Irving Forest Products Secures Support for Major Maine Sawmill Expansion
Rubber and Wood | 2026-06-10 06:31:14
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
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Irving Forest Products is set to significantly expand and modernize its Ashland sawmill in Maine. The proposed investment is expected to transform the facility into one of the region’s leading dimensional lumber producers while strengthening Maine’s forest products sector.
This follows approval of state-backed financing support from the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME). FAME’s board of directors, at its end-of-April meeting, approved New Markets Tax Credit financing to assist the company’s multimillion-dollar expansion project. The tax credit program is aimed at encouraging private investment in economically significant projects.
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Upon completion, the expansion project will nearly double the sawmill’s annual lumber production capacity from 130 million board feet to 250 million board feet.
The expansion is also expected to contribute significantly to the local economy, in addition to creating additional job opportunities. Currently, the Ashland facility supports the equivalent of 140 full-time jobs. Following the expansion, employment is projected to rise to approximately 220 full-time positions, creating around 80 additional jobs in the region.
Jerome Pelletier of Irving Forest Products appreciated FAME’s support for the project. Furthermore, he noted that the investment underscores the company’s long-term commitment to the Aroostook region.
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.
