A prominent employer in South Cariboo, British Columbia, is set to permanently close its lumber mill, affecting 165 workers directly and causing ripple effects in the community. West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. announced the closure of its 100 Mile House mill due to challenges in accessing economically viable timber, softwood lumber market conditions, and ongoing U.S. trade actions.
While the company aims to offer alternative work opportunities at other sites, Mayor Maureen Pinkney expressed concerns about the broader impact, estimating that over 500 indirect jobs and the entire community will be adversely affected. The closure adds to the economic strain faced by 100 Mile House following the shutdown of two other major mills in 2019, leading to families relocating.
The closure raises worries about the local tax base supporting essential infrastructure maintenance. Mayor Pinkney emphasized the community’s resilience and highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts with the provincial government to attract new industries and secure infrastructure investments.
The decision was met with sadness by local officials, with Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Lorne Doerkson describing it as devastating for the region. B.C. Forest Minister Ravi Parmar expressed sorrow over the closure and linked it to U.S. trade measures impacting Canada’s forestry sector. He urged federal support to mitigate the fallout and ensure equitable assistance for affected communities.
In response to the closure, Opposition critic and MLA Ward Stamer criticized the government’s approach to forestry policies and emphasized the need to address declining fibre supply. As the community navigates the repercussions, efforts are underway to explore future opportunities for economic development and infrastructure enhancement in 100 Mile House.