TimberWest - September/October 2022

September/October 2022

www.forestnet.com

LEVERAGING SUPPORT & NEW TECHNOLOGY Northwoods Forestry Sandpoint, ID

AIR DROP

Aerial Seeding with Drones

TECH REVIEW

Tracked Feller Bunchers

FOCUS ON YARDERS

Part 2 – Yarder Innovations

ON THE COVER Luke Peterson owner of Northwoods Forestry

September/October 2022 Vol. 47 No. 09-10

Leveraging Support & New Technology for Success

6 12

New University of Idaho Program Seeks to Attract Younger Workforce The three new associate degree programs will prepare students for jobs in fire mitigation, forestry operations, and nursery management.

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Air Drop - Aerial Seeding with Drones

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Focus on Yarders

DroneSeed uses advanced technology and monitoring to help landowners meet their reforestation goals.

Second installment about focusing on yarder innovations and developments.

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Tech Review

38

Guest Column

U of I Program Seeks to Attract Younger Workforce

12

A look at the tracked feller bunchers on the market.

Vote: Why the 2022 elections will be critical to our industry’s future

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DEPARTMENTS Page 4.....................................................................In the News Page 26.............................................................Machinery Row Page 28........................................................ Association News Page 36............................................................... New Products Page 37............... Calendar of Events, Subscription/Ad Index

Focus on Yarders

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TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

Air Drop

16 3

IN THE NEWS Lumber Prices Down and Housing Market Slow

Barron’s reported that lumber prices have dropped by more than 60 percent this year, and higher interest rates and inflation will continue to slow demand for single-family homes.

“Home builders have faced an enormous uptick in cancellations over the past several months due to the sharp rise in mortgage rates and the related softening demand for home buying,” says Alexander Snyder, portfolio manager, real estate securities, at CenterSquare Investment Management.

“The trickle down of higher rates is cascading into lower demand for new houses, which leads to lower demand for lumber, which leads to lower prices for lumber.”

The most-active November futures contract for random length lumber settled at $410.80 per thousand board feet on September 26. That is the lowest settlement since June 2020, and prices are down 64 percent year to date, according to Dow Jones Market Data. Prices have lost around 75 percent from the peak price during the Covid-19 pandemic of $1,670.50 on May 7, 2021.

First Mass Timber Carbon Removal Methodology

The Timber Finance Initiative, Green Canopy NODE, South Pole, and Gordian Knot Strategies announced they have joined efforts to create the first mass timber carbon credit methodology. They are developing a globally applicable carbon credit methodology for mass timber construction in Verra’s Verified Carbon Credit Standard (VCS) GHG crediting Program.

The Working Group will bring together

Editor: Diane Mettler, diane@forestnet.com Copy Editor: Beth Szyperski Contributing Editors: Chris Bivins, Dawn Killough, Jack Petree, Nick Smith, Andrea Watts ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Send both OLD and NEW Circulation information to: TimberWest Magazine Attn: Subscriptions P.O. Box 610, Edmonds, WA 98020 Fax: (425) 771-3623 • subscribetw@forestnet.com

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.

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a team of field and technical experts who will develop a concept note to be submitted later this year to Verra’s VCS Program, the world’s leading greenhouse gas program.

The final methodology will be developed by the Timber Finance Initiative and South Pole. A rigorous carbon methodology will help realize the climate value of stored carbon in mass timber construction and help scale mass timber as a negativeemissions technology and low-emissions building material.

Current estimates show that up to 40 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions originate from the built environment.

Furthermore, up to 60 percent of the world’s existing building stocks will be built and rebuilt within the next two decades, laying a tremendous challenge and opportunity to set more sustainable trends in the construction sector. Mass timber has been identified as a renewable and low-emission alternative to concrete and steel.

U.S. Forest Service Launches Criminal Investigation of Mosquito Fire

United States Forest Service officials have opened a criminal investigation into the cause of the Mosquito Fire, according to a new filing by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), reported CapRadio.

In a report to the Security and Exchange Commissions, PG&E officials said that federal investigators seized utility-owned infrastructure — a transmission line and its attached equipment — located near the OxBow Reservoir in Placer County, where the fire started.

The report mentions the initial assessment that the fire started in the area of

the utility’s power line on National Forest System lands and that the forest service is performing a criminal investigation..

The Mosquito Fire started September 6, 2022, and has burned through more than 76,781 acres across both Placer and El Dorado Counties, forcing law enforcement officials to issue evacuation orders, temporarily displacing more than 19,000 people.

Damage assessment reports say at least 78 buildings have been destroyed in both counties.

Forest Service Signs on for Better Forest Management Plan

The United States Forest Service has signed a memorandum of understanding with four entities documenting their focus on forest management in the Middle Truckee River Watershed, reported KOLO 8.

The watershed includes 315,000 acres of land, more than 200,000 of which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. They hope to develop a 10-year vegetation management plan, improve and restore forest health and resilience, reduce the risk of high severity wildfires, protect communities from the impacts of wildfires, protect and secure water supplies and infrastructure, and identify and augment resource gaps to achieve implementation at an increased pace and scale.

The Middle Truckee River Watershed Forest Partnership includes the National Forest Foundation, the Nature Conservancy, Truckee Meadows Water Authority, Truckee River Watershed Council, and the United States Forest Service – Tahoe National Forest.

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TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

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ContractorProfile

Leveraging Support & New Technology for Success

W

ith more than 25 years in the industry, Northwoods Forestry owner Luke Peterson shares his experience.

A Solid Foundation

Luke Peterson grew up in the heart of Idaho logging country and says he started working for the Forest Service straight out of high school. “I was on the timber crew, forestry and layout and sale administration — that’s where I picked up most of my knowledge of the timber industry.” Luke worked with many big-name outfits in the area as a harvest inspector and gained expertise in different types of logging. Interested in learning more, Luke also earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Forestry from Spokane Community College.

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Northwoods Forestry, Sandpoint, Idaho

When asked why he became a logging contractor, Luke jokes, “Well, it isn’t about the money, that’s for sure….my equipment is my retirement!” Jokes aside, Luke saw a need in his community for a contractor who could do it all — from small jobs pulling stumps to larger multi-phase projects. In 2004, Luke purchased a 43hp Montana tractor made by LG with a 3 pt. log winch and a brush grapple on the front and founded Northwoods Forestry.

Luke got his start as an entrepreneur by logging small backyard timber and completing brush cleanup on weekends. By 2006, Luke left the Forest Service to focus full time on his growing business. From the beginning, Northwoods Forestry has specialized in working for private timber owners. While most of the jobs in the early days involved

tree farm management, his work these days is more diverse, and Northwoods Forestry is equipped for anything from hazard tree removal and house site prep to structure demolition and building roads, driveways, and bridges.

Luke’s niche working with private landowners was born out of a desire to increase sustainable yields for his clients, many of whom must meet a yearly board foot harvest target under their forest management plans.

After nearly 20 years of business, Luke is pleased to have repeat customers where more product is removed than the first time the land was logged. “That’s what it’s all about: sustainable yield. Trees and income for the future.” Luke understands that landowners need a contractor who can teach them about their timber stand, no matter the size. Luke

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

ContractorProfile shared that one of his customers was surprised by “how neat and orderly logging is” compared to the negative image of logging being bad for the environment. That’s logging as education in action.

Northwoods Forestry is frequently found hard at work in Northern Idaho’s Bonner County, where the harvested timber is hauled to several mills in the area including Idaho Forest Group, Alta Forest Products, Stimson Lumber, Bell Timber, and McFarland Cascade, as well as a few smaller custom cutting mills. Northwoods Forestry has a strong commitment to their customers and always strives to get the most benefit for landowners.

Support Makes All the Difference

Ken Dutton on left, Brad Williams in center, Luke Peterson on right.

As one of the very first users of the Cypress Robotics Controller, Owner Luke Peterson described it as “an absolute game changer…. “

Northwoods Forestry expanded their equipment fleet in 2009 with the addition of a 70hp M7040 Kubota tractor and shortly afterwards, acquired their first skidder, a 1979 John Deere 540B. Luke approaches his business with the belief that continuous improvement in his equipment and skills results in a better product for his customers. It comes as no surprise, then, that equipment acquisition and upgrades have been a key component of the company’s growth and future expansion plans.

With new equipment, however, comes a steep learning curve and Northwoods

Photo Credits: Kiah Mays, K-ography Photo & Video

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

(continued on page 8)

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ContractorProfile (continued from page 7) Forestry has experienced its fair share of learning along the way, especially with the move to mechanized logging in 2016 when they purchased a 320C Caterpillar Excavator with an old, worn-out Waratah 622B processing head. New to processing, Northwoods Forestry could not get their 622B to run correctly, despite their best efforts. Luke turned to Wayne Cochran, owner of Axis Forestry (a Canadian processor manufacturing company), who is skilled at troubleshooting processors. Luke recalls, “I remember my first conversation with Wayne, and it was mind boggling information. We took that info from Wayne and got our machine off the ground and started making logs. From that moment on Wayne, and the entire Axis Forestry team, have been a wealth of information. They continuously support us in our business, and Wayne has become a good friend in the process.”

Luke credits Northwoods Forestry’s ongoing success to other Idaho businesses such as mobile mechanics Kip Ahner, owner of Grouse Creek Mechanical, and Garrett Powell, as well as the team at Western States Equipment, specifically Clay Young. Luke explained, “These gentlemen are all good at what they do and keep our equipment making logs.”

New Tech Pays Off

Northwoods Forestry has stayed ahead of the curve by being an early adopter of new technology. In the spring of 2019, the company purchased an Axis Forestry 722R rebuilt processor head equipped with a thirdgeneration Cypress Robotics Controller operating system, designed and manufactured by Axis Forestry in Kamloops, British Columbia.

As one of the very first users of the Cypress Robotics Controller, Luke described it as “an absolute game changer…. With the

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Luke Peterson was integral to the further development of the Cypress system by providing feedback and suggestions that led Axis Forestry to significantly improve and redesign the Cypress system resulting in the May 2022 release of the Gen 5 Cypress Controller, which Luke installed on his Axis 722R processor. ease of the operating system and the support provided by Axis, our processing time was considerably faster.” Luke was integral to the further development of the Cypress system by providing feedback and suggestions that led Axis Forestry to significantly improve and redesign the Cypress system resulting in the May 2022 release of the Gen 5 Cypress Controller, which Luke installed on his Axis 722R processor. Luke is pleased that the Gen 5, which he helped develop, works for him as well as other North American loggers who want a system that keeps downtime to a minimum, improves production speed, and doesn’t require a computer degree to accurately use and fix.

Luke shared that after he fully installed the Cypress system in less than eight hours, his team learned the new system very quickly, which got them back to work and productive right away. “In the past few months since the new Gen 5 system has been in place, we have had zero issues, and it has really increased our production.”

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

While Northwoods Forestry is adept at accessing quality support and using new tech, it’s really the in-house team that makes the company special. The family-run business

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

(continue on page 10)

ContractorProfile

Kennie Dunton operates the feller buncher and occasionally runs loader and skidder. (continued from page 8) includes Luke’s wife, Amy Peterson, and daughter-in-law Kacie, who are the rocks of the organization, taking care of all the administrative and contractual work. Luke’s daughter Kiah, who has followed in her parents’ footsteps, started her own photography business, K-ography, and takes incredible photos and videos of the Northwoods Forestry operation.

Joining the family is the very same crew who were hired when Northwoods Forestry first expanded their operations. Kennie Dunton operates the feller buncher and occasionally runs loader and skidder; Brad Williams operates the log loader and skidder; Andy Edmondson operates the skidder; and Sean Hammond completes hand felling on select jobs. Hauling logs (with a smile) for Northwoods Forestry is Paul Berg of Berg Enterprises. Collectively, the team has

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Keeping the same, experienced crew year after year is no easy feat in today’s landscape of labor shortages, which makes Northwoods Forestry’s staffing stability a testament to the positive work environment they have created and maintained over the years. Want to know Luke’s secret? We hear he likes donut deliveries.

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NEW EducationUpdate

Program Seeks to Attract Younger Workforce

By Dawn Killough

A

new set of degree programs at the University of Idaho seeks to attract and educate young workers in the fields of logging and forest management. The three new associate degree programs will prepare students for jobs in fire mitigation, forestry operations, and nursery management. The programs combine online learning with practical experience in the university’s Experimental Forest and Pitkin greenhouse.

“There’s a huge demand for this,” said Steven Shook, associate dean in the College of Natural Resources. “We worked directly with industry to develop these degree programs.”

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“These new associate of science degrees are critical to meeting our land-grant mission,” said Charles Goebel, department head of Forest, Rangeland and Fire Sciences at the University of Idaho. “Students in these programs utilize our unique resources and expertise to help meet the workforce demands of the growing forestry and wildland fire industries.”

While the programs offer education to students just out of high school, they can also help workers already in the industry advance to higher pay and better opportunities.

The hope is that students nationwide will enroll and fill positions at agencies like the U.S. Forest Service, which is actively seeking employees with knowledge of fire and fuel management.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the farmworkers, laborers, crop, nursery, and greenhouse sector will see more than 87,000 job openings annually nationwide. The need for logging workers, conservation scientists, and foresters is projected to grow 7 percent in the next decade.

“Programs like this are ideal for recruiting new fire and fuels managers and educating our current professionals,” said Heath Cota, of the U.S. Forest Service’s workforce development program in Twin Falls.

“Learning to operate logging equipment that can cost a half million dollars requires a lot of skill,” said Shawn Keough,

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

(continued on page 14)

EducationUpdate Forest nursery management and technology

Students will focus on propagation and production of trees, shrubs, and native plants at the university’s Pitkin greenhouse. The program emphasizes practices, technology, and operations that are unique to the North American forest nursery industry. It also includes classes on sales and marketing.

Wildland fuel and fire technology

(continued from page 12) the executive director of the Associated Logging Contractors. “If students can acquire those skills on the University of Idaho Experimental Forest, they will have a knowledge base that can put them ahead of other applicants.”

The university’s Experimental Forest has over 10,000 acres of forestland, as well as close to $1 million in harvesting and skidding equipment. Giving students hands-on knowledge of equipment operations and forest and nursery management will be key to filling the labor gap.

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“We believe our program is uniquely positioned to support the kinds of hands-on workforce development program that many in Idaho’s forest products sector are requesting,” Shook said.

The degree programs will be offered in three specialties.

Forest operations and technology

Students will work among one of the nation’s top forestry programs, gaining handson experience using commercial harvesting equipment and technology. The program also includes classes in ecology, forest policy, administration, and economics.

Students learn from a flexible online program designed to teach them how to be wildland firefighters and fire suppression technicians.

The programs will begin offering classes in the fall of 2022. After completing an associate degree, students can continue their education by completing Idaho’s nationally acclaimed Logger Education and Advance Professionalism (LEAP) program and the Office of Personnel Management Federal Series certification. They may also choose to stay in school to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

For more information about the program, contact the University of Idaho Department of Forest, Rangeland and Fire Sciences.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

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AIR AIRDROP DROP ForestManagement

Aerial Seeding with Drones

By Chris Bivins

A

erial seeding isn’t new, but

DroneSeed takes it to new heights with advanced technology and monitoring to help landowners meet their reforestation goals.

DroneSeed, a company based in Seattle, Washington, is combining drone technology with traditional hand planting to scale reforestation and replacing airplanes with drones. DroneSeed’s process provides more targeted seed drops and higher germination rates than what traditional aerial seeding from planes or helicopters has been able to achieve in the past.

Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation (CCR), a First Nation-owned company near Williams Lake in British Columbia, saw this firsthand when their project involved seeding part of a 128-acre parcel affected by wildfire.

“We were interested in what the company [DroneSeed] was doing. We had the big fires in 2017, and we had a spot to try the new technology,” says Danny Strobbe, forestry superintendent for Tsi Del Del Enterprises.

Using drones to assist in reforestation after fires.

The reforestation was accomplished by distributing DroneSeed’s proprietary seed vessels through their custom heavy-lift drone swarms, supplemented by local CCR field crews who hand deployed seed vessels.

While the actual seeding operation only took about three weeks, the planning process was roughly one year.

Finding the Right Reforestation Solution

Complementary to their aerial seeding services, DroneSeed develops reforestation

plans for their clients.

“We work with landowners to write prescriptions for their reforestation and then execute different types of site prep needed prior to the planting operations,” explains Cassie Meigs, DroneSeed’s Senior Director of Client Solutions. “We take them through that whole process. Many clients don’t know what they need regarding aerial seedlings, while others are more dialed in, so we provide a range of assistance. We work with

One of DroneSeed’s crew keeping the reseeding operation going.

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TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

(continued on page 18)

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ForestManagement

(continued from page 16) landowners on the planting, the post-planting surveys, and then of course the monitoring and everything else that comes after it — a full life cycle of forest regeneration.”

Regarding the CCR project, Danny says, “We used multiple different seeds, but predominantly pine and fir. About the end of May, into June, we started seeing some trees coming up. And then DroneSeed had their research team out. The results are pretty good so far.” DroneSeed compiled a report summary from the data and will return to do a follow-up survey.

“It was surprising how accurate they are,” says Percy Guichon, elected council member for the Tsideldel First Nation and CCR director. “Their [drones] are not low to the ground. They stay above the trees that are still standing. But the [pucks] were landing in the trenches where we disc trenched. It was quite amazing. And then with the monitoring, we get baseline information to determine if we need to put more seeds in next time.”

Specialized Seeding

DroneSeed can provide accurate information to customers because each seed puck is monitored.

“The pucks are boxed and a QR code is attached that gives us exact information on the seed lot used, the configuration of the seed vessel or puck, species, lot numbers, all of which is then put into our software that goes into our custom-built deployer,” explains Cassie.

The deployer monitors each dropped puck, its location, and the total quantity dropped in the area. That information is provided to the client at the end of the project so they can track the success of the replanting based on species and density.

Percy is excited about the new innovations in reforestation. “I think it’s all about

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ForestManagement the collaboration and just being innovative.

We want to manage the land in the best possible way for future generations. “ Danny says that although drones won’t replace traditional hand planting, it’s another option to use in different scenarios where hand planting might not be feasible or seed needs to get on the ground quickly. CCR is already looking at doing another project this fall.

Carbon Offset Sales

Carbon offset sales can help make a project feasible for companies that could otherwise not afford to complete a reforestation project before shrubs or invasive plant species reclaim the landscape. DroneSeed used carbon offsets to help asset investment company Ecotrust Forest Management (EFM) with reforestation of the Henry Creek Project lands burned by the Beachie Creek Fire in California.

“The carbon offset is a way to directly fund the reforestation. A consumer, company, or whoever wants to offset their carbon footprint can buy carbon offsets from DroneSeed, and the revenue from the offsets goes directly back to that reforestation project and benefits that landowner,” explains Bettina Von Hagen, CEO and EFM

Board Chair. “These offsets are all pre-sold, so it actually helps the landowner with the upfront cost of reforestation, which is one of these huge things that landowners are really looking for solutions on.”

Bettina adds, “We’ve been reforesting for two years. There’s been a few passes, both of drone seed pucks, and of hand-planting in the 300-acre area.”

The drones could access steeper, less accessible portions of the property, and the seed pucks contained a broad diversity of seed, including conifers, and hardwoods.

Today seedlings are emerging in the previously burned area.

The carbon financing was tied to the areas EFM voluntarily reforested. And a larger portion of the carbon offsets offered by the Henry Creek site were purchased by Shopify.

DroneSeed’s offsets come with legal protections, with fully funded enforcement mechanisms to ensure the trees will capture carbon for at least 100 years. These offsets are registered with the Carbon Action Reserve (the Reserve), and they work with on-site third-party foresters who track tree growth to assure the promise of the offsets is met for every project.

It All Starts with Seeds

In 2021, as part of its growth and evolution, DroneSeed acquired SilvaSeed, a 130-year-old company that grows millions of seeds a year.

“Direct seeding takes a lot of seed; it’s just how nature does it. So we really saw limitations in the amount of seed available for reforestation, and we knew that we needed to work on that,” says Cassie. “Silvaseed is now the largest private seed bank in the western part of the United States.” Additionally, Silvaseed is a seedling nursery, which the company is also expanding.

DroneSeed works with a number of agencies and landowners to acquire the seed. “We’re focusing on wild collection to get more genetic diversity across different seed zones, elevations, and species. “We look at where the supply is limited, where the demand is high, and where fires are happening. That’s where we focus a lot of our collections.”

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

DroneSeed takes site prep seriously as it is essential for the success of a project. “We

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

(continued on page 20)

19

ForestManagement

Speed

(continued from page 19) come into the project site and survey with high-resolution LIDAR and aerial imagery.

That gives us a complete 3D snapshot of the reforestation location,” explains Cassie. “We map the topography and remaining forest canopy including every standing snag and tree to give us the vital information necessary to write a seeding prescription and create flight missions for aerial deployment.”

Using the survey data, the prescription for seeding and planting is developed. “We focus on the seeding density, as well as the species mix in those small micro-sighting situations.” Specific site conditions are considered for seeding suitability. For instance south-facing slopes, which have more sun exposure, will require a ponderosa pine or other hardy drought-tolerant species. A riparian corridor will be more suited to a western hemlock or a western red cedar.

Using the collected data, the drones are pre-programmed with flight software created by DroneSeed. Cassie says obstacle avoidance is key, as “even a tiny little branch off of a snag can be a drone killer.”

DroneSeed’s custom-built drones can be delivered to a site in as little as a few weeks after a fire. The drones have wingspans of eight feet and weigh approximately 115 pounds with payload that includes the seed enablement technology called the pucks, which are fiber-based, compressed vessels embedded with seeds.

Operated by skilled crews on the ground, the drones require regular charging out in the remote fields. DroneSeed developed a charging truck that is capable of charging multiple batteries simultaneously on-site.

Cassie comments, “We operate like a NASCAR pit crew. A drone will land after it deploys its payload of pucks, and we swap out that payload of pucks, swap out the batteries, and the drone goes up to complete another mission.”

Eyes on the Ground

Because monitoring is an important part of the reseeding process to assure the landowner’s reforestation needs are met, DroneSeed has an in-house team to monitor the success of their projects.

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“We send teams out in the spring to look at the initial germination, and then towards the end of the summer they monitor for seedlings survival and establishment.

Our monitoring team gets down in the duff, looking at how the pucks and seeds are performing,” says Cassie. While the early stages of monitoring are accomplished by the team on the ground taking very detailed data, drones or satellites can be used to monitor when the seedlings get larger, and remote monitoring can continue throughout the lifespan of the forest.

In addition, if it is a carbon offset project, DroneSeed provides a full suite of reforestation and project development services.

“We’re there to support the landowners during reforestation as well as for long-term monitoring,” says Cassie.

“It’s been fun to be part of the evolution of the company,” says Cassie. “I’ve seen DroneSeed grow from an early startup phase — starting with the innovations around creating our heavy-lift drone swarms and seed enablement technology — to seeing the company evolve into a vertically integrated reforestation company.”

Earn a great rate and help fund loans for the logging and timber community.

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20

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

“

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EquipmentProfile

FOCUSon Yarders PART TWO

22

TimberWest Magazine — September/October — www.forestnet.com TimberWest Magazine — July/August 20222022 — www.forestnet.com

O

EquipmentProfile

By Andrea Watts

I

n the July/August 2022 issue,

we invited two manufacturers to share their approach to designing the new yarders that are now available. In Part II we invited two more companies to share their approach to designing yarders that meet today’s industry needs.

VINCE WILBUR TECHNICAL FOREST SOLUTIONS Kelso, Washington Products available – Harvestline mobile yarder with Hawkeye hydraulic grapple carriage

What yarder system is available through Technical Forest Solutions?

The Harvestline yarder is a two-drum interlocked hydraulic yarder purpose-built for grapple yarding, and the winch set also has an interlock disengage so it can be used for gravity logging as well. The yarder was designed in conjunction with the Hawkeye motorized hydraulic grapple, and they share the same control screen to reduce additional displays in the cab.

How does the Harvestline yarder improve workflow?

It improves workflow in several ways.

The Harvestline system is mounted on an excavator base, which enables the operator to take the yarder off road to move the lines to the wood or get better lift. It’s also possible to work off the side of the tracks; an operator can move a few feet to get the end of a log and move right back to the road and start logging again within a few seconds without counter rotating the tracks, which reduces road disturbance.

With its interlocked system, the Harvestline has fast cycle times and superior line control. While it’s possible to gravity log with grapples, interlock grapple yarding has proved more efficient. With interlock capability an operator can downhill log or, in some cases, harvest a draw from a single landing. Because of the interlock, an operator can downhill the far side and uphill the landing side all from one skid road. This reduces road changes and road construction.

Since this system doesn’t use guylines, this reduces crew and exposure to the workers hand-notching stumps. A guyline requires additional time and manpower to make a road change. And these days good stumps are also hard to find. Finally, with a grapple yarder, usually only two guys are needed on the landing: a yarder operator and a tail hold operator versus a typical yarding crew of up to six people.

Can you elaborate on the Hawkeye camera system?

The Hawkeye grapple carriage has three cameras: one looking forward, one looking back, and one looking down. If you only have one camera on your carriage, the single camera is only looking at the ground, and the operator has to go slowly to avoid overshooting the log. The Hawkeye has a camera that’s looking forward so the operator can throw the yarder in third gear and send the carriage out as fast as they want and slow when approaching the log and then switch to the bottom camera for a better view of the grapple. It’s all about shaving seconds off so keeping line speed up will bring in more logs in a day. And with a camera looking up the hill, the operator can also keep the line speed up because he/she can see if the carriage will run into a stump. By not hitting stumps you reduce maintenance on the carriage.

Since the Harvestline mobile yarder was designed for terrain in New Zealand, have there been modifications for Pacific Northwest terrain?

The early versions of Harvestlines used in New Zealand, as well as early models in North America, had interlock-only capabilities; EMS redesigned the Harvestline so it could disengage the interlock because in the Pacific Northwest we have situations where contractors are chasing lift or need to gravity log. Disengaging the interlock and allowing

gravity logging essentially creates a standing skyline mode.

Is it possible for contractors to convert an existing piece of machinery into a mobile yarder?

Yes, the Harvestline yarding system is designed to be installed on an excavator-based machine (carrier), so a potential customer can use an existing carrier in their fleet and convert it to a Harvestline.

How have logging contractors reacted to this technology ?

The contractors who have them are loving the system. The system is fast and efficient, and they can use this system in small, short settings as well as big tower ground because the bucket and stick on the front of the machine provide stability so they can pull really hard without having a guyline. If you factor in the mobility, stability, and no guyline, the Harvestline becomes a very versatile tool.

Can you share any planned future improvements?

Down the line, we’re looking at a little higher speed and possibly more compactness to the machine. And of course, electric grapple carriages are being prototyped. Based on customer feedback, we’re also looking at different grapple designs and configurations.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

(continued on page 24)

The Harvestline system.

23

EquipmentProfile (continued from page 23)

KUSHIAH MCCULLOUGH TIGERCAT Shelton, Washington

Products available: 180 Swing Yarder

Why did Tigercat decide to enter the yarder market?

Tigercat saw a need in the yarder industry for two reasons: First, cable logging contractors are having a hard time finding yarder operators or the specialized crews required to safely operate a conventional yarder. Second is related to safety. Conventional yarding with chokers or mechanical grapples can be dangerous. There has been a big campaign on the West Coast called Boots off the Ground, which has driven the industry into tethering (steep slope winch assist) and being as mechanized as possible. We looked at developing a fully mechanized high-production yarding system with an operating range up to a couple thousand feet.

What are the features of the 180 Swing Yarder?

It’s a four-drum yarder driven with closed loop hydrostatics, so each drum can be operated independently in either direction. The hydrostatic drive system is far more efficient than a chain drive transmission and much easier to operate. It is also more reliable and uses standard hydraulic components that are easy to source and familiar to service technicians. It’s possible to do downhill as well as uphill yarding.

It has a live hydraulically operated boom so an operator can raise and lower the boom at will when either landing a turn or picking up a turn in the brush. We also integrated a two-piece boom, so the boom can be

24

Tigercat 180 Yarder

separated in half to reduce weight in areas where people have weight restrictions.

The 180 has a large footprint, purposebuilt undercarriage with a blade stabilizer in the front. Depending on factors such as the amount of deflection, the soil type, stability of the landing, and the yarding distance, a guyline may not be required, which reduces setup time. Tigercat, however, recommends the use of guylines.

We have a large monitor inside the cab connected to a camera on the carriage, so the operators are able to see exactly what they are doing. A second monitor is a split screen showing the views of two cameras.

One camera points to the top of the boom to show the sheaves, and the other camera shows the drums at the back of the machine.

The yarder has auto return technology and a skyline mapping feature that reduces operator fatigue and reduces turn cycle times.

How has the yarder improved productivity?

The 180 is very productive up to 1,600 feet whereas most yoders and excavator-based yarders are productive up to around 500 feet.

With a live skyline, we can independently control the height of the carriage providing more deflection. This is a big advantage over a running skyline swing yarder. The standing skyline also allows the machine to be productive over greater distances when compared with running skyline equipped machines.

Another big advantage of a ground-up purpose-built carrier is that it allows the machine to operate in a tight landing and narrow roads. The backend of the yarder is angled up in such a manner that it can clear the bank on the other side. It’s also very mobile and easy to move from one point to another.

What grapple is paired with the yarder?

Customers have the choice to use whatever motorized grapple carriage they choose.

All motorized grapple carriage or drop line carriages can integrate into this yarder.

What has been the reaction to the new yarder?

It’s hard for some of the old-school yarder guys to really wrap their heads around what we are doing with this machine because they’re so used to seeing the conventional machines. Yet the interest at the Oregon Logging Conference was through the roof. It was absolutely phenomenal.

We also brought the machine to the Intermountain Logging Conference and had the same reaction at that show.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

THE ORIGINAL

WELCOME TO OUR TERRITORY

Olofsfors is the market leader in bogie tracks for CTL machinery and wheel tracks for skidders and wheeled feller bunchers. Under the brand names, ECO-Tracks and ECO-Wheel Tracks, Olofsfors offers the widest range of track models and linkage systems for various machine configurations and ground conditions. Superior quality, performance and a proven track record for increased productivity and durability.

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MACHINERY ROW CollectiveCrunch Hires Petri Itkonen as Sales Director

CollectiveCrunch, the creator of Linda Forest software solutions that provide forest inventories and climate analyses to global clients, announced it has named Petri Itkonen to the position of Sales Director as it eyes greater growth in the increasingly greenfocused global economy. Itkonen brings 15 years of sales and management experience in Finland’s technology industry, during which he helped scale SaaS (Software as a Service)

companies to enable both national and international growth.

TimberPro Expansion

TimberPro plans to expand its facility, doubling its production capacity while adding training and research facilities.

The company, will add nearly 50,000 square-feet to the plant on Industrial Drive in Shawano, Wisconsin.

“The purpose behind the expansion is to increase production capacity, not only for the

products that we currently build, but we’re also adding new products through product development. This will give us the space to produce new machines to support the industry,” said Douglas Morris, vice president of the Forest Machine Business Division of Komatsu, which owns TimberPro. The company is also adding space for research and development to allow creation of prototypes more quickly. TimberPro currently employs 55 people and has openings for 10 people, and the new space will include more room for worker training.

Fecon Unveils New E-Commerce Site

NO TUBES. ALL VERSATILITY.

ALLIANCE CTL TIRES. Alliance 643 and 644 bring tires bring tubeless construction to the most popular sizes for cut-to-length (CTL) harvesters. Fit on a standard rim, Alliance 643 and 644 tubeless tires eliminate hassles with inner tubes, flaps and valve stems—and deliver outstanding performance and ROI. Ask your tire dealer about Primex and Alliance forestry tires from Yokohama OffHighway Tires, Inc., call (800) 777-9926, or visit yokohama-oht.com.

Alliance 643 is great with bogie tracks!

Fecon LLC has launched an e-commerce site that allows users to purchase spare parts and accessories for their Fecon products anywhere, anytime. This site, coupled with a new facility dedicated entirely to aftermarket parts, will allow faster order fulfilment to keep customers up and running without interruption.

Users can scan a QR code from the serial number plate that links the serial number of the unit to its specific parts manual and other documents in Fecon Connect, allowing them to purchase the correct parts with three-click convenience. Those without access to the QR codes can also use Fecon Connect to find parts by model number, serial number, or part number, with “click and buy” simplicity. Designed with a mobile first approach, the new e-commerce site may be accessed from mobile devices, laptops, or desktops, depending on customer preference. In addition to finding and purchasing components, customers can also track the shipments. This new functionality is available on the recently redesigned Fecon website at www.Fecon.com.

IronCraft Announces New CEO

www.yokohama-oht.com | 800-777-9926 | @yokohamaohta

26

IronCraft LLC, formerly branded Titan Implement, has named Pat Kozlowski as its new CEO replacing retiring Titan Founder Mike Turner. Kozlowski comes from Caterpillar where he served in a variety of managerial roles across compact construction equipment and ground engaging tools, driving continuous growth for attachments through new product development, loyalty programs, and innovative digital strategies and solutions.

He also worked in dealer channel strategy and new product development during his 30-year career there. A transformational change architect, Kozlowski holds BS and MS degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign, and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

ASSOCIATION NEWS

SAF Announces New Professional Credentials

The Society of American Foresters (SAF) has announced two new professional credentials that will be offered beginning in 2023 and 2024 — an urban and community forestry certification and a certification for forest technicians.

The urban and community forestry certification is the result of SAF’s partnership with the California Urban Forests Council.

More than a decade ago, the partners developed a vision to help elevate professionals in the urban and community forestry space to the next level — providing options and opportunities to fulfill the needs of the diverse workforce operating in this sector.

SAF conducted research with SAF members, subject area specialists, and key partners

and stakeholders. Through this research, SAF recognized the opportunity and need to offer a forest technician certification as well.

The Certification Review Board (CRB) — the governing body of SAF’s certification program — will oversee the development of these credentials from eligibility criteria to maintenance requirements to professional standards.

SAF will begin accepting applications for the urban and community forestry credential by the end of 2023 and for the forest technician credential by year-end 2024.

SAF values, recognizes, and will now elevate urban and community forestry professionals and professional forest technicians.

House of Carbon

The USDA reports that the lumber used

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28

in houses may be particularly important when it comes to storing carbon. According to a new Southern Research Station study, the wood used to build and maintain houses will continue to store large amounts of carbon for the next 50 years.

Even after the wood used in buildings reaches the end of its useful life and ends up in a landfill, it does not immediately release its carbon. It continues to store that carbon, retaining its storage capacity for several more decades.

With initial building and repairs combined, one average house can store nearly one hundred metric tons of carbon dioxide.

In the U.S., where more than 90 percent of new single-family homes are built with wood, the stored carbon adds up quickly.

McMorris Rogers and Westerman Visit Northeast Washington

The AFRC reported that in late August, Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) joined Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) in northeast Washington to tour two local mills and the A-Z Project on the Colville National Forest. Westerman, the only professional forester in the U.S. House, serves as the Ranking Republican on the House Natural Resources Committee. McMorris Rodgers serves as the Ranking Republican on the powerful House Energy and Commerce Committee. Both could chair their respective committees if Republicans take control of the House following the mid-term elections in November.

New Western Region Manager for FRA

Lindsay Warness has joined the Forest Resources Association (FRA) as its new Western Region Manager, replacing Vickie Swanton.

Warness grew up with a forester father and has been in the woods all her life. As an adult, she discovered a passion for the timber industry as well as the opportunities and challenges associated with working in the natural resources industry.

Prior to working as the Division Safety, Environmental, and Forest Policy Manager for Woodgrain (aka the Agency Handler), Warness worked as a Forest Policy Analyst for Boise Cascade. During her time there, she helped develop multiple Northeast Oregon collaborative efforts to increase timber supply and maintain the infrastructure in the region. She was also involved at a regional and federal level with the Forest Service influencing policies to ensure proper, scientifically based management in national forests, contributing to economic benefits for the local communities.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

SWIFT, YET POWERFUL The newest member of the Scorpion family seamlessly complements the entire PONSSE harvester range. Developed according to the requests from our customers, PONSSE Scorpion Giant perfectly fills the gap between Scorpion King and Bear in our harvester line-up.

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Tracked Feller Bunchers Barko

Barko Tracked Feller Bunchers are designed with precision and built for serious work. The company consulted experienced forestry professionals on every design feature during the engineering process to create an intuitive, operator-focused feller buncher that increases efficiencies on any jobsite.

Barko chose electrohydraulic controls for smooth functionality, and a dedicated attachment pump delivers optimal performance. The spacious operator cab was created to make an operator’s job better with increased visibility, enhanced lighting, heated and cooled air-ride seat, programmable controls, and a large touchscreen display for superior control.

A 225 hp Cummins QSB6.7 Tier 4 Final diesel engine packs a powerful punch while delivering superior fuel economy to help reduce operating costs. Both models provide exceptional drawbar pull. The 240B is a 50,000-pound class machine with a D5 undercarriage and 7.5-inch chain pitch that offers ground clearance of 26.2 inches and compact track width of 9 feet, 4 inches. The 260B is a 60,000-pound class machine featuring a larger D7A undercarriage with 8-inch chain pitch that offers ground clearance of 29 inches and track width of 11 feet, 1.5 inches, with 700-mm pads.

Barko’s patented forward-sliding cab design, engine gullwing door, and removable access panels make these machines easy to maintain and repair. The tracked feller bunchers feature high-quality components designed to work under the toughest conditions. www.barko.com

ELTEC - Technologies Element

ELTEC offers a full line of feller bunchers, from the 220 to the 410. All boast a heavy-duty leveling system and have been designed to simplify the forester’s work. The system has a larger tilt angle, guaranteeing that the feller buncher works at the right angle, even in extreme forestry conditions.

The ELTEC 220 Series is powered by a highly fuel-efficient Cummins diesel engine and an enhanced hydraulic system. The heart of the hydraulic system is the engine-driven, series-mounted, variable displacement axial piston pumps that provide high flow performance. A fifth dedicated hydraulic pump is added for feller buncher saw head operations.

The heavy-duty forestry boom and arm with dual boom main cylinders of the 30

220 series is designed and built to withstand the lifting and twisting forces of the toughest forestry harvesting operations. Machines in the ELTEC 220 Series are also available in a harvester configuration complete with a long-reach harvester boom and arm and dedicated harvester hydraulic pump.

The ELTEC 410 Series is able to handle a variety of demanding harvesting applications. The boom and stick with two boom cylinders are designed and built to withstand the most difficult forestry operations. A very long wheelbase ensures that the chassis-carrier has better stability, and the boom system allows the machine operator to extend and retract the boom on a horizontal plane smoothly and quickly using a single joystick. Well-designed structures and the highest quality materials ensure durability with excellent capacityto-weight ratio. www.technologieselement.com

John Deere Construction & Forestry

John Deere M-Series tracked feller bunchers are available in six models ranging from the 803M to the 959M. With various improvements over previous models, the increase in horsepower and longer, wider undercarriage provide customers maximum power and stability. Further enhancing the M-Series and solidifying John Deere’s commitment to innovation, these models deliver additional jobsite technology solutions. Within its portfolio of Precision Forestry solutions, John Deere offers improved technological solutions designed to increase overall efficiency and productivity in the woods.

Offering enhanced performance, the M-Series machines are compatible with TimberMatic Maps and TimberManager. One of the key benefits of the software solutions is the ability to plan work that needs to get done in a day.

The map provides the precise location, volume, and species of timber within the network of logging routes. As timber is transported, the operator can mark the map to indicate it has occurred, providing an exact volume count of the timber taken to the landing. This ultimately assists in simplifying planning for trailer transports and the onward movement of timber.

Building upon the technological advancements available, JDLink telematics remotely connects John Deere customers to their equipment through a web-based interface on the JDLink Dashboard or the JDLink mobile app. JDLink provides information on machine data, including location, performance, health, and usage. Machine health data and alerts are critical inputs to improving machine uptime and lowering costs. These features enable operators to view real-time production and location information, which means fewer visits to the jobsite and increased visibility. www.Deere.com

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

(continue on page 32)

Powerful performance for your toughest jobs

Your crews need equipment that can deliver exceptional performance in difficult environments. With its rugged design, high and wide undercarriage, powerful swing motor and ability to withstand high-debris conditions, the PC230F-11 processor is built specifically for the job. A comfortable and quiet cab, too.

• Quick power for productivity: Auto Power Max feature senses changes and reacts with seven-second horsepower bursts.

Learn more

• Refuel less: Additional fuel storage allows you to spend more time working.

• Powerful swing torque: Achieve exceptional reach � up to 29 feet.

• Rest assured: Machine includes KOMTRAX remote equipment monitoring and Komatsu Care maintenance.

ModernMachinery.com 800 332 1617

Idaho | Montana | Oregon | Washington

TechReview (continued from page 30)

TimberPro

Komatsu

Komatsu offers a variety of tracked fellers bunchers — the XT430-3 and XT430L-3, the XT430-5, the XT445L-5, and the XT465L-5. All feature cutting-edge technology, impressive stability, ergonomics, and economy.

The XT430-3 and XT430L-3 boast a modern forestry cab with a state-of-theart control system and superior ergonomics. Combined with multiple boom arm and saw head options, powerful swing torque, tractive effort, and robust undercarriage deliver excellent productivity and reliability.

The 331 HP XT430-5 features gull-wing engine hood service access, increased lift capacity, a left side cab, rugged undercarriage, KOMTRAX telematics, a powerful fuel-efficient engine, and more.

The XT465L-5 has all the same features, with a 58,341 lb-ft swing torque and tractive effort of 75,799 lbf. www.KomatsuForest.us

Tigercat

The Tigercat LX830E is a high-production leveling feller buncher with near-zero tail-swing. Featuring the powerful Tigercat FPT C87 engine and closed loop drive system, the LX830E is well equipped to handle a variety of felling applications on steep slopes.

The powerful lift capacity, tighttuck ER boom geometry, and compact tail-swing make the LX830E the perfect choice for selective felling where minimum site impact is important.

A redesigned engine enclosure provides improved roof access for cleaning debris. A boom slider also reduces debris buildup in hard to reach areas. The clamshell style enclosure and drop-down side platform allow easy access to all sides of the engine.

The updated cab on the LX830E includes a durable, roomy, air ride seat with heating and cooling. The full-length front window and narrow side posts give the operator an excellent view of the tracks and surrounding area. The standard-equipped skyVIEW and rearVIEW camera systems allow the operator to see above and behind the machine.

The Tigercat extreme duty leveling undercarriage is strong and stable, and the closed loop drive system provides the speed and tractive effort for high performance in the most challenging terrain. www.tigercat.com 32

TimberPro’s D-series feller bunchers — from the TN725D to the TL775D were designed for today’s loggers who demand more efficient and reliable equipment to remain profitable. At the heart of every D-series is a Cummins L9 (9-liter) Performance Series Stage 5 engine.

The TimberPro D-Series has been fitted with a new larger cab that has improved visibility out the front of the cab as well as the boom side, and high-output LED lighting will increase night time visibility in both the work area as well as directly under the cab to illuminate the tracks. The last major refinement of the cab is the addition of a digital climate control system to keep the cab temperature steady and comfortable.

The Cummins L9 Performance Series Stage V engine contains an EGR-free (exhaust gas recirculation) architecture and compact Single-Module after-treatment system. The L9 has an increased horsepower and torque rating, while maintaining an almost-zero tail-swing design, and due to smaller emissions components, the machines meet all Tier 4 Final requirements.

The new L9 engine also boasts increased fuel economy and longer maintenance intervals over the previous models that will contribute to a reduced cost of operation and lower overall total cost of ownership. www.timberpro.com

Weiler Forestry

The Weiler B458 is a reduced tail-swing track feller buncher with extended track roller frames and cable-assist hitch.

The B458 utilizes 11 rollers instead of the standard nine and offers an additional 29” of track length, while maximizing tractive effort.

This provides increased stability, operator comfort, and performance.

With the well-matched swing torque, 35” of unobstructed ground clearance, and the ability to cable-assist the machine as needed, the B458 is well suited for all steep slope applications.

The B458 features excellent multi-function capability with dedicated pumps, a new cab that maximizes operator experience, field-proven components, and excellent serviceability.

The spacious cab maximizes operator visibility by providing an open field of view to the work area and upward through a large skylight. An optional 14 LED light package is available for improved productivity in night shift operations, and an optional heated and cooled seat keeps operators comfortable all day long. www.weilerforestry.com

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

With time being so valuable, it is more important than ever to invest in equipment that will save time and money. At Bandit, we pride ourselves by producing tough, reliable, easy to maintain equipment that will serve you on a consistent basis reducing labor and unnecessary downtime. Therefore, allowing you to move on to the next job quicker or enjoy some well-deserved time off.

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4- models available (20” – 30” capacity) 415 – 875 horsepower engine options Select models available with cab and loader Durable Caterpillar track undercarriage

CAB AND LOADER TOWABLE CHIPPERS ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

2-models available (2590 or 3590XL) Rotobec cab and loader Cab swivels with loader for easy operation Eliminates the need for an auxiliary loader

TRELAN DISC-STYLE CHIPPERS ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

2-models available (686 or 786) 800 to 1,050 horsepower engine options Produces a high-quality paper chip ¾”, 7/8” or 1” chip sizes

If you haven’t tried a Bandit unit for your operation, please contact a local Bandit dealer, email marketing@banditchippers.com or visit our website www.banditchippers.com and we will be happy to assist you!

Green Trees Matter

Healthy Forests = Healthy Future

Oregon Logging Conference February 23, 24, & 25, 2023

Lane Events Center & Fairgrounds, Eugene, Oregon www.oregonloggingconference.com

85th Oregon Logging Conference Oregon Logging Conference President Craig Olson invites you to the 85th Annual gathering next year at the Lane Events Center & Fairgrounds in Eugene, OR. The dates are February 23, 24 & 25, 2023. The conference theme is Green Trees Matter. Healthy Forests = Healthy Future, and sets the stage for interesting topics and speakers at the OLC. The Oregon Logging Conference continues to focus on engaging the next generation of loggers, foresters, and resource professionals, succession planning and several other valuable program topics. At the conference we will highlight several programs that are doing just that.

The 5th Annual Future Forestry Workers Career Day, held in conjunction with the OLC will take place February 24, 2023. This event has been very successful in connecting our industry with the next generation workforce.

For more information call 541.686.9191 or visit our website www.oregonloggingconference.com

Craig Olson, 2023 President 34

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

OORREEGGOONN LLOOGGGGI INNGG CCOONNFFEERREENNCCEE

OLC PANELS AND SEMINARS — February 23rd and 24th Washington Forest Practices (2 WFP/ 2 PL credits) Moderator Paul Hadaller, Pacific Fibre Inc. This Seminar will have topics and speakers address forest practices regulation in place today.

Business Seminar 1- Business Advice for Today’s Logging Companies (1 PL credit) Moderator Matt Bliss, Roseburg Resources Chris Duncan, Accountant MNP, BC, Canada Seminar will cover assurance, accounting, and taxes, developing rate model for forestry equipment, consulting on equipment purchase decisions, business and tax plans for real estate development projects.

Business Seminar 2 - Engaging the Next Generation (1 PL credit) Moderator: Rob Vance, Pacific Fibre Co. Two days of panels and seminars will be offered at the 85th Annual Oregon Logging Conference in Eugene, OR. Some sessions topics have been set and others are still being planned.

Pro Logger credits can be earned by attending these seminars and panel discussions. Visit www.oregonloggingconference.com.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2023

“Engaging your Employees”, presented by Rex Lowther, Executive Director, Oregon Future Natural Resources Leaders.

“Recruiting the Future”, presented by Roger Smith, RL Smith Logging Inc. Business Seminar 3 - Succession Planning (1 PL credit) Moderator: Bowdie Dowding, Oregon Dept. of Forestry

Mill Tour - Zip-O-Log Mills Inc. (2 PL credits) Organizer - Jayme Dumford, Thompson Timber Co. Travel to mill site provided. Tour attendance limited. Advance sign-up required.

Attendees will see the next steps for delivered logs.

Dominic Carollo, Carollo Law Group LLC When looking to turn the reigns over to a new generation, succession planning can be the difference between the success or failure of your business.

Hands-on Seminar - Log Roll-out (1PL credit) Moderator Brian Tenbusch, Rosboro

Better Ideas/New Technology in Logging (2 PL credits) Moderator Jeff Wimer, Forestry Consultant

Discussion on Logs from The Labor Day Fire.

Log scaler will discuss the deductions taken for bugs and char.

“Load cells for towers and in shackles”. Presented by Brian Tours.

Your Voice — Your Vote Counts (2 PL credits) Moderator Jim Dudley, Swanson Group Speakers will address regional, state and federal issues and opportunities after the election.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2023

“TPR Industrial will talk about new technology in hardhats”. Presented

by Ted Rees, TPR Industrial.

“New, simplified control system for processing heads.” Presented by Wayne Cochran, Axis Forestry Inc. “Connected Forest - Manage the entire forest supply chain”.

Presented by Pierre Rainville, Trimble Forestry

Oregon Forest Practices (3 FP credits) Moderator Dave Boyd, Associated Oregon Loggers

Hands On Seminar (1 PL credits) - Ponsse Moderator Jacob Steensen, Southport Lumber Co.

This seminar will have topics and speakers addressing forest practice regulations in place today.

Ponsse will present and introduce the latest technology currently available.

Seminar will be presented in Ponsse’s outside exhibit area.

Desserts for Dreams to Benefit Wildland Firefighter Foundation Event: 19th Annual Desserts for Dreams When: Friday, February 24, 2023 Where: Graduate Eugene Time: 12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Wildland Firefighter Foundation

The Wildland Firefighter Foundation will benefit from proceeds raised at the Oregon Logging Conference Desserts for Dreams luncheon.

OLC First Lady Kristi Olson selected the Wildland Firefighter Foundation as the organization to benefit from the luncheon, saying this foundation today is more important than ever. Wildland Firefighter Foundation helps families of firefighters killed in the line of duty and assists injured firefighters and their families.

This foundation was officially established in the spring of 1999 but had originally formed shortly after the Storm King Fire tragedy in 1994.

100% of the luncheon proceeds will be donated to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation.

The Desserts for Dreams event includes a light lunch and desserts donated by local restaurants and bakeries. Champagne, wine, sparkling cider, coffee, and tea are also served.

Tickets are $30 per person.

For more information visit www.oregonloggingconference.com.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

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NEW PRODUCTS

Ponsse Launches Electric Forest Machine Technology

Ponsse and Epec introduced the PONSSE EV1, an electric forest machine technology concept. While the forest machine will be commercially available at a later date, Epec’s technology can already be used in electric or hybrid-electric commercial vehicles and non-road mobile machines.

Ponsse’s technological concept is a peek into the future, paving the way for technological development and sustainable harvesting solutions.

The PONSSE EV1 concept has been developed for forwarders with a 15-tonne load-carrying capacity, the most popular Ponsse forwarder size category. The concept machine features a fully electric powertrain, as well as Epec’s power distribution unit and hybrid control unit. The machine’s powertrain operates fully with battery energy.

Batteries are charged using a range extender, which is a combustion engine at this stage of development. Testing and development are advancing continuously. This technology provides significant improvements in fuel economy in this size category.

Ponsse has been studying and developing new technological solutions for several years.

The PONSSE EV1 concept took its first steps in 2019 when Ponsse and Epec started to investigate responsible power source solutions in line with sustainable development.

This launch of a new technology concept is part of the company’s strategy and a tangible step toward the goal of carbon neutrality. Sustainable development guides all the company’s operations. www.ponsse.com

Waratah Debuts HTH618C Series-III

Waratah Forestry Equipment debuted the HTH618C Series-III, a new generation of its HTH618C harvester head built

for increased productivity, reliability, uptime, and more. With a variety of new features paired with a compact and durable design, this agile thinning head is well-suited for mixed diameters.

The HTH618C Series-III features twin lower delimb arms and a high-performance valve to ensure superior delimbing with agile and responsive log control, tackling a wide range of harvesting jobs. The maximum delimb opening of 660 mm (26 in.) can handle larger stems. Improved cutting performance and tilt control also contribute to increased productivity.

Low-powered base carriers will have improved processing output and productivity with improved feeding performance and feed motor options.

With a new valve that simplifies serviceability, the HTH618C Series-III features improved hose routing, enhanced valve cover assembly, and easier access to make quick work of servicing. Likewise, hose protection helps keep the head running and increases durability. Waratah.com

ABB expands Ability Smart Sensor to General Machinery

The ABB Ability Smart Sensor turns rotating equipment including drives and motors as well as applications such as pumps, into smart, wireless connected assets. This new innovative solution is designed to detect potential asset disturbances and planned maintenance before the reliability, productivity, and safety of machinery are impacted.

The smart sensor fits to the surface of the asset, collecting and transmitting data via smartphone or gateway to a secure cloud service. Advanced algorithms analyze the data to provide real-time insights into the condition and performance of monitored assets. The asset to be monitored is chosen during commissioning. All components of a powertrain can be monitored via one portal, either individually or as part of the complete powertrain.

The ABB Ability Smart Sensor is ideal for application in hazardous areas and harsh environments. The sensor’s enclosure is designed to withstand high vibration levels and protects from total dust ingress (IP66/67).

The sensor is certified for ATEX, IECEx, and NEC 500. https://global.abb/group/en

Fecon FMX28 Bull Hog Mulcher

Fecon introduced the FMX28 Bull Hog Mulcher for compact excavators. Designed for 3.5 to 8-ton compact excavators with hydraulic flows from 12-40 gpm, the FMX28 is optimized for those in the 3.5-to-5-ton range.

This new mulcher model features 14 36

flippable knife tools on a bite-limiting splitring rotor to achieve a 28-inch cutting width.

Aftermarket carbide tools are available for ground engaging applications. Ideal as an entry level vegetation management tool, the FMX28 can replace hand crews and workers wielding chainsaws, making the technology much safer and more productive, especially when working on slopes.

The unique rear throat design ensures that no unprocessed material is left behind, thus maximizing productivity when sweeping along the ground. Capable of mulching overgrowth, underbrush, and small trees up to 5-inch diameter, it is ideal for clearing property lines, pastureland, fencerows, invasive species removal, and more. www.Fecon.com

Mecalac 106MRail

Mecalac offers the 106MRail, the world’s most compact dedicated rail excavator, to the North American market. Compact and versatile, the tracked 106MRail is also highly agile, nimbly driving on and off the rails by lowering or raising the integrated rail gear. It excels at working in light to medium applications as well as tunnels and confined spaces for urban railways, subways, and tramways.

The 10-ton 106MRail is a tracked model based on Mecalac’s MCR crawler skid excavator concept and is designed to be the ultimate utility machine for a variety of service and maintenance tasks, such as fine grading, working with ballast, and ditch cleaning.

With a 75hp engine, it can travel up to 6.2 mph on the ground and 14.3 mph on rails.

The machine’s articulated 2-piece boom with offset provides excellent versatility, offering both maximum reach and compactness. www.mecalac.com/en

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

CALENDAR November 6-10 Pacific Logging Congress - Annual Meeting, Scottsdale, AZ 360-832-1745 www.pacificloggingcongress.org November 10-12 NAWLA Traders Market, Louisville, KY 800-527-8258, www.nawla.org November 10-12 Tree Care Industry Expo, Charlotte, NC 603-314-5380, www.tcia.org

December 8-9 Lumber and Building Materials LBM 2021 Expo, Rhode Island 518-286-1010, www.lbmexpo.com

January 13-17 Western Pallet Association Annual Meeting, Rancho Mirage, CA 360-335-0208, www.westernpallet.org

January 10-12 Association of Equipment Distributors (AED), Summit, Chicago, IL 630-574-0650, www.aednet.org

January 17-19 Associated California Loggers Annual Meeting, Reno NV 916-441-7940, www.californialoggers.com

January 13 Council on Forest Engineering - Western Meeting, Lebanon, OR 503-226-4562, www.westernforestry.org

January 18-20 Truck Loggers Association Annual Convention, Vancouver, BC 604-684-4291, www.tla.ca

AD INDEX COMPANY PG# AGRI-COVER, INC.............................................. 18 AIRBURNERS..................................................... 21 AXIS FORESTRY...................................................2 BANDIT ...........................................................33 CASCADE TRADER / DOOSAN............................14 DC EQUIPMENT / MODERN MACHINERY..........24 DROP MANUFACTURING................................... 10 HAIX BOOTS.......................................................17 HISTORICAL ARMORY.........................................8 HYDRAULEX GLOBAL........................................28 JOHN DEERE.....................................................39 JORAL / LOGGINGENCODERS.COM.................. 19 KOMATSU AMERICA.......................................... 31 LBX / TRIAD MACHINERY / BEJAC.......................9 MORBARK.......................................................... 13 OLOFSFORS.......................................................25 PAPÉ MACHINERY...............................................5 PIERCE PACIFIC................................................. 15 PONSSE ...........................................................29 SENNEBOGEN.................................................... 11 TIGERCAT / TRIAD MACHINERY / BEJAC...........40 TRACTIONLINE / FEENAUGHTY MACHINERY....27 WALLINGFORD’S............................................... 18 WCLA CREDIT UNION........................................20 YOKOHAMA OFF ROAD TIRES/ ALLIANCE.........26

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION (REQUIRED BY USPS 3526-R)

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Title of Publication: TimberWest Publications Publication No. 0248-58 Date of Filing: Sept. 30, 2022 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: Anthony Robinson, TimberWest Publications, LLC, PO Box 86670, 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 Publications Single Issue Copies Each Issue date for circulation data below: July/August 2022 Published Issue During Proceeding

Nearest to

Filing Date 12 Months Extent and nature of circulation A: Total number of copies (net press run)..................................................................10,157............9,598 B: Paid and/or requested circulation 1. Paid or requested outside-county mail subscriptions........................................6,385............6,568 2. Paid in-county subscriptions (including advertisers’ proofs/exchange copies).....................................................0................... 0

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3. Sales through dealers, carriers, street vendors counter sales, other non-USPS paid distribution....................................................0................... 0 4. Other classes mailed through the USPS.............................................................207................214 C: Total paid and/or requested circulation (sum of 15B, 1, 2, 3 and 4)..................... 6,592............ 6,782 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)........................... 3,191............ 2,766 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)........................................325................... 0 E: Total nonrequested distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), and (3))................................ 3,516............ 2,766 F: Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and e).................................................................... 10,108............9,548 G: Copies not distributed................................................................................................49.................50 H: Total (sum of 15f and g)..........................................................................................10,157............9,598 I: Percent Paid and/or requested circulation (15c divided by f times 100)............65.22%..........71.03% 16: Electronic Copy Circulation A: Requested and Paid Electronic Copies.....................................................................289...............296 B: Total Requested and Paid Print Copies (Line 15c) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies...................................................... 6,881.............7,078 C: Total Requested Copy Distribution (Line 15f) + Requested/Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a).................................... 10,397............ 9,844 D: Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Both Print & Electronic Copies 16b divided by 16c x 100).....................................................................................66.18%..........71.90%

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

37

GuestColumnist

Vote: Why the 2022 elections will be critical to our industry’s future

By Nick Smith

E

lection Day is November 8.

By the time you receive this issue of TimberWest Magazine, candidates at all levels of government will be making their final pitches to voters. Elections always matter. As Abraham Lincoln once said, “Elections belong to the people. It’s their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.”

This is no time to turn our backs to the fire. There’s a lot at stake for the forest products industry and the forests and communities where we operate. Here are the candidates and issues to watch as America votes in 2022: The mid-term elections will determine who controls the United States Congress for the remainder of President Joe Biden’s first term. Democrats currently control the entire legislative branch, but by the slimmest of margins. In the U.S. House, Republicans only need to flip five seats to gain a majority in 2023. The U.S. Senate is currently tied 50-50, though Democrats control the chamber thanks to Vice President Kamala Harris’ tie breaking vote.

The President’s party typically loses seats in mid-year elections. And Republicans have been favored throughout the election year due to Biden’s low approval ratings and voters’ frustrations with pocketbook issues such as inflation, high gas prices, and a sagging economy. However, Democratic voters have become highly energized as social issues and former President Donald Trump made news headlines throughout the summer.

What once appeared to be a “red wave” for the GOP has turned into a highly competitive election. Regardless of where you sit in the political spectrum, your vote matters.

It matters because Congress will make decisions on many issues affecting the industry, including timber supplies from lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management. After years of steadily increasing timber outputs under Presidents Bush, Obama, and Trump, outputs have declined during the first two years of Biden’s term. It is likely the Forest Service will fail to reach 3 billion board feet in timber sold this year. It’s worth remembering the agency’s initial timber target for

38

this year (3.4 billion board feet) is just more than half of the harvest levels permitted in current forest plans.

Timber outputs are declining despite record levels of new federal spending on hazardous fuels reduction and other public lands management activities. After years of chronic budget shortfalls, it is unacceptable the Forest Service is doing less management

with more of our taxpayer dollars. Timber outputs from federal lands will be critical in the coming years, especially in the West as wildfires have resulted in generational losses of private timber. There are also projected reductions in timber harvests on state-managed lands in Oregon and Washington state.

Congressional oversight and accountability of the Forest Service and BLM is needed to address this alarming trend.

Congress will also have a say in how the Biden Administration implements its climate change policies and specifically its approach to “old growth and mature forests.”

Anti-forestry groups are exploiting this issue to push the White House to create a massive new land set-aside, similar to the Clintonera Roadless Rule that would restrict timber harvesting and other forest management activities on millions of additional acres of federal lands. As millions of acres burn every year, this would be a disaster for efforts to reduce wildfire risks on the nation’s most fire-prone forests.

It’s worth noting that if Republicans gain a majority in the U.S. House, the chamber’s Natural Resources Committee will likely be chaired by Congressman Bruce Westerman of Arkansas, the only professional forester in the Congress. In recent years Westerman has introduced comprehensive forest management legislation to address the analysis paralysis and anti-forestry litigation that often stymies active management on federal lands. Most recently, he introduced the “No Timber for Tyrants Act” that bans Russian

wood imports and promotes Americanmade wood products.

Of course, there are many other federal issues that affect our industry. The party that controls Congress will determine the fate of public lands bills that seek to create new designated wilderness areas and other arbitrary policies that impact forest management and wildfire mitigation. How the next Congress addresses rising energy prices will be critical to many of our small family-owned businesses that have been squeezed over the past year. So will efforts to address new taxes, new spending, and the nation’s growing $30 trillion debt.

There are many races throughout the West worth watching. With this election, Oregon will gain one additional seat in the U.S. House, and Republicans are hopeful they can win three of the six available seats. The state also has a highly competitive, three-way race for Governor that may impact changes in state forest practice rules and environmental regulations.

Meanwhile, Democrats hope to flip the timber-rich Southwest Washington seat after GOP Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler was defeated in the primary election.

Democratic Congresswoman Kim Schrier may be in danger of losing her seat in the heavily-forested 8th District. Washington may even have a surprisingly close race for U.S. Senate, where longtime Democratic Sen. Patty Murray is facing a spirited challenger in Tiffany Smiley. Elections to the Washington Legislature will also be important as timber issues are expected to be contentious during the next session.

Campaign season is the one time every two years that politicians come to us.

Challenge the candidates on the issues and hold the incumbents accountable for their votes. Make sure to educate yourself, vote, and be sure your friends, family, and coworkers do the same. The election belongs to us, it is our decision, and we can’t afford to turn our backs as our country — and our industry — face many challenges now and into the future.

Nick Smith is Executive Director of Healthy Forests, Healthy Communities and provides public affairs services to the American Forest Resource Council in Portland, Oregon.

TimberWest Magazine — September/October 2022 — www.forestnet.com

# More brains to leverage the brawn. Intelligent Boom Control. Only from John Deere.

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