Rezatec has created a free, useful guide on identifying and mapping tree species distribution.
Understanding the type of tree species you have and where trees are is critical for effective forest management and commercial decision making. The Earth Observation for Tree Species Mapping guide explores the common challenges of identifying species using traditional aerial technologies and how satellite data can be used to quickly, accurately, and cost-effectively identify and map tree species distribution.
“It shows you what’s going on in the entire forest, not just small parts of it, giving you a complete and accurate picture of tree species and their location,” said Tim Vallings, vice president, global resources at Rezatec.
Rezatec presents the data in an online portal that makes it easy to understand for any stakeholder. The key benefits of using satellite data in tree species mapping are
The company’s robust methodology enables an ever-growing number of species to be classified with 80 to 90 percent accuracy, says the company, supporting informed commercial decisions.
New John Deere L-Series II Skidders and Wheeled Feller BunchersContinuously evolving to better its machines and exceed customer expectations, John Deere is excited to introduce the new L-Series II Skidders and Wheeled Feller Bunchers. The new L-Series II machines feature a simplified design that provides a reliable, powerful solution, while still maintaining the productivity-boosting features of the original line, including an increase in hydraulic speed, large grapples, and an improvement in weight distribution.
The new, simpler L-Series II models enhance customer experience by reducing maintenance and increasing uptime due to a number of part changes. Other changes to the machines include a reduction in the complexities of the electrical and hydraulic systems and improvements to component placements.
The L-Series II machines also include changes to boost productivity. The new skidder models offer increased grapple squeeze force of up to 10 percent. Articulation steering sensors improve the operator experience, ultimately increasing productivity. A new two-speed 4000 winch replaces the previous single-speed winch.
KINSHOFER’s D-Series Demolition and Sorting GrapplesKINSHOFER, a leading global manufacturer of high-quality excavator and loader crane attachments, offers its D-Series grapples with a new light, compact, and flexible shell, ideal for sorting and demolition. The attachments feature 360-degree endless rotation for precise positioning to give construction, demolition, and recycling contractors optimal control when grabbing materials. D-series grapples are available for 4,400-pound (2-ton) to 176,000-pound (80-ton) excavators.
Conventional heavy-duty hydraulic cylinders with hydraulic damping protection power the D-Series, while KINSHOFER’s patented HPXdrive powers the D04HPX, D06HPX, D09HPX, and D35HPX. The cylinderless HPXdrive system provides constant closing force compared to competitive grapples and reduces overall cost of ownership by about 50 percent compared to conventional models.
The D-Series streamlined design offers a compact footprint, ideal for working in tight areas, such as urban demolition sites. Meanwhile, the grapple’s robust Delta-box frame provides durability and reliability for demanding applications such as quarries and large-scale demolition. And regardless of conditions, the grapple’s dust-proof axle bearing points keep out dust and debris.
Solesbee’s Excavator Stump PullerSolesbee’s a premier equipment and attachments manufacturer, offers its excavator Stump Puller for efficient stump removal and land clearing. Solesbee’s manufactures the attachment with high-strength alloy steel and replaceable wear tips for extended service life. The powerful attachment, known as the “Stumper,” fits 15- to 40-ton excavators and can increase production by as much as 30 percent compared to other land-clearing methods, such as bucket attachments, bulldozing, and forestry mowing. This speed allows contractors to complete jobs in less time and generate fast ROI.
The attachment’s two shanks easily cut through roots so operators can remove stumps without displacing a large amount of dirt. The shank’s curved design significantly increases breakout force for slicing through tough surfaces when extracting forestry material. Additionally, the shank’s replaceable wear tips extend the attachment’s service life by allowing operators to simply change out the tips as opposed to purchasing a new stump puller.
John Deere Introduces TimberMatic Maps and TimberManagerJohn Deere has announced the release of its TimberMatic Maps and TimberManager technology offerings, new streamlined software solutions for loggers designed to enhance machine connectivity and communication. Available for John Deere wheeled-cut-to-length equipment, the software is another way John Deere is continuing to help customers optimize machines, increasing productivity.
The TimberMatic Maps system is used in G-Series Harvesters and Forwarders, utilizing a mobile network to share real-time production information between harvester and the forwarder back to managers in the office. Managers can access the data using TimberManager, a web-based solution for a PC, tablet, or mobile phone, allowing loggers to follow progress of the work site. Combined, the software provides complete visibility to the operation from land harvested to the machines at work, streamlining communication and increasing efficiency when shift planning.
The data shared is collected by the sensors on the harvester, while the location of the production is collected through the GPS technology. Information is automatically transmitted to the TimberMatic Maps and TimberManager systems, providing real-time updates to operators and managers both on and off the jobsite.
One of the key benefits of the technology is the ability to plan work that needs to get done in a day. It helps managers track the volume of timber at the storage area, simplifying planning for trailer transports and the onward transportation of timber.
Wood-Mizer introduces the FS150 dual action 20-ton log splitter designed for homeowners and small landowners looking for an affordable and highly durable American-made log splitter.
The affordable FS150 combines a 7HP Kohler gas engine with 20 tons of splitting force to split hardwood and softwood logs up to 24” long. The log table height is 30” from the ground to provide a comfortable working height for the operator and the convenient operator panel features intuitive left/right controls for the log splitting wedge.
Once a log is loaded for splitting, the 8 ½” high carbon steel wedge splits wood in both left and right directions for increased speed and efficiency. This unique two-way design can double firewood production compared to traditional one-way wood splitters. During the splitting operation, two side trays catch material for additional splitting or for convenience in handling wood when stacking. Featuring a compact design for easy storage and mobility, the FS150 also includes a standard trailer with a 2” hitch that is towable at speeds up to 45 mph.
On the Cover
Photo taken by Andrea Watts of a Holbrook Inc. operation near Electron, Washington.
Finding Success in Challenging Times
In 2007, as the country entered the recession, Seth Campbell was fixing his eyes on a future for himself, his family and his crew.
From the Bottom Up
Chris Martin, owner of Martin Timber Harvesting, has taken the bull by the horns and set a standard of excellence.
It’s the Employees
For Holbrook Inc., success has come from the sum of its employees who have kept the company harvesting and moving logs for more than 30 years.
New Study Points to Ways Loggers Can Minimize Knee, Back and Shoulder Injuries
New manual with best practices focusses on preventable injuries in the logging industry.
2018 CBI & Ecotec Factory Forum
The three-day event was an opportunity for the company’s U.S. and international customers to see live machine demonstrations.
Firebreak Column
New technology coming to the fireline.
Pacific Logging Congress review
The 8th PLC Live In-Woods show held in September in Corvallis, Oregon, provided a chance to educate and for industry professionals to show off.
Tech Review — Bar, Chain and Sprocket
A look at options on the market today.
Guest Column
Time to create and tell our story.
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