Lumber prices have soared, thanks to fires, beetles and climate change in western Canada

Lumber prices have reached an all-time high in North America this year, partly due to high demand, thanks to lockdown-induced home improvement projects. Supply has also tanked, due to years of pine beetle infestations and wildfires that have devastated forests in British Columbia, Canada — home to one of the world’s best supply of structural-grade lumber. Making things worse is climate change. Joining Marco Werman to discuss, is forest biologist Janice Cooke at the University of Alberta.

Less than .05% of listeners will donate. Can we count on you?

Our coverage reaches millions each week, but only a small fraction of listeners contribute to sustain our program. We still need 224 more people to donate $100 or $10/monthly to unlock our $67,000 match. Will you help us get there today?