Outlook for Chetwynd economy focuses on forestry and coal
At a Chamber of Commerce luncheon Langstad notes housing starts will rebound slowly, boosting forest demand as Canada ships more wood to China. Cantor may add a second shift doubling Canfor output, while Saugstad sees Canfor adding 150 200 local jobs by year end. Coal prices stay high, Western Coal plans awaited.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
Chetwynd
Langstad
U.S
Sangstad
China
West Fraser
Cantor
Saugstad
Canfor
Western Coal
Willow Creek Mine contract plan aims to train locals
WCC has hired Ledcor to start Willow Creek Mine since local hiring of qualified miners is seen as unlikely. Ledcor will bring in contract miners temporarily and shift to local workers later, with training to convert from contractor to hourly employees. Forecasted 200-250 mine workers plus 100-150 for a haul road to Willow Creek, while regional exploration by Dehua and Unicor Mines continues near Hudsons Hope, Tumbler Ridge and Hasler. Gas price outlook remains uncertain but steady near 4 dollars this year, possible rise to 5 or 6 next year pending economy. Spectra Energy turnaround in June will curtail operations 27 days, employing 700-750 workers at peak, with most jobs going to out of town contractors.
MENTIONED IN THIS ARTICLE
WCC
Ledcor
Willow Creek
Sangstad
Brule Creek
Dehua
Hudson’s Hope and Tumbler Ridge
Unicor
Hasler
Langstad
Chetwynd
Tors
Grizzly
Talisman
Suncor
Conoco Phillips
Spectra Energy
Saugstad
Also Mentioned on This Page
Chamber of Commerce
Tembec
Evan Saugstad
Chinook Centre
45Th Ave