Conifex Timber Curtails Production in Mackenzie

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): In another blow to B.C. forestry industry, Conifex Timber has decided to temporarily curtail production at its Mackenzie sawmill operations. The new curtailment is likely to reduce British Columbia lumber output significantly.

The curtailments will be for a period of two weeks starting July 29, 2019. The continuing high log costs and ongoing lumber market challenges are cited as the reasons for the decision. It must be noted that the company had previously curtailed production at the mill for a period of three weeks commencing May 6, 2019.

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As part of optimization of its operations, in response to poor market conditions, Conifex has been reducing shifts at its various sawmills across North America, apart from temporary production cuts. It had decided to implement one-shift operations at its El Dorado sawmill commencing June 4, 2019. Also, its Glenwood, Arkansas sawmill had moved to one shift, effective June 17, 2019.

A couple of days back, Canfor Corporation had announced indefinite curtailments at its Mackenzie sawmill and a permanent elimination of one shift at its Isle Pierre sawmill.