On Friday, a group of more than 30 business leaders and government officials gathered in Missoula to discuss strategies for supporting the wood products industry in western Montana. The meeting was held in response to recent closures announced by two sawmills, Pyramid Mountain Lumber in Seeley Lake and Roseburg Forest Products in Missoula.
Despite the closure of both mills, there may be potential buyers interested in keeping one of them operational. Representatives from interested buyers for Pyramid Mountain Lumber were present at the meeting, giving hope for the mill’s continued operation.
Grant Kier, head of the Missoula Economic Partnership, expressed optimism about the future of one of the plants. He mentioned that representatives from interested buyers for Pyramid Mountain Lumber were in attendance, giving hope for the mill’s continued operation.
Missoula County Commissioner Josh Slotnick also expressed optimism about the future of the industry. He mentioned that the federal government was considering ways to assist buyers in securing financing to modernize the sawmill, with the potential for $40 to $60 million in funding. Upgrades could help the mill become more efficient, possibly requiring fewer workers.
The Missoula Economic Partnership held the meeting behind closed doors, excluding members of
