File Photo

By Sam Bennison

Fraser Lake

Fraser Lake Sawmill closes

Jan 22, 2024 | 6:06 PM

NORTHERN B.C.— West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. announced on Monday that it will permanently close its sawmill in Fraser Lake following an orderly wind-down. West Fraser notes the decision is the result of the mills inability to access economically viable fibre in the region.

The mill closure will impact approximately 175 employees.

“We do not make these decisions lightly”, said Sean McLaren, President & CEO, West Fraser. “We know this announcement has a significant impact on our employees, their families, our suppliers and the local community, who all rely on a healthy forest industry.”

The closure will also reduce West Fraser’s Canadian lumber capacity by approximately.

West Fraser expects to mitigate the impact on affected employees by providing work opportunities at other West Fraser operations. The nearest West Fraser locations are in Smithers and Quesnel.

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Photo Credit: West Fraser

West Fraser anticipates recording restructuring and impairment charges of approximately $81 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 related to facility closures and curtailments due to availability of economic fibre sources in British Columbia.

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Email: sam.bennison@pattisonmedia.com