PINE BLUFF, Ark. – Highland Pellets, a wood pellet manufacturer, celebrated the open of its new factory in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, which will produce over 660,000 tons of wood pellets per year. According to the company, the plant will create approximately 68 jobs at the facility and approximately 450 direct jobs in the transport and forest industries supply chain.
 
“This plant began with a simple economic goal, but has evolved into not just producing sustainable fuel, but producing sustainable outcomes for our employees, our community and our environment,” said Tom Reilley, chairman and co-founder of Highland Pellets.

Highland will supply sustainably sourced wood pellets for export to Europe.
 
“Highland Pellets’ leadership is passionate about this new facility and the impact it will have on Jefferson County’s economy,” said Governor Asa Hutchinson. “They are determined to have a lasting effect not only on their employees, but also on the entire community. This is a great example of a company and community working together to create new opportunities and an improved quality of life for citizens. Thanks to Highland Pellets for making this significant investment of time, resources and capital in Arkansas.”
 
The wood used to make the pellets will be sustainably harvested, which will reduce dependence on coal-burning power plants. There are more than 18.8 million acres of forestland in Arkansas, covering more than half of the state.