Executives at an Emmett timber mill that received $4 million in federal economic stimulus three years ago have ceased operations and laid off 50 workers.
    
Emerald Forest Products primary owner Dick Vinson says the mill has struggled amid the economic downturn and a lack of financial backing. Vinson said he injected $1.8 million into the operation in the last 18 months to no avail.
    
Vinson opened the mill in 2010 on land once home to a Boise Cascade sawmill.
    
Still, Vinson says he has two suitors interested in buying the facility.
    
Emerald Forest Products closed in April 2011 with plans to reopen, but by October the plan was in foreclosure. After filing for bankruptcy, the company reorganized last January and resumed production.
    
Vinson says workers will get final paychecks Wednesday.