BURNS LAKE, BC -- Logs awaiting processing at the destroyed Babine Forest Products sawmill are being hauled to other area sawmills, including Canfor in Houston, and West Fraser in Fraser Lake.

The Babine Forest Products sawmill, partly owned by Hampton Affiliates of Portland, OR, was destroyed by fire on Jan. 20. Two workers were killed and many others were seriously hurt. Cause of the fire, which was preceded by a series of explosions, was still being investigated.

The plant had employed 250 people and another 250 working indirectly with the milll also lost their jobs, according to Houston-Today.

Canfor and West Fraser reportedly will participate in a Feb. 10 jobs fair being assembled by the Village of Burns Lake. It remains uncertain if and when Babine Forest Products will reopen.

Burns Lake Mayor Luke Strimbold told CKNW radio that he has met with provincial and national representatives seeking financial assistance.