Weyerhaeuser’s laminated veneer production plant in Albany will lay off 15 employees by early April, according to company spokesman Greg Miller.

The plant has already shut down its number two press, which had been operating at 50 percent capacity due to decreased market demand, Miller said.

“We’re working through transfer possibilities with the 15 associates. Some may find jobs at other Weyerhaeuser facilities,” Miller said.

The plant’s number one press continues to operate on a 24/7 basis and will employ 90 people, Miller said.

“The market conditions are very uncertain at this time,” Miller said. “We have adjusted the plant’s operating posture against current market demands.”

Laminated veneer lumber is used for beams, floor joists and dimensional products, Miller said.

Earlier this week, Weyerhaeuser announced the closure of a veneer drying plant in Junction City. That plant was already running on a reduced schedule, down to one shift. Its 56 employees had been laid off in November.

Miller said the company’s Foster Plywood plant will continue to produce veneer with its 140 employees. It operates on a 24-hour, 5-day schedule for its green end and 24-hour, 7-day schedule for its driers.

Weyerhaeuser, based in Federal Way, Wash., employs approximately 3,650 people in Oregon in a variety of businesses and manages approximately 1.1 million acres of timberland.

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