New Trends in Fire Fighting Vehicle Selection with ANCO Firefighting Systems

Fire management

Fire protection

New Trends in Fire Fighting Vehicle Selection with ANCO Firefighting Systems

The forestry and fire management sector is under increasing pressure to improve response times, reduce fire damage, and enhance operational efficiency.

FlexAIR 2.0: built for the realities of modern forestry nursery production

Forest Nurseries

Machinery

FlexAIR 2.0: built for the realities of modern forestry nursery production

Forestry nurseries are operating under increasing pressure. Substrate availability is changing.

Stand Tending

Weeding

Rover RT-P200 autonomous spraying

The Rover RT-P200 is a 100% electric and autonomous spraying equipment developed by Hural

Digitalisation in Modern Silviculture Webinar

Technology

General

Digitalisation in Modern Silviculture Webinar

The Nelson Mandela University forestry department had the opportunity to host the 6th Modern Silviculture Webinar under the theme “Digitisation in Modern Silviculture”.

Novelquip’s PP1 planting machine undergoes testing

Tree Planting

Machinery

Novelquip’s PP1 planting machine undergoes testing

Soil preparation and planting activities are critical re-establishment operations that must be conducted properly to facilitate the survival and growth of trees

Revolutionary drone technology for battling wildfire

Fire management

Fire protection

Revolutionary drone technology for battling wildfire

Due to the wildfire escalation in frequency and severity, innovative solutions are needed urgently to support firefighters, protect forestry communities and protect communities

Site Preparation

Machinery

Can a scarifier be operated remotely?

Skogforsk (The Forestry Research Institute of Sweden) has been working on teleoperated/remote-controlled technology for several years.

Site Preparation

Soil cultivation - Pitting in commercial forestry

Pitting is a soil cultivation method known as hole digging/ drilling, minimum soil tillage or spot pit cultivation and it is practiced in various parts of the world

An Insight into Precision Forestry in New Zealand

Technology

General

An Insight into Precision Forestry in New Zealand

What does Precision Forestry look like to foresters and researchers in New Zealand?

Featured Articles

“Battery power meets forestry precision” STIHL KMA 135 Cordless Battery Pole Pruner

March/April 2026|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Pruning

“Battery power meets forestry precision” STIHL KMA 135 Cordless Battery Pole Pruner

The first pruning lift — typically between 1.5 m and 2.5 m — plays a crucial role in shaping high quality plantation timber

March/April 2026|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

Weeding

From pumps to power: electric backpack spraying technology

Electric backpack sprayers support precision forestry by enabling targeted application with low drift and consistent rates.

January/February 2026|Henny Zitha

Announcements

General

John Deere acquires Risutec

On February 17, 2026, Deere & Company announced that it had acquired the intellectual property and related assets for tree planting equipment from Finland-based Risutec Oy

January/February 2026|Saulo Guerra

Tree Planting

Planting

Risutec SKB 240 Planting System

The Risutec SKB 240 is a fully mechanized planting unit designed to improve operational efficiency and standardization in forest plantations, particularly in challenging terrains.

Pano AI – Early Wildfire Detection and Intelligence for Rapid Response

January/February 2026|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Technology

Fire protection

Pano AI – Early Wildfire Detection and Intelligence for Rapid Response

High-resolution imagery and advances in artificial intelligence have opened new avenues for proactive fire management.

The TREM Sprayer: A Controlled Approach to Coppice Management

January/February 2026|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Weeding

The TREM Sprayer: A Controlled Approach to Coppice Management

Coppice control remains a critical intervention in eucalyptus plantation management, directly influencing rotation success, stand uniformity, and long-term site productivity

Progress in imaging technologies used in pine propagation

November/December 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

General

Progress in imaging technologies used in pine propagation

The Precision Silviculture Programme (PSP) is a partnership between the Ministry for Primary Industries and the forest industry, led by Forest Growers Research Ltd in New Zealand

November/December 2025|Saulo Guerra

Forest Nurseries

Planting

TTA – ISO STF Cutting Planter Machine

The STF Cutting Planter Machine is an automated cutting equipment developed by the Dutch company TTA-ISO

Forestry Innovation: Suzano & OroraTech’s High-Tech Wildfire Defence

November/December 2025|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

Forestry Innovation: Suzano & OroraTech’s High-Tech Wildfire Defence

Suzano, one of the world’s largest pulp producers, manages extensive eucalyptus plantations that require vigilant protection against fire damage

TIPWG Drone webinar: Silvicultural and research application

November/December 2025|Henny Zitha

Technology

General

TIPWG Drone webinar: Silvicultural and research application

On 12 November 2025, the Timber Industry Pesticide Working Group (TIPWG), under Forestry South Africa (FSA), hosted an online Drone Workshop showcasing the latest innovations shaping silviculture and forestry research.

Improving rooting of forestry nursery cuttings with OptiBoost FC1 Technology

September/October 2025|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

Planting

Improving rooting of forestry nursery cuttings with OptiBoost FC1 Technology

The forestry industry is under increasing pressure to improve efficiency, reduce losses and increase the survival and growth rates of planted trees.

Effective stump removal with a stump clipper

September/October 2025 |Henny Zitha

Site Preparation

Residue management

Effective stump removal with a stump clipper

Clearing or reducing stumps and harvest residues creates more suitable conditions for site preparation and replanting, which in turn improves the efficiency of silvicultural operations

September/October 2025 |Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Planting

A versatile planter - Bracke P24.a

Bracke Forest has been manufacturing forestry equipment and machines since 1922, leading the world market for machines and equipment for forest regeneration

September/October 2025|Saulo Guerra

Tree Planting

Machinery

PlantMax 3 demonstrated in Brazil

The PlantMax 3 is a mechanised planting unit that comprises a Ponsse Buffalo King forwarder as the base machine (210 kW) carrying the Plantma PlantMax 3 planter

Are we a step closer to aerial tree planting?

July/August 2025|Henny Zitha

Technology

Planting

Are we a step closer to aerial tree planting?

Forestry practices have been transformed with the rapid advancement of technology, and drone planting has emerged as one of the most innovative methods for forest reforestation.

The Bigger DJI Agras T100 for large scale growers

July/August 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

General

The Bigger DJI Agras T100 for large scale growers

In forestry, spraying of stands has conventionally been performed manually or using tractors.

Precision, Innovation, and Traceability for Modern Forestry using the Sarapico 4.0

July/August 2025|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Planting

Precision, Innovation, and Traceability for Modern Forestry using the Sarapico 4.0

At the heart of forestry development in Uruguay, technological innovation is making a strong impact.

Upgrades to the SSM forestry tiller for tractors

July/August 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Machinery

Upgrades to the SSM forestry tiller for tractors

Soil tillage is an essential activity in forestry, which can be performed to create non-chemical weeding, firebreaks, reduce fuel loads in young and mature stands and prepare soil for agroforestry practices

Forest Plantation Congress Brings Together Experts and Strengthens International Partnerships

May/June 2025|Saulo Guerra

Event

General

Forest Plantation Congress Brings Together Experts and Strengthens International Partnerships

From May 13 to 15, the Institute of Forest Research and Studies (IPEF) hosted the second edition of the Forest Plantation Congress at its headquarters in Piracicaba, São Paulo

Using a motorised Husqvarna 321S25 backpack sprayer for weed control

May/June 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Weeding

Using a motorised Husqvarna 321S25 backpack sprayer for weed control

The motorised Husqvarna 321S25 knapsack sprayer runs on a two-stroke engine. It delivers a consistent spray pressure compared to a manual knapsack, where operator fatigue due to manual pumping reduces efficacy and productivity.

Innovation in Forest Nursery Automation: Transforming the Future of Forestry in South America

March/April 2025|Saulo Guerra

Forest Nurseries

Planting

Innovation in Forest Nursery Automation: Transforming the Future of Forestry in South America

Currently, there is a significant technological gap between the level of mechanisation in forest nurseries and the field

March/April 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Planting

STA Explorer Set for Release: Smarter Tree Planting

Following the widespread adoption of the STA Logger across conservation and forestry sectors, TerraLab is set to release its next-generation field tracker: the STA Explorer

2-Row Fully Automatic FiberCell Filling Machine

March/April 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

Machinery

2-Row Fully Automatic FiberCell Filling Machine

BCC now offers an automatic Placing Unit for the 2-Row FiberCell Filling Machine, taking automation and efficiency to the next level

Dryad Drone Prototype for Detecting, Locating and Monitoring Wildfires

March/April 2025|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

Dryad Drone Prototype for Detecting, Locating and Monitoring Wildfires

Dryad’s Silvaguard drone system extends Silvanet’s ultra-early fire detection with real-time aerial observation and marks a key milestone toward autonomous wildfire suppression

Effective mulching with Seppi remote-controlled tracked mulchers

March/April 2025|Henny Zitha

Site Preparation

Residue management

Effective mulching with Seppi remote-controlled tracked mulchers

Mulching plays an important role in plantation forestry by creating a protective layer that helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent erosion.

5th International Precision Forestry symposium

January/February 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Event

General

5th International Precision Forestry symposium

Stellenbosch University hosted the 5th International Precision Forestry symposium under the theme “At the dawn of artificial intelligence (AI).”

Ground Fire Ignition Pyroshot Handheld Launcher Fire Tool

January/February 2025|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

Ground Fire Ignition Pyroshot Handheld Launcher Fire Tool

Fires are an important natural phenomenon, with benefits such as bringing balance to and maintaining health of various ecosystem.

Motor manual cut and treat using a clearing saw

January/February 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Weeding

Motor manual cut and treat using a clearing saw

One of the common and effective methods of weeding is to cut and treat...

Swift Geospatial: Transforming Forestry Monitoring with Advanced Geospatial Solutions

January/February 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Stand assessment

Swift Geospatial: Transforming Forestry Monitoring with Advanced Geospatial Solutions

By leveraging high-resolution satellite imagery, tasked data collection, remote sensing, and advanced analytics, Swift Geospatial provides tools that empower forestry managers to monitor tree health, track growth, and evaluate seedlings with unparalleled precision and efficiency

Forest Maker: From Concept to Market-Ready Reforestation Technology

January/February 2025|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

Forest Maker: From Concept to Market-Ready Reforestation Technology

The Forest Maker by Risutec is a robust and adaptable platform designed to meet the demands of large-scale reforestation

Monitoring and spraying with the DJI Agras T50

November/December 2024|Henny Zitha

Stand Tending

Weeding

Monitoring and spraying with the DJI Agras T50

The DJI Agras T50 is one of the latest Remotely piloted Aircraft System (drone) in the market

Precision firefighting using Fotokite Sigma

November/December 2024|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

Precision firefighting using Fotokite Sigma

Fotokite is a pioneer in tethered UAV technology, providing first responders around the globe with a dependable tool that they can trust in critical situations.

Digitalisation – Using embedded technologies to optimise forest operations

November/December 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

General

Digitalisation – Using embedded technologies to optimise forest operations

In Brazil, several decades ago, practices associated with the establishment of commercial forests were predominantly manual, lacking genetic improvement and advanced technologies.

Modern Silviculture Symposium - Silviculture 4.0 (Day 1 - Nurseries)

September/October 2024 |Henny Zitha, Muedanyi Ramantswana and Thembinkosi Zulu

Technology

General

Modern Silviculture Symposium - Silviculture 4.0 (Day 1 - Nurseries)

The Modern Silviculture event has been hosted as a webinar (virtually) by Nelson Mandela University since 2020.

Modern Silviculture Symposium - Silviculture 4.0 (Day 2 - Modern Silviculture Technologies)

September/October 2024 |Henny Zitha, Muedanyi Ramantswana and Mduduzi Khoza

Technology

General

Modern Silviculture Symposium - Silviculture 4.0 (Day 2 - Modern Silviculture Technologies)

The Nelson Mandela University forestry department in collaboration with Ellepot hosted the first of its kind modern silviculture symposium – silviculture 4.0 under the theme “Smart technology from nursery to field”.

The BurnBot RX1: Advanced technology for Safe and Clean Blacklines and Prescribed burning

September/October 2024 |Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

The BurnBot RX1: Advanced technology for Safe and Clean Blacklines and Prescribed burning

BurnBot RX1 is a remote-controlled unmanned moving vehicle towing mobile burn chamber that lays down blacklines as it travels.

10 YEARS OF TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES IN FORESTRY MECHANIZATION

September/October 2024|Saulo Guerra, Guilherme Oguri and Beatriz Zerbinato Balista

Event

General

10 YEARS OF TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES IN FORESTRY MECHANIZATION

During the first week of September 2024, approximately 150 professionals from our sector gathered at the premises of the company Suzano

John Deere’s mechanized seedling planter

September/October 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

John Deere’s mechanized seedling planter

The machine has a single planting head that plants continuously along an area subsoiled by an independent machine

Automation in Forestry Nurseries: Can You Afford to Stay Behind?

July/August 2024|Joep Hendriks

Forest Nurseries

Machinery

Automation in Forestry Nurseries: Can You Afford to Stay Behind?

When managing a forestry nursery, financial performance often takes center stage, with key performance indicators (KPIs) such as net margin per seedling driving many decisions

Using data to improve efficiencies in silviculture operations

July/August 2024|Thabiso Makhathini

Technology

General

Using data to improve efficiencies in silviculture operations

The disciplines of data and decision science together with forestry domain knowledge combined will create forestry intelligent decision support systems that will facilitate precision forestry given the use and availability of tools and technology that collects, stores and transmit forestry data

July/August 2024|Henny Zitha & Geoffrey Rippon

Technology

Forest protection

Application of drones in fire fighting

Drones offer a unique blend of assistance with their advanced capabilities in monitoring, mapping, and executing controlled burns. Drones enable fire managers and fighters to make informed decisions through the provision of real-time data received from their sensors and thermal images.

Prune and thin forest stands aerially - AirForestry

July/August 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Thinning

Prune and thin forest stands aerially - AirForestry

Airforestry is an innovative Swedish company that focuses on electric airborne forestry management

July/August 2024|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Technology

Fire protection

TracPlus Beacon - smartphone technology for coordinated safety

TracPlus is specialist in firefighting telemetry software solutions, providing aerial firefighting tracking solutions, real-time tracking and communication solutions.

Dronster robot designed for forest firefighting

May/June 2024|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Forest protection

Dronster robot designed for forest firefighting

The Dronster product offers forestry landowners an opportunity to improve forest management from the point of view of vegetation clearing and wildfire prevention.

Understanding planting tube configurations

May/June 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana & Henny Zitha

Tree Planting

Planting

Understanding planting tube configurations

The regeneration of forest stands using manual methods is labour intensive. Modernisation in forestry, particularly in silviculture, has evolved to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and productivity. Such innovative technology begins with improving the existing manual methods and equipment with more advance tools designed to optimize the planting process.

Overview of eucalypt plantation in Brazil

May/June 2024|Saulo Guerra and Muedanyi Ramantswana

Publication

General

Overview of eucalypt plantation in Brazil

The booklet provides an overview of eucalypt plantation forestry in Brazil

New FAE BL2/S/EX forestry mulcher for 11–16-ton excavators

May/June 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Residue management

New FAE BL2/S/EX forestry mulcher for 11–16-ton excavators

The Bite Limiter technology on this head is ideal for high productivity vegetation management, with reliably efficient shredding. The rotor with Bite Limiter technology comes with special wear-resistant steel profiles that limit the reach (bite) of the teeth.

Mechanised Planting Productivity and Quality: The PlantMax Journey

May/June 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

Mechanised Planting Productivity and Quality: The PlantMax Journey

PlantMax is a mechanised planting machine developed by Plantma AB, and its primary functions include soil preparation (scarification/subsoiling), fertilizing, planting seedlings, and firming

Monitoring and Spraying with the DJI AGRAS T40

March/April 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Weeding

Monitoring and Spraying with the DJI AGRAS T40

Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) technology is improving at a rapid rate.

March/April 2024|Henny Zitha and Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

Machinery

Integrating auto-steer technology to vehicles used in silviculture

Understanding the impact of this technology on productivity and business efficiency is crucial for maximizing its potential in silviculture practices. Tractors are by far the most versatile vehicle used in both forestry and agriculture.

Disc harrowing for fuel load management in eucalyptus stands

March/April 2024|Angel Goldsmith

Fire management

Fuel load management

Disc harrowing for fuel load management in eucalyptus stands

Placement of firebreaks to counteract wildfires spread or for containment of fire within the plantation have become a standard practice...

Dryad brings Silvanet AI for Ultra-Early Detection of Wildfires

March/April 2024|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

Dryad brings Silvanet AI for Ultra-Early Detection of Wildfires

The Dryad Silvanet is an Ultra-Early Wildfires Detection system, which detects wildfires at smouldering phase before there is an open flame..

March/April 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

General

Precision irrigation in forest nurseries using the SUPA SCALE ® system

Irrigation in the forest nursery is important because it ensures that plants receive water to facilitate growth

REAL -TIME WILDFIRE SPREAD PREDICTION TECHNOLOGY

January/February 2024|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

REAL -TIME WILDFIRE SPREAD PREDICTION TECHNOLOGY

OroraTech’s Fire Spread Product is designed to track and predict wildfire movement in real time

Enhanced Forest Stand Assessment through LiDAR Technology

January/February 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Stand assessment

Enhanced Forest Stand Assessment through LiDAR Technology

The use of Lidar in Forestry is aimed to achieve more precise and efficient measurements of their forestry compartments.

January/February 2024|Henny Zitha and Duncan Fryer

Technology

Machinery

STIHL-Connected

Stihl connected is a cloud-based system comprising of hardware and software. The STIHL Smart Connector captures the machines’ usage data, saves it, and transmits the data via Bluetooth to the STIHL connected App on a smartphone or tablet within range.

SmartPlanter – A cloud-connected planting device

January/February 2024|Henny Zitha and Dr Csongor Horvath

Tree Planting

Planting

SmartPlanter – A cloud-connected planting device

SmartForest aims to improve the efficiency of the Norwegian forest sector by enabling a digital revolution transforming forest information, silviculture, forest operations, wood supply and the overall digital information flow in the industry.

First pruning using Husqvarna Pole Pruners

January/February 2024|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Pruning

First pruning using Husqvarna Pole Pruners

Pruning is an important stand tending activity in silviculture. The 1st (1.5 – 2.5m) pruning can be conducted for fire protection by improving access to the stand and reducing aerial fuels

Integrating AI to modern silviculture equipment

November/December 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

General

Integrating AI to modern silviculture equipment

Artificial intelligence (AI) is known as the simulation of human intelligence by machines, especially computer systems

Using water mist technology to fight forest fires

November/December 2023|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

Using water mist technology to fight forest fires

EmiControls is a company that produces turbine technology which is used for firefighting. The turbines use a propeller to effectively apply a water mist which can cool and extinguish a fire.

BraSatt 01 planting machine - testing and progressing

November/December |Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Planting

BraSatt 01 planting machine - testing and progressing

Investments and developments into silviculture technology solutions (especially regeneration activities) are evident globally

Optimising Modern Silviculture – 2023 Webinar

November/December 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana & Henny Zitha

Technology

General

Optimising Modern Silviculture – 2023 Webinar

On the 18th of October 2023, the Nelson Mandela University Forestry Department hosted its fourth webinar under the theme “Optimising Modern Silviculture”. Sustainability in forestry can be facilitated by introducing new technologies and ensuring the efficiencies of existing modern silviculture systems are optimised.

Using the TimberMAX traction-winch assist in land clearing operations

November/December 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Residue management

Using the TimberMAX traction-winch assist in land clearing operations

Traction winch assist systems are becoming more common in forest operations and more recently being used with silviculture equipment

Autonomous forestry spraying with Jacto Arbus 4000

September/October 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Machinery

Autonomous forestry spraying with Jacto Arbus 4000

The Arbus 4000 is an autonomous spraying machine with a 4000 liters capacity and 18-meter boom

September/October 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Planting

Mapping of manual tree planting in forestry

TerraLab (based in Australia) and Ferrando and Associates (based in Uruguay) have worked collaboratively to innovate and introduce the STA logger technology manual in planting tools

Brazilian Silviculture Mechanization Index Survey - 2022/2023

September/October 2023|Saulo Guerra

Technology

General

Brazilian Silviculture Mechanization Index Survey - 2022/2023

This survey conducted by the Cooperative Program on Forest Mechanization and Automation (PCMAF), which is part of the Forest Research Institute (IPEF), continues the original plan from 2015

September/October 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

Bracke P22.b double head planter

The Bracke P22.b planter is a newly developed planting machine suitable for planting in flat areas as well as sloping terrain

July/August 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Machinery

HxGN AgrOn Operational Management

As cellular internet coverage increases worldwide and satellite internet connection gets more accessible, remote monitoring and managing forestry operations is becoming increasingly more effective

Non-chemical forestry weeding technologies

July/August 2023|Henny Zitha

Stand Tending

Weeding

Non-chemical forestry weeding technologies

New 4IR technologies are increasingly being introduced and used to perform activities like weeding more efficiently. In forestry there has been a limited adoption of these technologies however with the issue of labour shortages, increasing costs and health and safety issues this technology adoption can become a viable solution.

SPOTLIGHT ON PURPOSE-BUILT PLANTING MACHINES AT EXPOFOREST

July/August 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana and Saulo Guerra

Tree Planting

Machinery

SPOTLIGHT ON PURPOSE-BUILT PLANTING MACHINES AT EXPOFOREST

Large and small companies showcased their silviculture and harvesting solutions, but the purpose-built silviculture machinery attracted most of the attention.

IQ Firewatch Automatic fire detection system

July/August 2023|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

IQ Firewatch Automatic fire detection system

The multi-patented IQ FireWatch system detects smoke and smoke-like events by using a multispectral sensor unit that rotates 360 degrees every 4-6 minutes and captures images from preset positions

Cut and mulch with Diamond mowers skid steer forestry disc mulchers

July/August 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Residue management

Cut and mulch with Diamond mowers skid steer forestry disc mulchers

Disc mulchers are fast and productive attachments, which slice through and then mulcher residues, brush and standing small trees

Cost effective digital solutions for forest regeneration

May/June 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Soil Preparation

Cost effective digital solutions for forest regeneration

Forestry, and especially silviculture, often borrows concepts from agriculture. Precision forestry is no exception.

Precision firefighting using Drone Amplified technology

May/June 2023|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

Precision firefighting using Drone Amplified technology

Unmanned Aerial system (UAS) drone carrying IGNIS system is a technology used for safe aerial ignition of a low intensity fire

Effective stump removal with FAE stump cutters

May/June 2023|Henny Zitha

Site Preparation

Machinery

Effective stump removal with FAE stump cutters

The forestry industry has been pioneering the use of advanced technologies to improve forestry management operations in a productive, efficient and economically viable way. In line with that, FAE has introduced stump cutters integrated on tractors, excavators, tracked carriers and special vehicles.

May/June 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Announcements

General

Expoforest 2023 is coming...

The world's largest dynamic forestry fair reaches its fifth edition

Can exoskeletons be useful in performing silviculture activities?

May/June 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

General

Can exoskeletons be useful in performing silviculture activities?

An exoskeleton is described as wearable device that is worn to enhance strength and performance to complete various types of work

Ecoforst’s T-Winch enables mechanised regeneration on steep slopes

May/June 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Machinery

Ecoforst’s T-Winch enables mechanised regeneration on steep slopes

The T-winch is a traction assist solution which is integrated to conventional equipment to prevent wheel slippage and associated ground damage when operating on steep slope wheel

March/April 2023|Saulo Guerra

Forest Nurseries

Machinery

New Automated Tuber Machine

The new R1630-C automated tuber machine, manufactured by Eremaq, is now operating in Brazil.

Plant quality is key to mechanised planting

March/April 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Editor's views

Planting

Plant quality is key to mechanised planting

In as much as we have sophisticated planting technologies available it is important to note that their goal is to successfully plant a seedling (plant) that will survive and grow to ultimately meet the landowner’s objectives

Can mulchers be used to effectively clear young forest stands?

March/April 2023|Henny Zitha

Site Preparation

Residue management

Can mulchers be used to effectively clear young forest stands?

Mulchers are commonly used for breaking up tops, branches and stumps after harvesting has taken place to manage post-harvest slash. This is more prevalent when a young stand has been damaged by a pest, disease, drought, fire and poor form and consequently no longer economically viable to grow because the yield at rotation end will be adequate.

FireHawk’s automatic fire detection Systems

March/April 2023|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

FireHawk’s automatic fire detection Systems

The FireHawk Automatic fire detection system is a computerized fire detection system

Steep terrain solutions for mechanised ground-based silviculture equipment

March/April 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Editor's views

General

Steep terrain solutions for mechanised ground-based silviculture equipment

IIt is well understood that working on steep terrain (>35%) is more complex than level and gentle slopes.

January/February 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Soil Preparation

Pitting with the Risutec PT-6

Pitting is one of many available soil preparation methods used to create a suitable planting position during the re-establishment of a forest

Using Forest Tabs to remotely keep track of silviculture operations

January/February 2023|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Digital Technology

General

Using Forest Tabs to remotely keep track of silviculture operations

Most forest activities' data capturing is still paper based with employees having to complete several forms which eventually get captured for management to process and make decisions.

January/February 2023|Saulo Guerra

Tree Planting

Machinery

PlantMax X2 in South America

PlantMax X2, manufactured by Plantma Foresty Sweden, is operating in Brazil

January/February 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Weeding

Husqvarna's 321SP portable sprayer

The 321SP Portable Sprayer is the latest model from the Husqvarna stable

Progress in testing autonomous regeneration

January/February 2023|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

Progress in testing autonomous regeneration

Towards the end of last year, the Autoplant project demonstrated the automatic planter

Ease and comfort with STIHL’s SGA 85 cordless backpack sprayer

November/December 2022|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Weeding

Ease and comfort with STIHL’s SGA 85 cordless backpack sprayer

In forestry, spraying applications are required when performing many activities such as preplant spraying, weeding after planting, noxious weeding, conservation area weeding, pesticide application, firebreak preparation etc

Focusing on silviculture machine operators

November/December 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Editor's views

General

Focusing on silviculture machine operators

Machine operators play an important role in the success of any mechanised silviculture operation.

Enabling Modernisation in Silviculture-Webinar

November/December 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana & Henny Zitha

Technology

General

Enabling Modernisation in Silviculture-Webinar

For the third time occurring the Nelson Mandela University Forestry Department hosted a webinar on the 19th of October 2022 under the theme “Enabling Modernization in Silviculture”.

November/December 2022|Saulo Guerra

Digital Technology

Stand assessment

LiDAR technology embedded in UAV´s

Along with the technological innovations that have been taking place in forestry operations, forest measurement assumes an important role by adopting remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning in data acquisition and processing

Digital Silviculture and Progress in Forestry

November/December 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Planting

Digital Silviculture and Progress in Forestry

Digital silviculture is an approach that can be used to improve the efficiency, productivity, and profitability of forestry operations.

The use of LiDAR, GPS, and GIS systems in assessing stand characteristics

September/October 2022|Henny Zitha

Technology

Stand assessment

The use of LiDAR, GPS, and GIS systems in assessing stand characteristics

Live seedlings identification is important for monitoring the success of forest establishment and to ensure that the planting density and spacing dimensions are maximised

Ellepot & South African forestry nurseries look to the future

September/October 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

General

Ellepot & South African forestry nurseries look to the future

South Africa’s forestry nurseries have a proud history of innovation and applying new technologies to the propagation of forestry plants.

Improve silviculture efficiencies with the Tigercat 630H utility carrier

September/October 2022|José Carlos Rocha Filho & Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Machinery

Improve silviculture efficiencies with the Tigercat 630H utility carrier

In the absence of a purpose-built prime mover to pull the plows, regular agriculture tractors are commonly seen in silviculture operations throughout Centro America and Mexico

Emergence of remote controlled machines in silviculture

September/October 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

Machinery

Emergence of remote controlled machines in silviculture

Forest operations are known for their high safety risks and operation on complex terrain conditions

September/October 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Announcements

General

Silviculture Technology Webinar 2022

The theme explores how new and existing technologies are enabling silviculture modernisation to improve sustainability in the planting and tending of forest stands

September/October 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

General

Silviculture technology at FinnMETKO 2022

Forsilvitech visited the FinnMEKTO exhibition which was held in Finland (Jämsä). The event was attended by at least 27,350 visitors in total during the three days

July/August 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Planting

HxGN AgrOn Planting Assistant

Hexagon's Agriculture division — which develops digital agricultural and forestry solutions — is launching a new technology focused on improving accuracy in shovel planting

Novelquip Forestry now sub-dealer for Ponsse

July/August 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Announcements

General

Novelquip Forestry now sub-dealer for Ponsse

Novelquip has announced that they are now a sub-dealer for Ponsse

Telematics systems in silviculture equipment

July/August|Henny Zitha

Technology

Machinery

Telematics systems in silviculture equipment

Over the years Global Positioning Systems and data acquisition equipment has been used successfully to help monitor the performance of forest machines.

July/August 2022|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Machinery

STIHL’s BR 800 C-E backpack blower for fire management

Blowers have been used by the United States Forest Service to help fight wildfires since the late 1960s. They are an integral piece of equipment commonly used by firefighters globally

Effective Stump removal using the Savannah’s Stump Puller

July/August 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Residue management

Effective Stump removal using the Savannah’s Stump Puller

Stumps are residues which remain after the harvesting of a forest stand. In plantation forestry, stump heights may vary depending on the harvesting system used to fell the trees.

July/August 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

Moritz planting machine

Over the past few years there has been a renewed focus on improving silviculture operations through mechanisation

May/June 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Announcements

General

Komatsu acquires Bracke Forest

Komatsu Forest AB is in the process of finalising the acquisition of Bracke AB which is owned by Cranab AB, which is part of Fassi group

Pruning shears for silviculture operations

May/June 2022|Saulo Guerra

Stand Tending

Pruning

Pruning shears for silviculture operations

Usually, pruning is a common silvicultural practice throughout the globe, and it's been done manually. Most of the pruning shears are manually operated, but more recently, battery scissors came into the market, enabling the removal of thicker branches due to their torque engines.

May/June 2022|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

Machinery

BCC's FiberCell Filling Machines for improved efficiency in the nursery

BCC has acquired the rights to manufacture FiberCell horizontal feeding fillers from a company that used to manufacture previously for Plantpaper

Focus on purpose-built soil preparation equipment in re-establishment operations

May/June 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Soil Preparation

Focus on purpose-built soil preparation equipment in re-establishment operations

Soil preparation is an important requirement prior to planting trees. Good soil preparation enables high tree survival and rapid tree growth during the early stages of growth

May/June 2022|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Fire protection

Using ANCO's Compressed Air Foam System for effective fire management

The ANCO CAFS300 system was designed for tough, demanding fire conditions while enhancing operational requirements (activation / start-up) to be simplified

Is there potential for hydrogen fueled machines in forestry?

May/June 2022|Henny Zitha

Technology

Machinery

Is there potential for hydrogen fueled machines in forestry?

Around the world, regulation is tightening to limit greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles, thus there is an increased interest in hydrogen engines and hydrogen fuel cells.

March/April 2022|Henny Zitha

Tree Planting

Planting

A review of planting technologies

With the increased realization of the benefits offered by integrated forestry, there is a gradual shift from manual and semi mechanized to fully mechanised planting machines.

FAE - SONIC technology and PT-300 upgrades

March/April 2022|Henny Zitha

Site Preparation

Residue management

FAE - SONIC technology and PT-300 upgrades

FAE was founded in 1989 and manufactures of heads for tractors, excavators, skid steers, special vehicles and tracked carriers for forestry, agriculture, road and demining work.

March/April 2022|Henny Zitha

Technology

General

ForestTech 2022 conference

Annually, ForestTech holds its two-day conference where speakers are invited to present about various technologies in both silviculture and harvesting. This year, the focus of the conference was on new silvicultural technologies that are of interest around the world

Morooka / FMCopling forestry tractor – 12m boom sprayer field evaluation

March/April 2022|Saulo Guerra

Stand Tending

Machinery

Morooka / FMCopling forestry tractor – 12m boom sprayer field evaluation

According to the final report, using a 12m boom sprayer, it was possible to apply a regular average of 16m width herbicide in the total area before eucalypt planting

Is there room for electric tractors in forestry?

March/April 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

Machinery

Is there room for electric tractors in forestry?

The concept of electric vehicles is gaining moment due to the need to reduce greenhouse gases and limit the negative impacts climate change

January/February 2022|Henny Zitha

Stand Tending

Pruning

STHIL pole pruners

STIHL pole pruners are lightweight, yet powerful machines developed for silviculture operations. STIHL produces both battery and petrol-powered machines which makes them ideal machines for tree maintenance

Track weeding operations with the STA logger

January/February 2022|Henny Zitha

Technology

Weeding

Track weeding operations with the STA logger

The STA logger is an automated GPS and data logging attachment designed to integrate with existing weed control tools.

Semi-mechanised planting with the dozer planting system

January/February 2022|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

Semi-mechanised planting with the dozer planting system

New Forestry Solutions through a continuous improvement initiative together with BnB transport which are both under the same consortium partnered to configure a dozer and converted it to a planting machine.

Morooka / FMCopling spraying forestry tractor

January/February 2022|Saulo Guerra

Stand Tending

Machinery

Morooka / FMCopling spraying forestry tractor

This project started in 2018, after extensive research of new and adequate tractor models for the commercial planted forest in Brazil

Manual planting with Pottiputki –planting tube

January/February 2022|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Planting

Manual planting with Pottiputki –planting tube

The Pottiputki planting tube is well known for its simplicity, good ergonomic features, and efficiency when planting.

Productivity and ergonomics of Patas pruning machine

November/December 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Machinery

Productivity and ergonomics of Patas pruning machine

Pruning of forest trees is labour intensive silvicultural activity which is often conducted by using pruning or motorized saws

Operational forestry drones - The Uruguayan case

November/December 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Weeding

Operational forestry drones - The Uruguayan case

Over the past few year drones have significantly improved the manner in which various forestry activities are performed

BraSatt project – planting machine developments

November/December 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

BraSatt project – planting machine developments

The BraSatt project is a forestry modernization initiative spearheaded by Södra with the goal of developing new forest technology for soil preparation and planting.

Brazil - Silviculture mechanization index survey 2020/2021

November/December 2021|Saulo Guerra

Technology

General

Brazil - Silviculture mechanization index survey 2020/2021

This survey conducted by the Cooperative Program on Forest Mechanization and Automation (PCMAF)

Supply chain improvements through Ellepots

November/December 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

Planting

Supply chain improvements through Ellepots

The adoption of Ellepots in the South African forestry industry provides the ideal opportunity to re-evaluate how plants are grown and supplied to the field.

September/October 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

General

Evolving with technology – Silviculture Webinar

The Nelson Mandela University Forestry Department Hosted a Webinar on the 20th of October 2021 under the theme “Evolving with Technology”

Lessons on automation: what can forestry learn from agriculture?

September/October 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

General

Lessons on automation: what can forestry learn from agriculture?

When we talk about automation in agriculture and forestry, what we find most are differences.

Versatility offered by Novequip pitting attachments

September/October 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Soil Preparation

Machinery

Versatility offered by Novequip pitting attachments

The preparation of a planting position is considered one of the most important re-establishment activities in silviculture

Mechanization brings competitiveness to Brazil forest plantations

September/October 2021|Saulo Guerra

Editor's views

General

Mechanization brings competitiveness to Brazil forest plantations

Mechanized processes bring greater yield and optimization of scarce labour. The mechanization of planted forests in Brazil is still far from the level of the harvesting

Improving efficiencies in silviculture operations through real time analytics

July/August 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Stand assessment

Improving efficiencies in silviculture operations through real time analytics

With support for sensors and onboard controllers installed in forestry machinery, management software is often widely used for an operational and qualitative view.

Understanding the benefits of stabilised media offered by Ellepots

July/August 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

Planting

Understanding the benefits of stabilised media offered by Ellepots

A stabilised media container is one in which the plants roots are not required to hold the growing medium intact

Versatility with Ponsse’s firefighting equipment

July/August 2021|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Fire management

Machinery

Versatility with Ponsse’s firefighting equipment

Ponsse has designed and manufactured a forwarder-mounted fire suppression device that utilizes the excellent terrain travel ability and powerful hydraulics of a PONSSE forwarder

Real Carbon Capture Machine - Forest Bot

July/August 2021|Saulo Guerra & Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Planting

Real Carbon Capture Machine - Forest Bot

Real Carbon Capture Machine is the name of a new prototype seedling planter under development in Brazil by Forest bot

Mechanised planting with the M-160R planting head

May/June 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

Mechanised planting with the M-160R planting head

The M-planter M-160R is a one-headed planting tool which has the ability to create a mound, rip, plant, fertilize and water a seedling at planting

Mechanised pitting and planting with the Risutec ASP-720

July/August 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

Mechanised pitting and planting with the Risutec ASP-720

The Risutec ASP-720 planting head is designed to conduct large scale pitting and planting of plantation forest species such as eucalypts and pines

May/June 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Weeding

2m Dribble bar spray system

The 2m dribble bar spray system is an innovative spray kit developed by Eradispray. The inspiration for this design comes from the standard “T” dribble bar used for the line clean.

Plans for Autonomous forest rejuvenation - AutoPlant

September/October 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Machinery

Plans for Autonomous forest rejuvenation - AutoPlant

The automation of various activities is fast becoming a reality in many industries including forestry

Stump removal with the Dipperfox Stump Crusher 850 Pro

March/April 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Residue management

Stump removal with the Dipperfox Stump Crusher 850 Pro

In forestry dealing with residues such as stumps is complex, slow and expensive. The Dipperfox Stump Crusher 850 Pro is a robust stump removal tool which can be attached to an excavator-based carrier.

BL4/EX/VT forestry mulcher with Bite Limiter Technology

May/June 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Residue management

BL4/EX/VT forestry mulcher with Bite Limiter Technology

The BL4/EX/VT is the latest FAE forestry mulching head designed for use with excavators. It has the Bite Limiter technology which is ideal for clearing dense woody vegetation.

March/April 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

Machinery

Standardisation and efficiency guaranteed with ISOBUS technology

ISOBUS is an open standard of interconnection of electronic systems developed to meet the forestry and agricultural machinery.

Future of planting with the Robotic Forester

March/April 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Technology

Machinery

Future of planting with the Robotic Forester

Robotic Forester is a semi-autonomous forest regeneration system which will cover all the main regeneration operations such as: soil preparation, planting and early tending/cleaning

May/June 2021|Saulo Guerra

Soil Preparation

Machinery

Efficiency of deep soil preparation with the Savannah Magnum 420

Nowadays, some options are available on the market that perform both the clearing and realignment, subsoiling and fertilizing operations simultaneously

March/April 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Planting

Continuous tree planting with the PlantmaX

The PlantmaX is a continuously advancing tree planting machine

January/February 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Weeding

DJI AGRAS T20 spray drone

The AGRAS T20 is a drone from DJI which has the ability to spray autonomously on a variety of terrains

January/February 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Site Preparation

Residue management

Mulching in forestry

Mulching in forestry typically involves a process of using a machine to clear, grind or cut down vegetation or residues.

Precise manual and mechanised plant location recording using FPT

January/February 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Planting

Precise manual and mechanised plant location recording using FPT

The FPT (Forest Pro Technologies) is a digital application which works with a GPS system which records the precise location of forest plants during the re-establishment phase.

BCC’s AUTOMATIC PLANT PACKAGING MACHINE – W50PP

May/June 2022|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

Machinery

BCC’s AUTOMATIC PLANT PACKAGING MACHINE – W50PP

Moving seedlings from nurseries to planting sites requires packaging, and with speedy packaging automation and eco-friendly renewable packaging this has been made faster and more efficient than ever

Automated Triple irrigator machine - FMCopling

January/February 2021|Saulo Guerra

Stand Tending

Machinery

Automated Triple irrigator machine - FMCopling

The irrigation machine is designed to identify the seedling planted on the ground and then irrigate autonomously.

Mechanical delimbing using the advaligno PATAS machine

January/February 2021|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Stand Tending

Pruning

Mechanical delimbing using the advaligno PATAS machine

The PATAS mechanical delimber is a compact tool designed for delimbing various plantation forest trees

November/December 2020|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

Planting

BCC FiberCell holders and inserts

All BCC growing systems are designed to give young forest seedlings and cuttings the best possible start in life with a well-developed root system and rapid infield establishment after planting

The Bracke Planter P11.a (Brazil version)

November/December 2020|Saulo Guerra

Tree Planting

Planting

The Bracke Planter P11.a (Brazil version)

The Bracke Planter P11.a (Brazil version) is a single excavator-based machine designed to prepare the soil, plant, irrigate and fertilize eucalypt seedlings.

Novelquip’s Machine Management System (MMS)

November/December 2020|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Machinery

Novelquip’s Machine Management System (MMS)

Novelquip’s Machine Management System (MMS) is a digital technology platform which facilitates precision in mechanised planting

November/December 2020|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Technology

General

ForestTech 2020 conference

In mid-November we had the privilege to attend the ForestTECH conference which was offered both physically and virtually. The conference predominantly focuses on New Zealand and Australia’s forest issues, however, the content is globally relevant

Improved manual planting with the Faka Plenty Planting Tool

November/December 2020|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Tree Planting

Planting

Improved manual planting with the Faka Plenty Planting Tool

The Faka Plenty is a planting tool manufactured by Silvix Forestry and it is designed to improve ergonomics, productivity, and planting quality

Assessing seedling survival with Skylab’s seedling counter

November/December 2020|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Stand assessment

Assessing seedling survival with Skylab’s seedling counter

Survival of a tree stand is critical for the efficient utilization of the stand, resources and to yield a good return in forestry

November/December 2020|Nontethelelo Ramantswana

Forest Nurseries

Planting

Using BCC's FiberCell paper for quality forestry seedlings and cuttings

The FiberCell paper is filled with growing media and remains intact until a good quality root plug is formed in the nursery

September/October 2020|Saulo Guerra

Technology

Machinery

Survey of Brazil's Mechanization Level in Silviculture

IPEF, through its Cooperative Program on Forest Mechanization and Automation (PCMAF), released the findings from a study called

September/October 2020|Saulo Guerra

Soil Preparation

Machinery

TRIDENT SUBSOILER FOR DEEP SOIL PREPARATION

It is an excavator based machine with trident rod attachment which is used for deep soil preparation when dealing with cohesive soils with pedogenic horizons.

ASTA-SYSTEM MOUNTED GPS AND DATA COLLECTION

September/October 2020|Muedanyi Ramantswana

Digital Technology

Machinery

ASTA-SYSTEM MOUNTED GPS AND DATA COLLECTION

The ASTA-system is a documentation system developed by Risutec which shows seedling and soil cultivation locations as well as planting and stand tending areas in real time.