Mercer Celgar will be modernizing its small-log line thanks to a funding boost from the B.C. government.
Mercer Celgar is a pulp mill and biorefinery in Castlegar that produces premium pulp and generates bioenergy for the BC Hydro power grid.
The company will receive as much as $1.75 million to modernize its small-log line and install equipment capable of processing smaller-diameter logs and a wider range of low-grade fibre. This investment will help maximize the value of fibre inputs and secure more than 400 jobs at the facility, making it one of the largest employers in the region.
The funding comes through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund (BCMJF). On April 23, the province announced it is contributing as much as $11 million toward four forestry-sector capital projects including $7.5 million for mass timber producer Spearhead Timberworks near Nelson.
The goal of the BCMJF is to help manufacturers throughout the province scale and grow their operations to make more made-in-B.C. products that create good jobs and strengthen the economy. It also aims to accelerate transition within the forestry-product sector to high-value manufacturing.
