Washington, D.C. - Rep. Baird is pleased to announce that Lewis County Forest Products has received a $1.75 million loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  The funding will create at least 92 jobs in the Winlock area.  Work has already begun to open the firm’s softwood lumber mill near Winlock, as well as improve on-site water control, product storage and upgrade existing structures for future operation.

“It’s great to see more jobs coming to Lewis County and I was glad to help make this possible,” said Rep. Baird.  “I am encouraged by Lewis County Forest Product’s commitment to hiring local, skilled workers to support the community.  This area is rich in timber history and this is a step toward ensuring that this tradition is alive and well. ”

“This is a great opportunity to bring jobs to Lewis County,” said Bill Lotto, Executive Director of the Lewis County EDC. “Phil Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of Lewis County Lumber and I appreciate the help Representative Baird provided in getting this loan process to successful completion.  We look forward to working together in the future to continue strengthening the timber industry in Lewis County.”

Lewis County Forest Products plans to manufacture a range of specialty wood products as well as standard lumber.  The selection of the site near Winlock signals the end of a two-year process.

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