FATHER AND SON CARRY ON FAMILY TRADITION Don Boehme & Son Logging Port Orchard, Wash.
RIDING THE CUTTING EDGE
Iron Triangle Logging, John Day, Oregon
TECH REVIEW
Portable Grinders and Chippers
FROM CRISIS TO CLEANUP
Wolfpack Wood Recycling, Cottonwood, Calif.
ON THE COVER Photo taken by Lindsay R. Mohlere at the Iron Triangle operation in John Day, Oregon
September/October 2017 Vol. 42 No. 09-10
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Father and Son Carry on Family Tradition
Father and Son Carry on Family Tradition Father and son find themselves switching hats between equipment and tasks
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Firebreak Column Congress heating up forest management and wildfire funding
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Riding the Cutting Edge Iron Triangle Logging, example of leader in innovation and business savvy
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From Crisis to Clean Up Wolfpack Wood Recycling called in to assist when spillway issues occur at Orville Dam
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Logging Tire Choice Impacts Bottom Line Tires impact performance in the forest, but not every setup is ideal for every forest setting
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Riding the Cutting Edge
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From Crisis to Cleanup
Tech Review
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Portable Grinders and Chippers
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Guest Column Community forests shaping the name of change
DEPARTMENTS
Page 4 .............................................................In the News Page 14 ..................................................... Machinery Row Page 26 ................................................. Association News Page 48 ........................................................ New Products Page 49 ............................................... Calendar of Events Page 49 .................................................Advertiser’s Index Page 49 ................................................. Classified Section Page 49 ........................................................... Subscription
Logging Tire Choice Impact Bottom Line
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A New Nominee for the Ninth Circuit
The AFRC reported that in September, President Trump announced the nomination of Ryan W. Bounds to serve as a Circuit Judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. If confirmed, Bounds will fill a vacancy created when Circuit Judge Diarmuid O’Scannlain assumed senior status. Bounds is an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon, where he prosecutes criminal cases involving fraud and environmental crimes on behalf of the United States. Bounds was previously special assistant to President George W. Bush for justice and immigration policy and during the Bush Administration, was chief of staff and deputy assistant attorney general for the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Policy. Bounds is also a native of Hermiston, Oregon. Bounds would likely continue in the conservative legal tradition of Judge O’Scannlain. However, his prospects for confirmation are uncertain.
Coming Soon, First Mass Timber High-Rise in the United States
Founder and principal architect of the Portland-based architectural firm, Lever Architecture, Thomas Robinson spoke recently to Auburn students and community members on his involvement with using cross-laminated timber (CLT). Robinson and Lever Architecture just received a permit to build the first mass timber high-rise in the United States. “We have people who are interested in our work coming from Europe, and I’m actually going to be speaking in Germany at the end of this year,” Robinson said. The new building, referred to as Framework, will be 12 stories tall and located in Portland, Oregon. The building’s client is a community development bank. “They wanted a building that related to their goals of economic justice and sustainability,” Robinson said.
834 Million Dead Trees Put Colorado in Danger of Disaster
Where will the next big forest fire ignite? It could be Colorado. The Associated Press reported that there are 834 million dead trees standing in Colorado’s 24.4 million forested acres. That means roughly one in every 14 standing trees in the state’s forests is dead, with the total up 30 percent in seven years, the State Forest Service said in its annual report on forest health. State Forester Mike Lester said it’s definitely something to be alarmed about. Infestations of mountain pine beetles and spruce beetles are the main cause of the 4
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die-off. And although beetles are native to the state, they have caused far more damage than normal over the past 20 years, attacking more than 7,900 square miles of forest, or more than 20 percent of total forested land. Among other steps, the state is working with federal and local governments and with private landowners to thin out forests that are too dense and fire-prone and to replant hillsides stripped bare by fires.
Walden Applauds Trump Administration Wildfire Funding
Good news for burning forests. The Office of Management and Budget included $576.5 million in wildfire funding in their supplemental budget request to Congress and recommended that active forest management and forestry reform be part of the solution to curb wildfire borrowing. “I want to thank the Trump administration for their request for funds to cover the costs of this fire season, as well as their call for Congress to reform our broken federal forest policy that hinders them from implementing much needed forest management,” Walden said.
Study Could Mean Win-win for Spotted Owls and Forest Management
Website ucdavis.edu reported that remote sensing technology has detected what could be a win for both spotted owls and forestry management, according to a study led by the University of California, Davis, the USDA Forest Service Pacific Southwest Research Station, and the University of Washington. A study published in the journal Forest Ecology and Management, noted that scientists found that cover in tall trees is the key habitat requirement for spotted owls — not total canopy cover. It also indicated that spotted owls largely avoid cover created by stands of shorter trees. “This could fundamentally resolve the management problem because it would allow for reducing small-tree density, through fire and thinning,” said lead author Malcolm North, a research forest ecologist with UC Davis’ John Muir Institute of the Environment and the USDA Pacific Southwest Research Station. “We’ve been losing the large trees, particularly in these extreme wildfire and high drought-mortality events. This is a way to protect more largetree habitat, which is what the owls want, in a way that makes the forest more resilient to these increasing stressors that are becoming more intense with climate change.” For more information visit: www.ucdavis.edu/ news/win-win-spotted-owls-and-forestmanagement. TW
TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
Editor: Diane Mettler, diane@forestnet.com Copy Editor: Beth Szyperski Contributing Editors: Lindsay R. Mohlere, Jack Petree, Andrea Watts ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Sales Mgr: James Booth – jbooth@forestnet.com Phone: (604) 506-8631 Director: Rob Stanhope – stanhope@forestnet.com Sales Contact Information: Phone: (604) 990-9970 • Fax: (604) 990-9971 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Publisher & Production Manager: Sheila Ringdahl – sringdahl@forestnet.com Office Manager: Betty Rosales – brosales@forestnet.com Corporate Office Information: Phone: (425) 778-3388 Fax: (425) 771-3623 timberwest@forestnet.com www.forestnet.com Send all materials - Insertion Orders, Contracts, Copy, Photos, Disks to: TImberWest Publications, LLC P.O. Box 610 (300 Admiral Way, Suite 105) Edmonds, WA 98020-0610 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Send both OLD and NEW Circulation information to: TimberWest Magazine Attn: George Aldridge P.O. Box 610, Edmonds, WA 98020 Fax: (425) 771-3623 • subscribetw@forestnet.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Advertising created by TimberWest Publications, LLC is the sole property of TimberWest Publications, LLC and may not be copied or reproduced without the express written permission of the publisher. PUBLISHER’S EDITORIAL STATEMENT: TimberWest reports on the logging and lumber segment of the forest industry in the Western United States with emphasis on the states of AK, WA, OR, ID, MT and CA, providing current information on timber harvesting techniques, sawmill operations, news, legislation, events, people and products pertinent to this market. TIMBERWEST (USPS #024858) is published bi-monthly (Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/Jun, Jul/Aug, Sept/Oct, Nov/Dec) by TimberWest Publications, LLC, 300 Admiral Way, Suite 105, Edmonds, WA, 98020. Periodicals postage paid at Edmonds, WA and at additional mailing offices. Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Subscription rates to qualified subscribers are Free and all non-qualified subscriptions in U.S. are $22 per year payable in advance. Canada $35 (U.S.). Other $40 (U.S.). Single copies paid in advance $4. Company affiliation, title, date and signature must appear on subscription forms. Publisher reserves the right to refuse non-industry subscriptions and advertising. All other advertising is accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents of any advertisement and all representations or warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher. Back issues, if available, $4 each. Directory and Calendar issue $10 each. Canadian Publication Mail Product Sales Agreement #40740074. Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to P.O. Box 86670 Stn. Main, North Vancouver, BC V7L 4L2 Printed in Canada at Horseshoe Press Inc. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to TimberWest, P.O. Box 610, Edmonds, WA, 98020-0610
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ContractorProfile
Father and Son Carry on Family Tradition Don Boehme & Son Logging, Port Orchard, Washington
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TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
ContractorProfile
Father and son team use a Kobelco 250 LC processor with a 622B Waratah head, as well as a Case 9030B.
By Andrea Watts
B
eing a crew of two means fa-
ther-son team J.D and J.R. Boehme find themselves switching between equipment and tasks while on a job site, but that suits them just fine. In fact, a two-man team is keeping with the tradition that began nearly 40 years ago when J.D.’s father, Don, started Boehme and Son Logging Inc. Their motto is Keep it small and keep it in the family. This philosophy has allowed the company to weather recessions and take advantage of the profitable years. The added benefit is that it has also positioned them to enter a niche market that rewards quality over quantity.
Thinning Is the Thing
“We’ve done the high-productivity jobs for Pope Resources, Port Blakely, and Merrill and Ring, but now thinning has been our thing,” J.D. explained when I visited the duo at a recent job outside of Olympia. For the past 10 years, most of their work has been through the Northwest Natural Resource Group (NNRG) and implementing forest stewardship plans for family forest landowners. This partnership required J.D. to earn FSC certification for the company, and he recalls that it was not difficult at all to become certified. As a preferred provider for NNRG, J.D.
and J.R. log small family tree farms that are usually around 20 acres and within one hour of their home base in Port Orchard, Washington. Depending on the landowner’s perception of logging, J.D. may find himself spending time before the equipment arrives explaining what the work will entail and preparing the landowner for what their forest will look like following the thinning. “There’s a lot of work involved with these NNRG jobs, but I like the personal connection that is developed with the landowner instead of it being just a job,” says J.D. He has even allowed a landowner to accompany his logs to the mill, so he could witness the entire process.
Quality over Quantity
As for their mindset when approaching these jobs, it is quality over quantity. “I have a thing about appearances,” J.D. says. “[I’m] as accommodating as I can be—as if someone was doing it for my mom and dad.” Although thinning is the primary landowner objective, J.D. may also be asked to create wildlife trees by using the buncher to cut high stumps. On these jobs, the men take their time when hauling to avoid rubbing trees, and they lay down brush on the logging roads to minimize the compaction. With just the two of them handling everything, J.D. and J.R. have to coordinate the hauling, falling, and loading to ensure they can finish the job on schedule. However, one of the benefits of working for small landowners is that the schedule can accommodate slowdowns due to weather, especially if the landowner is concerned about mud.
The Right Iron
On the Olympia job, which consists of thinning a second-growth Douglas-fir stand, J.R. is running a Kobelco 250 LC processor with a 622B Waratah head, both of which were purchased nearly two years ago. “Works good” is J.R.’s opinion, and J.D. says their upgrade is working just fine.
J.D. and J.R. utilize a John Deere 548D skidder. The two are considering expanding their two-man operation.
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ContractorProfile To move the logs, J.D. runs a John Deere 548D skidder, and where it can’t go, he swaps in a John Deere 650 dozer. Paired with these pieces is a Case 9030 log loader they have had for four years. And for hauling the logs to the nearby mills, they use their two Peterbilt trucks. When it comes to their equipment portfolio, J.D. believes in duplicate, triplicate even, and “everything gets a name.” “In the 90s, we bought everything brand new, which included three skidders, three log loaders,” J.D. says. Over the years, they’ve worked with Jim Wark, and he is the reason they started going to Cascade Trader. “Their attention to quality also extends to every piece of equipment,” says J.D. “Once we get [a piece of equipment], it becomes part of the family,” J.R. says. J.D. proudly shares a photo of P.D., their logging truck that won first place in a pulp load at the 2015 and 2016 Morton Loggers’ Jubilee. “People think our truck is brand new, but it’s like 30 years old,” J.R. explains, and J.D. adds, “But you won’t know [it’s that old] because of how good we’ve taken care of it.”
Looking Ahead
Just as J.D. followed his dad out into the woods, so too did J.R. “I’ve been riding in the
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The father and son lean on their John Deere 548D. truck since I’ve been in diapers,” J.R. says. “Hard to play with Tonka trucks when you have the real thing.” All during high school, J.R. spent summers working with his father and grandfather out in the woods, and he has spent the last six years working alongside his dad. J.D. is proud to see J.R. growing into his role and shouldering more responsibility, including the mechanical maintenance of their equipment. “He’s done a fantastic job,” J.D. says. Looking ahead though, the two-man crew many need to expand. Each year NNRG gives them more jobs, and J.D. expects they will always remain working but may need more people to handle it.
TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
For now, it will continue to be a two-man operation although to J.D. and J.R. it still feels like three generations on the job. Their equipment bears the logo Don Boehme and Son Logging, referencing J.D.’s father. And as for the Case log loader, this piece of equipment has significance to J.D. “It was the last piece of equipment we—my dad, me, and J.R..—bought together.” J.D. remembers when his dad could no longer work, he was always asking about the jobs. And when he neared the end of his life, J.D. would take him out to the job sites so he could watch. “Dad was always a logger,” says J.D. “If he was still here today, he’d be here.” TW
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Photo Credit: U.S. Department of Agriculture
FireColumn
Congress Heating Up Forest Management and Wildfire Funding Fix By Lindsay Mohlere
O
n the heels of a fire season that has turned into a devastating firestorm, a bipartisan congressional crusade is beginning to heat up in both houses to fix the wildfire funding morass and forest management practices. From Arkansas to Oregon, congressmen are pitching funding and management bills right to left as the Forest Service announced last month that the wildfire fighting budget just topped $2 billion. Staggering Stats
According to the National Interagency Fire Center, between January 2017 and September 25, 2017, there have been 48,850 wildfires nationwide, burning over eight million acres. This fire season, Montana 10
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has seen over one million acres go up in smoke, and Oregon slides into second place with over 474,793 acres torched. Fires in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, and Washington, as well as the southeastern states make up the rest. Already, the 2017 fire season in the West and Northwest has seen “three times as many uncontained large fires on the landscape as compared to the five-year average and almost three times as many personnel assigned to fires.” And it’s not over yet! Fire season is expected to continue well into November in some western states where widespread drought and uncommon hot weather has plagued the region for several years. And still, congressional leaders bicker away at trying to find a funding and
TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
management solution that they can squeeze through the cracks without being sidetracked by happy-faced amendments and environmental special interest groups.
Help May Be Forthcoming
Seems like every politician who has a tree in the yard jumped on the funding fix bandwagon once they realized 2017 wasn’t going to be a laid-back fire season. Oregon’s Walden, Merkley, and Wyden; Montana’s Tester and Daines; and a host of others have been on the stump calling for change. They did get a break in the FEMA disaster relief fund for severe flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey. The amendment ensures federal agencies will have about $300 million to cover additional firefighting costs that go (continue on page 12)
FireColumn (continued from page 10) over agency budgets. So that’s a step in the right direction. But not enough. One of the most recent bills offered has come from Wyden to restructure the way wildfire fighting is funded, but several other members of congress don’t think it’s strong enough. From what I can tell, the best package on the table is a bill introduced by Rep. Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., that would not only fix
funding, but eliminate useless lawsuits and replace them with an arbitration system. The measure is called the Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2017. According to the Washington Post, this bill would allow the USFS to thin trees on areas 10,000 acres or less without certain environmental reviews taking place first. Instead of going through the court system, issues would be resolved by binding arbitration. That way, each side has a fair shot, and it won’t take a year or better to get going. Of course, many environmental groups
are opposed. However, with the new probusiness attitude in Congress, the days of frivolous lawsuits may be on the way out along with the cash cow for groups like the Center for Biodiversity, the John Muir Project, Forest Service Employees for Environmental Ethics, Alliance of Wild Rockies, and others. A recent memo from Ryan Zinke, Secretary of the Interior, sums it all up nicely, “We simply cannot afford to continue business as usual. We must do everything we can to address the steady accumulation of fuels on our nation’s public lands and the resulting increased threats from catastrophic wildfires.”
Oregon Wildfires Make the National News
Two of Oregon’s major wildfires now have the dubious distinction of making national headlines. The Chetco Bar Fire, burning in southwestern Oregon’s Siskiyou National Forest, Kalmiopsis Wilderness, Chetco River corridor, and the Illinois River Valley, is labeled as the largest wildfire of the 2017 season with nearly 200,000 acres torched. Ignited in mid-July from a lightning strike, the fire subsequently forced multiple road closures and several evacuations and threatened to breach the Brookings, Oregon, city limits as it grew at a rapid pace. Thanks to the tremendous effort of suppression crews and air assets, along with the arrival of cooler temperatures and meaningful precipitation, the Chetco Bar Fire is now 97 percent contained and expected to be completely contained by October 15, 2017. In the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area, the Eagle Creek fire erupted one mile south of Cascade Locks, Oregon, on Saturday, September 2, at approximately 4:00 p.m. Kicked up by hot, dry winds, the fire grew to 3000 acres overnight. Three days later, it had grown to 20,000 acres and had spotted across the Columbia River into Washington near Archer Mountain. Heavy smoke prevented the deployment of air assets until the wind changed several days later. Colder temperatures brought higher humidity, and the fire growth slowed considerably. From the onset, Interstate 84 was closed in both directions from Troutdale to Hood River. Both eastbound and westbound lanes are now open. The Gorge scenic highway is also closed and severely damaged. Several Level 3 (Go!) evacuations were carried out, and many structures were demolished. To date, the Eagle Creek Fire is more than 48,000 acres and is 46 percent contained. TW 12
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FireColumn
What’s Burning Now!
Most Oregon and Washington fires have been subdued at this date. Cool, wet weather came to the aid the men and women working the fire lines to contain fires. The following list will change dramatically as more rain stretches across our region. Unfortunately, those in and around Napa/Sonoma, California, are experiencing the perfect storm. More that 17 separate fires have torched over 115,000 acres, destroying 2,000 structures, including wineries, homes and resorts. Recorded deaths from the fires is at 15, with more than a 100 hospitalized with numbers likely to rise. Eagle Creek Fire 50% Contained Chetco Bar Fire 97% Contained Diamond Creek Fire Location: 27 NNW of Winthrop WA Acres: 127,498 Cause: Under Investigation 85% Contained High Cascades Complex Location: 9 miles NE Prospect Acres: 27,460 Cause: Under Investigation 35% Contained
Umpqua North Complex: Location: 50 miles E of Roseburg Acres 43,140 Cause: Unknown 79% Contained Horse Creek Complex Location: Willamette National Forest Acres: 42,489 Cause: Unknown 80% Contained Jones Fire Location: Willamette National Forest Acres: 10,220 Cause: Lightning 91% Contained
(Source: InciWeb, ODF, WA/DNR, NWCC, USFS, AP, NIFC That’s a wrap. Stay safe out there! (Talkback - TWfirecolumn@gmail.com) (Source: InciWeb, ODF, WA/DNR, NWCC, USFS, AP, NIFC) Photo credit: U.S. Department of Agriculture/USFS
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Modern Machinery Adds DC Equipment to Forestry Product Line
TimberWest and LSJ’s Anthony Robinson Receives CIF Award
TimberWest and Logging & Sawmilling Journal (LSJ) are pleased to announce that Anthony Robinson, associate publisher of TimberWest and LSJ, was awarded the prestigious James Kitz Award by the Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF), at a ceremony in Ottawa in September. “I’m truly honored to receive the James Kitz Award,” said Anthony. “I’m even more honored that it was presented by members of Jim Kitz’s family.” Anthony was presented the award by Jim Kitz’s wife and two daughters. The Canadian Institute of Forestry recognizes that there are many individuals involved in forestry across Canada who are making outstanding contributions early in their profession (Anthony is 32 years old). The award recognizes the contributions of those forest practitioners who are newer to the profession. It has the objective of encouraging excellence in the forestry profession. “I take great pride in being involved in Canadian forestry, as I’m sure Jim Kitz did, and join the other foresters involved with the CIF awards in seeing a bright future for Canada’s forest industry — for the people who have been involved in the industry for many years, and those like myself who are at the start of their careers.” This award is named after Jim Kitz, who was a member of CIF and the Alberta Registered Professional Foresters Association. Jim made several outstanding contributions to forestry early in his career, but he suffered a sudden and untimely death at age 36. This award recognizes the contributions made by Jim, both professionally and personally and is awarded to those who exemplify Jim’s approach to all aspects of life while making an outstanding contribution to forestry early in their career. 14
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Modern Machinery is now the exclusive dealer for New Zealand company DC Equipment, the manufacturers of Falcon Forestry Equipment (FFE). In 2012, DC Equipment was created by a group of innovative New Zealand loggers and engineers with a passion to develop mechanized machinery and products that eliminate accidents and ultimately save lives in the steep slope logging industry. As a result the Falcon Forestry Equipment range of mechanized steep-slope logging equipment significantly reduces the health and safety risk to workers whilst, at the same time, increasing the overall efficiency and productivity of crews. This is achieved by the development of specific equipment that removes workers from the riskiest parts of the logging process, while maintaining the ability to safely fell and extract logs from steep slopes efficiently and in great volume. Their current product lines include the Falcon Winch Assist, Falcon Claw Motorized Grapple Carriage and Falcon Swing Yarder Grapple Camera System. With a constant stream of new and exciting innovation including the Falcon Felling Carriage set to be commercialised in 2018/19, DC Equipment’s mission is to continue to develop products that will further enhance logging contractors operations and advance the entire industry. This new addition fits well with the company’s existing forestry lines of Komatsu Forest, Madill, TimberPro, Quadco, and Burks and further strengthens their ability to serve customers in the forestry industry. www.modernmachinery.com
New leadership at Tigercat
Tony Iarocci stepped away from his position as president of Tigercat on October 16, 2017. Tony held the position of president since Tigercat’s inception in 1992, steering the company through rapid growth both in terms of product development and geographic market expansion. Tony passed his day to day responsibilities over to Grant Somerville, who got his start in the forestry industry in 1978 as a harvester operator. He is a long serving executive at Tigercat who worked with Tony at Koehring Waterous in the early eighties on several development projects, including the design of the company’s first purpose-built track feller buncher. An integral part of Tigercat, Grant has led many important design initiatives since joining the team in 1992. “Tony remains in great health and he has agreed not only to join the board of directors but to continue to contribute to the company’s growth, focusing on the recruitment and
TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
development of design talent and working with fellow team members and suppliers on both product and component improvement,” said CEO Ken MacDConald. Tony will also consult on special projects and new product development.
Gran Somerville
Ponsse Celebrates Finland’s 100-year Independence
Ponsse threw quite a Customer Appreciation Party in September to celebrate Finland’s 100th year of independence. In addition to the music by Finish band Steve ‘N’ Seagulls, Ponsse brought out farm animals for kids, fabulous food and, of course, Ponsse equipment. “The atmosphere was great, the food was amazing, and the band was like nothing else!” says Diana Olkowski, marketing coordinator for Ponsse. “I believe everyone that attended really enjoyed themselves. For those who missed the event, they might want to check out the humorous music video invite created by Ponsse North America Inc. and Steve ‘N’ Seagulls. https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tr-gPKKmzLQ
Blount International Promotes Vice Presidents in International and North American Sales for Oregon Products
Blount International announces two promotions in their International and North American sales groups within their Forestry, Lawn & Garden (FLAG) division. Stephane Faucher has been promoted to Vice President of International Sales, and Scott Harris has been promoted to Vice President of North American sales. Faucher joined Blount’s French office in 2001 as a key account manager and has since held regional sales positions in Belgium, Europe, Scandinavia, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. Faucher has had vast experience in global leadership, having led teams in Brazil, Mexico, Japan, India, and multiple other countries. Harris first joined Blount in 1996 as northeast territory manager where he was responsible for covering 13 states. Since then, Harris has held various positions within the company including brand development manager, U.S. sales manager servicing dealer group, North American servicing dealer group zone manager, and most recently, North American sales director. www.blount.com TW
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ContractorProfile
Riding the Cutting Edge Iron Triangle Logging, John Day, Oregon
Komatsu, along with Modern Machinery in Boise, Idaho, helped Iron Triangle supply the rapid increase of equipment needed.
By Lindsay Mohlere
W
hen Russ Young bought
out his father’s road building side and eventually added logging, little did he know that nearly twenty years later, Iron Triangle Logging would be positioned as one of the timber industry’s leading examples of successful innovation and business savvy. Based in John Day, Oregon, Iron Triangle Logging is one of the largest timber operations on the east side of the Cascades, employing over 100 people. The name Iron Triangle represents the three forests the company works in: Umatilla, WallowaWhitman, and Malheur. Throughout the years after he took over the family business, Young’s primary focus was cut-to-length (CTL). In those days, Iron Triangle fielded five logging sides as well as a road building operation, and CTL was viewed as “the most productive and cost-effective way to log in the stands that we were in,” Young says. Iron Triangle’s work load was a 50-50 split between government and private sales, averaging about 35 MMBF per year. “We were strong in Umatilla, Wallowa-Whitman, and Malheur forests. Ten years ago, we had a cutto-length love affair that was really strong on
the Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman. Low ground pressure, light on the land approach to move forward,” Young says. What began as a restart to the family business has now morphed into a dynamic model of modern day mechanized logging and community collaboration.
Bold Steps Out of the Box
Several years ago, the Malheur Lumber Company mill in John Day announced it was closing because it could not get enough wood. The dismal housing market and looming recession, along with federal logging restrictions, environmental litigation, and diminishing private sales contributed to this dilemma. The demise of the Malheur Lumber Company would have dire economic and social consequences for the small community of John Day, as well as all of Grant County. That reality, coupled with the fact the Malheur National Forest was overgrown, insect-infested, and a tinderbox ready to explode, led to a unique collaboration of loggers, environmentalists, ranchers, landowners, timber industry execs, elected government officials, and Forest Service managers, dedicated to finding common ground to craft a solution to the problem. In 2006, as a result of this collaboration,
ContractorProfile Blue Mountain Forest Partners (BMFP) was formed and emerged as the operating organization. In 2013, an innovative 10-year stewardship contract was awarded to Iron Triangle to promote ecological restoration, reduce the risk of wildfire, and boost the economic vitality of the region. The partnership increases the allowable harvest in the Malheur National Forest to 50 MMBF per year with a goal of reaching 75 MMBF per year. “It’s a bottom-up restoration project, rather than a top-down restoration. Thinning is viewed as a bottom-up restoration,” Young says. “The reality of the contract is that it is an incorporation of fiber element into the timber removal process to make it palatable for goods for services. Its intent is to subsidize the removal of the biomass element or treatment element whether it’s thinning and piling or fiber removal.” Additionally, the Malheur Lumber Company mill has remained open. That mill and the Boise Cascade Wood Products mill in Pendleton process most of Iron Triangle’s logs and fiber. Early studies by the University of Oregon and Oregon State University indicate positive economic growth that has supported more than 100 private-sector jobs in the John Day area alone. With this bold step out of the box, the John Day and Grant county communities, along with Iron Triangle, have helped pave the way for future collaborative actions in other regions and forests. In addition, litigation has come to a halt since the collaboration/ten-year contract has been in force. According to Evergreen Magazine, the publication of the nonprofit forestry research and educational Evergreen Foundation, there is a “sea-change in the way federal judges are now viewing collaborative forest restoration projects.” Other examples of the success of collaborative groups overcoming environmental lawsuits are the North Fork Mill Creek A to Z Project on Washington State’s Colville National Forest and the Tower Fire Salvage Project and Grizzly Fire Salvage and Restoration Project in northern Idaho.
The Right Iron Is the Key
Like all logging operations, in addition to experienced crews, success depends on having the right iron for the task at hand. Since its meager beginnings, Iron Triangle has relied on Valmet/Komatsu forest machines as its preferred equipment line. “Valmet was the product line we followed in cut-to-length, and they were bought out by Komatsu,” Young says. “We basically had to streamline once we got the 10-year. We had to significantly upgrade,” Young adds. “Komatsu came in as a partner once we secured the 10-year. They,
Iron Triangle’s equipment line up includes numerous Komatsu XT430 feller bunchers, several forwarders, log loaders, processors, and Pierce strokers, along with a few dozers and excavators. The company’s roster also includes machines from Caterpillar, John Deere, and Hitachi. along with Modern Machinery in Boise, Idaho, helped us supply the rapid increase of equipment we needed with newer and different machines.” To tackle the 10-year, Iron Triangle had to be more consistent in its operations. The contract is on a two to three-year rotation of tasks that need to be completed every year. “We have to go through 50 MMBF per year to stay on pace and scope with the contract,” Young says. Iron Triangle’s equipment stable includes numerous Komatsu XT430 feller bunchers,
several forwarders, log loaders, processors, and Pierce strokers, along with a few dozers and excavators. The company’s roster also includes machines from Caterpillar, John Deere, and Hitachi. One of the major challenges of the stewardship contract that Iron Triangle faces is location. “The 10-year began about six years too late,” Young says. “There’s only one manufacturer, and before, there was another mill in the area. We’re heavily invested in our trucking fleet in order to get the product to market.”
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ContractorProfile
Pictured is a Komatsu 830.2 forwarder, one of the many Komatsu machines Iron Triangle utilizes. To that end, Iron Triangle runs 12 or 13 log trucks and also contracts out to around six independent haulers to keep up the pace. “About half our fleet is quick-change. We can go to long logs, but most of our loads are short logs. Our payloads average 35 tons. We can haul the weight.”
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“Prior to the stewardship contract, we were going to be a smaller company, possibly as few as 20 to 30 people,” Young says. “I’m really happy we were able to keep our employees and even add some. They are the backbone of Iron Triangle.” “Iron Triangle is not an “I” company,” Young adds. “My success is entirely based on my employees. I would put Iron Triangle crews up against anybody. We’re strong from top to bottom. From our truckers to equipment operators. We have a strong workforce, and we give them the tools to show off their talent. You could have the best operator and a lousy piece of equipment, and you’re going to get a mediocre job. Not by the operator’s doing, but by the machine’s deficiencies. Our equipment has allowed these guys to show off their ability and be as good as they can be.” The company has always been ahead of the curve, providing excellent company benefits even before such benefits like health insurance were mandated. “We have a lot of long-term employees, and we’ve always been an insurance based company. We did everything we could even when we didn’t have to,” Young says. Young emphasizes that whether it is employee benefit plans or contracting with other loggers as part of providing an economic benefit to the community, Iron Triangle always tries to do whatever makes the most sense for the customer, wood supply, and community. TW
RecyclingProfile
From Crisis to Cleanup Wolfpack Wood Recycling Tackles Tough Spillway Site
Wolfpack Wood Recycling utilizes a Morbark 4600XL.
W
olfpack Wood Recycling’s typical jobs include clear-
ing for subdivisions and orchard removals. The site near the Oroville Dam was not a typical
job. The area near Lake Oroville in northern California had experienced one of the wettest winters on record in 2016-17. In midJanuary, officials at the dam began releasing water down the dam’s main spillway, a 3,000-foot concrete chute that serves as the dam’s primary flood-control outlet during the rainy season. Multiple winter storms in early February caused the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) to increase the water releases to an estimated 50,000 cubic feet 20
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per second (cfs), well within the spillway’s normal capacity. Then a potential tragedy struck: a portion of the concrete gave way, opening up a large hole in the lower section of the spillway. In an effort to assess the state of the spillway, dam operators stopped the flow. Meanwhile the water levels in the reservoir continued to rise and threatened to overflow onto the emergency spillway, essentially a lip of concrete directing water down an unpaved hillside adjacent to the main spillway. Wolfpack Wood Recycling and other contractors were called in to help clear the brush and trees from the path of the water. “They were worried at the time that, if the water came over the spillway, it would wash all of the trees into the river, and they
TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
did not want that,” says Tim Dempewolf, owner of Wolfpack Wood Recycling. On February 11, four days after the damage appeared in the main spillway, water overtopped the 1,700-foot lip of the dam’s emergency spillway for the first time in its 48-year history, pouring in uncontrolled sheets onto the steep, wooded hillside to the Feather River. “When I first heard that the water was going to come over the spillway, [my first thought] was ‘Get my stuff out first!’” Dempewolf says with a chuckle. He had a Morbark 4600XL Track Wood Hog horizontal grinder and a 320 Caterpillar excavator on the site. “There were three other grinding companies working on the jobsite, so there were a
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would probably be lost, but it was absolutely necessary in the interest of public safety, for the community here — downstream and for those even further away.” By February 14, the evacuation orders were lifted, and by the following Sunday, the water flowing out the main spillway had been reduced to nearly half of what it had been during the heart of the crisis. The lower flows allowed crews to use cranes and dredges to clear the debris that formed in the channel below the spillways. The debris raised water levels in the diversion pool and tailrace below the dam to the point that the Edward Hyatt Powerplant (the dam’s primary release outlet outside of flood season) nearly flooded. Hyatt could not be operated again until significant dredging and debris removal could be completed
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The Cleanup Begins
Dempewolf and other crews came back for the cleanup effort — Dempewolf clearing trees and brush to make room for the piles of dirt and debris other contractors were removing from the river, as well as clearing under power lines that had to be (continue on page 22)
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lot of people trying to move pretty quickly. Everyone came together to efficiently get everyone out,” he adds. “Safety was a big deal, getting everybody out and out of harm’s way, and they did a good job.” The next afternoon, the water caused erosion of the hillside below the emergency spillway and began to cut back toward the weir of the emergency spillway. Fears the emergency spillway structure would collapse and possibly send an estimated quarter of a million acre-feet of water down the Feather River caused the sheriffs in Butte, Yuba, and Sutter Counties to order the immediate and mandatory evacuation of more than 188,000 people. The DWR increased water releases down the main spillway to 100,000 cfs, knowing it would increase damage to the structure, in order to lower the lake level and stop releasing water over the eroding emergency spillway. “One of the key missions for California Department of Water Resources during the initial first few days of the response effort was public safety,” says Lauren Bisnett, DWR information officer. “A lot of difficult decisions were made with the understanding that, to a certain degree, the level of some of the infrastructure on the flood-control spillway
The Dam
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by the California Department of Water Resources as part of the California State Water Project. The dam houses the Edward Hyatt Powerplant, an underground hydroelectric plant that was completed in 1967. Six generators are used to provide a maximum generating capacity of 819 MW.
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ompleted in 1968, Oroville Dam is an earthen dam and is the tallest dam located in the United States, measuring over 770 feet (235 m) high and 6,920 feet (2109 m) across. The dam was the largest earth-fill dam in the world until succeeded by Aswan High Dam in Egypt. It was built
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RecyclingProfile (continued from page 21) repositioned during the crisis. “When I first started, it was just a hurry up, try to get stuff out of the way. Now it had calmed down, the lake was lowered down; now the focus was on getting everything in order so they could start fixing the emergency spillway,” says Dempewolf. “When I came back after the damage had been done to the emergency spillway, there were four or five additional big contractors in there, and everything had been running real smooth.
Everyone knew what they are doing and watched out for everybody. Safety on this job was a pretty big deal.” For a challenging job like this, Dempewolf said his choice of equipment is important. “I wouldn’t buy a grinder unless it was on tracks,” he says of his Morbark 4600XL Wood Hog. “A lot of the work that I do is on hills and kind of steep ground, and if I had a grinder on a trailer, you would not be able to get around here. I purchased Morbark equipment because they have always had a
good name, and I’ve had nothing but good luck with Morbark grinders.” Dempewolf said the strength of Morbark’s heavy-duty equipment is a key feature for him. “I’ve hit some pretty big chunks of steel with my Morbark—it held up. I was doing a project last summer out of Auburn, California, on a railroad job, and I hit some parts that came out of the railroad tracks, and it got into the machine and cracked hammers and tore up screens,” he says. “But it’s not a catastrophe if I hit steel. I’ve torn stuff up hitting steel, but I have never really completely damaged the machine.” He says the same is true for parts. “They absolutely hold up better. I’ve ordered some parts from other companies, some of them are close in performance, but Morbark wear parts hold up really well. At one point when I was just starting out, I would get my wear parts from another company, because of pricing—they were comparable to Morbark and less expensive. But now Morbark is getting their prices more comparable, and their tips are getting better—at this point, I’m sticking with Morbark parts.”
Recovery is Underway
The dam’s hydroelectric plant, which was temporarily out of service until the debris could be removed, is operating once again and is not only generating power but also offering another way to release water. Construction crews are also fortifying the emergency spillway and completely reconstructing the main spillway. A report issued by the DWR states that its primary objectives for the area are to continue ensuring public safety and to ensure the integrity of the dam and its associated structures. The goal is to get systems in place by November 1 “that can safely pass whatever Mother Nature throws at the Feather River watershed and Lake Oroville next winter,” according to the report. Kiewit Corp. of Omaha, Nebraska, which was awarded a $275.4 million contract to fix the dam’s two spillways, said it will had up to 500 workers on the site and worked 20 hours a day, six days a week, to get as much work as possible done during the summer. “A lot [of the reconstruction] is underway already with more to come soon,” said Bisnett at the time. “The timeline we are currently working on is that construction will begin this summer and that will be to repair/ replace the upper and lower chute of the flood control spillway, and that’s expected to continue into 2018, if needed — and that pertains to the emergency spillway as well. We’ll continue to reinforce and use new (continue on page 24) 22
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RecyclingProfile
Wolfpack using a 4600XL on the site. (continued from page 22)
Tim Dempewolf operating a Cat 320E.
design criteria and new standards for design and construction, and we’ll be using a lot of state-of-the-art materials as well as paying attention to seismic concerns and things like that. It’s an opportunity to re-examine some of those things while we are going in to reconstruct.” According to an August 9, 2017, news release from the DWR, demolition, excavation, and site preparation were 99 percent complete for the 2,270 feet that will be reconstructed this year. Crews reached a major milestone in early August by placing the first structural concrete slabs, which include reinforced steel, on the lower portion of the spillway chute. Now that progress has been made on excavating trenches, drilling bore holes, and placing concrete, DWR has a clearer schedule for construction of the underground cutoff wall, with a target completion date of late December 2017 or early January 2018. For the most up-to-date information on the spillway incident and recovery plan, please visit www.water.ca.gov/oroville-spillway. TW This story is dedicated to Karen Wilson, wife of Tim Dempewolf, who passed away April 9, 2017, from injuries sustained in a car accident.
“My two helpers, Buck and Hunter, they’re my Jack Russell/mini-Australian shepherd mix; they’re quite a handful, but I’m trying to teach them how to run the grinder and excavator and stuff. But that’s not going too well. They’re good company, though. They’re my little buddies.” — Tim Dempewolf 24
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TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
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AFRC Reports on Timber Sales Programs
Tom Partin reported on the results of the timber sale programs on the Colville, Deschutes, Idaho Panhandle, Kootenai, Lolo, Mt. Hood, and Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests. “I am pleased to report that all of these forests hit their FY17 timber targets. Some forests exceeded their targets, a couple of forests had reduced targets due to unusual circumstances,” said Partin. “From my perspective, it is important to note that these forests do take their timber targets seriously, and I believe most
are well positioned to ramp up and increase the pace and scale of management that is so desperately needed.” The following are just some of the results: Colville National Forest. Supervisor Rodney Smoldon hit and/or exceeded targets using large landscape planning areas. He also put forward the A-Z project that required the successful bidder to perform the NEPA work and get approval before the project could be implemented. The Colville met its FY17 target of 58 MMBF with an additional 9 MMBF coming from the A-Z project.
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Deschutes National Forest. Supervisor John Allen integrated the strong recreation demands with managing timber. The Deschutes hit its FY17 timber target of 52.7 MMBF; however, nearly half of that volume was non-saw. The forest is working hard to treat some of the higher fuels areas across the landscape that have seen many large wildfires during the past decade. Idaho Panhandle National Forest. The Panhandle has been steadily ramping up their program since Mary Farnsworth became supervisor. The Panhandle’s FY17 program of 54 MMBF was met but was basically a deferral of their FY16 green timber sale program that was set back a year to allow the forest to successfully sell the Tower and Grizzly fire salvage sales in FY16. Kootenai National Forest. The Kootenai did not hit its target in FY16 due to the Oly Moly project being held up. However, Region 1 boosted its target level to 70 MMBF for FY17 to make up last year’s volume. Despite numerous fires this summer, Chris Savage and his team sold 71.4 MMBF. Lolo National Forest. The Lolo successfully implemented two salvage sales totaling 12 MMBF on the Copper King fire that burned during the summer of 2016. The Copper King timber volume plus the 7-Mag re-offer sale helped Tim Garcia and his team sell 60 MMBF, which is nearly double their usual timber target. Mt. Hood National Forest. The Mt. Hood Forest had a reduced timber sale program in FY17 due to over achieving their target in FY16. Lisa Northrup and her team hit their target of 25 MMBF with a good portion of that volume (16 MMBF) coming from the Goat Stew project. Okanogan-Wenatchee. The OkanoganWenatchee hit its timber target of 35 MMBF due in large part to selling the Huck project, which contained 28 MMBF. The potential for this forest is much higher than 35 MMBF, but Mike Williams and his staff are dealing with internal issues regarding management on Late Successional Reserve lands that have timber over 80 years of age.
Pacific Logging Congress Holds Site Inspection
On September 29, the Pacific Logging Congress (PLC) held a site inspection for the future exhibition site of the upcoming In the Woods Show, which will be held September 13 – 15, 2018 at the Oregon State Research Forest. Despite the rainy weather, spirits were high as they walked the site and scoped out locations for tether, whole log, cut-to-length, chipping, and more. TW
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EquipmentSpotlight
Logging Tire Choice Impacts Bottom Line
F
orestry is one of the most demanding environments for tires. Feller bunchers and skidders are subject to muddy, steep slopes and sharp stumps while cutting and transporting trees to
the landing site. With one weak link in this chain of operation, there is no load to transport and no money to be made. Tires greatly impact performance in the forest, but not every setup is ideal for every
forest setting, which is why loggers need to consult with their local dealer for the best solution. Will Stoddard, forestry product specialist for Titan and Goodyear Farm Tires, recognizes that each logger has different needs, but they are all looking for the same two basic things from their tires—durability and performance. “What might be a good solution for one logger, might not be for another,” explains Stoddard. “But in the end, everyone wants a tire that lasts longer and improves traction and flotation, and that’s what manufacturers are all working on to continually improve.” Despite a desire for durability and longevity, many loggers have a tendency to choose the lowest priced option available. Many don’t realize the sacrifices they are potentially making by doing so. “If they choose an undersized tire or too low of a ply rating, they’re going to wear that tire out pretty quickly,” says Stoddard.
Heavier Tires for Heavier Equipment
Forestry equipment has grown heavier and higher-powered—and as compared to a decade ago, many loggers are using bigger machines to do the work of two smaller machines. “Machines today are up to 40,000 pounds and equipped with 12-foot, 10,000-pound grapples; whereas five years ago, machines were 25 to 30 percent lighter,” says Stoddard. “The issue is that OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) are still offering the same ply tires they were years ago on those smaller machines.” Tire manufacturers have adjusted by introducing larger and higher-ply tires. Not only do the tires have to carry the weight of the bigger machine, they have to endure twice the punishment. However, it’s easier for OEMs to equip the lowest-ply tire for the lowest cost—but that is a mistake. “The temptation by the OEM is to offer a lower-ply tire in order to control the machine’s cost coming out of the factory,” says Stoddard. “And most loggers will have the (continue on page 30) 28
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EquipmentSpotlight Designing for durability
(continued from page 28) temptation to go with the lowest priced option when buying a new machine. But once it hits the ground, the logger is expecting to get greater productivity, with a grapple on back and greater drag capabilities than what it can handle. We’re ‘ply-ing up’ those same machines to get as high a ply as possible for increased strength.” Stoddard recommends tires with higher ply ratings—usually either 20- or 26-ply in a 30.5L-32 or 35.5L-32 size. Even though the heavier tires are a little more expensive, the cost is well justified over time, because they last longer. “We are constantly evaluating and looking to address the continued trend of larger, more powerful forestry machines that are going to have greater demand and requirements from their tires,” says Stoddard. “In fact, we’re currently testing 30- and 32-ply tires that we plan to roll out sometime in 2018—and we’re seeing excellent results.” Ply ratings and tire size are not the only design factors that affect durability. Tire manufacturers are working to build stronger forestry tires through development of new technologies—both in steel-belt packages and rubber compounds.
In the last ten years, steel-belt constructions have become the standard for forestry tires, because of their ability to protect from punctures. “Forestry tires require a very high voidto-lug ratio in order to gain traction. In these voids, there is less rubber between the ground and the tire plies, which makes those areas susceptible to puncture damage from branches and stumps,” says Stoddard. “So all the major tire manufacturers are working to develop stronger steel-belt packages that offer additional protection between the lugs.” Some of the most recent developments in the industry include a shift from two-belt to four-belt constructions and the development of steel belts that offer more flex. “All the tire manufacturers want their steel belts to be strong enough to resist punctures, yet not so stiff that they break,” explains Stoddard. “It’s really a balancing act that everyone in the industry is working to continuously improve.” Another problem challenging tire longevity is damage to the treads. Constantly running over sharp branches and stumps can cause the rubber to chunk and tear — a problem that tire manufacturers are addressing
through the development of special rubber compounds. “Most of the major tire manufacturers have developed rubber compounds specific to forestry that are designed to limit damage to the treads,” says Stoddard. “Regardless of the brand you choose, I’d definitely recommend choosing a tire with a compound designed specifically to meet the unique challenges faced in the forest.” Another trend that affects tire durability is the increased use of tubeless tires in forestry.
Is Tubing Necessary?
Tube-type tires have been an industry standard for years. But in recent years, more tires are coming out of the factory tubeless. While both types run at the same inflation pressures and load capacities, their major differences lie in cost and reparability. “In the forest, tubes are a good idea because of the harsh conditions pushing the beads off the rim band,” says Stoddard. “This causes potential for the tire to go flat. A tube maintains the tire and keeps it going.” Tubeless tires are more expensive than tube-type tires, but tubeless tires are easier to (continue on page 32)
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EquipmentSpotlight (continued from page 30) repair, as you can keep repairing them until they no longer hold air. When it comes to using tubes, Stoddard has seen a lot of different philosophies from OEMs outfitting their equipment. “Some run tubeless tires with tubes for all of their tires, others run tubes only if a customer specifically requests that the tubeless tires have tubes put in them. Other OEMs run tubeless tires and only put tubes in them if using a dual setup,” Stoddard says. “The OEMs try to offer what their customer base is asking for. A few OEMs offer the tubetype with tubes as an option, because some users just prefer to run a tube-type tire from day one.” Regardless of philosophy, Stoddard says there is one necessary rule everyone should follow — duals require tubes. Duals kick up a lot of debris between the tires, and that debris is always pushing on the inside tire. If the inside tire loses pressure, it’s going to push that tire off the wheel, and then you’ve got a flat. That’s why tubes are a must-have with dual setups.
Extreme Flotation or Duals?
While the sheer weight of today’s
equipment helps with traction, it also poses a new challenge—the need for flotation. Tire setup can be very weather-dependent and location-specific. If you’re in an area that doesn’t require flotation 100 percent of the time, then duals may be a good option, because you have the flexibility to easily take the outer tire off and run the single when conditions don’t require it. That way you’re not putting wear on those extra two tires when it’s not necessary. With duals, however, you may have to sacrifice ease of maintenance. “The outside tire in a dual setup completely rests up against the inside tire. There is no way to access the inside valve unless
removing that outer dual. So most loggers won’t take the time to take the tire off to check air pressures,” Stoddard says. Because there are no shocks to absorb the impact of the machine, operator tendency may be to run it at a lower inflation pressure for a softer ride, but if it’s too low, there’s a higher probability of a tire problem down the road—especially when you’re not able to check that inside tire pressure on a regular basis on a dual setup. If you’re in an area that requires flotation 100 percent of the time, you’d benefit from running super singles, because it’s easier to manage inflation pressures. “In order to increase flotation, you have to decrease the ground-bearing pressure. You do that by spreading the pressure out over a wider area,” says Stoddard. “So there are flotation tires on the market that — in many cases— are roughly 10 inches wider than standard forestry tires. The wide footprint helps with flotation in wet or swampy forests.”
Maintaining Your Tires
Stoddard insists the most important thing loggers can do to ensure tire longevity is to keep their tires at the proper inflation pressures. “Inflation pressure is something most loggers need to pay much more attention to,” says Stoddard. “An underinflated tire can cause the sidewall to bulge and lead to stress cracks around the sidewall and lugs. It can also cause problems with slippage on the wheel. An overinflated tire will swell in the middle and won’t flex when running over stumps. That increases the likelihood of impact damage.” Stoddard also recommends routinely inspecting the tires between shifts.
Bottom Line
It’s important to seek the advice of your local dealer. Sometimes the cheapest tire or the tire that came installed on the OEM equipment is not always the best option for durability and performance in your neck of the woods. TW 32
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Read about the Komatsu Comfort Ride System at
www.komatsuforest.us
© 2017 by Komatsu America Corp. All rights reserved. All comparisons and claims of improved performance are made with respect to the current Komatsu 931-6WD model unless otherwise specifically stated. Trademarks and service marks used herein are the property of Komatsu Ltd., Komatsu America Corp., or their respective owners or licensees. Photos may include optional equipment.
www.modernmachinery.com
Kent, WA Rochester, WA Spokane, WA Portland, OR
800-669-2425 800-304-4421 800-541-0754 800-950-7779
Eugene, OR Boise, ID Pocatello, ID Kalispel, MT
800-826-9811 800-221-5211 800-829-4450 800-434-4190
Missoula, MT Billings, MT
800-332-1617 800-735-2589
Portable Grinders and Chippers Albach Diamant
With travel speeds of 45 mph, the Albach Diamant 2000 can be driven on local and state highways from job to job, even hundreds of miles apart. At the tree stand, its full-time, four-wheel drive allows it to navigate even rough terrain. Upon arrival, the operator pushes one button and the Diamant 2000 converts from transportation mode to chipping mode automatically in 20 seconds and with its aggressive infeed can immediately be put to work handling and processing timber. The Diamant 2000 allows a tight control on the chip sizing, from microchips all the way to 2.5”. This way, the chips can be used for multiple applications.
cut, so material exits the large screening area quicker. This leads to a more uniform end product, and less wear and tear on the grinding mill. The track-type infeed conveyor efficiently feeds material to the 60” wide by 30” diameter feed wheel yoke, the same size as the 3680XP. The mill turns down against a fixed anvil. The infeed conveyor butts closely to the anvil to limit wedging of material between the conveyor and anvil. The down-turning mill and feed system ensure a smooth, controlled flow of material to the mill, maximizing production while adding to the uniformity of the finished product. Like the larger 3680XP, the 2460XP has a unique waste gate that makes it easy to remove any contaminants from the mill and screening area, limiting damage to the mill and wear parts. The Model 2460XP is maintenance-friendly with easy access to wear items, and simple hydraulic and electrical systems. Screens are simple to change using the standard screen changing arm, and ladders, steps and handrails help operators feel secure while climbing and working on the machine. There is easy access to the mill for changing teeth and cutterbodies. www.banditchippers.com
Barko
Driven by a 520 hp engine, Barko’s CH6025 whole tree chipper is ruggedly built with an 8-inch reinforced tube frame to handle trees up to 22 inches in diameter. The machine offers enhanced hydraulic control features and patented ConeHead. Customizable overall to meet an arborist’s particular geographical or application needs, the crane-equipped Albach Diamant 2000 can churn out up to 500 cu. yds. of chips per hour. Once the Albach chipper is driven to the job site, its computerized cabin is transformed from a highway-mode transport pod into an elevated work station providing the operator with an eye-level view of timber handling, chip production and delivery. The spacious, high-tech, air-conditioned cab is comparable to that of the world’s most modern agricultural and construction equipment. For the accurate placement of chips, the unit’s extended-angle chute can be swiveled up to 270 degrees and adjusted up and down by up to 10 ft. This allows chips to be loaded directly into trucks parked in nearly any position nearby. www.sennebogen-na.com
Bandit Industries
Model 2460XP effectively grinds chunk wood, brush and whole trees. It is equipped with a 60” wide by 30” diameter cuttermill, a 60” wide by 24” mill opening. This machine uses a 30-tooth cuttermill running Bandit’s patented saw-tooth style cutterbodies that regulate the size of the tooth’s bite. Most of the material is sized in the initial
The unique ConeHead drum offers a 35-inch throat opening that makes fast work of big jobs. The drum’s knife design includes 8 steel in-pocket knives with two usable edges per knife. Instead of chopping, the ConeHead drum utilizes a more efficient slicing motion that delivers more chip loads per gallon of fuel. The slicing action also produces higher quality and impeccably consistent wood chips for biomass fuel systems. The CH6025 features an infeed table with replaceable floor. One horizontal and two vertical hydraulic feed rollers consume mounds of limbs and tops quickly, and large carbon steel fan blades on the drum ends throw chips forcefully into collection trucks to pack in more material. Electrohydraulic system comes with wireless remote for safe, effective operation. Dual air-brake axles are each rated to 22,500 pounds.www. barko.com (continue on page 36)
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CONTINENTAL BIOMASS INDUSTRIES CBI 6800BT HORIZONTAL GRINDER
• CAT C-27, 1050HP diesel engine (available as Tier 4 Final) • Grinds pallets, stumps, & logs into quality fuel and mulch • Large capacity feed hopper easily handles full-length trees • High-strength, forged steel 40”D x 60”W upturn drum rotor
WHOLE TREES • STORM DEBRIS • SLASH • STUMPS • REGRIND
OUTPRODUCE • OUTPERFORM • OUTLAST CBI • 22 Whittier Street, Newton, New Hampshire 03858 USA • (603) 382-0556 • www.cbi-inc.com
TechReview (continued from page 34)
CW Mill
Bruks Rockwood
The Bruks Mobile Chipper has been a leader in biomass processing for over 60 years in Scandinavia, which means it was born in an environment where hard and softwood biomass has less than a 30 percent moisture content.
The Bruks Drum Chipper has either 2 or 3 full length knives, depending on the application, (i.e. for the production of energy or microchips). There is no introduction of dirt, which is inherent in other chipping systems utilizing skidders. This one machine system has a low operation cost per hour and provides more flexibility since only one machine has to be moved from site-to-site versus 3 to 4 machines. The Bruks Mobile Chipper is available for forwarder and truck configurations. www.bruks.com
Continental Biomass Industries
Compact, yet enormously productive, the CBI ChipMax 484 whole tree chipper focuses on productivity and customer flexibility. The rotor, chipper box, and feed system are the strongest in its class, as this drum chipper provides owners with years of trouble free service. Featuring two rotor options, the CBI 484B can make highquality fuel chips custom sized from 12–25 mm to “microchips” 2–12 mm out of logs up to 24” in diameter. These wood microchips produce a consistent fiber length, reducing the overall cost of producing pellets and improving the function of small boilers
The CBI is available as a portable, track-mounted, or truckmounted drum chipper that can be used at any remote location. Configured as a truck-mounted unit with a hydraulically-operated, 360-degree swing bearing, it is road legal in both width and height for ease of transport. The CBI ChipMax is powered by a CAT C-18, 765 hp engine and features a Parker IQAN control system. It gives machine operators the opportunity to monitor the vitals of the machine for increased performance awareness. www.cbi-inc.com 36
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There are 20 standard models of HogZilla MONSTER grinders, including self-propelled track-driven and self-loading units. These grinders are built in sizes ranging from mid-sized to MASSIVE and can be configured as stationary, fifth wheel portable, track mounted, or as a mounted grapple unit.
HogZilla can handle the tough jobs while providing high production rates. HogZilla Grinders are ideal for waste reduction, recycling, land clearing, construction demolition or any other tough grinding application. From stumps and logs to railroad ties or tires. The HogZilla is valued by operators for its added efficiency, torque, proven production, reliability, visible quality, durability, solid value, and unparalleled service and support. There are currently HogZilla Grinder’s out there with over 30,000 hours. http://www. cwmill.com
Diamond Z Manufacturing
The Diamond Z grinder is one of the premier grinders in the heavy industrial waste reduction equipment industry. These grinders have the ability to process large stumps and logs, while still producing a fine consistent finished product at fast production rates. Diamond Z horizontals are designed for processing brush, yard waste, clearing debris, storm debris, C&D waste, other mixed woody feedstocks, and asphalt shingles into salable products.
The grinders allow operators to more efficiently achieve small particle sizes required for boiler fuel, landscape mulch, animal bedding, and other finished products. As a rule, horizontal grinders better process longer, pre-organized material typically found in land-clearing operations. This is because of the long infeed opening which reduces the need to shorten material significantly before grinding. Machines range from 30,000 to over 160,000 pounds, with horse powers ranging to well beyond 2,000. Diamond Z grinders are transportable and move conveniently and are cost effective even for the smaller jobs. All Diamond Z grinders are offered with Tier 4 Final emission rated engines as well as track, wheel and stationary mounted either diesel or electric powered. www.diamondz.com
DuraTech Industries
The 9564 Horizontal Grinder is equipped with a 48” wide oscillating stacking conveyor swings 40° from side to side and allows the operator to load material into a truck or onto an existing pile. An (continue on page 38)
TechReview (continued from page 36) optional aluminum chute removes ferrous material from the finished product. The 9564 is powered by a 1050 hp Caterpillar electronic diesel engine, housed in an enclosed engine compartment to protect the engine and reduce noise.
It also comes with a PT Tech HPTO-15 self adjusting wet clutch which is controlled by a microprocessor with a built in torque limiter and brake that provide protection for the engine and drive line. The wet clutch is connected to the hammer mill by a 10-groove belt drive. Duratech also offers a complete line of tub grinders. www.duratechindustries.net
Ecoverse Industries (formerly Doppstadt)
In 2015, Doppstadt partnered with Ecoverse Industries, but the quality remains the same. Doppstadt’s DW-Series Slow Speed Shredders shred various materials such as biowaste, C&D, waste wood, tree stumps, MSW, commercial and industry waste, and aggregates. The company uses a single-shaft roller and a nitrogen accumulator, which allows the comb to break away and reposition during operation, preventing uncrushables from damaging the machine and teeth. The DW shredders feature a hydraulic cooling system and fluid coupling power transfer. Options include Bio-Power, a tougher drive
The 9564 horizontal grinder comes equipped with a 64”, 12,100pound hammer mill with 24 hammers, which is fed by a self governing floor apron and feed roller though a 60”x40” feed opening. The high capacity 315 cu. ft. hopper will handle the largest trees and stumps. A rotary self-cleaning screen provides constant air to the engine and radiator while reducing maintenance and providing easy access to the radiator for service. Four hydraulic stabilizer legs provide a steady platform while grinding.
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(continue on page 40)
TechReview (continued from page 38) unit, higher throughput capacity, and an aggressive shredding roller offering 42 teeth (twice the standard 21 teeth). Other available options include a powerful Neodym Magnet for iron separation and a remote control for all main functions, making it easy for one-man operation. These machines are powered by fuel efficient Mercedes Benz diesel engines that provide up to 610hp. Fuel consumption is as low as 11gph depending on the machine and material being fed. www. ecoverse.net
Fecon
The Stumpex is a low speed, high torque stump grinder, creating a safe environment to grind stumps without shutting down streets and sidewalks. It works on any species of wood and bores 20 inches into the ground while cutting feeder roots. The Stumpex can be mounted on backhoes, skid steers (20-42
GPM,) CTL, the Fecon FTX128 and 8-12 ton excavators. With no stump grinder teeth to replace, it is cost effective. The Auger Bit action is designed for safety with slow rotation action (7-16 RPM.) The Stumpex requires minimal maintenance (light daily blade sharpening, grease gearbox every 1000 hours) and is easy to operate. www.fecon.com
Morbark
An important feature of the 3400XT is its 8’4” standard width, making it within the legal transport width in any country, no matter what engine. It accommodates engines from 540 to 800 hp, so it is ideal for a broad range of applications in a wide variety of markets worldwide.
Like all Morbark Hogs, the 3400XT also is available with electric power. The infeed bed is an additional 24 inches longer with sloped sides. This configuration improves operator sight lines for more efficient loading of material. Standard on the 3400XT is a removable infeed chain return floor, which allows excess material to fall away
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TechReview to minimize the wear on the floor, bed chain and inserts, particularly useful in land-clearing or other applications with dirty material. The variable-speed infeed system consists of one 34-inch diameter top compression feed roll; a direct-driven internal planetary drive with no chains and sprockets for lower maintenance, more torque and better durability; and four strands of WDH-120 chain in a staggered configuration. The area between the hood and the engine has been reconfigured to provide an additional 12 inches of working space. The 3400XT is equipped with the Morbark Integrated Control System—or MICS which allows the operator to automatically adjust feed rates and monitor pressures and feed wheel position to maximize production and engine efficiency. Other standard features include an 11 hp air compressor for general maintenance and changing inserts and the self-contained rod puller for changing rods in the hammermill. www.morbark.com
Peterson
Peterson 6310B Drum Chipper is suited for high volume biomass producers who have a wide variety of feed material, from logs up to 36” in diameter, to brush and small feedstock. The 6310B is designed for operations requiring high production and frequent moves between jobs, is track-mounted and weighs 86,000 pounds. The 6310B Drum Chipper is powered by a 1050 hp C27 Caterpillar engine and has an optional Tier IV engine available.
The 6310B drum chipper has two drum configurations, an 8-pocket drum to make standard biomass chips, or a 16-pocket drum to make microchips. An optional grate system has been redesigned to allow for adjustment from a microchip to a 1¼” chip with the same grates. Traditional Babbitt type knife systems are standard equipment, or an optional Key Knife system is available. The chipper utilizes a 50” diameter by 60” wide drum. Other key features include a sloped feed deck for the ease of feeding and wear resistant AR400 wear surfaces on the drum pockets and shell. The feed chain has been upgraded to WDH120 for improved strength and long life. The chip accelerator system adds load density, or throws chips well away from the machine for land clearing operations. www.petersoncorp.com
Rawlings Manufacturing
With over 40 years of experience in the forest and sawmill related industries, Rawlings delivers wood grinding equipment with a reputation for durability, performance and reliability. Rawlings Manufacturing Inc. manufactures and installs custom wood grinding systems. Rawlings offers a complete line up of wood grinders in a full range of sizes and models. Each customer’s operation is unique with its own challenges. With this in mind, the Rawlings design team treats each system specifically to the customer’s operation and specifications. There are a wide variety of available options, such as work platform decks, choice of belt, chain, vibrating in-feed and out-feed conveyors, metal, or magnet protection, product
screening and separation, providing the flexibility to customize the perfect wood grinding system. The HZX Horizontal model is ideal for processing logs, railroad ties, construction , demolition debris and urban wood waste. Horizontal HZX models are available in stationary, portable, diesel or electric-powered units. www.wastewoodhogs.com
Rayco Mfg.Inc.
The RH1754 Track Horizontal Grinder is now available in a self-propelled version that rides on a heavy-duty, steel track undercarriage. This adds another element of versatility to the 240 hp RH1754, making it easier to move the machine around job sites and perform tasks like windrowing material or sorting material into different piles. With low operating costs and versatility to process a wide range of materials, the RH1754 is the economical solution for reducing green waste, pallets, and lumber scraps while making high quality mulch. A variety of tooth and screen options allow operators to tailor the end product.
Despite its compact size, the RH1754 has a wide infeed opening that accepts pallets and bulky material. Easily removable debris screens and reversing fans keep the radiator clear and extend service intervals. A magnetic head pulley on the discharge conveyor sorts out nails and light metals, and the screens can be changed in minutes to minimize set-up time. The towable version is light enough to be easily transported from one job to the next. On tracks it weighs just 20,500 lbs. and is just under eight feet wide, to avoid the need for trailering permits. A wireless radio remote operates each track independently to provide precise control, and two- speed final drives allow for creep speed or high speed travel. www.raycomfg.com (continue on page 42)
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TechReview (continued from page 41)
Rotochopper
Rotochopper, Inc., has introduced several new features to their current equipment lineup. Upgrades include increased horsepower engines, the second-generation RotoLink Remote Monitoring System, and the Generation 2 Colorizer System. “To maximize your margins in your operation, you must not only optimize production rates and mulch quality, but understand the numbers that drive your bottom line,” said Art de St.
belly-band, reversible bottom anvil, and hydraulically driven feed wheels designed with internal hydraulic torque hubs. These hubs are continuously bathed in oil for long life. It features a diesel engine, ranging from 440 hp too 600 hp, coupled to a spread-bearing clutch. The Trelan Model 686-WRC EXTREME (45,000 pounds) is an ideal whole tree chipper in combination with stand-alone flail debarkers for producers requiring the absolute best in quality and consistency in paper chips. Roundwood producers find it a good fit for chipping tops coming from their slasher. The Trelan 686-WRC EXTREME is maneuverable and easily repositioned at the job site, using your in woods skidder. It comes standard with a wireless radio remote control and as an option may be equipped with a curved discharge chute. The Trelan Model 786-WRC EXTREME (55,000 pounds) handles extremely large capacities and high production rates. It comes standard with a 3-knife full mass cutter wheel and can be ordered with a 4-knife or 6-knife cutter wheel, as well. Standard are radio remote control and a hydraulic hand operated hood opener. It can also be equipped with a curved discharge chute that will discharge the chips toward the towing end of the chipper. www.trelan.com
Vermeer Manufacturing Co. Aubin, Rotochopper President/CEO. “Our Generation 2 Colorizer and RotoLink Monitoring Systems allow producers to track and fine tune the important numbers from the control panel, loader cab, or office and work with our factory-direct customer service team to maximize profitability. These systems deliver a holistic view of your operation, and provide the insight needed to proactively grow your business.” Increased horsepower options are available for the B-66 (up to 1,050 hp), B-66 Electric (up to 1,000 hp), and FP-66 (up to 765 hp) in Tier 2 or Tier 4 Final configurations for diesel models through 2017. RotoLink Remote Monitoring Systems allow grinder owners and operators to record, analyze, and adjust critical machine settings in real-time. Track inputs like colorant usage and fuel consumption and work with Rotochopper’s factory-direct Customer Service Team to monitor equipment performance with a direct connection to the machine’s control panel. The second-generation RotoLink program provides customizable notification to multiple contacts when a fault alarm occurs. Rotochopper’s Generation 2 Colorizer’s secondary colorant atomization system provides higher production rates and minimizes waste without compromising color integrity. Colorant application is easily adjusted to match varied feedstocks and mulch specifications. www.rotochopper.com
Trelan Manufacturing
The Trelan Model 646-WRC EXTREME (35,000 pounds) produces fuel chips and has the ability to produce paper chips or microchips as well. It features a 24-volt electrical system and operated by remote control. Standard are 3 full 21” babbited-style knives and counter knives. The unit is also equipped with a replaceable
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The HG6800TX horizontal grinder is designed for large-scale land-clearing contractors to help maximize productivity and efficiency. The feed roller on this machine can climb up to 50” to help tackle the tough material elements.
The new infeed on the HG6800TX was designed with low sidewalls to help the operator more easily load material into the machine. This feature allows larger loads to be dropped on the infeed with less interaction and manipulation of the material. Equipped with the latest technology from Vermeer, the HG6800TX features the patented Series III duplex hard-faced drum. In addition to providing long-lasting durability, maintenance time is decreased with the ability to remove and flip or replace single hammers, as well as being able to externally balance the drum The remote control puts the machine control menu and machine operating information at the user’s fingertips. With the optional Damage Defense system, contractors who deal with contaminated wood can help protect their equipment by reducing the likelihood of major machine damage caused by certain metal contaminants entering the hammermill. The system reacts to the initial contact of metal by reversing the feed system to allow for removal. The HG6800TX also features SmartFeed and the Thrown Object Deflector (TOD). SmartFeed optimizes machine performance and production electronically and allows the operator to focus on loading raw product, and move finished product about the jobsite. The function stops and reverses material from feeding into the hammermill when engine rpm’s drop below efficient operating range. www.vermeer.com TW
brandtused.ca What are you looking for? Searching for used equipment just got a whole lot easier with advanced searches, currency conversion and monthly payment calculations. And every machine is backed by Brandt – the best-trained and committed after sales support team in the business.
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LumberjackCompetition
2017 Lumberjack World Championships A Good Northwest Showing
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he current world record holder at 18:30 seconds in the 90’ Speed Climb, Stirling Hart (North Vancouver, BC), took his first win at the Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward, Wi, in 2010. He won again in 2012 and 2013. It seemed the tall poles and Hart were meant to be together. And then came the divorce. “I got tired of sitting in doctor’s offices,” Hart says. Obviously, Hart had not tired of lumberjack competition. He moved over to the chopping and sawing events at the 58th Lumberjack World Championships. Didn’t climb a single pole. Didn’t need to. And the other chopping and sawing competitors? Let’s just say they had to move over or get moved over. After three days of intense competition, Stirling Hart took first place in the springboard competition (53.75), the men’s standing chop (18.48) and the men’s single buck (13.53). At the end, the Northwest athlete was named the men’s 2017 Tony Wise AllAround Champion. Additional Pacific Northwest and West Coast competitors are worthy of mention. Beginning with the ladies, Andrea FurberCard (Santa Rosa, California) and Denise Ott (Minnesota) placed seventh in the jill & jill double buck while eighth went to the team of Tiffany Baker (Port Orchard, Washington) and Hannah Mast (New York). Furber-Card also took fourth in the Women’s Single Buck. The men’s side saw Jeff Skirvin (Clatskame, Oregon) capture third in the hot saw. In addition to Hart winning the Men’s Standing Chop, Walter Paige (Tollhouse, California) tallied fifth and he took second in the springboard competition. Leo Caudaur (North Vancouver, BC) placed seventh in the men’s single buck. It should also be noted that Emily Christopherson (Portland, Oregon) and Maggie Bulk (Redondo Beach, California) took their turns on floating logs with Christopherson tying for fifth. TW
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Stirling Hart
Maggie Bulk Leo Coudrau, with Trevor Baker wedging
Keynote Speaker – Kathy Abusow, President and CEO of the Sustainable Forest Initiative Inc. Kathy Abusow became President and CEO of SFI Inc. in 2007, the same year that the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® became a fully independent, non-profit organization. SFI plays a central role in strengthening the vital links between sustainable forestry, responsible purchasing and thriving communities. The internationally-recognized SFI Program is governed by a diverse, independent board representing conservation, economic and social interests equally. Since Kathy joined SFI, forests certified to the SFI® Forest Management Standard have grown from 140 million acres to more than a quarter billion acres across public and private lands from Canada’s Boreal to the US South. Added to that are millions more positively influenced by the SFI Fiber Sourcing Standard, which has as a key component the responsible procurement of forest products. However, under Kathy’s
leadership, SFI has become much more than a set of forestry standards, it has become a strong community that engages in conservation projects, youth education and community building initiatives. Kathy Abusow
Kathy launched several signature programs and a number of notable memorandums of understanding. Just a few include: The SFI Conservation and Community Grants Program launched in 2010, which has, together with leveraged funds from partners, invested $7.2 million in forest research in collaboration with conservation and community groups. The SFI Forest Partners Program, established in 2012 with founding partners Time Inc., National Geographic Society, Macmillan and Pearson, works to increase SFI forest management, fiber sourcing and chain-of-custody certification throughout the supply chain. MOUs with Habitat for Humanity International and Habitat for Humanity Canada that are focused on building (OLC continued on page 46)
Thursday, February 22, 2018 — Wheeler Pavilion, 8:30am — Check website for more program details.
(OLC continued from page 45)
sustainable housing, and supporting communities and families. SFI has helped support the Aboriginal Housing Program, and recently brought a diverse team of women volunteers together to support an Aboriginal family in the Ottawa area. The build was dubbed the “Women in Wood Build.” Kathy is a founding member of Nature Canada’s Women for Nature Initiative
— a partnership of 75 women of influence who demonstrate their passion for nature and pass their values on to others to drive change. She also serves on the National Leadership Council for Lift Philanthropy Partners, a Canadian not-for-profit venture philanthropy organization that invests in social purpose organizations that address skills development, literacy and numeracy, and Aboriginal opportunities to help enrich
Business Seminars at a Glance
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n Friday, February 23, the Oregon Logging Conference will present three business seminars. For the full schedule, check www.oregonloggingconference.com
Business Seminar 1: Mass Timber – Revisit CLT
Valerie Johnson, President, DR Johnson Lumber Co., will give updates on the research results that are increasing the interest
Valerie Johnson
in mass timber construction, as well as the current state of the market and thoughts on why this is an exciting time to be in the timber/wood products industry at every level, from the woods to the city.” The session will be moderated by Craig Olson, Weyerhaeuser Columbia Timberlands.
Business Seminar 2: Rebranding An Industry
Loggers have dealt with the repercussions of the general public’s misguided impression of what they do for a living. The tide is shifting! As an industry, we must ride the wave in an effort to shine a positive light on the timber harvesting professions. Time to change how people feel about the work professional loggers do, as they risk their lives to maintain one of the planet’s largest carbon sinks! Wendy Farrand, a training consultant from Limerick, Maine, will be presenting
15th Annual Dessert for Dreams
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lans are already underway for the 15th Annual Desserts for Dreams event, which takes place at the Eugene Hilton during the Oregon Logging Conference (OLC). OLC First Lady Donna Kriege is looking forward to hosting the sweet event, and no doubt there will be plenty of fun activities included. Plan to attend this event on Friday, February 23, 2018. Tickets are $30 per person. OLC First Lady Donna Kriege has close personal ties to St. Charles Hospice. She became involved with St. Charles Hospice first hand when her father came to live with her and was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. “They were extremely helpful and pleasant,” Kriege said, “and they helped through a difficult time.” According to St. Charles Hospice representative Sharon Strohecker, the organizations offers quality hospice care for anyone in need.
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She said a terminal diagnosis may leave patients and their families feeling stressed, overwhelmed or scared, but St. Charles hospice can help. She said the dedicated team of professionals and volunteers provide compassionate care to terminally ill patients
and their families in Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson, north Klamath, Southern Wasco, and southern Wheeler counties. The goal at St. Charles Hospice is to improve patients’ quality of life and address the physical, psychological, social, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their families. St. Charles Hospice is also a proud
TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
the quality of life of vulnerable and at-risk Canadians. Women Building Futures is one such organization that has increased its scale and impact thanks to the efforts of Lift Philanthropy Partners. Kathy also sits on numerous technical and advisory committees and is also a member of the board of the World Forestry Center, and is Chair of the PEFC U.S. Governing Body.
and it will be moderated by Mike McKibbin, Stimson Lumber Co.
Business Seminar 3: Finding Your Next Foreman
Foremen are charged with making decisions every day that directly impact a logging contractor’s business. This presentation will help increase the odds of success when hiring that next foreman. Learn what to look for, and what to avoid before putting that next person in charge. Wendy Farrand, will be presenting and Mike McKibbin, will be moderating.
Wendy Farrand partner of We Honor Veterans, a program that works with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to address the unique needs of veterans. Something new this year will be a shuttle bus from the Lane County Fairgrounds to the Eugene Hilton where Desserts for Dreams will take place. This will provide transportation for ladies who are at the Fairgrounds, and want to attend the event. The shuttle will run between 11:45 a.m. and 12:15 p.m., and then return to the Fairgrounds from the Eugene Hilton at 3 p.m. when Desserts for Dreams concludes. More details will be coming soon! This event includes light luncheon fare as well as desserts, donated by local restaurants and bakeries. Hosted champagne, wine, sparkling cider, coffee and tea are also served. 100 percent of the proceeds will go to this charity. For more information visit www.oregonloggingconference.com or call OLC office 541-686-9191.
Scholarship Benefit Auction
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n Thursday and Friday mornings, February 22 and 23, the OLC Foundation will hold a benefit auction with 100 percent of the proceeds going to support scholarships to help deserving students with their tuition and to play vital roles in our industry’s future. The auctions will be held during breakfast each morning in the Wheeler Pavilion. The OLC Foundation is a 501c3 tax deductible foundation. If you are interested in donating an auction item to this worthy charity, please contact the Oregon Logging Conference Foundation office at (541) 686-9191. Here are just some of the donation so far – and you can visit the OLC website for added items. Thursday, February 22nd
• Truck Seat (sponsor: DSU Peterbuilt) • $1,000 Gift card toward purchase of pickup tires (sponsor: Superior Tire Service) • $5,000 Gift certificate towards purchase of a set of Olosfors tracks (sponsor: Ponsse, Coburg, Oregon) • Wood carving (sponsor: Ryan Anderson, Sculptures in Motion) • Pair of Firestone front truck tires (sponsor: Farwest Tire Factory)
• Youth Bowtech Bow (sponsor: Radiator Supply House & Bowtech Archery) • Pallet of Wood Pellets (sponsor: Bear Mountain Forest Products) • 100ft Reel of OREGON’s “New” 19HX.404 pitch Harvester Saw chain (sponsor: OREGON)
Friday, February 23rd
• Legacy High Back Truck Seat (sponsor: Pape’ Kenworth) • Pair of Michelin front truck tires (sponsor: Farwest Tire Factory) • 24B360VI High Speed Sawhead, with reserve bid, items displayed in Quadco’s inside booth (Sponsor: Quadco Southstar) • 100ft Reel of OREGON’s “New” 19HX.404 pitch Harvester Saw chain (sponsor: OREGON) • Adult Bowtech Bow (sponsor: Radiator
Supply House & Bowtech Archery) • Husqvarna 372 XP with 28-inch bar (sponsor: Pacific Tractor & Equipment)
See What OLC 2018 Has to Offer Check out the Oregon Logging Conference website for all up-to-date information on the show. You will find: • Full Program • Sponsors • Conference Registration • Exhibitors • Log Loader Competition Reg. • Accommodations • Family Day • High School Skills • Wood Carving Event
For Information Call: 541-686-9191 www.oregonloggingconference.com
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Maintainer Expands its Electric-Hydraulic Crane Line
Maintainer Corporation announced the addition of new 16’ electric-hydraulic and hydraulic cranes to its innovative line of service truck cranes. The new EH3516 electrichydraulic crane has a 15,000 foot/ pound crane rating and maximum lift of 3,500 pounds. The crane features a planetary winch, with hoist drum and wire rope located outside of the boom for improved operator visibility. The new cranes are mounted with a universal 14.75” x 14.75” or 11.5” x14.75” bolt pattern, which allows the crane to be added to a variety of truck bodies. The new crane will also be offered in a full hydraulic version. www.maintainer.com
Barko Strong-Arm Grapples
Barko’s new Strong-Arm Grapples provide a highly productive solution for log handling and delimbing applications. Designed to optimize the performance of Barko B-Series loaders — including all trailer/truck-mount, tracked, rough terrain carrier, and stationary loader models — the grapples deliver superior rotator torque, clamping force, and arm speed. The Strong-Arm Grapple lineup consists of three models. The 4250, 4850, and 5250 grapples have maximum openings of 42.0, 48.1, and 52.1 inches, respectively, with each rated for up to 50,000 pounds of lift capacity.
OFFICIAL NOTICE OF PUBLICATION
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION (REQUIRED BY USPS 3526-R) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10: 11: 12: 13: 14:
Title of Publication: TimberWest, Journal of Logging & Sawmilling Publication No. 0248-58 Date of Filing: Sept. 29, 2017 Frequency of issue: Bimonthly Number of issue Published Annually: 6 Annual Subscription Price: $22 U.S., $35 CDN Complete Mailing Address of known office of publication (street, city, county, state, ZIP): 300 Admiral Way, Suite 105, Edmonds, WA 98020, (Snohomish County) Complete mailing address of headquarters or general business office of publisher: 300 Admiral Way, Suite 105, Edmonds, WA 98020 Name and complete mailing address of (Publisher): Sheila Ringdahl, 300 Admiral Way, Suite 105, Edmonds, WA 98020. (Editor): Diane Mettler, PO Box 26, Eatonville, WA 98328 Owner name, complete mailing address: Rob Stanhope, TimberWest Publications, LLC, 211 E. 1st St. North Vancouver, BC V7L 4L2 Known bondholders, mortgages, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None Tax status (purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: Has not changed during preceding 12 months No. Copies of Average No. Publication title: TimberWest, Journal of Logging & Sawmilling Single Issue Copies Each Issue date for circulation data below: July/August 2017 Published Issue During Proceeding
Nearest to
Filing Date 12 Months Extent and nature of circulation A: Total number of copies (net press run)............................................................. 9,970............9,718 B: Paid and/or requested circulation 1. Paid or requested outside-county mail subscriptions.................................... 6,830............6,738 2. Paid in-county subscriptions (including advertisers’ proofs/exchange copies).................................................. 0...................0 3. Sales through dealers, carriers, street vendors counter sales, other non-USPS paid distribution................................................. 0...................0 4. Other classes mailed through the USPS............................................................ 64.................82 C: Total paid and/or requested circulation (sum of 15B, 1, 2, 3 and 4)................... 6,894............6,820 D: Free distribution by mail 1. Outside county nonrequested copies stated on PS form 3541 (include sample copies, requests over 3 years old, Request induced by a premium, bulk sales and requests including association requests, names obtained from business directories, lists and other sources)........................ 2,438............2,373 2. In-county nonrequested copies stated on PS form 3541 (include sample copies, requests over 3 years old, Request induced by a premium, bulk sales and requests including association requests, names obtained from business directories, lists and other sources).................... 0...................0 3. Nonrequested copies distributed through the USPS by other classes of mail (e.g. First-Class Mail, nonrequestor copies mailed in excess of 10% limit mailed at Standard Mail or package services rates)........................ 0...................0 4. Nonrequested copies distributed outside the mail (included pickup stands, trade shows, showrooms and other sources)...................................... 567...............450 E: Total nonrequested distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), and (3))............................ 3,005............2,823 F: Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and e)................................................................ 9,899............9,643 G: Copies not distributed........................................................................................... 71.................75 H: Total (sum of 15f and g)................................................................................... 9,970............9,718 I: Percent Paid and/or requested circulation (15c divided by f times 100)......... 69.64%........ 70.72% 16: Electronic Copy Circulation A: Requested and Paid Electronic Copies................................................................. 169...............186 B: Total Requested and Paid Print Copies (Line 15c) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies................................................. 7,062............7,006 C: Total Requested Copy Distribution (Line 15f) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a)............................... 10,067............9,829 D: Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Both Print & Electronic Copies 16b divided by 16c x 100)............................................................................. 70.14%........ 71.27%
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TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
The grapples offer powerful rotation torque and clamping force. A compact rotator allows for hoses to be contained in a single bundle between the boom and grapple, providing better hose protection. Other features include 360-degree continuous rotation and a fully supported rotator drive pinion gear. And the hydraulic motor is designed to maximize hydraulic flow. www.barko.com
Tigercat Launches RemoteLog
Tigercat is pleased to announce the launch of RemoteLog, the company’s new telematics solution. RemoteLog was designed after extensive field research worldwide, and the result is a simple, robust telematics solution that works even in the most remote locations. Loggers can easily track key machine performance metrics from their desktop or tablet to maximize machine productivity and reduce operating costs. RemoteLog uses a satellite data connection that provides global coverage. Data is automatically updated to secure servers on a regular basis. Data includes: (1) machine location and movements; (2) activity timeline to identify when a machine is idle, operating, shutdown, or refueling; (3) fuel levels and consumption; (4) mechanical performance parameters; and (5) critical machine messages. www.tigercat.com
Wood-Mizer Introduces HR700 Industrial Resaw
Wood-Mizer introduced a large capacity, modular, multi-head HR700 industrial resaw. It is Wood-Mizer’s largest capacity resaw capable of handling up to 15.75” x 15.75” cants. The machine’s modularity makes it easy to expand from the standard two heads to a maximum of six heads. In its maximum configuration, the HR700 converts large cants into six boards and one slab in a single pass. Heavy, powered hold-down rollers stabilize cants on a durable twin-track steel belt conveyor as they are fed through each head during sawing. Power options include: 20 hp per head standard and 30 hp per head optional. Cutting capacities are 15.75” x 15.75” max cant height and width, 12’ max cant length or unlimited with additional tables. It also features one to six-head modular configuration. www.woodmizer.com
Rotochopper Introduces RotoLink 2nd Generation Remote Monitoring System
Rotochopper has introduced the RotoLink 2nd generation remote monitoring system with live connection to the grinder controller and Rotochopper Customer Service. Work in real-time with Rotochopper Customer Support to view machine settings and troubleshoot issues. Using RotoLink, multiple users can work together through live connection on smartphones or computers to monitor and adjust critical machine settings from anywhere in the world. Monitoring capabilities include maintenance life, vibration and bearing temperatures, engine data and production data. Operators set up email and/or text message alarms to alert multiple users immediately when a fault alarm occurs. Easily connect RotoLink and your grinder through cell modem, ethernet or Wi-Fi. Data logged during operation and diagnostics is available to machine owners for the life of the machine. www.rotochopper.com TW
Classified
CALENDAR November 2-4 Tree Care Industry Expo, Columbus, OH 603-314-5380, www.tcia.org November 6-8 108th Pacific Logging Congress Convention Scottsdale, Arizona 503-383-6474, www.pacificloggingcongress.org November 8-10 NAWLA Traders Market, Chicago, IL 800-527-8258, www.nawla.org November 8-10 ExpoCorma 2017, Concepción, Chile 56-688-7978, www.expocorma.cl
AD INDEX BKT TIRES...............................................26 BRANDT USED........................................43 CASCADE ENGINE, KUBOTA ENGINES......39 CASCADE TRADER..................................38 CBI.........................................................35 CYBER-TECH..........................................21 DC EQUIPMENT.......................................27 FEENAUGHTY MACHINERY......................13 GEM CHAIN BAR.....................................18 HYDRAULEX GLOBAL..............................17 JOHN DEERE...........................................15 KOMATSU AMERICA................................33 LBX/BEJAC/TRIAD...................................31 LOG MAX................................................29 MORBARK...............................................25 OLOFSFORS............................................30 PACIFIC LOGGING CONGRESS.................40 PAPÉ MACHINERY/MORBARK..................37 PAPÉ MACHINERY/WAGNER....................11 PETERSON................................................5 PEWAG CHAIN.........................................22 PONSSE..................................................23 QUADCO/SOUTHSTAR...............................2 SENNEBOGEN...........................................9 TIGERCAT...............................................52 US FORESTRY / ROTTNE.........................19 WARATAH...............................................51 WAY MACHINE..........................................8 WHITE MOUNTAIN CHAIN........................12 WPT POWER CORP.................................32
November 15-19 Society of American Foresters National Convention, Albuquerque, NM 301-897-8720, www.safnet.org
January 18-20 Associated Oregon Loggers’ 48th Annual Convention, Eugene, OR 503-364-1330, www.oregonloggers.org
January 16-18 Associated California Loggers 45th Annual Meeting, Reno NV 916-441-7940, www.calog.com
January 15-19 Association of Equipment Distributors (AED) Summit & Condex, Las Vegas, NV 800-388-0650, www.aednet.org
January 17-19 75th Annual Truck Loggers Association Convention, Victoria, BC 604-684-4291, www.tla.ca
January 24 Sawmilling 101: Softwood Milling Operations & Financial Performance, Vancouver, WA 503-226-4562, www.westernforestry.org
January 18 Council on Forest Engineering - Western Meeting, Eugene, OR 503-226-4562, www.westernforestry.org
January 25 Mapping the Course: Timberlands, Forest Products & Fiber Issues Conf., Vancouver, WA 503-226-4562, www.westernforestry.org
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www.forestnet.com September/October 2017 TimberWest
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guest columnist
Community Forests Shaping the Name of Change By Jack Petree
a signed agreement regarding management of the forest, an agreement requiring an economic component to that management.
T
he forest products industry has undergone change in recent decades that is likely only a precursor to even more change in years to come. If all sectors of the industry are to survive and thrive in the future, industry participants will have to adjust to, and help shape, the nature of that change. The burgeoning Community Forest movement is one area loggers, contractors, landowners, and others should look at as providing one way to react to the concerns of both the environmental movement and the public regarding the forest, the changing way in which the larger citizenry views the forest products industry, and the need for a steady supply of harvestable timber to support the future industry’s economy. Community forests are generally publically owned lands placed under the control of a nonprofit, community-based, entity charged with managing those lands for a variety of specific objectives. The objectives are set out in formal agreements prior to the management of the land being entrusted to the controlling entity. Sometimes, privately owned lands are donated or sold to the nonprofit, and sometimes entities like the nation’s tribes establish the forests. Well Planned Harvest, Many Benefits
Increasingly, ongoing harvest is seen as fitting into the spectrum of uses a community forest is dedicated to. Well planned harvest can increase recreational value, preserve habitat, protect the forest from fire, enhance forest health, help fund maintenance, and generally achieve a range of other goals including employment. Recreation, a primary use of forests today, is increasingly living side by side with harvest. In Portland, Oregon, an environmentally oriented nonprofit, Sustainable Northwest, bills itself as being at the “… radical middle of community, economy, and ecology.” The group recently worked with the Oregon legislature to fund, among other things, employment opportunities in small sawmills to turn a habitatdestroying tree, western juniper, into lumber. About two years ago, Sustainable Northwest helped facilitate the formation of the Northwest Community Forest Coalition, a group” . . . focused on supporting 50
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A Healthy Watershed Supports Local Jobs
A compact design allows for optimum production at Harrop-Proctor Community Forest sawmill. the emergence, development, and management of community forests in the Pacific Northwest.” Sustainable Northwest supports the coalition with administration and financial management. Washington’s Mt. Adams Community Forest is an example of the potential for success community forests hold. Beginning in 2011, lands were accumulated to establish the forest. A portion of their vision statement reads, “The Mt. Adams Community Forest (MACF) is a “working forest” managed in exemplary fashion to provide a sustainable flow of wood products to the local economy, maintaining traditional land uses, providing local employment, and exploring other compatible uses of forest land. The traditional uses include timber management, recreation, education, wildlife management, livestock grazing, aesthetics and research.”
Demonstrated Success
A few miles north of Nelson in British Columbia’s interior, the Harrop-Procter Community Co-operative demonstrates the reality the Mt. Adams forest may someday achieve in showing how successfully a community forest can be managed to provide the forest industry, and other industries, jobs even as it meets stringent objectives for a variety of environmental goals. The Harrop-Proctor Community Forest came about in the late decades of the last century. Today the forest is world renowned. In those days, Harrop’s watershed was threatened by plans to log nearly the entire shed. After a long, and sometimes painful, political process the Harrop-Procter Community Forest became a reality when BC turned the forest over to the Co-op with
TimberWest September/October 2017 www.forestnet.com
Today a healthy watershed is managed for a broad variety of attributes, including providing a supply of timber to support the economy of the region. A thin-kerf band sawmill operation, Harrop-Procter Forest Products, is a subsidiary of the Co-op. In supporting 7 to 8 FTE jobs directly, as well as jobs for harvesters, haulers, and others, the company provides the “value-added strategies to expand local employment,” so important to the Harrop-Procter community of 600. Each year about 10,000 cubic meters of logs (about 2,800,000 board feet) are harvested from the 11,300 hectare community forest (roughly 28,000 acres) utilizing carefully planned strategies to minimize disturbance to the land and assure the forest remains fully functional as a watershed. As a measure of sustainability, that works out to one very small tree harvested per year per acre, on average. About one-quarter of those logs are milled into a broad variety of highly sought after products including both rough sawn and smooth-surfaced lumber, trim, fencing and deck boards, timbers for timber framers and others, siding, flooring, and paneling. The balance of the logs are sold to other area sawmills so the entire region benefits from the forest.
A Future for Healthy Forests
For several decades the forest products industry has watched the land base it relies on for raw product be eroded away. The still fledgling but rapidly growing Community Forest movement shows promise as one way to reverse course and, rather than remove public land from potential harvest, release the restrictions on harvest under carefully controlled harvest plans utilizing harvest as a tool to enhance all the amenities a forest is capable of providing a community. Those seeking a healthy future for the forest products industry should participate in the Community Forest discussion. Jack Petree is a writer, advertising consultant, and President of Tradeworld Communications. TW
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CONFIDENCE BY DESIGN. “We typically harvest wood in the two to three tonne piece size and we are doing 500 to 600 tonnes per day. Once we looked into the idea of going purpose-built, it was a no brainer. It performs so much better, the reliability is there, ease of maintenance and the longevity. The 880D is built for the task and it has been a major benefit to the operation.” Colin Wroe Whisker Harvesting 880D logger Roadside processing
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