Sinclar Group Forest Products Ltd. is taking measures to curtail its lumber operations at Nechako Lumber Co. in Vanderhoof, Canada, due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding log supply. Starting from Monday, October 30, 2023, Nechako Lumber Operations will permanently reduce its sawmill and planer production from two shifts to one shift. Sinclar President Greg Stewart expressed remorse for the impact this decision will have on employees, their families, and the Vanderhoof community. Stewart emphasized the urgent need for government intervention to address the lack of predictability in the industry.
This decision by Sinclar Group Forest Products Ltd. comes amidst the backdrop of an ongoing challenge faced by the lumber industry in Vanderhoof, Canada. The company’s move to curtail operations at Nechako Lumber Co. is a direct response to the persistent uncertainty surrounding the availability of economical log supply.
Effective from Monday, October 30, 2023, Nechako Lumber Operations will transition from two shifts to one shift, resulting in a permanent reduction in sawmill and planer production. This decision is not taken lightly, as Sinclar Group Forest Products Ltd. acknowledges the significant impact it will have on their employees, their families, and the wider Vanderhoof community.
Sinclar President Greg Stewart expressed his deep regret for the consequences of this decision. He emphasized the need for urgent and meaningful government action to address the lack of predictability in log supply, which poses a significant challenge to the industry. Stewart’s statement highlights the importance of government intervention in ensuring the sustainability and growth of the lumber sector.
The curtailment of lumber operations at Nechako Lumber Co. will undoubtedly have far-reaching effects on the local economy. Vanderhoof, a community heavily reliant on the forestry industry, will feel the impact of reduced production and potential job losses. The decision by Sinclar Group Forest Products Ltd. reflects the broader challenges faced by the lumber industry in Canada, where log supply issues have been a persistent concern.
While the curtailment of operations is regrettable, it serves as a reminder of the need for proactive government measures to address the underlying issues affecting the industry. The lack of certainty surrounding log supply has been a long-standing problem, and without urgent intervention, the industry will continue to face challenges.
Sinclar Group Forest Products Ltd. hopes that their decision to curtail operations at Nechako Lumber Co. will draw attention to the pressing need for government action. The company believes that only through meaningful intervention can the predictability of log supply be restored, thus ensuring the long-term viability of the lumber industry.
As the Vanderhoof community grapples with the consequences of this decision, it is crucial for the government to recognize the importance of the forestry sector and take proactive steps to address the log supply issue. The sustainability of the industry is not only crucial for the economic well-being of Vanderhoof but also for the wider Canadian economy.
Sinclar Group Forest Products Ltd. remains committed to working with the government and other stakeholders to find sustainable solutions to the challenges faced by the lumber industry. The company hopes that this curtailment will serve as a catalyst for urgent action and meaningful change. The future of the lumber industry in Vanderhoof and Canada as a whole depends on the government’s response to the pressing issues at hand.
