By Jack Clark

Nechako Lumber

“Government needs to get their head out of the sand,” John Rustad reacts to Nechako Lumber Curtailment

Aug 3, 2023 | 4:29 PM

PRINCE GEORGE- Wednesday afternoon the Sinclar Group announced that it would be curtailing its lumber operations at Nechako Lumber in Vanderhoof.

In a media release the company states that effective Monday, October 30, Nechako Lumber operations will permanently reduce its sawmill and planner production from two shifts to one.

“We know the impact it’s going to have throughout the community, whether it be with the employees at the mill or the contractors and other service providers across the community,” said the Mayor of the district of Vanderhoof, Kevin Moutray.

The exact number is still unknown but some estimate the total jobs lost at Nechako Lumber to be around 60.

On Demand

February 24, 2026: CKPG News on Demand

9h ago

Puerto Vallarta

Family of Prince George radio host impacted by Puerto Vallarta violence

12h ago

Ukraine refugees

Ukrainian refugees remain after four years

12h ago

This decision to cut a shift at Nechako Lumber comes on the heels of a lengthy curtailment announced in May when the mill was Curtailed until July 29th.

That decision in May was paired with Curtailments to Lakeland Mills and Apollo Forest Products which is grabbing the attention of the Conservative party of British Columbia.

“That is just inexcusable,” said John Rustad. “Government needs to get their head out of the sand and figure out how to issue permits so that people can go to work.”

In the release from the Sinclar Group, President Greg Stewart said that the industry will continue to be challenged without urgent government action to address the fibre shortages in the province.