A forge that's been in operation in Pictou County for more than a hundred years is shutting down, prompting some people to ask if access to natural gas or cheaper power could have kept it open.

The closure of the Nova Forge machinery plant in Trenton, N.S., puts 32 people out of work including Edwin Anderson.

He's worked there for nearly 40 years.

"Kind of sad this morning coming to work. You know today is my last day," he said.

"Where do I go from here? I was 21 years old when I came in and I'm 60, I've been here a long time."

The final job, an offset cam gear used in mining, was completed Thursday. The forge had specialized in large custom work.

"We did two pieces for the largest hydro-electric project in China. Unfortunately now China will be doing our work," said worker Calvin MacInnes.

Last year the plant was hit by a fire, but owner Forge Products Inc. of Texas said they're pulling the plug because of the high Canadian dollar, increased competition, high-energy prices and the lack of natural gas.

"It's an expensive place to operate. An energy intensive business that we do here," said general manager Rob MacEachern.

The federal and provincial governments offered financial assistance, but not enough to make it viable.

"I think a commitment to natural gas, closure of the gap probably could have led to a different decision," said MacEachern.

Over the next few months machinery and parts will be shipped off to corporate head office in Texas. Other parts will be auctioned off.