Company to launch operations at former mill site
The Port of Pend Oreille, in partnership with Merkle Standard and ownership team Allrise Capital, announced that Vanderyacht Propane will begin operations on Merkle Standard’s property — the former paper mill site — in Usk.
This milestone marks the return of the first Washington-based rail shipper to operate regularly on the POVA rail line (operated by the Port of Pend Oreille) since the former mill’s closure.
The expansion of Vanderyacht Propane to Pend Oreille County was first announced at the Port of Pend Oreille’s quarterly Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting.
Vanderyacht Propane has purchased and will operate the existing on-site propane tanks and railcar unloading equipment, bringing sustainable economic activity back to the industrial site. The operation is expected to stabilize wholesale propane pricing and supply for the region while creating new local employment opportunities.
The Usk location is expected to generate jobs both on-site and throughout the region.
“This partnership shows we’re taking the right steps to build momentum and create steady economic growth for our community,” said Jessica Garza, economic development director for the Port of Pend Oreille. “We’re committed to bringing businesses here that will be good neighbors and contribute to Pend Oreille County’s long-term success.”
The collaboration reflects the ongoing commitment between the Port of Pend Oreille, Merkle Standard and new business partners to bring meaningful development to the county. As the designated associate development organization for the county, the Port continues to actively pursue partnerships that benefit the entire region.
Port officials said the company's operations will complement existing activities at the site, including Merkle Standard’s digital asset data center operations and shows the property’s versatility for diverse industrial uses. Significant space at the site remains for additional growth and business as the development utilizes only a portion of the available infrastructure at the site.