Jul 27, 2010. /Lesprom Network/. Wausau Paper reported 2Q net earnings of $5.6 million compared with a net loss of $1.9 million in the prior year. Net sales increased 1% to $265.6 million, as shipments declined 5% to 168,000 tons due primarily to anticipated volume reductions associated with the May 2009 closure of a paper mill in Jay, Maine. 2Q results include after-tax gains of $2.3 million from the sale of timberlands. Prior-year results included after-tax charges of $13.4 million related to facility closures; after-tax gains of $3.6 million related to a tax credit for the use of alternative fuel mixtures; and after-tax gains of $0.4 million related to the sale of timberlands. Commenting on 2Q results, Thomas J. Howatt, President and CEO, said, “Our businesses remain on track despite facing weak economic conditions with Tissue posting solid product mix gains and Paper benefiting from recent capital investments and the repositioning of capacity in growth-oriented technical markets. The actions we’ve taken in recent years have positioned us to achieve a measure of earning stability through a period of rapidly escalating record-high market pulp prices.” Mr. Howatt continued, “Pulp prices are expected to moderate over the second half of 2010. While this will benefit near-term results, we remain focused on driving long-term earnings growth through continued execution of our core market strategies. At the same time, stable cash flows, modest debt levels and recently completed financing arrangements have positioned us to invest strategically in our businesses to drive increased shareholder value.” Wausau Paper produces and markets fine printing and writing and technical specialty papers and "away-from-home" towel and tissue products.