Decades-Old Barko Hydraulics Shutting Down In Superior

SUPERIOR, Wis. – FOX 21 learned Monday that a decades-long manufacturing facility in Superior is shutting down.

Barko Hydraulics is located on Banks Avenue.

Employees found out Monday morning by mail that they are to not return to the office and are terminated Dec. 1.

Barko President Justin Rupar said in the letter to employees that Superior’s operations are being consolidated with a sister plant in Michigan.

Barko has been a leader in heavy forestry equipment manufacturing in Superior since 1963.

One terminated employee, Olivia Eber, told FOX 21 that Barko has been more than a job for her family.

“My grandfather worked there for 40-plus years. My dad’s been there for 20-plus years. I was supposed to hit 3 years December 20th. Obviously, that’s not going to happen,” said Eber.

Barko’s letter said the number of employees being terminated is under 25.