Hardwood mill in Olla reopens

The hardwood mill in Olla that was closed in June has reopened with new owners.

Magruder Hazlip, one of the partners of Olla Hardwood, says he and Alex Kirkland are buying and processing all species of hardwood (with the exception of willow and cottonwood) and oversized pine. The hardwoods are taken at tree length, Hazlip said. The mill started back July 6 on a lower production rate as they build up operations.

"We've been cleaning up and getting everything going," Hazlip said.

About 30 employees were affected when Hunt Forest Products closed the mill last month, many of which Hazlip hopes to rehire.

"We're excited about it," he said.

The partners also own Jackson Hardwood in Jackson, Louisiana in East Feliciana Pairsh.

If you'd like more information about the mill and providing logs, contact Hazlip at 225-241-7950 or Kirkland at 225-938-6602.