Monday, November 13, 2017 1:00 pm

MELDRIM, Georgia (From news reports) -- Interfor Corp. announced that it plans to invest $16.5 million to upgrade its sawmill in Meldrim.

The project, which is scheduled to be completed in December 2018, includes installation of a continuous lumber drying kiln and upgrades to the planer mill.

Lumber production is expected to increase by 50 percent in addition to improving product quality and mill efficiency.

Once the project is completed the facility will operate a full two shifts.

"Interfor is a long-time employer in the area, and today's announcement shows they will continue to provide good jobs for the citizens while also benefiting landowners in the region," said John Henry, CEO of the Effingham County Industrial Authority.

Ian Fillinger, senior vice president and head of operations of Interfor, said mill leadership, employee performance, the local timber supply and rising demand for lumber made the Meldrim investment a high priority.

"New logging employees, truck drivers and allied service industry professionals will be needed to meet demand," said Gov. Nathan Deal. "With seven mills in Georgia, Interfor has direct access to a talented workforce and an abundant timber supply, both of which are essential to the company's continued success."

Interfor acquired the mill in 2015.

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