B.C. Workers Rescue Feral Cats as Pulp Mill Closes

The closure of the Domtar pulp mill in Crofton, British Columbia, has prompted workers to take urgent action to save the feral cats that inhabit the site. As of early December 2025, approximately 350 employees are set to lose their jobs when production ceases in January, but for some, the focus has shifted to ensuring the safety of the mill’s feline residents.

Tawni Marcil, a lead hand at the mill for 12 years, expressed deep concern for the cats, which have been cared for by workers for nearly as long as the mill has been operational. “It’s like coming to work and having pets that you love like your own at home,” Marcil told CBC’s The National. She has taken a lead role in collaborating with local rescue organizations to safely relocate the cats to new homes.

Longstanding Feline Residents

The Crofton mill has a rich history, having been in operation for 68 years. Initially, the number of feral cats was in the hundreds, but due to effective trap-neuter-release programs, the population has decreased to around 14 cats. Marcil has been instrumental in their care, a responsibility she assumed after the retirement of the previous caretaker.

“I was absolutely devastated when it sunk in that I wouldn’t be able to see them anymore,” Marcil said. “I felt like I was abandoning them, really. I just couldn’t do it.”

In the month following the announcement of the mill’s closure, Marcil has worked tirelessly with the Foster Kritters Feral Cat Rescue to trap and relocate the cats. According to Kirsten Belday, founder of the organization, they have successfully captured all but one of the cats, thanks in large part to Marcil’s familiarity with them. “Because they know her and trust her, she’s actually been able to trap the majority of the cats for us,” Belday noted.

Community Support for Rescued Cats

The cats, all elderly and ranging from 12 to 18 years old, face health challenges, including malnourishment and the need for extensive dental work. Local fundraising efforts have helped cover the costs of their care. While only a few cats are social enough for adoption, the rest will find sanctuary at RAPS Cat Sanctuary in Richmond, B.C.

Belday highlighted the community’s generosity, stating, “Even though the community is struggling financially with the mill’s closure, people have been generous.”

Among those involved in the rescue is retired mill worker Elliot Cole, who formed a special bond with one of the cats named Wasabi during his time at the mill. Cole dedicated the last five years of his career to caring for Wasabi, even constructing a shelter for him. Upon learning of the closure, Cole immediately expressed his desire to adopt Wasabi, ensuring the cat would have a safe home.

“Wasabi knew my voice and everything,” Cole recounted, describing the moment they were reunited after the rescue. “That’s when we decided, well, let’s give this a shot.”

Since bringing Wasabi home, Cole has been gradually introducing him to his new environment, providing companionship and care. “I’ve read him The Da Vinci Code,” he shared with a chuckle. “Yeah, he hasn’t got any clue where the grail is either.”

As the mill’s operations wind down, Marcil can take comfort in knowing the cats will be cared for. “It was a big shock to everybody when it came,” she reflected on the mill’s closure. “But, you know, [you] just move on.”

The efforts of Marcil, Cole, and the Foster Kritters Feral Cat Rescue showcase the strong community spirit in Crofton, even in challenging times.