This page is under development and will be updated as new information and resources become available.
On January 23 2026, Western Forest Products announced a further 12-month curtailment of their sawmill operation in Chemainus, impacting 150 workers. On December 2, 2025, North Cowichan learned that Domtar would be permanently closing operations at the Crofton mill, affecting 350 local workers.
Originally built in 1956, the mill has long been a major employer and taxpayer in North Cowichan and the broader Cowichan region. Its closure will have a profound effect on the community, including the loss of high-paying jobs, tax revenue that supports core services, and wider economic spinoffs. Currently Domtar is North Cowichan’s single largest taxpayer, contributing approximately $5 million annually in property taxes.
News releases
- February 6, 2026: Mill closure response update: working group meets, transition table extended to support Chemainus mill workers
- January 23, 2026: Statement regarding Western Forest Products’ Chemainus mill closure announcement
- January 14, 2026: Job fair, new working group, site redevelopment ideas, support from federal and provincial governments
- December 19, 2025: Mill worker supports and services available
- December 12, 2025: North Cowichan continues to seek support for workers, taxpayers following Crofton mill closure
- December 5, 2025: North Cowichan responds to Crofton mill closure
- December 2, 2025: A statement regarding the announcement of the closure of the Crofton mill
Resources
Workers
Impacted workers can visit WorkBC's Duncan office to learn about the services and resources they provide, including additional dedicated hours to support mill workers.
Business and contractor supports
BC Ministry of Jobs and Economic Growth has compiled a list of support programs and resources for those impacted by economic disruption in a rural community.
- View the list (PDF) (Feb 2026)
Local business support
Has your business been impacted by area mill closures? Community Futures (Cowichan Region) has resources to support financing, diversifying markets, or to simply be a business-minded sounding board, all at no cost.
- Visit https://cfcowichan.ca/mill-business/ to learn more