Boise Cascade cuts back Elgin operation
Boise Cascade has curtailed its lumber operation in Elgin, Ore., which includes a sawmill, planer, and shipping department.
The powerhouse and log utilization center will remain operational at the facility, however.
According to Bosie Cascade regional manager John White, the Elgin mill has been in operation since 1960 but is no longer cost effective due to its age, size, and technology.
“Even with significant new capital investments, it is not clear the lumber mill can be positioned to be cost competitive. We have announced an indefinite curtailment as we assess the future of the Elgin lumber operation,” White explained.
The company anticipates ceasing operations at the lumber mill by mid-July. A phased shutdown approach will be deployed, starting first with the sawmill, followed by the planer, concluding with the shipping department once existing inventory has been exhausted, Boise Cascade said.
“The hourly workers and management staff have been notified,” said Steve Lyon, northeast Oregon human resources manager. “We understand the effect of this announcement on our employees and their families, and we are providing information and resources to help them as best we can.”
Boise Cascade will continue to employ more than 500 people at the Elgin Plywood Mill and its facilities in nearby La Grande, Island City, and Pilot Rock.
The powerhouse and log utilization center will remain operational at the facility, however.
According to Bosie Cascade regional manager John White, the Elgin mill has been in operation since 1960 but is no longer cost effective due to its age, size, and technology.
“Even with significant new capital investments, it is not clear the lumber mill can be positioned to be cost competitive. We have announced an indefinite curtailment as we assess the future of the Elgin lumber operation,” White explained.
The company anticipates ceasing operations at the lumber mill by mid-July. A phased shutdown approach will be deployed, starting first with the sawmill, followed by the planer, concluding with the shipping department once existing inventory has been exhausted, Boise Cascade said.
“The hourly workers and management staff have been notified,” said Steve Lyon, northeast Oregon human resources manager. “We understand the effect of this announcement on our employees and their families, and we are providing information and resources to help them as best we can.”
Boise Cascade will continue to employ more than 500 people at the Elgin Plywood Mill and its facilities in nearby La Grande, Island City, and Pilot Rock.