EARLTON – Faced with the decision on whether to close or upgrade its oriented strand board plant in Englehart, Georgia-Pacific is letting its money do the talking.
On May 12, company officials welcomed a trio of Ontario government ministers who announced $10 million in provincial support towards a $191 million revamp of the 40-year-old plant, preserving some 220 local jobs.
Ontario Natural Resources Minister Mike Harris, Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products Kevin Holland and Northern Development and Economic Growth Minister George Pirie announced the provincial funding at Georgia-Pacific’s satellite operation in Earlton on Tuesday.
Pirie said protecting well-paying jobs in the North is crucial.
“These are jobs that support families, jobs that keep communities strong, and a vote of confidence in the North that forestry still matters,” said the minister and Timmins MPP.
“There’s a reason companies are doubling down, and I have been saying it for years. Northern Ontario has one of the best fibre baskets of anywhere in the world. We have the raw materials. We have the expertise, and most importantly, we have the people. Companies like Georgia-Pacific Northwoods know that when you invest in the North, you’re investing in a workforce that shows up, gets the job done, and takes pride in doing the job right.”
Pirie said the upgrade of the four-decade-old Englehart plant – which is expected to be completed by the fall of 2027 – will improve efficiency and “will position the mill to keep producing high quality products for decades to come.
“For the families who rely on these jobs, that means they can plan, with confidence, and keep working, because Northern Ontario is a community of communities, and when one succeeds, the whole region feels the benefits.”
SUBSTANTIAL IMPACT
Harris said the impact of the Englehart plant is “substantial,” both locally and provincially.
“Ontario is a world leader in the making and selling of wood products and the quality of what is made here in Ontario is second to none,” he said.
Holland said the provincial funding is part of the Ford government’s roadmap to “defend the workers and the industry against external pressure, adapt to shifting global conditions, and grow through opportunities across the forest economy.”
Georgia-Pacific project manager David Newton admitted the company’s decision to invest in the Englehart plant came after some sober consideration and initially it was “touch and go” on whether they would close the aging facility.
“The alternative for closing was definitely a leading alternative, along with modernization,” he said.
Englehart Mayor Doug Metson said the announcement is “welcome news for Englehart and the entire region.
“The impact goes far beyond the mill,” he said.
Georgia-Pacific fibre manager Tammy Mazzetti said the company “knew we had to innovate” and the provincial funding is “a game-changer for us.” The upgrades at the plant will not only secure employment, but place the facility as “best in class” for maximizing efficiency and yields.
“Thank you for believing in our people and community,” she said.
By Joe O’Grady, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Original Published on May 13, 2026 at 07:42
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