CANADA (From news reports) -- The Government of BC has announced it will be giving Tolko Industries a significant funding boost to expand its Heffley Creek operation.

On Thursday, BC's Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation said the funding will help "protect and create forestry jobs, promote the development of high-quality, made-in-BC forest products and strengthen the local economy."

According to a news release, $8 million in funding will go towards the construction of a facility that will house a new Heffley Creek Engineered Wood Division.

The province expects the expansion will maintain about 250 direct roles and is expected to create 20 new jobs.

This will expand the mill's current production beyond plywood to include specialty, industrial and engineered wood products.

Those products will be used in new home construction, commercial, furniture, millwork, door and window and non-residential building systems, the news release said.

"Tolko's history began, and remains, strongly rooted in BC For over 65 years, we've continued to innovate and grow, and through this expansion, we're proud to not only build on our suite of value-added products, but also support associated jobs through the integration of our business," said Brad Thorlakson, president and CEO, Tolko Industries Ltd, in the news release.

"Today's announcement is testament to our government's commitment to innovation and the forest products industry and we're thankful for their support."

The money is being provided through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, which helps create "sustainable, well-paying" jobs in rural communities.