The Oregon Department of Forestry has planted nearly 2 million seedlings so far this year, with mild weather accelerating reforestation efforts.
Wood Markets News
Lumin Plywood Mill in Uruguay Nears Completion
Lumin’s $136 million plywood mill in Uruguay is nearing completion, with commissioning underway and startup planned for July, adding 164,000 cubic meters of capacity.
US Mortgage Rates Rise in the Week Ending March 19
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.22%, up from 6.11% the previous week, Freddie Mac reported.
US Weekly Initial Jobless Claims Decline in the Week Ending March 14
The advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial unemployment claims was 205,000, a decrease of 8,000 from the previous week.
Plantation Pine Products Reopens Former Hood Industries Sawmill in Metcalfe, GA
Plantation Pine Products reopened a former Georgia sawmill with a $25 million investment, the Thomasville Times-Enterprise reported.
Federal Reserve Leaves Federal Funds Rate Unchanged
The Fed held its federal funds rate at 3.50–3.75%, citing solid economic activity, somewhat elevated inflation, and uncertainty.
US Producer Price Index for Final Demand Increases 0.7% in February
US producer prices rose 0.7% in February, driven final demand services. Year-over-year, prices increased 3.4%.
Bank of Canada Holds Interest Rate Steady
The Bank of Canada held its key interest rate at 2.25% as rising oil prices tied to Middle East conflict add uncertainty to inflation and growth outlook.
US Sawmill Employment Declines in 2025Q3
US sawmill employment fell to its lowest level since 2013Q1, extending a 10-quarter decline in the sector, the Fed and NAHB reported.
BC Prepares for Wildfire Season as Heat, Drought Risks Build
British Columbia is preparing for the 2026 wildfire season as forecasts call for extreme heat and drought risks following a well-above-average fire year, CBC News reported.