Weyerhaeuser to Close Oregon Sawmill; Mill's Planer Will Continue to Run

The facility, built in the late 1940s, produces timbers and dimensional lumber for residential and commercial construction.

Photos: Weyerhaeuser

(LEBANON) - Weyerhaeuser Company announced Wednesday it will close its Bauman sawmill in Lebanon, on March 30th, affecting approximately 70 positions.

The mill’s planer, which employs approximately 50 people, will continue to operate.

Employees who are being laid off will have access to a range of information and services, including area employment services, counseling and information about internal opportunities.

In addition, for employees who do not find other jobs within Weyerhaeuser, the company will provide closure benefits, consistent with company policy and the applicable union agreements.

The mill is represented by the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace workers (IAM).

"Our first priority is safety and supporting the people who will be affected by this closure," said Rob Taylor, Weyerhaeuser’s lumber technologies vice president.

"Our associates work diligently to make certain our mill is safe and competitive. They have earned our appreciation and will be treated with respect and dignity throughout this process."

Taylor said the announcement is a reflection of today’s challenging business environment.

"The decision to close the mill reflects the company’s business plan to ensure each of its manufacturing operations remain competitive and is in the best position to serve its customer base," Taylor said.

"Because this mill processes only large Douglas fir logs that are becoming increasingly difficult to purchase, and because the timber market is being eroded by more cost-effective, alternative engineered lumber products, we made the decision to close the mill after careful consideration of all the options."