Wood products workers voice concerns about state’s Cleaner Air Oregon plan

By Dylan Darling
The Register-Guard
December 18, 2017
Category: Business & Politics
Region: United States, US West

What started with the surprising discovery in Portland of previously undetected toxic chemicals in the air, released by art glassmakers, likely will lead to more stringent air pollution rules and testing statewide. …Eugene-based Seneca Sawmill Co. has spent more than $100 million in upgrades during the past seven years at its lumber mill and wood-burning power plant along Highway 99, Seneca Chief Executive Officer Todd Payne said. …“Now, the real question facing us: Will these recent investments be good enough to meet the proposed, unrealistic standards contained in the draft rules?” …Payne, the top executive at Seneca, was among the critics of the plan. Most of the other commenters also work in the wood products industry, at mills in Lane and Douglas counties, and joined him in criticizing the plan or warning that it could harm businesses.

Read More