Improved operating efficiencies and generally healthier markets...

Improved operating efficiencies and generally healthier markets resulted in sharply higher fourth-quarter and full-year earnings for San Francisco-based Potlatch Corp. in 1986, the company reported. Also, revenue was up for the year, as well as for the quarter. A spokesman said a sharp gain in operating income for the year was due primarily to improved operating efficiencies and cost reduction efforts. The company also benefited during the year from more favorable markets for Potlatch products, a stable economic environment and a weaker U.S. dollar, the spokesman added.