After learning about the impending closure of the pulp mill where she is employed, Tawni Marcil immediately expressed concern for the feral cats that reside on the premises. Marcil, along with 349 other workers on Vancouver Island, received notice of job loss following Domtar’s decision to permanently shut down its Crofton, B.C., pulp mill in early December 2025.
For decades, the worksite has been a haven for a colony of feral cats, lovingly cared for and fed by the workers, Marcil shared with CBC’s The National. Despite facing her own uncertain future, Marcil has been diligently collaborating with local cat rescue groups for the past month to capture the mill cats, relocate them from the site, and secure new homes for them.
The Crofton mill, in operation for 68 years as reported by ChekNews, initially had a substantial feline population that has dwindled to approximately 14 cats dispersed around the premises due to trap-neuter-release initiatives. Marcil, who has been a lead hand at the mill for 12 years, assumed responsibility for the cats’ welfare about nine years ago when the previous caretaker retired.
Foster Kritters Feral Cat Rescue, with Marcil’s invaluable assistance, successfully trapped all but one of the elderly cats, aged between 12 and 18. Despite financial challenges resulting from the mill closure, community members have generously supported the rescue efforts. While only a few cats are deemed suitable for adoption, the remainder will be relocated to the RAPS Cat Sanctuary in Richmond, B.C., to receive the care they require.
One fortunate cat named Wasabi has already found a permanent home with retired instrument mechanic Elliot Cole, who dedicated the final five years of his career at the mill to caring for him. Following the closure announcement, Cole swiftly arranged to adopt Wasabi, who is gradually adjusting to his new indoor environment under Cole’s attentive care.
As the mill gradually halts operations over the coming months, Marcil finds solace in knowing that the cats are secure. Despite the shock of the closure, Marcil maintains a positive outlook, emphasizing the need to adapt and move forward in the face of challenges.
