Interfor Corporation announced plans on April 30 to reduce lumber production by approximately 175 million board feet between May and September 2024.
This represents a 10% decrease from their normal operating capacity.
The temporary curtailments will affect all of Interfor's operating regions in North America, including the US South. The company will achieve this reduction through a combination of measures:
- Reduced operating hours at sawmills
- Extended holiday breaks for employees
- Reconfiguration of work schedules
- Extended maintenance shutdowns
These adjustments are a response to "persistently weak market conditions," according to Interfor President & CEO Ian Fillinger. Fillinger elaborated, stating that lumber prices have continued to decline throughout 2024, falling below sustainable levels due to excess supply exceeding product demand.
"This action will help bring Interfor's production into better alignment with customer needs," Fillinger explained. "It will also help us manage inventory levels effectively as we enter the summer months."
This announcement follows Interfor's earlier decision in February 2024 to permanently shut down its sawmill operation in Philomath, Oregon. The Philomath facility had an annual production capacity of 220 million board feet and ceased operations at the end of March 2024.
Interfor will continue to monitor market conditions across all its operations and adjust production plans as necessary.
