It takes several decades to grow a tree, but we only get one opportunity to process it into lumber. That's why we need to ensure we use the best tools, technology and processes, yielding the highest volume of boards for each log consumed. 

In 2016, following the advancement of new technologies for log optimization and lumber grading, we made the decision to modernize over 50 percent of our machine centres. This $50 million investment involved new saw lines with advanced scanning, optimization and cutting tool technologies, which create a 3-D image for each log to extract the most volume or value of lumber. 

The Sawmill Division also implemented a lumber supply optimization system, interconnecting all softwood framing lumber mills, to determine the best cutting solution for each log specific to each mill, each week. This optimization tool considers a variety of factors in order to produce the lumber required by our customers, while maximizing the log yield.