Feb 18, 2010. /Lesprom Network/. Clearwater Paper Corporation reported net earnings for the 4Q 2009 of $47.2 million compared to net earnings of $1.7 million for the 4Q 2008. Net earnings for the 4Q 2009, excluding $47.1 million of pre-tax income from alternative fuel mixture tax credits, were $17.4 million, company said in a statement received by Lesprom Network. 4Q net sales increased 8% to $138.3 million from $128.1 million in the comparable period. “Results for the 4Q were once again very strong, driven primarily by our Consumer Products business and continued solid performance in our Pulp and Paperboard segment," said Gordon Jones, President and CEO. "We are also pleased to announce that we are moving forward with the expansion of our tissue business, by building additional converting capacity on the East Coast.” Clearwater Paper Corporation manufactures premium consumer tissue, high-quality bleached paperboard and wood products.