Weyerhaeuser to Invest $96 Million in Its Dodson, Louisiana, Sawmill

Weyerhaeuser Corporation announced on Friday (12-1-23), through a press release issued by Louisiana Economic Development (LED), that it is investing $96.2 million to modernize and decarbonize its lumber mill in Dodson, Louisiana. The upgraded technology is designed to increase overall safety, productivity, and product reliability.

According to the press release, the project includes the installation of three Continuous Dry Kilns (CDK), a new, low-carbon process drying system. This modernized technology will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, waste, and maintenance costs while increasing drying capacity. The facility will also add a new trimmer, sorter, and stacker to improve mill efficiencies and help reach production targets.

The company plans to install the first two CDKs by the end of 2024. The additional new equipment is expected to be installed by the end of 2025Q2.

The investment will allow the company to retain 157 direct jobs and maintain an associated annual payroll of more than $13 million, while reinforcing Louisiana’s foothold in the residential construction supply chain.

To secure the project in Dodson, the state of Louisiana offered Weyerhaeuser a competitive incentives package that includes a $500,000 performance-based forgivable loan from the Economic Development Award Program for infrastructure improvements and equipment. The company is also expected to participate in the state’s Industrial Tax Exemption Program.