NEWS

How did Smokey Bear celebrate his 80th birthday?

Answer: Smokey Bear, beloved wildfire prevention icon, celebrated his 80th birthday by ringing the NASDAQ Opening Bell - and with a new ad campaign. 

PHOTO © USFS

AmeriCorps and the U.S. Forest Service have launched ForestCorps, a new program that trains 18 to 26-year-olds to fight wildfires and support land restoration across the West. Participants of the already popular program receive hands-on experience in prescribed burns and reforestation. 

PHOTO © AMERICORPS AND FORESTCORPS

U.S. imports of wooden furniture reached $10.2 billion in the first half of 2024, a 6% increase over last year. Imports from Vietnam and Malaysia grew by 18% and 9%, respectively, driving the change. Imports from Mexico and Indonesia fell by more than 5%.

Read more: US And Canada Timber And Wood Product Price And Market Report →

In the first half of 2024, U.S. imports of hardwood plywood outpaced 2023 by 32%. Imports from Vietnam and Malaysia have more than doubled; imports from Indonesia grew by 55%. June finished slow: imports fell by 17% to 201,632 cubic meters, 21% lower than last June's volume.

Read more: US And Canada Timber And Wood Product Price And Market Report →

The Forest Resources Association, DHA, and allied organizations encouraged USDA's support of a full range of forest products that help sustain a viable forest industry in rural communities and to take the lead in developing markets for biomass generated from actively managing forestlands. Some of the many economic and environmental benefits include supporting healthy, resilient forests for thousands of forest landowners, loggers, and industry workers.