Western Cascade is 7th Timber Mill to close in Oregon this year.

Western Cascade Industries, a lumber mill located in Toledo, Oregon, is closing its doors this week. Approximately 50 people will be affected by the closure. The mill’s general manager, Walt Adams, shared that the decision appears to be driven by a downturn in the lumber market and insufficient log supply. Unfortunately, this marks the seventh timber mill closure in Oregon this year. The impact of these closures is particularly significant in rural areas, where these mills play a crucial role in managing forests and providing employment

In Oregon, several timber mills have faced closures this year, impacting local communities and employment. Here are the notable ones:

  1. Malheur Lumber Co.: Located in John Day, this mill recently announced its permanent closure. The company employed 76 workers, and reasons cited for closing included a lack of a willing and drug-free workforce, housing shortages for recruiting outside the area, unfavorable lumber market conditions, high manufacturing costs due to inflation, and workforce issues.
  2. C&D Lumber Co.: Situated in Douglas County, this mill shut down in May, resulting in the elimination of 78 jobs.
  3. Philomath Sawmill: Owned by Interfor Corp., this sawmill in Philomath closed in February, leading to the loss of about 100 jobs.
  4. Rosboro Co.: Temporarily closed its Springfield mill, laying off 25 workers in early February.
  5. Hampton Lumber: Closed its Banks mill, affecting 58 employees in January.

These closures have significant implications, including challenges in managing overstocked forests and the need for markets to utilize wood from these areas. Timber supply constraints and government regulations have contributed to the closures, and unfortunately, more may follow before the year ends. It’s a complex situation with far-reaching consequences for both the industry and local communities. 

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