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During WWII many jobs considered a male dominion were handled by women, one of these was working as foresters in the Women’s Timber Corps in the UK. Source: Timberbiz It was estimated that around 18,000 young women between the ages of 17 and 24 took up positions with axes, saws and timber trucks to fell trees for the war effort. These women were the Lumberjills. A stunning photo book The Lumberjills has been written by Joanna Foat and published by Merrow Downs Press. Ms Foat has gathered a collection of never-before-seen photos of the Women’s Timber Corps that shows the breadth of work these women accomplished. Each photo has a description which brings to life the work they did. More information at https://www.thelumberjills.uk/shop  

CBI has an all-new CBI 5900T, a next-generation horizontal grinder designed aiming to set new standards in efficiency, power, and durability. As the first model in the 5900 series, this machine blends the best of both worlds incorporating proven features from the trusted CBI 6800 and 5800 grinders while introducing innovative upgrades for superior material processing. Source: Timberbiz With a 60-inch-wide infeed rotor, the 5900T optimizes material flow, effortlessly handling wider material and reducing the need for pre-processing. Its robust 755-horsepower engine, paired with a hydraulic clutch, delivers smooth, powerful performance with precise control, making it an exceptional choice for high-production environments. Built for durability and ease of maintenance, this next-generation grinder features quick air filter removal and convenient engine access, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. A key enhancement to the 5900T is its updated discharge system, engineered with multiple wear plates and a material-ejecting pulley to enhance durability and overall performance. Additional key features include: 755hp Engine with Hydraulic Clutch – Delivers exceptional power, smooth operation, and precise control. Metal Detection System (MDS) – Provides essential protection from tramp metal, preventing damage to vital components. 60” Wide Infeed & Rotor – Improves material handling and reduces the need for pre-processing. Belt Hold Down Rollers – Extends skirt rubber life for increased efficiency and longevity. Compact & Transportable Design – 8’6” legal width and an advanced dolly system enhance mobility.

Dallin Brooks, executive director of the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) in the US has penned an open letter to discuss the tariffs between the US and its key trading partners including Canada. Source: Timberbiz Mr Brooks says: We’re writing to you at a critical juncture as we’ve discussed tariffs between the United States and key trading partners, including Canada, which continue to grow. As your association, we want to emphasize our commitment to advocating for the best interests of our members on both sides of the border while promoting policies that protect the vitality and sustainability of the hardwood industry. For generations, the hardwood industries of the US and Canada have enjoyed a mutually beneficial trade relationship built on trust, collaboration, and shared goals. This relationship has allowed both nations to promote their hardwood products globally while maintaining sustainable forest management practices. We believe preserving free trade between our countries is vital to sustaining global market stability and fostering an environment where businesses of all sizes can prosper. At the same time, we recognize that some members view tariffs as an essential tool for supporting domestic production. A tariff is a tax or duty placed on goods, typically designed to protect domestic industries by making foreign products more expensive. However, the hardwood industry thrives on a symbiotic relationship between markets across borders, and tariffs disrupt that balance. They can damage both sides by disrupting supply chains, raising prices, and reducing market access. History has shown us the negative impact of tariffs. During the 2017 trade dispute, our industry experienced significant challenges, including a 20-25% export decline. Several companies were forced to shut down, and many others struggled to recover. To safeguard this mutually beneficial relationship, we must avoid repeating that scenario. We understand the concerns of our Canadian members, who play a vital role in the success of the overall hardwood industry. Our commitment to supporting free and fair trade extends to advocating for policies that benefit businesses on both sides of the border. NHLA values the longstanding contributions of Canadian producers and recognizes that their success is integral to the strength of the North American hardwood market. We have received inquiries from major media outlets, including NPR, Bloomberg, Fox News, and the Boston Globe, asking for our perspective on the potential economic impact of these tariffs. We are responding thoughtfully, promoting the benefits and emphasizing the importance of a strong cross-border partnership. We also reinforce that our industry supports sustainable growth and global competitiveness through cooperation, not division. Next Steps: Informing and uniting our members: We will continue to provide regular updates and insights on the evolving situation. Promoting data-driven advocacy: We will share key data from NHLA and AHEC showing the importance of free trade and the damage caused by tariffs. Ensuring Representation: Our team works with industry leaders, policymakers, and media to ensure your voices are heard. We want to encourage you to stay engaged with NHLA, share your concerns, and participate in upcoming discussions and events where we will continue to advocate for policies that protect your businesses. The strength of our industry lies in its unity, and by working together, we can navigate these challenges and seize growth opportunities. Thank you for your trust and commitment to NHLA. Sincerely, Dallin Brooks

This tour invites you to explore the magnificent world of Japanese timber architecture, where every structure tells a story of cultural heritage and contemporary brilliance. Source: Timberbiz This tour is being organised by Andrew Dunn together with WoodSolutions and the Timber Development Association. Begin in the vibrant heart of Tokyo, where you’ll see modern Japanese timber architecture by world-famous architects, unique multi-storey steel/timber hybrid buildings and more. Next on the journey, step inside revolutionary housing factories that redefine modern construction. Witness the precision and artistry of Japanese wood engineering first hand. A highlight awaits at Hōryū-ji, the world’s oldest wooden building and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This extraordinary Buddhist temple, known as the “Temple of the Flourishing Dharma,” offers an unparalleled glimpse into ancient Japanese architectural techniques that have withstood over a millennium. Delve into the rich traditions of Minka (Kominka) construction – the vernacular folk houses that embody generations of architectural wisdom. Experience the intricate building methods that have defined Japanese architectural identity for centuries. Your journey will include immersive visits to forests, and fabrication facilities, providing a comprehensive understanding of Japanese wood construction from root to roof, including carpentry demonstrations guided by experts. The tour culminates with two extraordinary days at the 2025 Osaka Expo, where you’ll explore an awe-inspiring wooden ring building spanning 2 km in circumference, reaching 20 metres in height, with an 8-metre elevated walkway. The tour begins on 11 May and finishes on 17 May 2025. For further information contact Andrew Dunn on 0419 639 450 or andrewdunn@tdansw.asn.au

A new wildfire forecasting system that updates using real-time weather data could help firefighters protect lives and property from a growing global threat. Source: Timberbiz Developed by an international team led by Dr Alberto Ardid, a research engineer in Civil and Natural Resources Engineering at the University of Canterbury (UC), the new tool uses machine learning (a type of artificial intelligence) to analyse ever-changing weather data. Dr Ardid says the frequency and intensity of wildfires, such as the destructive blazes seen in California recently, is increasing due to climate change and there’s an urgent need for more effective fire management strategies to protect lives, property, and ecosystems. “Accurate and timely wildfire danger forecasting is necessary for preparedness and response, enabling efficient resource allocation and mitigation efforts. Weather conditions can change dramatically within hours, potentially leading to sudden wildfire outbreaks,” he says. “We are developing new tools that are sensitive to these hourly weather conditions which can help identify high fire hazard conditions.” His team has developed a unique AI-based system that uses readily available weather data to predict wildfire danger in real-time, providing a powerful tool to inform timely decision-making. “Our AI model analyses weather data every 30 minutes, capturing dynamic weather patterns that can contribute to sudden wildfire outbreaks,” Dr Ardid says. “This approach offers a cost-effective solution for communities and agencies to enhance their wildfire prediction and response capabilities, contributing to community safety and resilience in the face of increasing wildfire danger.” The model outputs a prediction of the likelihood of fire in the next few days, continuously updated with new meteorological data. The real-time monitoring system uses existing data and infrastructure making it cost-effective in regions with limited resources. “We hope this research will complement current monitoring techniques and advance wildfire management, offering a valuable tool for mitigating the increasing threat of wildfires and protecting communities,” Dr Ardid says. The AI model was developed and tested using historical weather and fire data from Queensland, Australia, and achieved a 47% improvement in predicting critical pre-fire conditions compared to the existing Forest Fire Danger Index. Dr Andres Valencia-Correa, a senior lecturer in UC’s Civil and Natural Resources Engineering department, collaborated on the research which was published in the International Journal of Wildland Fire Today. He says the system’s early and accurate warnings would facilitate faster evacuations. “It would also improve fire-fighting strategies and allow fire management agencies to allocate their resources more effectively,” Dr Valencia-Correa says. “This enhanced predictive capability could potentially save lives and lessen the adverse impacts of wildfires on communities and ecosystems.” This project was recognised recently for its potential impact and innovation, being selected among the top 10 finalists for the Allianz Climate Risk Award for early-career scientists. The research team also includes UC School of Earth and Environment Associate Professor Marwan Katurji, UC Civil and Natural Resources Engineering Associate Professor David Dempsey, and fire ecologist Shana Gross, from Scion. The other collaborators are Anthony Power, an Australian bush fire consultant, and Professor Matthias Boer from Western Sydney University.

The Timber Circularity Project, led by the University of the Sunshine Coast’s National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life, is dedicated to identifying and implementing strategies for the repurposing and recycling of preservative-treated timber and engineered wood products (EWPs). Source: Timberbiz This initiative directly addresses the complexities associated with their disposal, transforming potential waste into valuable resources. By converting challenges into opportunities, the national Timber Circularity Project aims to demonstrate how circular economy solutions for end-of-life timber products can play a pivotal role in Australia’s circular bioeconomy. Begun in 2023, the Timber Circularity Project is a three-year endeavour supported and funded by leading industry stakeholders, including: Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA), Wine Australia, Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA), Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA), Frame & Truss Manufacturing Association (FTMA), Koppers Performance Chemicals, Hexion, and Azelis. This extensive collaboration underscores a collective commitment to advancing timber management practices and enhancing resource utilisation across sectors. Why Is It Important? Reducing Landfill Waste: Provides sustainable end-of-life solutions for treated timber, minimising landfill contributions. Advancing Australia’s Circular Economy Goals: Supports national efforts to repurpose valuable materials. Enhancing Industry Sustainability: Aids sectors such as viticulture and forestry in managing resources responsibly. Delivering Economic & Environmental Benefits: Lowers disposal costs and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable industry. In efforts to lead the industry’s transition to the circular economy, FWPA has invested in this program to secure viable uses for end-of-life timber products, assisting members to grow their businesses and increase productivity and utilisation along the value chain. A key outcome of the project is the Timber Circularity Resource Map, an advanced geospatial tool designed to optimise timber repurposing and find circular solutions for treated timber and EWP waste and offcuts. The map provides insights into: The locations, types, and volumes of unused timber resources available. Strategies and solutions for integrating these materials into a circular economy framework. By utilising this tool, industries can improve resource recovery efforts, reduce waste management costs, and contribute to Australia’s 2030 circular economy objectives. Strengthening Sustainable Practices Through Collaboration The Timber Circularity Project exemplifies the power of collaborative research and industry partnerships. Through such collaborative research initiatives, Australia’s Rural Research and Development Corporations (RDCs), FWPA and Wine Australia demonstrate their commitment to working together to address climate change challenges and advancing sustainable practices, ensuring the long-term viability of Australia’s primary production sectors and aligning with broader efforts to transition towards a circular economy by 2030. The project aligns with the Federal Agriculture Minister’s priorities on climate adaptation and resource management, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to responsible material use. The project contributes to this priority by promoting sustainable resource management and reducing environmental impacts, thereby supporting the resilience and sustainability of Australia’s agricultural and forestry industries. Industry professionals are encouraged to explore the Timber Circularity Resource Map by attending the online launch webinar on Thursday 27 February at 1pm (AEST). Register here.

New Zealand and Flinders University experts have deployed artificial intelligence and 3D laser scanning to accurately map planted pine (radiata) forests for most of NZ’s North Island. Source: Timberbiz The results, which distinguish planted large estates, small woodlots and newly established stands as young as three years old, showcase a new way of using remote sensing with other technology to reveal forest growth and update growth information. This approach is just as relevant for Australia, where radiata pine is also widely grown, says Dr Grant Pearse, Senior Lecturer in Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) at Flinders University. “In New Zealand, where radiata pine plantations dominate the forestry sector, the current national forest description lacks spatially explicit information and struggles to capture data on small-scale forests,” says Dr Pearse, from the College of Science and Engineering at Flinders University in Adelaide, South Australia. “We combined deep learning-based forest mapping using high-resolution aerial imagery with regional airborne laser scanning data to map all planted forest and estimate key attributes.” The spatially explicit forest description provides wall-to-wall information on forest extent, age, and volume for all sizes of forest. This facilitates stratification by key variables for wood supply forecasting, harvest planning, and infrastructure investment decisions – applications equally valuable for other forestry industries. The research, with New Zealand timber industry researchers from Rotorua, Christchurch and Auckland, was carried out on planted forests in the Gisborne region, which has publicly available aerial imagery and airborne laser scanning data. This region is particularly significant as it was severely impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle in early 2023, which caused widespread landslides and forest debris flows. For such vulnerable terrain, knowing exactly where forests are located in the landscape, their age and condition is key to managing the risks of harvesting operations on the region’s steep slopes. “We propose satellite-based harvest detection and digital photogrammetry to continuously update the initial forest description. This methodology enables near real-time monitoring of planted forests at all scales and is adaptable to other regions with similar data availability,” researchers say in a new article. Along with the economic importance of NZ’s 1.8 million hectares of radiata pine forestry for export timber and fibre, these planted forests are a key part of the country’s emission trading scheme and are expected to play a significant role in achieving the government’s target of net-zero emissions by 2050. The forest map derived from artificial intelligence can be viewed at: www.forestinsights.nz