When: November 24, 2025 | 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Where: Forest Sciences Centre, UBC Vancouver | Room 1005
Cost: Free
Join us for an expert discussion on the Softwood Lumber trade, featuring Dr. Daowei Zhang and Dr. Kurt Niquidet. Dr. Zhang will explore the history of the Softwood Lumber War and the impacts of tariffs, including insights from Lumber V. Dr. Niquidet will provide context on recent developments, what makes Lumber V different, and potential paths forward for the industry.
Speakers
Dr. Daowei Zhang
Dr. Daowei Zhang is the Alumni and George Peake Professor of Forest Economics and Policy and Associate Dean for Research at Auburn University’s College of Forestry, Wildlife, and Environment. A UBC Forestry PhD graduate, Dr. Zhang is a leading scholar in forest economics, finance, and policy, with over 130 journal articles and eight books, including The Softwood Lumber War. His research spans global forestry issues, from timber trade and investment to forest carbon markets.
Dr. Kurt Niquidet
Dr. Kurt Niquidet is President of the BC Lumber Trade Council and Vice President & Chief Economist at the BC Council of Forest Industries. With over two decades of experience in forest sector economics, trade policy, and resource governance, he has held senior roles at the Bank of Canada and Natural Resources Canada. Dr. Niquidet holds a PhD in Resource Economics from the University of Groningen and is recognized for his leadership in advancing a competitive and sustainable forest sector in B.C.
Moderator
Dr. Harry Nelson
Dr. Harry Nelson is an associate professor at the UBC Faculty of Forestry. His research focuses on natural and environmental resource policy, and developing strategies to support the long-term sustainability of Canada’s forests, communities, and forest-based businesses. Dr. Nelson’s current projects explore how ecosystem services can serve as alternative business models for Indigenous forest management in B.C. and how climate change is reshaping forest management and adaptation.