment of over two billion SEK and expected to be in operation in 2027. Kraft lignin can replace fossil materials in, among other things, glue, batteries, rubber, composites and form the basis for new biofuels and biostimulators. The market and demand for replacements for fossil chemicals are increasing and Södra has for some time been exploring the opportunities on the market, had dialogue with potential customers and signed offtake agreements for a significant part of the production volumes. There is good possibility for kraft lignin production both to contribute to the green transition and the profitability of the forest estate. “The forest is being called on for many things as society seeks to replace fossil-based materials. To succeed in that transition, sustainability and profitability need to go hand in hand and Södra’s kraft lignin investment is a good example of that. We will make more out of every tree and strengthen our profitability. This is a big investment for Södra and the green transition,” says Lotta Lyrå, CEO of Södra. Today, lignin is used for generating energy, but the refining process Södra is investing in will make more use of the raw material as a product. This is in line with Södra’s strategy to make more of each tree and create more value for the forest estate. “Innovation is a necessary and important part of our business to ensure our competitiveness today and in the future. We are constantly working to create the most possible value from each tree, both with today’s processes and through new opportunities. Within Södra’s strategy, we see several future energy and chemical products with great potential as alternatives to fossil-based materials in society, of which kraft lignin is one,” says Catrin Gustavsson, Executive Vice President at Södra Innovation. “With kraft lignin in our product portfolio, we are strengthening our position as a supplier of sustainable alternatives. Södra has seen potential in kraft lignin production for a long time. Now that we see growing market interest, we can offer a product that contributes to the green transition,” says Johannes Bogren, Vice President, Södra Bioproducts. Södra’s new facility will have the largest capacity for kraft lignin production in the world. Production is planned to start in 2027 and is enabled through the Swedish Energy Agency and The Industrial Leap.
Categories: Forest Products Industry
New CEO for ForestWorks
ForestWorks has appointed Michael Radda as incoming Chief Executive Officer effective 1 July 2024. Source: Timberbiz Mr Radda brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success as a senior executive in the commercial furniture sector. Most recently with Miller Knoll as Vice President North Asia and Pacific, his experience and focus on strategic planning, financial management and team development – together with his previous roles in the not-for-profit sector – make him the ideal choice for this role. Mr Radda is also the current Co-Chair of First Super and Chair of Super Benefits Administration. His appointment as CEO is strategically important for ForestWorks as the organisation continues its growth trajectory. The Worker Support Program for the Victorian hardwood sector; our Jobs & Skills Council partnership with Skills Insight and our recent tender response for the Forestry Workforce Training Program are headline activities for ForestWorks. The Board is confident that Mr Radda’s vision and leadership will further strengthen ForestWorks ability to deliver skills related services to our industries. We look forward to continuing to grow and develop our key stakeholder partnerships and deliver industry-led projects. The Board of Directors wish to acknowledge and thank outgoing interim CEO, Angela Bell, for her excellent work since taking on the interim role in January 2024.
Categories: Forest Products Industry
NZ repeals legislation for registration of log traders and forestry advisors
The New Zealand Government has repealed legislation requiring the compulsory registration of log traders and forestry advisers. Source: Timberbiz “The existing legislation fails to deliver outcomes and places unnecessary costs on forest businesses,” Forestry Minister Todd McClay said. “I am confident that voluntary registration through the New Zealand Institute of Forestry is a better mechanism to support the quality of forestry advice.” Changes will come into effect 1 July and the Government will refund any fees or levies already paid to the Ministry for Primary Industries this season. Forest owners have welcomed the repeal saying it will provide relief and assurance to cost struck growers facing increased regulatory complexities. Timber products play a pivotal role in New Zealand’s primary exports, which contributed NZ$5.8 billion to the economy last year. An operating environment that supports a strong economy and strengthens the integrity of the supply chain is essential to getting New Zealand back on track, lowering the cost of living and providing the quality public services Kiwis deserve. Minister McClay said that the legislation honours the pre-election commitment to cut wasteful spending and restore confidence in the forestry sector. “It is important that we reduce unnecessary regulation and compliance costs where possible,” Mr McClay says.
Categories: Forest Products Industry
Private timber reserve application fee increase
As of 1 July 2024, Tasmania’s private timber reserve application fee will increase from $623.00 to $654.50. Source: Timberbiz The fee for a private timber reserve (PTR) application is payable to Private Forests Tasmania and represents the cost of processing an application to declare land as a private timber reserve. Private timber reserves create a secure environment for investment in private forestry within Tasmania and help to deliver commitments for the sustainable management of private forests. A PTR is an area of private land set aside for forestry purposes and registered on the title. It is land or forest used to establish forests or grow or harvest timber in accordance with the Forest Practices Code. PTRs may cover a single title or several titles and be over the whole of a title, or part of a title. It must be at least five hectares in size. A PTR provides long-term security to manage land for forestry purposes and local government approval is not required when undertaking forestry operations on land declared a private timber reserve. Learn more about private timber reserves HERE. The fee to accompany an application to declare land as a private timber reserve is set under Forest Practices Regulation 2007. The private timber reserve application fee is 350 fee units. The value of a fee unit is set annually via the Fee Units Act 1997. The value of a fee unit in for 2024 – 2025 is $1.87. The increase from $623.00 to $654.50 is an automatic increase, required under the Fee Units Act 1997. This fee is exclusive of GST. Other fees payable under the Forest Practices Regulation 2007, Application Fee to Certify Forest Practices Plan and Tree Fern Tag, will also increase.
Categories: Forest Products Industry
Queensland’s sustainable timber framework policy
Queensland’s peak body for the forest and timber industry is committed to ensuring the right policy settings are put in place by government to generate investment and expansion of forest resources to meet the rising demand for housing and construction. Source: Timberbiz “A key issue facing the industry is a lack of policy certainty over future access to public and privately managed native forests for sustainable hardwood production, as well as minimal incentives and measures to promote plantation and farm forestry expansion to increase timber supply,” said Timber Queensland CEO Mick Stephens. “The Queensland Sustainable Timber Industry Framework policy announced by the Government addresses a number of recommendations put forward by industry, although we remain cautious about the levels of available supply and impacts on the local hardwood sector until we receive further clarification around the policy. “We welcome the Government’s recognition of the importance of the industry for housing materials and the need to build our sovereign capability in timber production which supports local jobs.” Timber Queensland supports a number of broad policy commitments made by the Government, including: maintaining a baseline with no reduction in timber supply levels between 2025 and the end of 2034 and that industry needs ‘contractual certainty’, which should help provide the confidence for the native hardwood sector to invest where 10 years of state resource security is contractually provided; establishment of a Category F land use, which can provide private native forest owners the confidence to undertake applied management through a long-term right to harvest with an appropriate management plan; support for forestry education and extension services so that farmers and landowners including First Nations can implement best forest management practices to increase timber productivity, environmental and forest health benefits; wood processing innovation support to increase resource recovery and downstream production efficiencies in the sector; and plantation and farm forestry expansion to increase future timber availability. In order to maintain and grow timber supply levels from state and private native forests, Timber Queensland will be seeking assurances that: native hardwood permits are issued as soon as possible for permit holders from the former South-East Queensland (SEQ) supply zone through to 2026 based on current contract volumes for compulsory sawlogs, optional sawlogs and poles; longer-term permits through to 2034 are put in place for equivalent volumes within a sustainable yield envelope for former SEQ permit holders as soon as possible; further detail is provided on the agreed state supply volume to be provided through to 2034 including location and resource quality from available crown land; adequate business assistance is provided for transport impacts from the reduction of harvest area in the South-East Queensland Regional Plan Area from January 2025, as well as for permits issued through to 2034 in terms of any changes in resource quality and mix of log grades and products from the sourcing of equivalent volumes from other crown land; the ‘Category F’ instrument be explored as an alternative environmental control for private native forestry activities, compared to the Vegetation Management Act which targets broad-scale agriculture and is not fit for purpose for sustainable timber production with selective harvesting practices; and priority be given to private native forestry extension which has significant potential to grow and increase timber supply over the next few decades. “Another issue has been a lack of investment in new plantations and farm forestry plantings. We are keen to work with government to promote the right trees in the right place for future timber supply. “Major impediments for farmers include high-up front costs of tree establishment, limited access to forestry management expertise and lack of awareness of the on-farm benefits such as shade and shelter for livestock and supplementary income from timber and carbon sequestration. “It will be important that any plantation support measures take into account the farm-level goals of the landowner as well as commercial realities such as correct species choice, sufficient scale and locations close to processing facilities and markets. “As a whole, the funding commitment by the Government of $200 million for the framework policy is significant, which if implemented appropriately can position the industry with an opportunity to increase timber supply for housing and construction demand. “Our mission is to protect and grow the Queensland timber industry and we will continue to hold the government of the day to account in terms of commitments, barriers and opportunities for growth,” Mr Stephens said.
Categories: Forest Products Industry
Timber Unlimited partners CLT Toolbox for NZ software access
Timber Unlimited has partnered with Australia’s CLT Toolbox to offer parts of this advanced software for free to New Zealand industry. Source: Timberbiz “With the release of the new Timber Structures Standard (NZSAS 1720.1:2022), it’s essential that we provide the industry with the resources to implement these new standards effectively,” Technical Manager at Timber Unlimited Bjørn Stankowitz said. CLT CEO Adam Jones said CLT’s goal was to empower engineers with the tools they needed to design sustainable, resilient timber structures. “Our software does just that, making advanced timber design accessible to all,” Mr Jones said This collaboration brings advanced, world-class design software to engineers across the country at no cost, streamlining complex design processes and promoting sustainable building practices. Timber Unlimited is at the forefront of promoting timber use in New Zealand construction, providing tools and resources that enhance the capabilities of engineers and the broader industry. CLT Toolbox, a leader in timber engineering software, has developed solutions that address the technical challenges of timber design, focusing on reducing embodied carbon in construction. The technical challenges of timber design are addressed by providing streamlined automated design routines and comprehensive educational support which CLT Toolbox has developed. Unlike other tools, CLT Toolbox offers transparent calculation methods that are not a ‘black box,’ enabling engineers to understand and trust the design processes to build confidence when specifying timber. This ongoing collaboration between Timber Unlimited and CLT Toolbox, initiated months ago, brings exciting new features to the New Zealand design community. Through this continued partnership, Timber Unlimited is pleased to announce the integration of 17 advanced dowel and bolt calculators as well as four further design modules into the free version of CLT Toolbox software available to the NZ users. These tools simplify what were previously complex and time-consuming tasks, enabling engineers to focus on innovation and efficiency. The software offers clear inputs and outputs, the ability to select New Zealand timber grades, dynamic images, and PDF design report generation. This collaboration equips New Zealand engineers with advanced design methods, empowering them to create higher-performing and lower-risk timber structures with greater confidence. The CLT Toolbox software aligns with the newly released NZS AS 1720.1:2022 Timber Structures Standard. This standard introduces new design methodologies and requirements for structural elements and connections, including brittle failure modes, based on the latest research and international knowledge. The software includes educational features that guide users through these advancements, reducing the learning curve and promoting widespread adoption. The Timber Design Society is particularly excited about the potential of this validated software package to empower smaller engineering firms in New Zealand. “New design methods can be a barrier to adopting a new material or construction typology, and this software will help engineers become confident timber designers. We look forward to seeing an increasing number of timber buildings in New Zealand and an increase in the quality of those designs,” Timber Design Society president Lisa Oliver said. Interim Portfolio Leader of Trees to High Value Wood Products at Scion, Elizabeth Dunningham, said that it was satisfying to see this collaboration between Timber Unlimited, Timber Design Society and CLT Toolbox progress with Scion’s support as the contract holder for Timber Unlimited for the past two years. “This collaborative effort delivers an easier pathway for increasing timber in New Zealand buildings, improving sustainability credentials,” she said. The partnership between TU and CLT Toolbox addresses the resistance faced by many designers due to the complexities of the new standard. By providing free access to advanced design tools, Timber Unlimited and CLT Toolbox lower the barriers to entry, encourage upskilling, and support the growth of timber construction in New Zealand. The software’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive resources make it an invaluable asset for the engineering community. Engineers and designers are encouraged to take advantage of this free resource by visiting the Timber Unlimited website at https://timberunlimited.co.nz/clt-toolbox-software This project was funded by MPI through Timber Unlimited as part of an initiative to enable more wood in mid-rise and high-rise construction.
Categories: Forest Products Industry
Opinion: Marcus Musson – The only way is up
Brace yourself folks, we’re entering new territory. June export prices have come out with only a very slight rise on May, which was only a very slight rise on April, so basically flat at the bottom of the cycle. This is the first time in the last 15 years that we haven’t seen a price bounce once the bottom of the market is hit. Sure, there have been instances where it was a dead cat bounce which resulted in a double dip, but this time Fluffy’s stayed flat on the deck. Fortunately, the bottom of this cycle (which it hopefully is) is around NZ$15/m3 higher than any of the dips in the last 8 years but, nevertheless, it’s still painful. There has been positive movement in the CFR price (sales price in China) with a lift of around US$10/m3 over the past three months but increases in shipping and FOREX have taken the fun out of the party. Chinese on-port inventory has moved lower in June and currently sits around the 3.4Mm3 mark, down 600K/m3 from May. Uplift from ports is running at around 70K/m3 per day, although this is expected to drop as China enters its hot season and some of the workforce return to home to harvest crops during June. In addition, construction sites must cease work for a few days in early June during the high school exams to reduce noise pollution – imagine trying that in NZ! As expected, the NZ supply is starting to wind back as the Taupo windthrow salvage finishes and what’s left of the woodlot sector slows as the rains start. There are still some older cargos in China that will need to be worked through, but with reduced supply we would expect to see inventories continue on a downward trajectory. It may not be heading down as fast as Synlait’s share price, but any movement is good for potential price increases. There has been some good news on the Chinese construction front with the Government putting their ‘Three Major Projects’ development plan into action. This plan includes construction of affordable housing, renovation of urban villages and construction of recreational facilities that can be converted into emergency hospitals or accommodation. Reports out of China are that some of the more run-down neighbourhoods have commenced redevelopment and some of the larger infrastructure projects have started, thanks to a US$50bn injection from the Pledged Supplemental Lending program by the Peoples Bank of China. However, let’s not get too carried away with the Moet, the level of this program will be a drop in the bucket compared to the debt fuelled construction addiction that the country had for the past 16 years. NZ will see three vessels’ head to India in June and there is the potential that demand may increase somewhat in that market. It’s still only early days with supply back into India, and volumes are pale in comparison with China’s monthly tally of 40 odd vessels, but from a supply perspective, anything that’s not heading to China will have a positive effect in the long term. Domestic sawmills continue to wade through a softening market with NZ residential construction spending reducing from 6.1 billion to 5.3 billion over the past three quarters. This softness is likely to continue as long as our esteemed Reserve Bank Governor keeps the OCR in top gear, and it doesn’t look like the clutch will start slipping until we’re well into 2025. Domestic pruned log supply remains higher than expected as export pruned prices stay subdued and sales that would normally go over the wharf are diverted into the domestic market. This trend will turn quickly once export prices regain some momentum. The NZU price is trading at $51/tonne as at the time of writing, down from NZ$56 a few days ago but up from a low of NZ$45 in May. There is still some uncertainty on the NZ Government’s position on forestry in the ETS after the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment released a report in late May calling for a phasing down of forestry as a carbon offset over time. What is clear is that as long as there is speculation in the carbon market, NZU prices will continue to swing like a screen door in the wind with changing sentiment. Thankfully, the new government has seen sense and repealed the ‘Log Traders and Advisors’ legislation which was dumped on the industry by the previous government. This flawed piece of legislation placed more compliance and regulation on an industry already drowning in compliance and regulation and the vast majority of us are pleased to see it flushed down the porcelain. So, taking a leaf out of the Otis Clay song book, the only way is up – unless you’re a Synlait investor. We hope to see some meaningful price increases in Q3 but, from a macro-economic perspective, it’s unlikely we’ll see prices sustained at the levels we revelled in during the golden period between 2017 – 2019. If you’re sitting on the fence waiting for those days to come again, I hope you have strong undies. Marcus Musson is a Forest360 Director. He holds a Bachelor of Forest Science with Honours from Canterbury University, New Zealand, and specialises in steep slope cable harvesting, marketing and value recovery initiatives.
Categories: Forest Products Industry
Poles apart in NSW – new fibreglass electricity poles
The NSW Nationals are calling on the State Government to reverse a decision to replace hardwood power poles with composite poles. The composite poles are to be made from a fibreglass and resin composite with a UV coating for fire resilience. Source: Timberbiz It is anticipated that more than 2000 timber power poles will be replaced a year with a further 9000 composite poles as new installations or replacement poles for end-of-life hardwood poles. NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders visited Coffs Harbour Hardwoods in Glenreagh, along with Deputy Leader and Shadow Minister for the North Coast Gurmesh Singh, Member for Clarence Richie Williamson, Member for Oxley Michael Kemp, and industry representatives. They’ve called on Environment Minister Penny Sharpe to intervene to prevent a further increase in power prices, and to provide certainty to the timber industry. Mr Saunders said hardwood has been hard done by. “Not only will this untested product be worse for the household budget by adding to power bills, but it will also be worse for the environment by increasing our carbon footprint,” Mr Saunders said. Mr Singh said the ALP’s move will exacerbate the cost-of living crisis. “It’s bad enough Labor’s budget didn’t allocate any funding to help families while times are tough, but now the government is making decisions that will make things worse,” Mr Singh said. Last week the NSW Nationals party room passed a resolution, reaffirming its support of the hardwood and softwood timber industry. The resolution endorsed all responsible and sustainable harvesting measures, while opposing transfers of productive state forest to national park without strong scientific justification of improved outcomes. Richie Williamson said the current reduction in timber supply is a direct result of the Minns Labor Government’s decisions. “All of the shutdowns we’ve seen over the past six months or so have been caused by this government letting the timber industry down. It needs to do better to stand up for our regional workers and businesses,” Mr Williamson said. Michael Kemp said the resolution shows the NSW Nationals will always back our primary producers. “Hardwood timber is the backbone of the Mid North Coast and last week every single member of parliamentary team again showed their support for one of our most sustainable industries,” Mr Kemp said.
Categories: Forest Products Industry
Uber and Lyft agree to pay drivers $32.50 per hour in Massachusetts settlement
Categories: Forest Products Industry
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