Woodland Pulp, the largest employer in Washington County, has announced a temporary shutdown that will last from November 2 through December 16. The Baileyville mill, which employs about 310 people, is laying off roughly two-thirds of its workforce during this period.

Company officials say the decision stems from challenging market conditions and declining pulp prices. In response, the Maine Department of Labor will provide unemployment insurance support to affected employees and waive work search requirements due to the short duration of the layoff.

Governor Janet Mills called Woodland Pulp “a critical employer” and pledged that her administration will do everything possible to support the mill and its workers. Department of Labor staff will be in Baileyville during the week of November 24 to offer individualized assistance and connect workers with resources.

The mill also recently stopped accepting softwood pulp deliveries from New Brunswick, Canada, following a U.S. tariff that took effect in mid-October.

Read the full original report at WMTW