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A Hatton-Brown Publication Co-Publisher David H. Ramsey Co-Publisher David (DK) Knight Chief Operating Officer Dianne C. Sullivan PUBLISHING OFFICE Street Address: 225 Hanrick Street Montgomery, AL 36104-3317 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2268 Montgomery, AL 36102-2268 Telephone (334) 834-1170 Fax 334-834-4525
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Vol. 65, No. 6: Issue 665
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017
OurCover Young Zack Myers, owner of Select Timber, Inc., Cleveland, NC, feels good about his logging future, having added a second crew and newer machines a year ago and more recently experiencing an improving market. He is working his way toward upgrading more of his equipment lineup. Story begins on page PAGE 10. (Zack Myers photo)
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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Bridget DeVane 334-699-7837 bdevane7@hotmail.com Timber Harvesting & Wood Fiber Operations (ISSN 21542333) is published 6 times annually (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, November/December issues are combined) by HattonBrown Publishers, Inc., 225 Hanrick St., Montgomery, AL 36104. Subscriptions are free to U.S. logging, pulpwood and chipping contractors and their supervisors; managers and supervisors of corporate-owned harvesting operations; wood suppliers; timber buyers; businesses involved in land grooming and/or land clearing, wood refuse grinding and right-of-way maintenance; wood procurement and land management officials; industrial forestry purchasing agents; wholesale and retail forest equipment representatives and forest/logging association personnel. All non-qualified U.S. subscriptions are $50 annually; $60 in Canada; $95 (airmail) in all other countries (U.S. funds). Single copies, $5 each; special issues, $20 (U.S. funds). Subscription Inquiries— TOLL-FREE 800-669-5613; Fax 888-611-4525. Go to www.timberharvesting.com and click on the subscribe button to subscribe/renew via the web. All advertisements for Timber Harvesting magazine are accepted and published by Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. with the understanding that the advertiser and/or advertising agency are authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The advertiser and/or advertising agency will defend, indemnify and hold Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. harmless from and against any loss, expenses, or other liability resulting from any claims or lawsuits for libel violations or right of privacy or publicity, plagiarism, copyright or trademark infringement and any other claims or lawsuits that may arise out of publication of such advertisement. Hatton-Brown Publishers, Inc. neither endorses nor makes any representation or guarantee as to the quality of goods and services advertised in Timber Harvesting & Wood Fiber Operations. Copyright ® 2017. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Periodicals postage paid at Montgomery, Ala. and at additional mailing offices. Printed in USA.
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24 Big Trees, Tough Men: Historic Photo Essay
26 Clinton Cook Prevails,
Expands Minnesota Business
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Annual ALC Meeting In Natchez: Intriguing, Revealing, Hospitable
the form of attractive jackets. I was privileged to take the other one home.
From my perspective, the annual meeting of the American Loggers Council (ALC) in late September was a grand slam event. The setting of the 301-year-old city of Natchez, Miss. had lots of appeal, given its history, architecture, measured pace, dining choices, brew pubs, and more. The weather was also very pleasant and the program was timely and informative, but it was the people involved who made the meeting one I’ll long remember. It was heartwarming to reconnect with established friends and to initiate new friendships. Included in the former category were Joe and Marion Allen, Folkston, Ga.; Dillon and Lillian Stratton, St. Johns, Fla., and David and Cheryl Russell, New Market, Ala. Joe formerly led the Southeastern Wood Producers Assn. and most recently retired from Caterpillar; Dillon has pulled back from his logging business, giving more responsibility to his son, Dillon III; and Cheryl formerly served as executive vice president of the ALC. She and David recently moved to Alabama from Maine to be close to their daughter, granddaughter and son-in-law. Hosted by the Mississippi Loggers Assn. (MLA), the meeting was planned and orchestrated by ALC executive vice president Danny Dructor; outgoing ALC president Ken Martin and his wife, Sandy; and Cecil Johnson, MLA executive director, and his wife, Peggy. Others doing their part were MLA staffers
The meeting was the culmination of significant accomplishments the ALC realized in the previous 12 months, according to Danny Dructor. Among other things, its Spring Fly-In for Capitol Hill visits drew record participation to push four primary issues covered in the Future Logging Careers Act, Resilient Federal Forests Act, Right to Haul Act, and ildfire unding Act. or the first time, it received support for the Right to Haul Act from the Forest Resources Assn. Moreover, it has established excellent working relationships with many federal offices and agencies and colla orated with the Biomass Power Assn. in promoting markets for wood biomass. The organization is an integral part of the TEAM Safe Trucking (TST) initiative that seeks to drive down traffic accidents through systematic driver training and lower CSA scores. Founded in 2015, TST rolled out its first driver training module during the ALC meeting. ALC’s board earlier this year voted to fund the revitalization of its Master Logger Certification program, elieving that it has the ‘branding’ potential to help take timber harvesting to a higher level of professionalism and to help gain public understanding of the role loggers play in sustainable forest management. Further, the group has effectively expanded its communications network through social media, an electronic newsletter, and its web site, and by greater participation in numerous trade shows. If you are not that familiar with the ALC and its structure and its work, I encourage you to visit amloggers.com or call Dructor at 409-625-0206. Additional members and sponsors are always welcome. If you have never been to an ALC annual meeting, consider doing so next year. It will be held October 11-13 at Seaside, Oregon.
Oversight Rectified In listing previous TH Logging Business of the Year honorees in my September-October column, I somehow omitted Low Country Forest Products Inc., Georgetown, SC (2004). I regret this embarrassing oversight and am happy to set the record straight. 4
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ALC: A Great Year
Stacy enefield and Celia Holloman; Brad, Brent and Shelby Martin; and John Auel of Mississippi State University. Sandy and Ken secured about $15,000 in donations—a record for an ALC “presidential team”— from local and state sources to help offset meeting costs. Some 200 loggers/spouses/children, association leaders and service or equipment suppliers registered for the event. Suppliers staffed more than a dozen tabletop booths and displayed roughly $3 million in equipment and trucks. ALC’s customary auction generated almost $30,000 in support funds, and this year the group’s board decided to donate half the proceeds to ongoing storm ood relief efforts along the Texas and Louisiana coasts. For more details, see David Abbott’s story beginning on page 22.
Timber Harvesting LBOY At the concluding banquet, Gerry kola officially accepted the Timber Harvesting 2017 Logging Business of the Year Award. Gerry and wife, Capella, own G. Ikola Inc. of McCall, Id. and operate the company with their children, Erica, Gerry Jr., and Gabe, and more than 20 other employees. They were very excited about the honor and were taken with the outpouring of Southern hospitality they e perienced during their first trip to the South. Jerry also seemed to be impressed with the work of the ALC. Little did the TH editorial staff know that months ago, when it decided to honor the Ikolas, that its action would contribute to a clean sweep for Idaho in awards presented during the ALC event. Tim Christopherson, owner of DABCO, Inc., Kamiah, Id., was honored as ALC’s Logger Activist of the Year, and Shawn Keough, executive director of Associated Logging Contractors-Idaho, received one of two President’s Awards, which took
Davis Island Tour The logging tour option blended with the ALC meeting this year was much more than a logging tour, thanks to Ken
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MyTake
a yr lm Pa
Martin. Ken wanted to put tonet, a small portion of the then M is gether something different, peninsula was purchased in si ss ip Davis Bend pi and he did just that. 1818 by Joseph Davis, who deRi ve 1818-1867 r Ken approached Conner veloped Hurricane Plantation House, a principal in Natand reportedly worked to create chez-based Good Hope Land a different type of slave comHurricane and Timber Management, munity. One difference was that about arranging a visit to Davis he allowed slaves to retain Road To Vicksb Island, a mostly timbered Missome of any money they may urg Brierfield sissippi River island consisting have earned. In the 1830s he of roughly 30,000 acres, the gave some adjoining property, actual size depending on the called rierfield lantation, to level of the river. Good Hope his younger brother, Jefferson is a big player in the timber Davis, who grew cotton on the business in Mississippi, Louisiland and later went on to beana, and Arkansas. It buys, come president of the ConfedThe river flowed around the peninsula for decades. markets and manages timber eracy. and deals with numerous logAfter the Civil War ended ging contractors in getting it and while Jeff Davis was in Davis Island harvested and delivered to varprison, Joseph Davis turned Bo Today un ious markets. both plantations over to fordr yo ge d fO Having one or more logmer slave Benjamin MontrE ld Ri ging crews on the island is gomery, who had managed ve rB ed routine for the company. The them for many years. Joe Hurricane contractor who greeted scores Davis held a $300,000 mortof ALC visitors this day was gage on the property, which Brierfield Chip Sullivan, owner of BLC Montgomery and other freedLogging, Tallulah, La. men successfully worked for M Located some 20 miles several years. They went aniss iss ip southwest of Vicksburg, the other $100,000 in debt to buy pi Ri ve r largest part of the island is sitan adjoining plantation from uated in Warren County, its bankrupt owner. Miss., and west of the river’s ut years of fighting threatA flood caused the river to change its course in the 1860s. main course, but a smaller part ening ood waters, along with belongs to Madison Parish, hard economic times and a deLa. This part is separated from pressed cotton market, took the parish by the part that betheir toll, and the younger forlongs to Warren County. This mer slaves and their descenoddity was caused by a shift in dants moved away after Montthe river course in the 1860s gomery died in 1877. that changed what was forA year later Jeff Davis remally known as Davis Bend, a gained possession of rierfield peninsula that consisted of Plantation from his brother’s 11,000 acres of rich bottomheirs but he never lived there land, to a larger island accessiagain. He and other family ble only by water. The main members leased the land to part of the river is located to tenant farmers with marginal the east and south of the issuccess, but this practice all but land; a relatively narrow artery ended with the Great Missisows around the island to the sippi Flood of 1927, which inSatellite image of Davis Island today (Map data: Google, DigitalGlobe) west, south and east. undated almost 30,000 square After arriving by bus, visimiles. As a result of this ood, ruins and lakes before arriving at the tors hopped on pickup-pulled trailers river levees were raised to a height of 60 provided by Good Hope and crossed the BLC landing. There, Caterpillar and ft., leaving Davis Island susceptible to artery by barge. The procession traveled John Deere machines were handling even more fre uent and severe ooding. slowly through both open and heavily various hardwood species, and most of The Davis family sold the land in 1953. forested areas, stirring up thick clouds of the trees were yielding logs at least 18 There are no crop or cattle activities inches in diameter on the little end. dust at times. Many of the native pecan on the island today and it has basically Davis Island has a history much more trees visible were big and tall and some become a hunting retreat for the wellvines were almost large enough to be interesting than the hunting, fishing and to-do. Only one person lives there year classified as pulpwood. The caravan timber activities that distinguish it today. ‘round and most all structures are built TH stopped a few times to take in building According to reports found on the Intersome 10 ft. above the fertile soil. Is
Old River Bend
Original Ri ve
Hurricane Isla nd
nd la
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NewsLines Proposed Pellet Mill Receives Air Permit Bord na Móna, an Ireland power generation provider and renewable raw material resource supplier, has received an Air Quality Permit from the Environmental Protection Div. of the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resource for the construction and operation of an industrial wood pellet manufacturing facility in Washington (Wilkes County), Ga. The $80 million plant, which would produce at least 300,000 metric tons annually, would include 10 pellet machines, two pellet coolers, three green hammermills, three dry hammermills, a natural gas fired dou le duct urner and natural gas fired rotary drum dryer, along with a regenerative thermal oxidizer for VOC air emissions control, according to the permit. Bord na Móna says the project could be operational within two years. Bord na Móna has traditionally relied heavily on peat for its raw material in its power generation infrastructure in Ireland, but is moving away from its core peat business in favor of woody biomass. Chairman John Horgan commented, “We have made progress on the establishment of a wood pellet plant in the USA. This is an integral part of our plan to ensure a continued high quality supply of biomass to our own Edenderry power station and the Lough Ree and West Offaly power stations owned by ESP.” Managing Director Mike Quinn says the Georgia site was chosen due to the experienced labor force in the area and the availability of raw material.
Commerce Dept. Says Canada Owes U.S.
U.S. Dept. of Commerce announced the affirmative final determinations of the antidumping duty (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations of imports of softwood lumber from Canada. “While I am disappointed that a negotiated agreement could not be made between domestic and Canadian softwood producers, the United States is committed to free, fair and reciprocal trade with Canada,” said Secretary Wilbur Ross. “This decision is based on a full and unbiased review of the facts in an open and transparent pro8
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cess that defends American workers and businesses from unfair trade practices.” The Commerce Dept. determined that exporters from Canada have sold softwood lumber to the U.S. at 3.20% to 8.89% less than fair value. Commerce also determined that Canada is providing unfair subsidies to its producers of softwood lumber at rates from 3.34% to 18.19%. Commerce has instructed the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to prepare to collect cash deposits from importers of softwood lumber from Canada ased on the final rates. The International Trade Commission must now make its final determination, scheduled in December. If ITC agrees with Commerce, the Commerce duties collection process will proceed; if ITC rules there is no injury, there will be no penalty or duties collection. In 2016, imports of softwood lumber from Canada were valued at an estimated $5.66 billion. The petition was filed on ehalf of the Committee Overseeing Action for Lumber International Trade Investigations or Negotiations (COALITION), whose members include: U.S. Lumber Coalition, Inc. (DC), Collum’s Lumber Products, L.L.C. (SC), Hankins, Inc. (MS), Potlatch Corporation (WA), Rex Lumber Co. (FL), Seneca Sawmill Co. O , Sierra acific ndustries (CA), Stimson Lumber Co. (OR), Swanson Group (OR), Weyerhaeuser Co. (WA), Carpenters Industrial Council (OR), Giustina Land and Timber Co. (OR), and Sullivan Forestry Consultants, Inc. (GA).
MSU Forestry Grad Is New FS Chief
A Mississippi State University forestry graduate and most recently the regional forester for the Southern Region of the U.S. Forest Service is the new Forest Service Chief. Tony Tooke has worked for the Forest Service since he was 18 and for a total service of 37 years. Tooke succeeds Tom Tidwell who retired in August after a 40-year career with the agency. Tooke was responsible for 14 national forests in his recent position. He was previously associate deputy chief for the National Forest System and was deputy forest supervisor.
Tooke grew up on a small farm in Detroit, Ala. He earned a bachelor’s degree in forestry from Mississippi State University.
GP Plans To Build Sawmill In Talladega
eorgia- acific reports that it plans to build a $100 million sawmill in Talladega, Ala. at the site of a plywood plant that GP closed in 2008. Construction of the 300,000 sq. ft. operation is scheduled to begin immediately with an anticipated startup in late 2018. The Talladega sawmill is the first of several new sawmills GP may construct in in the South. The mill is expected to produce 230MMBF annually, bringing in 150 log trucks daily, with plans to expand to 300MMBF. The plant will employ more than 100 and generate an estimated $5 million in annual payroll, according to GP. “The availability of talent and natural resources makes Talladega an ideal site for this new lumber production facility,” says Fritz Mason, vice president and general manager, Georgia- acific Lum er. GP had operated the plywood mill in Talladega for more than 30 years. This new facility is the first of several we have in our current plan,” Mason adds. “The demand for lumber continues to improve as the housing market recovers, so we are evaluating similar investments in Georgia, Texas and Mississippi.”
Roseburg Purchases Timberland In South
Roseburg has acquired 158,000 acres of timberland in the Southeastern U.S. from Forest Investment Associates (FIA). The timberland is located around Roanoke Rapids, largely within the coastal region of North Carolina and southeastern Virginia. Roseburg currently owns and manages nearly 600,000 acres of timberland in the Northwest U.S. “This acquisition advances Roseburg’s planned expansion into the Southeastern U.S.,” Roseburg CEO Grady Mulbery says. “The region’s welcoming business environment and potential for growth also factored into our decision to add the property to our portfolio.”
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It’s Working Well For Zack Myers Young North Carolinian started out in 2010, expanded six years later. DAVIDAbbott
Z
ack Myers grew up around a family-owned hardwood sawmill started by his grandfather and later operated by his father and uncle. The family eventually added logging crews to supply the mill, and the young Myers gravitated toward working in the woods with his uncle, Butch Myers. In 2010 he started his logging company, Select Timber, Inc., based in Cleveland, NC, located about halfway between Statesville and Salisbury. He made do with well-worn old machines
he’d inherited from his grandfather. By 2014, he had upgraded to somewhat newer equipment, and in late 2016, the fourth generation logger, now 27, added a second crew and several new machines. The growth isn’t too surprising, given the young logger’s attitude. The current political and economic climate, since the last election, has Myers feeling generally optimistic about the direction of the industry, and of the country as a whole. “Markets
Tigercat 724D remains the cutting mainstay on original crew. Zack Myers, inset, feels good about his future. 10
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are improving, and people aren’t as afraid to spend money,” he points out. To his way of thinking, this is a good time to be a logger.
Supply, Demand The original Select Timber crew works primarily with McDowell Lumber and Pallet Co. in Asheboro, NC, while the new crew works with Moorhead Bros., Inc. (MBI) in Blacksburg, SC. Though based in South Carolina, MBI is a land clearing company that does a lot of large commercial development and pipeline rights-of-way in Charlotte and surrounding areas. MBI contracts Select Timber to remove the timber before their crews come in to remove stumps, grind debris and prep tracts. In fact, it was in part the opportunity with MBI that prompted Myers to start the second crew. “We pile brush for them and we have been working with them for a while so we have the feel for how they want it.” Myers also buys some local tracts on his own when he can. This helps morale by keeping the crews closer to home from time to time. To that end, Select Timber advertises in two local newspapers about buying timber and sponsors menus in some local restaurants. The MBI tracts are essentially the same year-round, with no significant distinction between summer and winter jobs. “They put a construction entrance in, put lots of rock down and you aren’t too far off the road. You go after it no matter what time of the year it is,” Myers explains. “But they generally don’t put buildings on top of swamps, so they have good solid ground.” On the McDowell jobs they go after wet weather tracts in the summer and hold jobs closer to the road and on better ground for the winter. McDowell forester Josh Daniel works closely with Myers. Typical tract size is 30-50 acres. “In my area there just aren’t the big 100-acre tracts like there used to be,” Myers says. Even so, the McDowell crew was working a 90acre job near Winston-Salem in late October. Myers predicted it would take them three or four months to complete it, depending on weather. McDowell supplies mats and gravel on their jobs and takes care of any stream crossings. This crew averages 30 loads a week, doing mostly select-cuts. The MBI crew, meanwhile, is a bit of a different story. It averages 10 loads a day and works clear-cut jobs Foremost Authority For Professional Loggers
Two new machines Myers added included a John Deere 843L feller-buncher and a JD 848L skidder. His Deere dealer is James River Equipment. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 11
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from 10-40 acres. The goal is to get the job done and get out of the way as quickly as possible so MBI can move in and get started on the rest of the project. “It is organized chaos,” Myers says. “That is what I like to call logging.” Average haul distance is 50 miles, with the longest hauls 100 miles. The crews send hardwood pulpwood to Louisiana acific in oaring iver, NC, pine pulpwood to Weyerhaeuser in Elkin, NC and hardwood logs to McDowell. Pine logs and pallet material go to various markets, depending on price. The hardwood pulp markets were terrible just a few months ago, according to Myers, but he says everything seems to be going well right now. “The markets are actually good,” he says. “It could change tomorrow, but everything seems to be going well for us right now.” Not to get political, but Myers is convinced that at least some of the credit belongs to the man at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. “I think Trump is doing things for the country and that’s why things are improving and we are rolling. It might not be in logging specifically, ut it might trickle down. really think President Trump has helped the housing market. I think he is turning the country around and making things happen.” egardless, though, whether the markets go up or down, Myers approaches the job the same way. “We just get up every day and go out there to try to make a dollar.”
The Equipment Angle
When he set up his second crew, Myers equipped it with newer machines: a ’17 John Deere 848L skidder, ’17 Deere 843L feller-buncher and ’15 Caterpillar 579C loader. He kept the same machines on his original crew: a ’13 John Deere 648H skidder, ’08 Prentice 2410 loader, ’05 Tigercat 724D feller-buncher and ’03 Tigercat 630B skidder. Myers also has a vintage 550G John Deere dozer, which oats as needed etween the crews. “I am a young logger and just getting now to the point that I can afford to buy newer stuff, but I thoroughly believe in keeping newer equipment,” Myers asserts. “It presents a better image to people and you can’t make money with a machine that you have to work on as much as you run. We do some of that because we have to on some older stuff, ut firmly elieve in keeping newer equipment if you can. It gets to a point where you’re not doing anything but pumping money into something that’s dying. I prefer to spend my time logging.” Myers turns to John Deere and a few local anks for financing, something that comes easier now than it used to. “I have gotten over that hump but it took me a little while,” he reects. hen started out it was harder for sure. For a logger, especially if you’re trying to start out, it is very hard to find someone to finance old equipment. They start out on a high interest rate. That’s why I love John Deere. They have helped me out a tremendous amount.”
Eventually, Myers plans to have nothing but John Deere green on his crews. For him, that’s not a knock on the other manufacturers, but a testament to the strength of his relationship with dealer ames iver uipment in Charlotte, and specifically with salesman onnie ath one. e can t say enough about them. “They stand behind the equipment,” he notes. “I can call them any time and they are there, and they bend over backwards to help you. They are easy to get along with and on point in the service department.” He’s bought other machines from Carolina Cat in Troy and from individuals. ames iver helps with service on the newer Deere machines, which are still under warranty. They come equipped with JDLink telematics. “It’s great,” Myers says. “I think it is worth keeping because they will call and tell you if a skidder is running hot or there is an air restriction or problem with the fuel line. They will let you know if anything is wrong, even if maybe the operator is running it too hard and might not notice the code light come up. ames iver also takes routine oil samples. “The newer stuff is so costly to repair that we try to stay on top of the oil samples. Also, when we trade it in, ames iver has the records to show what all was done.” For maintenance on the older machines, Select Timber has a small shop and a full time mechanic, Juan Trajillio. e do a lot of work on stuff in the field without having to move equipment if we can help it,” Myers says. He also hires
Myers often harvests some very nice hardwood. He had this trailer painted pink in honor of his mother, a cancer survivor. 12
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Trajillio’s son to pressure wash trucks and trailers every Saturday. Despite his preference for newer machines, they come with a downside that Myers resents. “We might be able to change a hose, but I know that we can’t do any major motor work on anything. It will all have to be done by Deere. That’s why I try to get as much warranty as I possibly can.” He says he hasn’t had any problems so far with two Tier 4f machines, but he is opposed to imposition of stricter emissions standards. “I don’t agree with it and I think it is just another way for them to tax us. Shade tree mechanics can’t work on stuff; you have to hook a computer to it and that is putting a hurting on boys who know how to do it. To keep equipment going in the woods now, you have to call somebody.” Select Timber has four trucks and seven trailers: two Kenworth T800s and two Peterbilt 379s, all 1999-2008 models, pulling a pair of 2018 Pitts Load Payin’ Series, three older Pitts and two shop-built trailers. Myers also recently bought a new Kauffman lowboy from LMI Tennessee in Waverly, Tenn. Taking an opposite stance to his views on woods equipment, Myers prefers to keep up older trucks over buying new. “We try to stay away from DEF and emissions standards as long as we can, but we will eventually have to go to it.” All trucks are equipped with GPS. Myers also hires three contract haulers, two of whom have their own trailers while the third pulls Select Timber’s trailers. He had the two new trailers painted bright green. One of his older trailers is painted pink in honor of his mother, who overcame breast cancer when Zack
From left: Michael Gist, Refugio Barrera, Zack Myers, Damian Flores. Inset: Butch Myers
was only 11. Regarding the eye-catching colors, he explains, “I like to be a little different. I see black and red ones all day long, so figured could stand out. Purchasing from Thomas Tire in Asheboro, the logger keeps an inventory of 15-20 extra tires, recaps for trailers and new tires for trucks. He uses size 30.5 on smaller skidders and cutters, and 35Ls on the bigger skidder—all Primex. He buys DEF from James River; the two machines that use it urn five gallons each per week. He also gets Quadco sawhead teeth from James River. Both crews carry 1,000-gallon fuel wagons to the woods, and service trucks carry another 500 gallons of onroad fuel if trucks need to be topped off. They also have two 1,000-gallon
From left: Jesse Riddle, Dion (Smokey) Malone, Frankie Simpson, Aaron Doby 14
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tanks at the shop, one for off-road and one for on-road, so all the service pickups and rigs can fill up each morning. Myers says the crews burn about 2,000 gallons of diesel a week.
Manpower, Trucking On the new crew, Refugio Barrera runs the skidder and handles much of the trimming, with help from foreman and loader operator Damian Flores. Since they work mainly in hardwood, the crews still frequently use Husqvarna chain saws for trimming and manual felling of trees too big for the cutter. Mike Gist runs the cutter. For his part, Myers still likes to split his time between cutter and loader. When he has enough people to cover all the machines on both crews, he stays busy supervising operations and keeping jobs lined up. Since the addition of the second crew, Myers’ uncle, Butch Myers, took over as foreman of the original crew, running the loader and driving a truck part time. Jesse Riddle tag-teams with Butch on the loader. Dion (Smokey) Malone and Aaron Dobey drive the skidder on this crew. Both help trim, while Frankie Simpson runs the cutter or fells with chain saws, and also helps trim. Myers likes to say that “Everybody on both crews is a full-time mechanic—full-time shade tree, anyway.” Along with Butch, company truck drivers are Will Bitner, Jerry Jones and Coleman hifer. Myers says difficulty with finding insura le drivers has pushed him to limit his own truck-
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ing capacity and to seek out contract haulers. “It’s always been a struggle, but never like this,” he says. “Trucking insurance is nuts, ridiculous. We have a big problem with it. Insurance companies won’t accept a man who hasn’t had his license for two years. Well, how you are supposed to get on with anybody to get experience if you can’t get insured? The truck driver is a dying breed because it is so expensive to insure. That’s why I try to keep as many contractors as I can.” Forestry Mutual covers his insurance needs. The crews conduct brief tailgate safety meetings once a week and through longer formal meetings once a moth, recording attendance for files. n addition, Myers encourages his insurance agent, Greg Helton, to make random, unannounced visits to the crews. “I tell him where we are and to surprise my guys because I feel comfortable with what we do that he won’t show up and find someone without a hardhat. All crew mem ers are C and first aid trained through the NCFA Pro Logger program, and crews keep first aid kits in every truck that goes to the woods. “We keep it as classy as we
Foremost Authority For Professional Loggers
can when it comes to safety.” Select Timber does pre-employment and random drug testing. Company drivers are all in a pool to get pulled for random selection drug testing as well. “The insurance requires it, but we would do it anyway,” he says. “They’re in a pool with about 500 other drivers and they might pull 100 guys a month to get tested. In any given month one of our guys might get selected or it might be all three. But we have a good crew we are not too worried about that sort of thing.” Myers provides crew foremen and truck drivers with cell phones, and in accordance with state law they all use Bluetooth when driving. “I don’t want you on the phone texting or looking at Facebook when you’re running a machine, but I want us to be able to communicate when we’re in the woods if I need you,” he explains. Employees get production bonuses. The crews typically work 12-hour days, from 6 to 6, and work two or three Saturdays a month. Myers admits it was difficult finding quality employees when he started the new crew. e was glad to find mature
operators who already had plenty of experience working for other loggers, so no training was required. Still, he recognizes that in the future, as the older generation retires, he’s going to have to look for younger workers to take their places. “I’m always looking for good candidates, but the logging world is not what everybody wants.” Along with his uncle, Myers’ parents are also involved in Select Timber. His mother, Leanna, is the secretary, running the office and handling finances. is dad, Craig, runs a pallet mill, Myers Forest Products, near the Select Timber shop and helps with maintenance, repairs and parts runs. “He is a tremendous help,” Zack says. Myers is involved in local chapters of FFA, Ducks Unlimited and Relay for Life. He is a member of Carolina Loggers Assn. and North Carolina Forestry Assn. and is ro Logger-certified. “I’d like to grow and keep moving, but I don’t want to get too big or grow too fast,” he says, looking to the future. “I like the size we are now. We have a few places to improve for sure, but right now it is working well and I want to TH keep it that way. It feels good.”
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Timely roundup reveals attachment upgrades, additional manufacturers.
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AFM-Forest Ltd. Hakkutie 3 40320 Jyvaskyla Finland +358 400 890 201 afm-forest.com
The AFM 65: ideal for crooked trees
In the last two years AFM-Forest personnel have been working with several dealers in orth America, specifically Quebec and Nova Scotia in eastern Canada and Maine in the U.S., according to AFM’s Timo Savornin, who reports they have been working hard on the product development side so that A M s products fit the market and meet customer demands. “Customers have been very pleased with both AFM harvester heads and (factory and dealer) service. Our dealers must work independently because of the time difference between North America and Finland. Every dealer has a harvester head in stock as well as a large spare parts warehouse to provide customers the fastest service possible,” he says. Savornin points out that AFM has introduced a new head, the AFM 65 White Line. With a felling capacity of 34 in. and equipped with four knives and four rollers, the head is just under 61 in. long, making it ideal for crooked trees. Weighing only 3,570 lbs., the A M hite Line is a suita le fit for many wheel carriers. “We want to give a special thanks to our dealers in North America: Frank Martin & Sons Inc., Les Équipements Marquis Inc., M-C Power Equipment LTD and ABI-QUIP for the great service and support they are offering every day to AFM customers,” Savornin says. Barko Hydraulics LLC 1 Banks Ave. Superior, WI 54880 715-395-6700 barko.com
vantages over equipment commonly used for log processing. Offering exceptional horsepower, swing torque and tractive effort, the 270B features a dangle head oom configuration for picking, delimbing, cut-to-length harvesting, and stacking. Powered by a 225 HP Cummins Tier 4f engine, it offers excellent fuel economy and features large fuel and DEF tanks. A large auto reversing fan with automatic blade pitch control further optimi es engine efficiency. The hydraulic system is designed to keep power constantly available, allowing operators to instantaneously shift from function to function without the delayed reactions. Responsive IQAN controls are customized to provide programmable settings for individual operators, along with machine diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Barko launches 270B processor carrier.
The processor features load sensing hydraulics to automatically adjust performance according to the load. High pressure and high ow contri ute to delivering more hydraulic horsepower to the attachment, while a dedicated attachment pump runs the attachment without robbing power from the machine. Dual swing drives provide continuous rotation and high swing torque of 58,384 ft. lbs. Bare pin maximum lift capacity is 31,150 lbs. The 270 provides firm, sta le footing, thanks to long tracks measuring 15 ft. 2 in., along with a D7 undercarriage that offers ground clearance of 29 in., an overall width of 11 ft., 5 in., and max travel speed of 2.9 MPH. The unit delivers exceptional drawbar pull of 66,700 ft. lbs.
Hakmet Forestry
Barko’s newly launched 270B processor is purpose-built for its application, providing several performance adForemost Authority For Professional Loggers
41 Rue du Moulin Grenville, QCJ0V 1J0 Canada 800-361-2288 hakmet.com You can fell, delimb and cut trees to length with the Arbro-Stroke 1000 har-
Arbro-Stroke head weighs only 1,210 lbs.
vester, which can be easily installed on many excavator makes and models. Fitted with a 20 in. saw bar and weighing approximately 1,210 lbs., the harvester head has a 26 in. stroke and develops 7,800 lbs. of delimbing force. It has a superior quality measuring device for pre-selected lengths, but any length can be chosen at any time. It is equipped with a reliable Volvo F11-10 saw motor. The product is available through 10 dealers in the U.S. and 12 in Canada. Hakmet has manufactured various types of forestry equipment since 1977. HYPRO AB Smålatorp 882 280 70 Lönsboda Sweden +46 479-220 59 hypro.se
HYPRO 755: tractor-based processor
Swedish manufacturer HYPRO offers its 755, a generously equipped tractor-based processor that features its own crane with a reach of seven meters and a working radius of 280°, which allows felling on both sides. The 755 has its own hydraulic system with pump and tank for mounting on the tractor front. The system is load-sensing and variable, providing speed, smoothness and strength. The processor is also availa le for fitting to tractors with a built-in variable hydraulic system with the necessary ow and pressure. The machine is operated by a two-lever electro-hydraulic control (EHC). Simply by pressing a button you can choose between crane and NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 17
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processor. Both can be operated with the same levers. A 280° slewing radius and lateral displacement provide ample adjustment to suit the direction of fall of the tree and allow distances of up to 3.3 meters between timber stacks. The machine has a radio controlled winch that can operate from both sides. The design of the crane, with a tilting pedestal, gives a low center of gravity at full reach, as well as compactness when folded. The HYPRO 755 is available with hydraulic struts as an option.
Komatsu America Corp. Forest Machine Business Div. P.O. Box 168 Chattanooga, TN 37405 423-668-3235 komatsuforest.us
The Komatsu 398 harvesting/processing head is built for selective harvesting and clear-cutting, or processing large-diameter timber at the landing. This heavy-duty head is designed for installation on track carriers of 27 metric tons or larger. Its rugged and robust design allows it to handle timber averaging up to 24 in. diameter. The powerful “carry style” feed system features four motors (2x1048 cc and 2x630 cc) and three driven rollers which provide a firm -point grip while reducing friction for high feed power. A traction control system senses and controls roller spin for improved log quality. The rugged delimbing system includes one oating top knife, two programmable proportional pressure upper knives and a fi ed ottom knife for fast and effective delimbing. An optional third programmable proportional pressure bottom knife is available. Cutting is handled by a well-pro-
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tected 31 in. capacity, ¾-inch pitch bottom saw for high performance cutting, and an 18 in. capacity .404 pitch integral top saw for high processing efficiency. A patented length-measuring system with constant measuring wheel contact and a find-end photocell sensor system provide exceptional measuring accuracy. Left and right high-resolution diameter encoders provide precise diameter measuring. Komatsu’s advanced MaxiXplorer smart control system with intuitive graphical interface and large color screen manages all aspects of head control and performance. All maintenance and service points are readily accessible for ease of service.
Log Max Inc.
1114 W. Fourth Plain Blvd. Vancouver, WA 98660 360-699-7300 logmax.com
Log Max product line includes the 4000B, 5000D, 6000B, 7000C, 7000XT, 7000XT Fixed, 10000XT, and 12000XT. All activities at Log Max AB, from design to manufacture, are carried out in accordance with a quality system based on the new international standard ISO 9001:2008. We are proud of the fact that our quality system is approved by LRQA, Lloyds Register Quality Assurance. ref. no. 929457. All our harvesters are CE-approved as well as ET tested (third approval of the CE-test).
Logset OY
Hannisentie 2 Koivulahti, FI-66530 Finland +358-6-2103-216 logset.com The heavy-duty Logset TH75 is the third largest head of the Logset TH range. It is a compact and versatile harvester head and weighs only 1,300 kg, or 2,860 lbs., making it a perfect match for Logset 8H GTE and 12H GTE Hy-
Log Max offers eight processor models.
Log Max AB is a Swedish company that has been designing and manufacturing machines for mechanized forestry operations since 1980. Log Max Inc. is our North American subsidiary located in Vancouver, Wash., just north of Portland, Ore. The employees of Log Max Inc. coordinate market activities, manage the central spare parts depot and handle sales throughout the U.S. Since 1988 our main product line has been grapple harvester/processor heads, which are compatible with a variety of carrier brands and models. Today Log Max AB manufactures more than 400 harvesters a year and exports more than 70% of these. Our largest export markets are North America, South America. and Russia. Our harvesters are working in more than 30 countries all over the world. Log Max is the preferred supplier of single-grip harvesting/processing heads and is known for providing customers with e i le and productive harvesting/processing solutions. The
Logset’s TH75 is compact and versatile.
brid harvesters. The minimum stem-toframe contact reduces friction, ensuring low fuel consumption and a long lifetime for components. The unique synchronized feed circuit with three feed wheels ensures a perfect grip and effective feeding, even with trees whose trunks are not perfectly straight. The long main delimbing knives, together with two lower knives, carry heavy trunks well. A firm grip of the timber also makes the measuring accuracy “spot on,” says Development Manager Jonas Hedström. For the best feeding capacity, Logset offers alternative motor sizes and a wide range of feed wheels. Logset also offers an alternative of the TH75 for track-based machines: the Logset TH75X. The strong construction of the TH75X is ideal for track-based machines. It feeds stems effectively even at lower pump and engine power.
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With two tractive feed wheels and a support back roller, the construction is robust yet simple.
Pierce Pacific Mfg. Ltd. P.O. Box 30509 Portland, OR 97294-3509 800-760-3270 piercepacific.com
cesses and optimizes at the stump and at the deck. Based on a carrier class ranging from 22 to 30 tons, the Cobra is well suited to processing 3 in. to 24 in. diameter wood and comes with top saw chain pitch of .404 or 3/4 in. Utilizing the heavy duty rotate option, the operator can process logs and load logging trucks in a variety of situations.
Risley’s Rolly 3 line has been upgraded. Pierce’s grapple processor is set apart.
The Pierce Grapple Processor is a revolutionary work tool that offers loading utility and processing productivity in one tough machine. It’s the only one of its kind that shovels, sorts and loads like a grapple, and delimbs, measures and cuts like a processor. Built to handle big timber up to 52 in. in diameter, the GP is ideal for picking up individual stems as well as handling multiple logs. Other features include integral feed wheels which allow users to increase the distance of each shovel turn and thus reduce the number of turns to the landing. Plus, the full-scale measuring system calculates log length and diameter, making it easy to process and merchandise logs with precision accuracy.
Risley also has introduced the new family of its popular Rolly 3 line of harvesters, processors and whole tree chipping heads, all upgraded with the latest technology.
Southstar: compact, tough, fast
SP Maskiner 661LF: “Always Ahead”
Foremost Authority For Professional Loggers
728 Tagish St. Kamloops, BC V2H 1B7 Canada 250-828-7820 southstarequipment.com
Box 870 341 18 Ljungby, Sweden +0372-253 50 spmaskiner.se
10820-89 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 6R7 Canada 866-783-7243 gorisley.com
The Risley Cobra is a controlled head processor/log grapple loader. It pro-
Southstar Equipment
SP Maskiner 661LF
Risley Equipment Ltd.
The Risley Cobra can process and load.
In large diameter harvesting the proportional angled feed rollers, in combination with SP’s patented knife control system known as LogHold, ensure impressive capacity and productivity. When harvesting smaller diameter trees, the compact and agile design is a great asset as well. Equipped with optional multi-tree handling equipment, SP 661 LF is able to reach high productivity also in small diameter trees. The well protected and robust design and state-of-the-art hose routing ensure high reliability and uptime, regardless of tree size and harvesting conditions. SP Maskiner also offers its patent-pending M oating diameter measuring) system, which is an option for the 661 head.
Swedish manufacturer SP Maskiner has developed a completely new harvester head, the SP 661 LF. It is a compact, strong, high-performance head designed according to SP’s Low Friction (LF) principle for minimum friction and maximum productivity. The 661 features optimum characteristics for final felling focused on productivity, utilization rate and timber values. It is an excellent choice for installations on both wheel carriers and excavators.
Southstar’s grapple processors and purpose built processor series are designed and built for high production and log handling. They include a powerful tilt with locking system with oat for heeling logs and handling; and powerful dual rotator motors with special Southstar-designed spool to allow the head to follow the log when processing. They also have a larger rotator bearing; high capcity delimbing arms for log handling; short hanging bracket with high tilt angle; lifting hooks on delimbing arm tips for safe lifting of trailer straps, and are designed to work with or without heel. A powerful 4x4 drive system provides amplified tor ue for the efficient processing of large logs while retaining the ability to multi-stem ➤ 20 small logs. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 19
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Tigercat Industries Inc. P.O. Box 637 Brantford, ON N3T 5P9 Canada 519-753-2000 tigercat.com
Tigercat’s H250D Processor is a purpose built, lower cost alternative to Tigercat’s 800 series harvesters that still provides superior productivity to excavator conversions. The H250D is designed for roadside processing and debarking applications. An advanced load sensing hydraulic system and energy recovery swing system enhances machine performance in processing applications. The closed loop swing drive feeds power back to the engine when the swing decelerates, which reduces fuel consumption. The powerful, fuel efficient Tigercat T 7 engine provides 165kW (221 HP) @ 1,900 M in oth Tier 2 and Tier f configurations. Built for full forest duty cycles, the machine’s undercarriage has a wide stance and long track frames for excellent sta ility and otation. The undercarriage has a high carbody clearance and powerful tractive effort for excellent in-field mo ility. A uiet, spacious, ergonomic operator’s station ensures that
The H250D can handle heads up to 7,500 lbs.
the operator concentrates full attention on merchandising and processing. Other cab features include climate control, heated/cooled seats, window blinds, and highly visible instrumentation and engine monitoring system. The clear access to pumps, valves and engine are far superior to excavator conversions. Valves are conveniently located under the walk-up platform, which also provides a work surface when accessing the engine and daily service points. ydraulic pumps and filters are easily accessed through large swing-out doors. The H250D uses a powerful strengthto-weight optimi ed oom specifically designed for heavy duty processing. With robust, well protected cylinders 20
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and large diameter pins and 9,75 m boom, the H250D can be matched to processing heads weighing up to 3,400 kg, or 7,500 lbs.
Waratah
375 International Park Suite 200 Newnan, GA 30265 770-692-0380 waratah.com
Kaymor Machine
9703 72 Ave. Clairmont, AB T0H 0W0 Canada 780-538-2623 kaymor.ca
Waratah heads have long been the industry standard. Its most popular models in North America are the HTH622B, HTH623C and HTH624C. Proven in timber markets around the world, these highly productive heads are well matched to all species, providing game changing productivity with high uptime.
TreeKing Processor: driven to outperform
The forest industry is all about higher productivity and lower costs. Logging operations have used this formula for many years to stay competitive. The consistent implementation of new technologies is the way to make the formula work. Tree ing s uni ue and proven processor design increases productivity while decreasing downtime and fi er damage. It is a true multi-stemming processor capable of multi-stemming over 90% of the time while maintaining incredible length accuracy. It decreases downtime because it has fewer moving parts, and its simplified construction and interchangeable components are a big plus. In short, the TreeKing Processor one cost effective, cutting edge machine. TreeKing’s stroke technology processing does not crush or spike wood fi er like roll processor heads. Measuring is done with a non-contact lineal system and there are no encoder follower wheels. The processor is easy to operate and extremely accurate, every time. With the unmatched power of 18,000 ft. lbs. of delimbing force, no other head can touch it for processing large-limbed hardwoods. Processing diameter capability ranges from 30 in. maximum to 4 in. minimum. The processor is built in North America for North American logging conditions, and 90 % of the parts are built inhouse to rigid uality control standards. Kaymor, the manufacturer, is an ISO 9001:2008 compliant company.
Waratah heads: proven around the world
All models feature heavy-duty frames with delim arm profiles well suited for uick picking of decked logs and uality delim ing. The high ow hydraulic valves provide efficient soft clamping, reduced fuel burn, fast responsive feeding, and improved saw performance. The top saw adds e tra efficiency for broken tops and mid-stem defect, and the 3/4 in. or .404 pitch main saw units feature automatic chain tensioning for e tra operational efficiency. These models also include 360º continuous rotation as standard e uipment for improved assortment piling, and feature innovative maintenance designs intended to reduce servicing time and increase uptime. The highly productive and efficient TimberRite™ Automation system provides accurate length and diameter measuring, and an easy, user friendly menu of features.Additionally, TimberRite provides extensive production reporting of wood volumes and work statistics, all e tracta le via wifi and the Waratah Mate mobile device app. Waratah also features world-class support, including resident technicians located throughout the eastern U.S. and an extensive dealer network to TH keep you going.
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ALC Stages Quality Meeting Logging tour, seminars, auction, equipment, awards, networking, and more DAVIDAbbott
A
t its 23rd annual meeting held September 28-30, the American Loggers Council welcomed 205 attendees from 30 states to the Natchez Convention Center in Natchez, Miss., the home state of outgoing president Ken Martin. The meeting combined a logging tour, seminars, ladies’ activities, fund raising auction, an equipment display, awards, networking, and fun.
Speaker Highlights Following an optional tour of a local logging operation on the first day of the meeting—see DK’s column, page 4— attendees enefitted from a series of educational seminars on the second day. Forest industry consultant and Timber Harvesting contributing columnist endy arrand went first, delivering a message about rebranding the logging industry. Loggers never branded their industry in the first place, she said; it was done for them by environmentalists. She advocated a proactive approach to presenting a more environmentally responsible image to the public. Forestry Mutual Insurance Co.’s Jimmy Locklear discussed the upheaval in the log truck insurance market, proclaiming “there is no end in
Ken Martin, left, hands off the president’s gavel to Mark Turner.
sight.” Locklear explained that there are two aspects to risk assessment, frequency and severity, and while frequency has increased of late, it is overshadowed by severity. This has caused some carriers to abandon the market in recent years and others to increase rates. He said better driver training and an overall proactive approach to trucking management by loggers and log truckers are key to helping stabilize the worsening situation. He tag-teamed the presentation
Logging tour attendees enjoyed a catered meal along the Mississippi River. 22
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with Jeremiah O’Donovan, president of TEAM Safe Trucking, Inc. (TST), a non-profit organi ation dedicated to heightening awareness of the expanding log trucking crisis and which has developed a model for more aggressive training for drivers. O’Donovan presented a sample demonstration of TST’s recently debuted online driver training module and encouraged all in the audience to explore and use the module and to otherwise support TST. The American Loggers Council, the Forest Resources Assn., and a few state logging associations have joined with several insurance companies and agents to fund TST to date. (For more information, visit teamsafetrucking.com). The audience had many questions for Guy Perrier, a New Orleans attorney whose firm, errier Lacoste, LLC, specializes in defending insurance companies who write truck insurance. The first and most important thing to do in case of a trucking accident, Perrier advised, is to report it immediately to the insurance carrier, not just the agent. Preserving evidence, then gathering it quickly, is key in defending a lawsuit, he said. Even if a truck is drivable, he
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said, call a tow truck, don’t put the keys in the ignition until the data from the truck’s ECM (electronic control module, the “black box”) has been downloaded. He also advocated the use of dash cams and said that when a driver gets a ticket, he should never plead guilty but plead no Cecil Johnson, left, and Danny Dructor had fun at auction. contest. When asked if the wood consuming customer could be brought more precise. Drawing parallels to deinto a lawsuit arising from an accident velopments in mining and automoinvolving a loaded truck headed to that biles, they predicted that autonomous customer’s facility, his response was forestry machines will eventually bepositive. come a reality, but not any time soon. Ken Swanstrom, owner of Skookum The final seminar of the day came Timber in Kalispell, Mont., and forfrom Mike Beardsley, marketing and mer ALC president, presented a slide sales director for the American Logshow from a spring trip to Germany, gers Insurance Program. Beardsley ofgiving the crowd a glimpse of how fered a look at automatic fire suppressome European companies conduct sion systems on logging equipment. their forest products business. Forest2Market’s Joe Clark reported Night Life on projected U.S. population trends After the president’s dinner Friday for the next 30 years and how this will night came the annual ALC auction. likely affect demand for softwood Attendees placed bids on several items lumber. He said that while overall in a silent auction during the dinner. North American pulp and paper deAfterward, auctioneer Roy Holder mand is declining, on a global basis it oversaw a live auction, taking bids on is expanding. He noted that North a number of donated items that ranged American housing demand continues from hunting and fishing trips to custo gradually improve and could reach tom carved wooden decorations and a near-historically high level around NASCAR tickets. In all the auction 2024 before declining again. raised $28,585, half of which the ALC John Deere engineers Gregory donated to relief efforts for hurricane Miller and Matthew Flood talked victims in Louisiana and Texas. Anabout developments in advanced forest other $2,000 was raised for Log-Amachine technology. While the focus Load for Kids. in recent years has been to make maThe Board of Directors voted to elect chines bigger, stronger and faster, they new officers for 2017-2018. They are: said, as the productivity increase plapresident Mark Turner of Turner Logteaus, the trend going forward is for ging, Oregon; 1st vice president Chris technology to be easier, smarter and
Idaho award winners, from left: Capella and Gerry Ikola, TH LBOY; Shawn Keough, ALC President’s Award; Tim Christopherson, ALC Logger Activist of the Year Foremost Authority For Professional Loggers
Potts of Potts Logging, Alabama; 2nd vice president Shannon Jarvis of Jarvis Timber, Missouri; secretary/treasurer Tim Christopherson of DABCO, Inc., Idaho. The board also selected regional delegates: northeast, Roger Garland, Sr. of Garland Lumber, New Hampshire; southern, David Cupp of Walsh Timber Co., Louisiana; mid-western, Mike Nielsen of Nielsen Logging, Montana; western, Bruce Zuber of Zuber & Son Logging, Oregon; and individual logger member representative Donnie Reaves of Reaves Timber, Virginia.
Award Winners On the final night of the meeting, Timber Harvesting presented its 2017 Logging Business of the Year award to the family behind G. Ikola, Inc. of McCall, Idaho. Following a short video about the Ikola operations, the magazine’s co-publisher and executive editor, DK Knight, handed the award to company president Gerry Ikola. Joined on stage by his wife Capella and their sons Gabe and Gerry, Jr., and his wife Rachael, Ikola accepted the award. Ikola, noting that their daughter, Erica, who is also involved in the business, was back home running the show, said he regretted that she could not make the trip to experience the recognition, the meeting, and to take in the outpouring of Southern hospitality. Ikola was one of three Idahoans honored that Saturday. At a luncheon earlier in the day, ALC president Ken Martin and Executive Vice President Danny Dructor presented a President’s Award for outstanding service to the timber harvesting industry to Shawn Keough, Executive Director of Associated Logging Contractors-Idaho. Timber Harvesting’s Knight also received the award. At the same luncheon, Tim Christopherson, co-owner of DABCO, Inc., Kamiah, Id., was recognized as the ALC 2017 Logger Activist of the Year. After the president’s farewell dinner Saturday night, Martin made his final speech before the ceremonial passing of the gavel to his successor, Mark Turner. Turner will serve in this role until next year’s annual meeting, which will be held in October in his TH home state of Oregon. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017 23
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Big Timber, Tough Men
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Men, Exhausting Work
Foremost Authority For Professional Loggers
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Overcoming Obstacles Minnesota’s Clinton Cook comes back strong after stressful market decline. JAYDonnell
T
here are some things loggers in Minnesota don’t have much control over. One is the spring thaw— the period that can range anywhere from February to May when they have to shut operations down because of highway restrictions due to freezethaw regulations. Employees of Greg Cook Logging in Bigfork, Minn. for example will take a few weeks off at the end of March and beginning of April and then come back to work in the company’s shop to get equipment ready for warmer months. The company’s large fleet of equipment calls for very precise maintenance, which means at least six of Cook’s employees are working on equipment during the break. Another thing they have to wrestle with, but can’t do much about, is the economy. Clinton Cook purchased the business after his father, Greg, retired
and has come back strong. In 2015, the organization received the state’s Logger of the Year honor from the Minnesota Sustainable Forestry Initiative as part of the Minnesota Logger Education Program, of which Greg Cook Logging has been a member since the program was formed in 1997. Also in 2015, the company was recognized as the Lake States Region Outstanding Logger by the Forest Resources Assn. Today, the operation employs 30 and runs three conventional crews and a processing crew. Clinton Cook is a compassionate boss.
Background
in 2006, just in time to deal with one of the worst economic recessions in U.S. history. But under Clinton’s leadership, Greg Cook Logging rode out the storm
Greg Cook started the business in 1972 with a chain saw and a cable skidder. He suffered a broken back after a tree fell on him on the job, but instead of pulling up stakes he bought
Hardwood, John Deere, and Risley stroke delimbers rule in the world of Greg Cook Logging.
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a truck so that he could at least haul logs. Greg’s first big purchase was a John Deere skidder in 1992 and the company continued to build from there, eventually going to two crews. Since Clinton—he worked alongside his dad since eighth grade—took over he has expanded to four crews, an improbable feat considering the timing. In 2007 and 2008, several large and small mills in Minnesota shut down. As the downturn hit, Clinton had to sell his residence. “When the downturn really came I was afraid we weren’t going to make it,” he explains. “My father is a pastor, so we prayed about it and felt like Sappi was our market.” The commitment paid off and Clinton says Sappi Fine Paper has treated him well. Greg Cook Logging has seen its production to Sappi in Cloquet rise from 800 to 5,000 cords a month. Overall, Greg Cook Logging produces about 200 loads per week, or 100,000 cords a year. Other markets include Boise Paper (PCA) at International Falls, Blandin Paper in Grand Rapids and Potlatch in Bemidji.
Business Practices
Machinery, Trucks The company has a wide range of new and used equipment and trucks, which the owner says is necessary considering the varied conditions encountered. The list: Felling—2 late model Komatsu XT430L-3s; 1 Timbco 430FXL Skidding—2 late model John Deere 848Ls; 1 late model 848H; an older 848H, two older 748Hs, and a 748G3 Loading/Processing—7 Serco 300 loaders, 3 HanFab circle slashers, 7 John Deere 2154 swing machines fitted with Risley Lim-mit 2100 stroke delimbers; 1 John Deere 1210E forwarder; 3 bulldozers; and 15 Peterbilt trucks. He doesn’t shy away from hiring “greenhorns.” Potential or new hires ride in a machine for a few days to become accustomed to a machine and its operation. Every year the company’s employees are required to undergo eight hours of safety and CPR training. Cook seems to be a caring, accommodating boss. He has a very likable personality and he’s there for his employees whenever they need him. “If a guy needs some time off for personal reasons they just have to ask me and it’s very rare that we don’t let
someone off,” he says. Cook purchases about 80% of the tracts he harvests. He does all of the road building himself when they move to a new tract. When leaving a tract Cook installs water bars and handles all BMP requirements. Cook’s wife Tracy manages office operations and has been an integral part of the company’s success. Carl Bleiler is the full-time forester and always makes sure Cook stays in plenty of thick timber and helps with harvest prescriptions. Jason Roach, Fred Pitzen and Jason Tower are longtime equipment operators. The logger says 2015 and 2016 were two of the best years in company history, thanks in part to declining fuel costs. He points out that 2017 wasn’t quite as good due to an unusually wet summer, and he mentions that fuel costs began to creep up beginning in September. Whether Cook decides to expand his business further, it’s safe to say that the 41-year-old will take a lot of experience through both good and bad times into such a decision. After all, he steered the business through one of the worst recessions ever and turned it into an award winning company. Greg Cook Logging has been recognized as a Minnesota master logger since 1996. Cook serves on the board of Associated Contract Loggers and Truckers and is a member of the MinTH nesota Timber Producers Assn.
The first employee to arrive at one of Cook’s job sites will get there as early as 3:30 and the last employee to leave will typically stay until 8 p.m. in winter months. In warmer months crews work 10-12 hours per day depending on the weather. It’s a lot of long hours but that makes the time off during the spring very valuable. Workers get a rare opportunity to recharge their batteries. Tracts are very heavy to hardwood and range from 10 to 200 acres and clear-cutting is done 60% of the time. Each equipment operator is required to take care of his machine unless there’s a major problem that entails extensive work. Oil is changed every 250 hours. Cook prefers Cenex Maxtron Enviro-Edge synthetic. Machines are greased daily. Cook keeps kits for first aid and oil spills on each job. New hires are required to fill out a formal application Serco loaders fill the trailer of a contract trucker. The company moves about 200 loads—mostly pulpwood—per week. at the outset. Cook pays half of employees’ health insurance premiums and offers a 401k plan. Foremost Authority For Professional Loggers
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017
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RiskWatch
Open Your Eyes For Safety’s Sake J.J. LEMIRE If you can recognize safety hazards you have taken the first step to preventing accidents. Employees and supervisors cannot be so focused on the job that they cannot see what is in front of them. A tailgate safety meeting gives each employee an opportunity to avoid simple mistakes that lead to injuries. A quick review of the known hazards (broken branches, dead snags, etc.) can provide a situational awareness throughout the day. Being aware of known hazards is only half the equation. Making employees aware of past accidents and unknown factors can give them an edge. Your job site can have many hidden dangers, i.e., stump holes, bee hives, etc. You cannot cover every hazard but over a series of safety meetings, you may highlight the one item that will keep your workers safe.
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Look up for overhead hazards and look down for slip, trip and fall hazards. Another idea over time is the two minute rule, which requires workers to simply take time before starting a job to become aware of the immediate work area and address or discuss unexpected conditions. Review your work rules to make sure each job site is inspected before work begins. The key to preventing injuries is to reduce or remove the risk. A daily but brief review of the site gives each individual time to detect potential risk or abnormalities. If an employee encounters an unfamiliar situation, have them stop and assess the issue. 1. Explore the site by walking the area to identify unsafe conditions such as: l Safety hazards (overhead or ground) l Other hazards—weather, visibility l Use the right tools—a step ladder instead of a 5-gallon bucket
l Terrain—water, mud, etc. 2. Talk with coworkers or supervisors when an unexpected condition occurs: l Report and eliminate hazards l Install a barrier or develop procedures to avoid hazards if they cannot be removed. l If a breakdown occurs, always lock out and tag out the machinery before work is started. Deadlines, quotas, breakdowns, and weather can create stressful situations and sometimes safety may slip as a priority. Avoid the following pitfalls that lead to accidents: l Rushing without thinking l Thinking the job is routine or mundane l A false sense of security that nothing bad will happen l Not notifying other workers of hazards l Not listening to your gut that says this is not safe. TH
Lemire is Director, Loss Control, for Forestry Material Ins. Co.
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EquipmentWorld
Morbark Demo Days: 60 Years Of Optimism MAY DONNELL
Morbark’s production changes come at a critical time for the company. Demand for its products is at an all-time high, Herr said. He celebrated one year as Morbark CEO in October. He came on board after Stellex Capital Management purchased the company from Lon Morey, son of founder Norval Morey. Morbark Warranty Administrator John Gotteleber said communication continues to improve throughout the company and floor workers are better able to notify management of problems with parts or procedures and get them solved quickly. Guests were taken on an extensive tour through 25 different work stations, including the robotic weld cell, 1,000-ton press brake, chipper, tree care and sawmill lines, training center and warehouse. Line workers and supervisors stopped what they were doing to answer questions. Following plant tours, buses carried the contingent to the demonstration area a short distance away. Morbark employees started with the Beever line of brush chippers and worked their way through the lineup of tub grinders, microchippers and drum chippers, Pronar trommel screen, flail debarker and Chiparvestor. Morbark introduced the new 3400XT Track Wood Hog horizontal grinder with musical fanfare. It has a standard width of 8 ft. 4 in., making it within the legal transport width in any country, regardless of engine size. This model accommodates engines from 540 to 800 HP. Other key features are the longer infeed bed with sloped sides for improved operator sight lines and more efficient loading of material, as well as an extended platform between the hood and the engine for better access to components for general maintenance or to change screens. It and the Pronar MPB 20.55 About 300 customers, vendors and guests turned out for the Morbark celebration. trommel screen were launched CEO David Herr told a tour group they were about to see this year. The mobile trommel screens, available in four the beginning of major changes to the manufacturing prosizes, are suited to work with a wide variety of materials, cess. “We’re going through the process of upgrading the including soil, compost, municipal waste, coal, aggregate flow and process of building our products. Next year, you’ll and biomass. Easy-to-use electronic controls allow the opsee a whole new plant,” he said. erator to tailor the operation parameters to the materials to Senior Vice President John Foote commented, “We are be separated. Several drums are available to meet the cusalways working to reduce cycle times. We’ve focused on tomer’s specific needs, with round or square holes and of product design for efficient manufacturing, standardized any mesh size. packages and material flows to the production lines. The Following the demonstrations, dealer Michigan Cat, on results have been amazing.” Foote said in two of the three hand to show off its latest engines, treated everyone to a lines, they were able to double production throughput, Texas-style barbecue lunch and the party came to a close. while only adding one employee on each of those lines. VP Foote summed it up: “In all my 27 years at Morbark The third line has seen a 14% improvement in throughput “I’ve never been so excited about the future of our comTH with a 64% improvement in lead time. pany. I just think we’re going in a great direction.” P ancakes, drones, chips and optimism. All were flying in late September at or near Morbark’s corporate headquarters in Winn, Mich. as the company celebrated its 60th anniversary with some 300 guests from 15 countries at an annual machine festival called Demo Days. The gathering of dealers, potential and long-time customers, vendors, friends and state officials—Morbark initiated the program in 2006—kicked off with information sessions on the Tier 4f engine and equipment financing, followed by equipment walk-arounds and a rollout demo of the electric-powered 3200 Wood Hog grinder. The day’s activities concluded at a lively “Morbark Lounge/ Game Night” reception. The Assn. of Equipment Manufacturers, a group dedicated to improving U.S. manufacturing policies, was one of the sponsors of the event with its “I Make America” program, of which Morbark has been a major supporter for several years. The second day began with an early pancake breakfast and continued with guided tours of Morbark’s sprawling manufacturing facility.
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EquipmentWorld Rotochopper Hosts 7th Annual Demo About 120 customers and prospects from the U.S. and Canada attended Rotochopper, Inc.’s 7th annual Demo Day in St. Martin, Minn. on September 21. The theme of the event was “See Red Go Green.” The day began with tours of the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, providing attendees the opportunity to see Rotochopper grinders in every stage of manufacture, from cutting to final inspection and testing. The tours provided guests the opportunity to meet the teams who design, build and support their Rotochopper equipment. President/CEO Art de St. Aubin welcomed attendees with remarks focused on the partnership Rotochopper forms with its customers and discussed the initiatives the company is undertaking to further support those partnerships. “Our long-term partnerships with customers are driven by Rotochopper’s core values: loyalty, commitment, service, pride and com-
Foremost Authority For Professional Loggers
munity. We will continue to position ourselves to help your businesses succeed and differentiate ourselves from our competitors,” he said. The demonstrations started with the unveiling of Rotochopper’s prototype heavy duty B-66 track and dolly unit, with a 1050 HP enAmong other things, Rotochopper unveiled RotoLink. gine and upgraded infeed features enabling it to devour like the engine and rotor,” said Doug logs and whole trees. The 765 and Meyer, Director of Customer Service. 950 HP B-66, FP-66, MC-266 and RotoLink is available for both diesel MP-2 were also demonstrated. and electric horizontal grinders. Rotochopper customer service unThe newly redesigned 24 tooth reveiled the new RotoLink system, which placeable mount rotor, which offers allows customers to connect with their increased impact resistance and remachines and Rotochopper customer duced side load during operation, was service to troubleshoot and track maon display. chine performance in real-time. The day ended with a side by side “For owners, this means more uptime demonstration of a B-66 and an FP-66 and predictive maintenance by allowing equipped with Rotochopper’s Generathem to monitor critical machine parts tion 2 Colorizer.
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EquipmentWorld
Global Factory Forum Hosted By CBI In NH JAY DONNELL Continental Biomass Industries (CBI) held its 2017 Factory Forum October 3-5 at the company’s headquarters in Newton. NH. Attendees came from all over the globe to check out the latest CBI chipping, grinding and raw material processing equipment. Guests stayed in historic Portsmouth, NH and on the morning of October 4 two buses arrived to pick up attendees and take them to CBI headquarters for a tour of the company’s factory and a live demo that featured several machines. Highlight of the tour was a look at the first ever CBI Road-Mill, which was first used for Hurricane Andrew cleanup in 1992. The massive machine has logged more than 60,000 hours. Mitch Ingerson of Ingerson Transportation brought the machine in from his operation in Jefferson, NH. Attendees got a close look at grinders being prepared for more recent post hurricane cleanup. CBI had already shipped several grinders and a shredder to Texas, Florida and St. Martin, and several more machines were being prepped for related duty. Guests had the opportunity to take in a number of keynote presentations from CBI and Terex personnel. Neal Nowick, General Manager of Terex Environmental Equipment, welcomed the crowd and gave his presentation, which included a look into the future of CBI and Ecotec product lines. Other presentations addressed equipment financing and Tier 4f engine compliance. After lunch, attendees made their way to the demo site for some live action. Shown were the 6800BT, 5800BT and 5400BT wood grinders, 7544 flail and disc chipper, TTS 620 drum screener, Phoenix 2100 trommel screen, and the AirMax material density separator. A regional news broadcasting station team made their way to the demo to feature the 6800BT because of its ap-
plication in recent hurricane cleanup efforts. Bill Thomson of Thomson Brothers Industries in North Andover, Mass. owns a CBI Grizzly Mill Annihilator and attended the event to support CBI. “I like CBI’s products because of the quality, price and service,” he said. “I’ve owned my CBI machine for nine years and have never had any problems with it.” Patrick Hayes made the trip on behalf of Southridge Farm and Nursery in Walpole, Mass. His company recently purchased a 5800 grinder. “It’s the best grinder we’ve seen and we came out here to see more of their products,” Hayes said. “We really like the grinder because it’s a lot quicker.” A-1 Sandrock of Greensboro, NC purchased its third machine from Terex Environmental Equipment during the Factory Forum, working with Powerscreen Mid-Atlantic to add a 5800BT grinder. After the demo, attendees went back to their hotels to get ready for a “Taste of the Coast” dinner, which included fresh lobster, clams and many other New England staples. Following the dinner, CBI’s guests were invited to a night out in historic Portsmouth where CBI provided an excellent rock n’ roll cover band for everyone to enjoy. The final day of the forum featured a workshop on safety led by Aaron Murray, technical R&D lead at CBI, using the 6800BT; and a workshop on performance optimization led by CBI engineering specialists Mike Goutier and Nate Fuller. They gave live examples of best practices with a 5800BT grinder. Joe Gallagher, marketing coordinator for Terex, CBI and Ecotec, played a vital role in organizing the event and made sure that everyone got a taste of all that CBI and New England have to offer. In 2015, Terex Corp. acquired CBI and Neuson Ecotec to expand its Terex Environmental Equipment (TEE) product TH line.
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EquipmentWorld Coastal Machinery Joins Bandit Dealer Network Coastal Machinery Co. has joined Bandit’s network of dealers, serving Bandit customers in Florida’s panhandle and southern Alabama. The dealership, located at 6701 Mobile Hwy in Pensacola, will offer Bandit’s complete lineup of hand-fed chippers and stump grinders, including the new Intimidator 15XPC and Intimidator 18XPC, as well as the new Model ZT1844 compact track stump grinder. Visit coastalmachinery.com or call 1-850-944-2002.
Tigercat Industries Names New President
Grant Somerville
eral development projects, including the design of the company’s first purpose-built track feller-buncher. An integral part of Tigercat, Somerville has led many important design initiatives since joining the team in 1992 and has held several positions with increasing degrees of responsibility, including product manager for track machines, advanced engineering, and most recently vice president, engineering. “Opportunities to work with and learn from individuals like Tony and Ken are rare,” Somerville says . “I feel very fortunate to have been included in the creation and growth of Tigercat over the past 25 years, and to now assume more leadership responsibility.” Iarocci now joins the board of direc-
tors and will continue to contribute to the company’s growth, focusing on the recruitment and development of design talent and special projects.
Morbark Acquires Rayco Manufacturing Morbark has acquired Rayco Manufacturing, Inc. in a continuing effort to broaden its range of tree care and industrial equipment. Rayco, founded in 1978 in Wooster, Ohio, by John Bowling, manufactures stump cutters, crawler trucks, forestry mulchers, multi-tool carriers and attachments, brush chippers and the new AT71 aerial trimmer. Dave Herr, CEO of Morbark, comments, “Rayco is a company that our
Tony Iarocci
Tigercat announced that Tony Iarocci has stepped away from his position as president, and is succeeded by Grant Somerville, a long-serving executive at Tigercat. Iarocci has been president since Tigercat’s inception in 1992, steering the company through rapid growth in product development and geographic market expansion. “I have immensely enjoyed my work at Tigercat—the initial research of potential business opportunities that was necessary to warrant the formulation of a new company, recruiting startup staff, product development and all the sales, marketing and customer service functions that went along with my role,” he says. “I wish to convey my deep appreciation to Ken MacDonald for having provided me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I also want to thank everyone at Tigercat and all the Tigercat stakeholders for their much appreciated assistance, dedication and cooperation.” Somerville got his start in the forest industry in 1978 as a harvester operator. He worked with Iarocci at Koehring Waterous in the early ’80s on sevForemost Authority For Professional Loggers
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EquipmentWorld
Kenworth Sales Remodels Lewiston, Id. Dealership Kenworth Sales Co. recently unveiled the $4.95 million remodeling and expansion of its Lewiston, Idaho dealership at a grand re-opening celebration with more than 200 customers, company representatives and community leaders in attendance. The 18-month renovation increases the number of service bays from nine to 16 and nearly doubles the amount of parts inventory. A new training room allows the dealership to provide customers with on-site training and orientation related to Kenworth truck technologies and vendor training for drivers and technicians. senior management team has admired for a long time.” Bowling will continue his work with the team to develop new products and help improve the company’s existing product lines. He will continue to have an economic interest in the combined business and will be a member of Morbark’s Board of Directors. Morbark will operate Rayco as a new division maintaining its brand identity. Rayco’s experienced management team will continue to manage their operations.
Kenworth Sales Co. operates at 21 locations in Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
Alliance Tire Moves Southeast Regional Office Alliance Tire Americas, Inc. (ATA) has moved its Southeast Regional Office to a new address in the Birmingham, Ala., area—1976 Gadsden Highway, Suite 205, Trussville, AL 35235. Phone numbers for the office and its staff remain unchanged. The new, larger office space accommodates ATA’s growing sales team and includes upgraded offices and conference space, according to Brian
Sheehey, Vice President of Marketing. The Southeast Regional Headquarters will continue to serve as the North American hub for Alliance Tire Americas’ forestry, solid tire and truck tire sales teams. It also houses sales and customer service staff for the company’s Alliance, Galaxy, Primex, Aeolus and Constellation brands. “Our new office space reflects our growth as a company and our ongoing commitment to supporting the growth and success of our customers,” Sheehey says.
Barko Great Lakes Expo Loader Contest Winners Five operators were awarded prizes at the Barko Strong-Arm Skill Challenge held during the Great Lakes Logging and Heavy Equipment Expo in Escanaba, Mich. Operators ran a Barko 295B trailer mount loader equipped with a new Barko 4850 Strong-Arm Grapple to race against the clock in a log stacking competition. The five top finishers and their times were: Bill Zellar, 1:59; Russell Meyers, 2:01; Eric Zellar, 2:02; Dillon Meyers, 2:10; Brian McCumber, 2:14.
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Dust&Rust Readers are encouraged to send historical items.
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InnovationWay Peterson Electric WTC
Peterson Pacific Corp. offers the new 5050H stationary electric delimber debarker disc chipper for processing whole trees in one continuous operation. Equipped with a large feed throat, the 5050H can accept up to a 23" (56 cm) diameter single tree or multiple smaller stems. It can be configured with a 3 or 4 pocket disc, with several optional sheave sizes to make “chips to order.” The standard 3-pocket disc produces chips from 5⁄8 to 1¼" (16–32 mm) long, while the optional 4-pocket disc produces chips from ½ to 1" (13–25 mm) long. Chip production rates up to 150 tons (136 tonnes) per hour can be achieved, depending on chip size and wood characteristics. Peterson’s heavy-duty 66" diameter, 4 ¾" thick (168 x12 cm) chipper disc has replaceable ½" (13 mm) wear plates. Traditional babbitt-type knives or Key Knife components are available. The stationary 5050H can be configured from 600 to 1000HP (447–745 kW) at the disc, depending on application needs. An additional 600 HP (447 kW) electric motor powers the hydraulic system. Visit petersoncorp.com.
Deere 1910G Forwarder
The newest and largest model in the John Deere forwarder line, the 1910G, offers operators the power and efficiency needed to tackle tough jobs, even on difficult terrain. The 1910G machines are equipped with a Tier 4f 200kW/268 HP engine. The maximum engine output has increased by 7.5% and torque by 21% compared to previous models. Additionally, the drive hydraulics have been increased, with the transmission boasting 4.5% more tractive force. A key feature on this model is the adaptive driveline control. This software-based control system improves the productivity and drivability and enables the operator to choose the desired RPM setting (Eco, Normal, Power). The system automatically adjusts the engine’s RPMs to correspond with the engine load. In high-load situations, the driveline control 38
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ensures that the engine runs smoothly and uses the maximum available tractive force efficiently. Another key feature is the larger load capacity. The cross-sectional area of the wide load space is bigger and the new-generation headboard provides excellent visibility to the load space. Additionally, the CF8 boom on the 1910G moves seamlessly, increasing accuracy and efficiency. The 1910G is available with two cab options, fixed or rotating and leveling. The rotating and leveling cabin helps the driver to maintain the correct working positions to reduce strain on the back and shoulder areas, even when working on uneven terrain. Visit johndeere.com.
Caterpillar D Series Loader
Caterpillar has launched its D Series knuckleboom loader with two models, the 559D and 579D. The loaders, which meet U.S. EPA Tier 4f emission standards, provide increased reliability and durability along with greater customer value in performance, comfort and serviceability. The Cat Tier 4f C4.4 ACERT engine provides equivalent horsepower as the previous series (rated at 173 HP) while minimizing overall fluid consumption. The engine is equipped with a combination of proven electronic, fuel, air and after-treatment components. An automatic idle feature with multiple settings minimizes fuel consumption when the loader is on standby. The purpose-built negative flow hydraulic system is at the core of the D Series to provide continuous, responsive control. The operator can lift, swing and rotate the grapple simultaneously without sacrificing performance. The new Cat GLK Series grapples are available in two models, the GLK55 and GLK48. Reliability improvements over the previous model include optimized hose routings and larger pins and bushings to increase durability. Caterpillar offers a delimber/slasher package as a complete factory-installed merchandising system featuring loader and grapple, trailer with trailer-mounted delimber, and slasher connections. The package features Cat’s DLK426 four-knife. Integrated safety features range from a robust step system with two handrails, heavy-duty front window guard, stabilizer movement alarm and pilot enable alarm, anti-skid plates, and more. The products are easy to service and maintain. Engine, fuel, pilot and case drain filters are accessible at ground level. A standard on-board service hose and electric fill pump makes it easy and safe to service the hydraulic oil. TIMBER HARVESTING & WOOD FIBER OPERATIONS
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InnovationWay
Friday Saturday Sept. 21-22 2018 Starkville, Mississippi
www.midsouthforestry.org
IT’S COMING
TH JANUARY-FEBRUARY
The information-packed “keeper issue” is in the works with this equipment-focused editorial linup: Logging Equipment Survey Highlights New/Upgraded Product Section Profile On Tigercat Industries Avoiding Used Equipment Pitfalls Equipment Directory
Foremost Authority For Professional Loggers 40
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Product Link, the remote monitoring solution that enables efficient and effective fleet management, is standard. Visit cat.com/forestry.
Mesera Cranes Mesera Cranes Finland Oy manufactures cranes (booms) for harvesters, forwarders and skidders, and for stationary applications. Mesera harvester cranes incorporate the latest technology, and every feature is accurately tested and highly developed. The parallel boom system, which enables the harvester head to be moved linearly in the horizontal direction using only one cylinder, is fast and economical. The slewing cylinders have an end damping, which prevents the slewing mechanism from damage under heavy use. Visit mesera.fi.
Peterson Drum Chipper
Peterson Pacific Corp. offers the new 6310B drum chipper, which is suited for high volume biomass producers who have a wide variety of feed material, from logs up to 36" (91 cm) in diameter, to brush and small feedstock. It is powered by a 1050 HP (772 kW) C27 Caterpillar engine, and has an optional Tier 4f engine available. At 86,000 lbs. (39,010kg), the track mounted 6310B was designed for operations requiring high production and frequent moves between jobs. The machine 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. Peterson’s chip accelerator system adds load density or throws chips well away from the machine for land clearing operations. The chipper utilizes a 50" (127 cm) diameter by 60" (152 cm) 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. Visit petersoncorp.com. TIMBER HARVESTING & WOOD FIBER OPERATIONS
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SelectCuts As We (ALC) See It
State Of ALC Report, 2017 DANNY DRUCTOR In 2017 the American Loggers Council (ALC) flourished under the leadership of presidents Ken Martin and Mark Turner and the entire executive committee and Board of Directors. Our membership remains strong and many of our goals and targets have been met due to the hard work and diligence of the many volunteers who continue to work to not only promote the organization but also the logging profession as a whole. On the legislative front, we set a record attendance at the Spring Fly-In with 61 participants who made 160-plus visits (another record) to Capitol Dructor Hill over a two-day period. We carried four primary issues, the Future Logging Careers Act, Resilient Federal Forests Act, Right to Haul Act, and Wildfire Funding Act to members of Congress. We also discussed creating parity between wood biomass and other renewable energy sources to promote markets and create jobs for our industry, and were able to make inroads with other organizations as we moved all of these issues forward. For the first time in 20 years, we received support from the Forest Resources Assn. for our truck weight language and we also assisted the Biomass Power Assn. in promoting markets for wood biomass. We have seen movement in all four primary efforts, including the inclusion of the Future Logging Careers Act in the Resilient Federal Forests Act, which on November 1 passed in the House. The ALC has established excellent working relationships with many offices and agencies in Washington. This is a direct result of the commitment that many ALC officers and directors and state and regional logging association leaders make each spring during the journey to DC. We remain in close contact with the Federal Forest Resource Coalition as it pursues legislation to expedite and increase the pace and scale of the Federal Timber Sale program. As well, the ALC is an integral part of TEAM Safe Trucking, an organization promoting driver training to help reduce accidents and lower CSA scores, and the Wood Supply Research Institute, which seeks ways to reduce costs and increase efficiencies across the wood supply chain. Our membership continues to grow with the addition of individual logger memberships, our finances are strong, and we welcomed two new sponsors into the organization. Rebate opportunities for ALC members and affiliates should help our member state and regional organizations attract new members. Thanks to both Peterbilt and Western Star for making the programs available. In July the ALC board agreed to fund a revitalization of the ALC Master Logger Certification program as proposed by the Trust to Conserve Northeast Forests and the PLC of Maine, and we are excited about the opportunities the program could bring in promoting the timber harvesting profession and helping gain public understanding of the role that loggers play in sustainable timber harvesting techniques. Our communications network continues to expand through both our web site and social media outlets, and Nick Smith has done an excellent job of keeping the monthly electronic newsletters both timely and informative on issues impacting our industry. We met face-to-face with many loggers the ALC represents by attending various trade shows throughout the country, and in return expanded our newsletter outreach. To increase our branding and 42
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St. John Memorial Established In UP Earlier this year, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder joined dozens of family members and friends of the late legendary logger Earl St. John to dedicate a memorial in St. John’s honor at the Upper Peninsula State Fair Grounds in Escanaba, Mich. Cutting, peeling and stacking pulpwood by hand while still in high school, St. John, who grew up in nearby Spalding, Mich., displayed an enormous work ethic. He went on to make it big in logging in the UP, at one time employing upwards of 100 directly or indirectly, and leading area loggers in embracing early mechanization, some of which was not that well proven. Successful financially, he was a people person who built relationships and treated employees well. He was also a leader in state, regional and national forest-related groups and was a key figure in the formation of the American Loggers Council. A plaque acknowledging his leadership, innovative spirit, and overall accomplishments is mounted on a boulder located near a small chapel. Nearby, a white pine reaches for the sky. Both the boulder and white pine were taken from St. John family property. UP log trucker Denny Olson, who orchestrated the event, was a key principal in getting the memorial started, and contributed to it in many ways. Other contributors included the Michigan Assn. of Timbermen, Great Lakes Timber Professionals Assn., American Loggers Council, UP State Fair, Roland Machinery Co., Nortrax, Ponsse, Ann Jousma Miller, and the St. John family.
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SelectCuts marketing efforts, we developed and distributed tri-fold leaflets, our 2016 annual report, and bumper stickers with the slogan “Loggers Working for Loggers.” It was a great year for the ALC, but we will not sit back on our heels as we enter into another fiscal year. As an earlier As We See It editorial eluded to, it would appear that the pendulum has stopped swinging in one direction, but now it is up to us to get it swinging in our direction. We are looking forward to the opportunities and challenges that 2018 will bring, and we sincerely appreciate all of the hard work and dedication of all of those who have helped the ALC remain the true ‘National Voice for Professional Timber Harvesters.’ We wish all of you and your families a safe and happy holiday season and a prosperous 2018! Dructor is the Executive Vice President of the ALC, a 501 (c)(6) not for profit trade association representing professional timber harvesters and log truckers in 32 states. Visit amloggers.com or phone 409-625-0206.
Memorial Service Held For Dennis Harbor A memorial service for Dennis (Blue) Harbor, who owned and operated a logging and trucking business near Hamilton, Ala., was held November 4 at the Hamilton Funeral Home chapel. Harbor died October 30. He was 62. Well known in logging circles in both northwest Alabama and northeast Mississippi, Harbor did business as Harbor Logging & Trucking, founding the company in 1975. Later, his sons became involved in the effort. For several years he served as a district chairman and/or representative on the Alabama Loggers Council and in the mid ‘90s was one of several Deep South loggers to try multishift logging.
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Survivors include his widow, mother, three sons, one daughter, seven grandchildren, two brothers, and one sister.
Alabama Loggers Council Recognizes Langley
Chris Potts, far left, Chairman of the Alabama Loggers Council, presented the 2017 Outstanding Logger of the Year Award to Chris Langley and his family: wife Elizabeth, sons Chandler and Christopher, and daughter Chelsea.
The recognition continues for Chris and Elizabeth Langley, an Alabama couple well-schooled in timber and cattle operations. Their logging and timber company, Chris Langley Timber and Management Inc., was recently recognized as the 2017 Alabama Outstanding Logger by the Alabama Loggers Council. In business for decades, the highly reputable company, based in Chambers County, operates three high performance logging crews that stand out for their professionalism. Last spring the couple’s farming entity, Langley Farms, was singled out as the Alabama Farm of Distinction. The Langley’s were awarded some $12,000 in cash and prizes and became the Alabama representative in the Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Southeastern Farmer of the Year competition at the gigantic Sunbelt Agricultural Expo in mid-October in Moultrie, Ga. Langley Farms includes a 320-head commercial beef herd. The Langleys own 2,650 acres of timber, hay and grazing land. They are county and state leaders in the Ala➤ 46
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SelectCuts 43 ➤ bama Farmers Federation and Alabama Cattlemen’s Assn. and were honored as the state’s Outstanding Young Farm Family in 1996.
FRA Recognizes Loggers From Kentucky, Minnesota
Chris Terry
Gordon Dobbs
Terry Logging, Inc. and Dobbs Logging were honored by the Forest Resources Assn. as that group’s 2017 outstanding loggers from the Appalachian Region and the Lake States Region, respectively. Accepting the awards were Chris Terry and Gordon Dobbs. The businesses each were given a chain saw gift certificate and
After more than 18 months of planning, dedication, fundraising and networking, the initial CDL-Class A program began in late September at North Florida Community College (NFCC) in Madison, Fla. “Many have been involved in getting this program started and we appreciate all your support,” said David Dunkle, Associate Dean of Economic Development & Technical Programs. Dunkle singled out several bussinesses for supporting the project in various ways. CareerSource North Florida, which helped secure grant funding for the program, is again working with NFCC to enroll students in its upcoming CDL class, which begins February 7. For more information contact Daisy Garcia at 850-973-9442 or garciad@nfcc.edu. More information is also available on the NFCC web site: nfcc.edu.
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January 9-10— Missouri Forest Products Assn. winter meeting, Capitol Plaza, Jefferson City, Mo. Call 573-6343252; visit moforest.org. January 16-18—Associated California Loggers annual meeting, Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Reno, Nev. Call 916441-7940; visit calog.com. January 18-20—Associated Oregon Loggers annual meeting, Valley River Inn, Eugene, Ore. Call 503-364-1330; visit oregonloggers.org. February 8-10—69th Annual 2017 Forest Products & Constr. Equip. Expo, Shasta District Fairgrounds, Anderson, Calif. Call 530-222-1290; visit sierracascadeexpo.com. February 9-11—South Carolina Timber Prod. Assn. annual meeting, DoubleTree Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront, Myrtle Beach, SC. Call 803-957-9919; visit scloggers.com. February 22-24— Oregon Logging Conference, Lane Events Center & Fairgrounds, Eugene, Ore. Call 541-6869191; visit oregonloggingconference.com. March 15-17—Southeastern Wood Producers Assn. annual meeting, Okefenokee Fairgrounds and Exchange Club, Waycross, Ga. Call 904-845-7133; visit swpa.ag. 46
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$250 check from Stihl, sponsor of FRA’s regional and national logger recognition program. Based in Morehead, Ky., Chris Terry’s leadership on logging issues in Kentucky is well known. He is a member of the state’s Best Management Practices board and helped shape recent revisions in that program. He helped bring about a mechanized worker’s comp insurance rate in Kentucky, gives safety a very high priority, carries out drug testing for employees, supports Log A Load for Kids, and is a board member of the Kentucky Forest Industries Assn. Gordon Dobbs accepted the award on behalf of the fifth generation family business, based in Littlefork, Minn. He and his twin brother, Glen, now run the business, which also involves Gordon’s son Ethan. Gordon and Glen’s father, Elmer, started Dobbs logging in 1947 after working in the woods with his father and grandfather. Elmer still works on the job, building and clearing roads.
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