In the New Brunswick town of Nackawic, the pulp mill across the river emitted what might be its last puff of smoke last week. The town’s mill, its lifeblood and the largest employer for half a century, is shutting down due to “prevailing market conditions,” according to the owner, AV Group New Brunswick. It’s a devastating blow to the mill’s 350 employees, about a third of whom live here in Nackawic, 65 kilometres west of Fredericton, said Mayor Tim Fox. “It’s not just the labour force,” said Mr. Fox. “It’s the whole community.” …The closure will put economic pressure on the municipality. The mill represents 10% of the town’s tax base. In a worst case scenario – if the mill goes down permanently – Mr. Fox said the town has to figure out a way to replace that revenue, such as fast-tracking new housing developments. [to access the full story a Globe and Mail subscription is required]