States Industries, maker of Appleply, hardwood plywood, veneer cores, and specialty panel acquired Drawer Box Specialties.

North American hardwood exports are now on a record pace for 2012.

If domestic and export demand for North American hardwood lumber both increase over the next six months, as expected, the hardwood industry may find it difficult to produce enough lumber.

Previously we published “The Fight to Fix the Lacey Act Has Just Begun,” by Brent McClendon, executive director of the International Wood Products Assn. Now we present the “Counterpoint,” authored by Dana Cole, executive director of the Hardwood Federation.

Hardwood product manufacturers face uncertainty over the 'fiscal cliff' and other budget issues roiling Washington. But export markets for lumber will continue to grow in 2013 and saw mills will invest in capacity expansions.

Summary of comments on the hardwood lumber market. Red oak sees new life. Hard maple sales move up and walnut prices remain slow.

Hardwood lumber exports for Aug. 2012 spike 16% over last year despite despite struggling European market.

As flooring and other users buy, competition for low-grade lumber in the South will be quite intense this winter. California launches a lumber tax Jan. 1, another factor in pricing, says Hardwood Review in this regional report summary.

A tentative settlement was reached last week in the $20 million lawsuit brought by GreenStone Farm Credit Services, owner of Aacer Flooring and Wolf River Lumber, against Gary Ort et al, former proprietor of the Wisconsin-based companies.

Demand for flooring-grade red oak and white oak was strong, with prices firming in most regions.