Irving Forest Products Secures Support for Major Maine Sawmill Expansion
Rubber and Wood | 2026-06-10 23:23:14
Upon completion, the expansioin project will nearly double the sawmill’s annual lumber production capacity from 130 million board feet to 250 million board feet.
By Paul Ploumis
MONTREAL (Scrap Monster): Irving Forest Products will significantly expand and modernize its Ashland sawmill in Maine, a move that is expected to strengthen the state’s forest products sector and position the facility among the region’s leading dimensional lumber producers.
FAME Approves Financing Support
The expansion follows approval of state-backed financing support from the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME). At its end-of-April meeting, FAME’s board of directors approved New Markets Tax Credit financing to support Irving Forest Products’ multimillion-dollar investment in the Ashland sawmill.
The financing is designed to encourage private investment in projects with meaningful economic impact, providing added momentum for the company’s long-term growth plans in northern Maine.
Production Capacity Set to Nearly Double
Upon completion, the project will nearly double the sawmill’s annual lumber production capacity, increasing output from 130 million board feet to 250 million board feet.
The upgrade is expected to improve the facility’s scale and efficiency, further reinforcing Irving Forest Products’ presence in the regional lumber market.
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Expansion to Create Around 80 Jobs
The project is also expected to deliver a notable economic boost to the surrounding region. The Ashland facility currently supports the equivalent of 140 full-time jobs, and that figure is projected to rise to about 220 after the expansion is completed.
That increase would create roughly 80 additional full-time positions, adding fresh employment opportunities in the Aroostook region.
Company Reaffirms Long-Term Regional Commitment
Jerome Pelletier of Irving Forest Products welcomed FAME’s support for the project and said the investment reflects the company’s long-term commitment to the Aroostook region.
People Also Ask
What is Irving Forest Products planning in Ashland, Maine?
The company is expanding and modernizing its Ashland sawmill in Maine.
How much will production capacity increase?
Annual lumber production capacity is expected to rise from 130 million board feet to 250 million board feet.
Who approved financing support for the project?
The Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) approved New Markets Tax Credit financing for the expansion.
How many jobs could the project add?
The expansion is projected to create around 80 additional full-time jobs.
How many full-time jobs will the facility support after expansion?
Employment at the facility is expected to increase from 140 to about 220 full-time positions.
POLL
What is the biggest benefit of Irving Forest Products' Ashland sawmill expansion?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Irving Forest Products planning at its Ashland sawmill?
The company plans to modernize and expand the facility, significantly increasing its production capacity and operational efficiency.
- How much will the sawmill's production capacity increase?
Annual lumber production capacity will rise from 130 million board feet to 250 million board feet upon project completion.
- What role did FAME play in the project?
The Finance Authority of Maine approved New Markets Tax Credit financing to help support the multimillion-dollar expansion.
