By Cheryl Jahn

Natural Resources forum underway

Jan 26, 2021 | 4:05 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Day One of the Natural Resources Forum kicked off today, albeit in a virtual fashion. First up was a rundown from representatives of the prominent resource sectors on how the COVID pandemic affected their industries. Forestry, by far, is coming through the event on a greater footing.

“On the pulp side, you had product going in on PPE and essential goods. So, face masks, capes and gowns and hospital bedding” says Alexa Young, the Vice President for Government and Public Affair for the BC Council of Forests. “I don’t think any of us is going to forget any time soon that incredible run on toilet paper. I think it’s all seared on our collective memory. At home shopping. Think about all those fibre-based boxes and packages have been delivered to your doorstep. And that will give you a sense of where we’re at on the pulp side.”

But the fact so many people were staying home and doing renovations also held the lumber side of things in good stead.

Furever Friends

Litter of puppies in search of foster parents

27m ago

To Your Health

Budding research indicates marijuana could reduce overdose deaths

1h ago

Entertainment

Monster Madness takes over Prince George as CN Centre host second show

4h ago

“That home renovation story was really colliding with another big demand event and that was the incredible demand for new homes or new housing starts as they call it.”

Lumber prices have been the highest ever at the height of the pandemic when a younger generation is looking for a new home or buying and fixing up.