August can be an odd month. While the warm summer temperatures are still here, change is just around the corner – the days are getting noticeably shorter, and some children are going back to school in the next week.
At Vanderwell, we’ve recently completed a highly successful two-week maintenance shutdown, and in our summer reforestation activities we have planted 3.8 million seedlings. But already our attention is shifting to winter activities.
Unfortunately, one thing that isn’t changing is the wildfire situation in other parts of Alberta and BC. Slave Lake and area has enjoyed a fair amount of precipitation over the summer. However, last week in Slave Lake and across most of the province air quality continued to be an issue, mainly from wildfires originating in northeastern British Columbia. The wildfire that caused the evacuation and losses in the town of Jasper in late July is something all of us can relate to, who were here when the town of Slave Lake burned in 2011. Our thoughts are with all residents and businesses affected.
In western Canada and throughout North America, the lumber industry has largely continued to be in an economic slump, something that started in 2022/23. High interest rates, inflation and affordability, and a slowdown in global economic growth have seriously impacted our industry. Total housing starts in Canada and the U.S. are still down – which have a major influence on our pricing. Add to all this recording-breaking wildfires in the past few years that reduce the availability of good quality timber.
Going into the fall, the economic forecast is that those challenges will linger across most of the country – at least in the short term. However, the province of Alberta is experiencing record-breaking new housing builds – and there are signs that the lumber market will likely improve going into 2025.
Despite changing seasons and extreme weather shifts – and they do seem more extreme than decades before – the resource industries strongly affected by the global demand for their different products is nothing new for those of us in Alberta.
Despite everything that’s going on, since late 2022 more Canadians have been moving to Alberta than any other province. The major reason for that shift is the strong economic outlook, compared to other places. Anyone with the right skill set, especially in specific trades, can likely find work in their field here. Add on to that a more affordable housing market compared to other places in the country, and Alberta becomes a very attractive place to work, enjoy life and maybe raise a family.
Vanderwell is always looking for people with the necessary skills to join our team. Check out our Indeed job site. We are currently looking for an equipment operator, millwrights, journeyperson welder, and portal log crane operator.
It’s probably safe to say that most of us are sad to see summer 2024 come to an end. However, let’s remember we have a lot going on for us in Alberta, regardless of the season.
At Vanderwell, we hope the rest of your summer is fun and warm and that you enjoy it with family and friends.
