Mill Closures ‘Heartbreaking,’ but Not Surprising
Citing log shortage, Weyerhaeuser will close two mills while workers remain optimistic
By Tristan Scott
The June 22 announcement that timber giant Weyerhaeuser Company was closing two mills in Columbia Falls and eliminating 100 positions is a gruesome testament to the flagging timber industry’s struggle to regain footing in the market after decades of decline.
Decision to Shutter Mills Prompts Finger-Pointing
Congressional delegation blames job losses on mismanagement of U.S. Forest Service land
By Tristan Scott
Four months after absorbing Plum Creek Timber Company, mega-corporation Weyerhaeuser Company’s surprise announcement that it will permanently close its lumber mill and plywood mill in Columbia Falls prompted round upon round of finger-pointing.
Response Team Dispatched to Assist Displaced Workers
Flathead Job Service and FVCC lay out strategy following lumber-mill closures
By Tristan Scott
As soon as news broke that Weyerhaeuser Co. was shuttering two of its timber mills in Columbia Falls – a move that will eliminate roughly 100 jobs – the staff at Flathead Job Service and administrators at Flathead Valley Community College began laying plans to assist the incoming tide of jobless mill workers.