IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2020

GAIN (LOSS) ON SALE OF AND IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS, NET [Abstract]

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS

We review the carrying values of our long-lived assets for potential impairments and believe we have adequate support for the carrying value of our long-lived assets. If demand and pricing for our products fall to levels significantly below cycle average demand and pricing, or should we decide to invest capital in alternative projects, or should changes occur related to our wood supply for our mills, it is possible that future impairment charges will be required. As of December 31, 2020, we believe the current impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic did not warrant an impairment of our long-lived assets. However, future changes in the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the demand and pricing of our products may result in future impairment charges, including curtailed facilities.

We also review from time to time potential dispositions of various assets, considering current and anticipated economic and industry conditions, our strategic plan, and other relevant factors. Because a determination to dispose of particular assets can require management to make assumptions regarding the transaction structure of the disposition and to estimate the net sales proceeds, which may be less than previous estimates of undiscounted future net cash flows, we may be required to record impairment charges in connection with decisions to dispose of assets.

During 2020, we recorded $9 million in pre-tax impairment charges primarily related to our fiber producing assets at a Siding facility. These impairment charges reflect the announced, accelerated conversion of this facility from fiber production to pre-finishing in February 2020.

During 2019, we recorded an impairment of long-lived assets of $92 million related to non-operating and operating long-lived assets. Included within these impairment charges are $47 million related to non-operating assets located at Val-d’Or and St Michel, Quebec, Canada; Cook, Minnesota; and Silsbee, Texas; and $39 million related to an EWP facility producing LSL and OSB and $5 million related to a Siding facility that we expect to sell. These impairment charges reflect changes to anticipated usage of these facilities driven by market changes and improved operating efficiencies across our remaining facilities.

During 2018, we recorded an impairment of long-lived assets of $11 million related to non-operating assets.