Casey Malmquist

Columbia Falls — The shuttered lumber mill on the western edge of town, once brimming with activity and helping power the local economy and the region’s mighty wood products industry, sits in silent abandonment. Dust and pigeon sign occupy the sprawling facility that stretches more than 3 acres and is mostly shrouded in darkness from fading light bulbs. It once illuminated the historic heart of a timber empire but now represents a bitter reminder of a diminished dynasty. Casey Malmquist sees a brighter future. The revival is underway. Malmquist, president and general manager of SmartLam Technologies Group, is preparing to relocate and expand his wood products company at the former lumber mill site.