Wapawekka expands

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Wapawekka Lumber will be adding a kiln to its small-log sawmill operation near Prince Albert.

The lumber company - a partnership between the Lac La Ronge Indian band, Montreal Lake Cree Nation, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation and Weyerhaeuser Canada - has been operating since early 1999.

Funding for the new kiln is coming from Indian Affairs and Northern Development. The department recently announced a $1.6 million investment in the sawmill expansion project. The addition of a kiln will allow the sawmill to dry its own lumber.

"Lumber manufacturing is a fast-paced industry," said Lac La Ronge Indian band Chief Harry Cook during the announcement of the expansion project. "Prices are constantly fluctuating, so it's important to remain competitive and open to new ideas and technologies if you want to succeed."

"By getting our own kiln facility, we'll be able to provide better quality services and save money each year on transportation costs, drying fees and commissions," said Montreal Lake Cree Nation Chief Richie Bird. "In turn, profits go back into the hands of the community, through training and youth programs, as well as other community services."

"Money saved by the kiln facility will be used for future expansion and job creation," said Chief Susan Custer of Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation. "To date, Wapawekka has create 50 mill jobs and more than 100 spin-off jobs, such as harvesting and other forestry-related positions. We want to keep this momentum going."