Montreal, Quebec, Canada, 09 November 2009 -- (Marketwire) -- Stella-Jones Inc. (TSX:SJ) today advised that its New Westminster, British Columbia, facility was the scene of a fire on 06 November, which has resulted in a temporary shutdown of two wood treating cylinders. The plant produces utility poles, pilings, and timbers for the electrical utility and railway market sectors. There were no injuries.

The fire was contained to the rear of a process building, away from any preservatives. Initially four treating cylinders were affected, but by late Friday, power had been restored and by noon Saturday, two of the cylinders were back in operation. The facility is expected to be fully operational within 10 days. In the interim, certain orders have been shifted to the company's other regional facilities. There will be no adverse effect on deliveries to any of the company's customers.

Stella-Jones Inc. (TSX:SJ) is a leading North American producer and marketer of industrial pressure-treated wood products, specializing in the production of railway ties and timbers and wood poles supplied to electrical utilities and telecommunications companies. The company also provides treated consumer lumber products and customized services to lumber retailers and wholesalers for outdoor applications. Other products include marine and foundation pilings, construction timbers, highway guardrail posts, and treated wood for bridges. The company's common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange.