OLD TOWN, Maine - Old Town Fuel & Fiber has furloughed 180 employees as the company ceased its pulp operations on Wednesday.

Old Town Fuel and Fiber released the following statement on Wednesday night:

"Effective immediately all Old Town mill operations will be indefinitely suspended. The impact of foreign competition and our competitive position due to high wood and energy costs have made it difficult to sustain operations at this time. All employees not needed for securing the facility will be furloughed. During this idled period ownership will be pursuing options to secure the long term viability of the facility."