A $2 million expansion is under way at Fodge Pulp in Bonners Ferry. Owners Deneice and Sam Fodge don’t know how many jobs the project could create. That will depend on the economy.“Right now there’s really no new jobs,” Deneice Fodge said. “It all depends on the market. The project involves installing machinery that will allow them to produce their products more efficiently. The company manufacturers paper chips, hog fuel for generating electricity and bark for landscapingThe new debarking system will be electrical, which should mean less waste at the mill, which employs nine. Currently the system is run by diesel The project began in December and should be completed in April, weather permitting. Ansley Inc. is the general contractor. E.L. Automation is doing the electrical work and BF Redi Mix did the concrete work. The project is good news for Mike Sloan. I have been amazed at the number of people who have expanded their business or taken on new projects at this time,” said Sloan, economic development director for Boundary County. “Sam is one of them. If it adds jobs, it helps the community moving forward. Even if they don’t add employees, it helps psychologically.”

The Fodges have operated the Cow Creek Road mill since developing it in 1994. Previously, they owned Fodge Cedar in Moyie Springs.