A new report discusses the exploration of mechanised planting options by New Zealand forestry companies in response to anticipated changes in labour availability and increased competition for planting crews due to afforestation incentives.
This new detailed report, led by Scion, outlines qualitatively and quantitatively an assessment on the performance of the M-Planter planting radiata pine seedlings into New Zealand rotational cutover areas.
It is based on the experiences of MFM (NZ), Rayonier and Timberlands across a range of soil types, terrain and weather conditions. This evaluation was conducted as part of the Precision Silviculture Programme which is managed by Forest Growers Research. The full report from FGR can be accessed here.
Discussion on mechanisation and automation across forestry were a strong focus at the FGR conference held in Rotorua in mid-September.
Results from trials and commercial operations using mechanised planting machines, both in New Zealand and Australia, will also be featuring in the upcoming ForestTECH 2023 series running in Rotorua on 14-15 November and again in Melbourne on 21-22 November. Full programme details for both countries can be found on the event website.
Source: Forest Growers Research, FIEA
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