Tolko on Track to Reopen High Prairie, Alberta, OSB Mill by End of 2023

Alberta’s South Peace News reported last Thursday (6-15-23) that Tolko Industries is continuing to work towards its goal of reopening its High Prairie OSB mill that was devasted by an interior fire last year on May 20, 2022.

Tolko Industries Communication Advisor Chris Downey told South Peace News that damage to the press and press building was significant, and much of the equipment in the building was total loss. “Work on assembling the new continuous press is progressing well, and the mill is aiming to be up and running by the end of the year.”

Downey added, “The construction at the site has included new concrete foundations and expanding the building size to accommodate the longer press. Along with the repairs, other projects and maintenance work include updates to the mill’s painting and wrapping area (which will use innovative robotic systems), and the installation of equipment that was repurposed from Tolko’s decommissioned Kelowna mill.”

Downey noted that the Alberta government has worked to ensure the mill’s survival during the down time, according to the report. “The Alberta government is being very supportive, and the ongoing relationship is key to ensuring that a viable fiber supply continues to be available to support Tolko’s operations in the province.”