Sawmills in Crisis: Why They're Closing Left and Right
Download MP3Key Points:
- A mill in Rosboro, Oregon is shutting down, resulting in 25 layoffs.
- Another larger mill in the central Oregon Valley (Wamit Valley) will lay off 100 employees in the coming weeks.
- These mills serve a significant portion of the Pacific Northwest, raising concerns about the industry's future.
- Market Watch reports a sharp 15% drop in housing starts, the steepest in nearly four years.
- Housing starts have been a bright spot in the real estate market, especially as resale homes are slow to hit the market.
- A potential decline in new home construction could affect the timber, lumber, and construction sectors, as well as the real estate market overall.
Engagement: Share your thoughts in the comments—how do you think these changes will affect the industry?