Don’t miss the Forwarder Championships at LIGNA

The Working Group of Forestry Contractors of Lower Saxony is holding the 15th Lower Saxony Forwarder Championships on 29 May at LIGNA in Hannover, Germany.

The fact that the competition is happening in an outdoor exhibition area and not in a forest heightens the challenges facing the operators. Competitors are tasked with two challenges. The first, turmbau (tower building) tests the dexterity and accuracy of their crane operating skills. 

Precise control of the crane and grab is essential

In the Cup stage, two drivers face off in identical forwarders, navigating a course with multiple stations requiring precise log loading. Success demands both speed and accuracy. The first driver to complete the course with minimal penalties moves on to subsequent rounds, culminating in the grand final in the afternoon.

The machines for the competitions will be provided by manufacturers/dealers/members. 

A forwarder operator builds a tower during the 2023 competition

Turmbau

Cup-Wettbewerb

The overall winner will receive the coveted Lower Saxony Forwarder Champion 2025 cup.

Split-stoppers keep the split ends of hardwoods in check

A significant challenge when harvesting and using hardwoods like eucalyptus, oak, and European beech in sawn applications is managing the internal tensile forces released during felling, which inevitably result in end-splitting. 

Hardwood sawmillers and roundwood exporters work closely with their resource suppliers to ensure a consistent supply of logs that are good enough to produce sufficient volumes of higher-grade material for returns to exceed the cost of production. 

End-splitting

Philip Boardman of Alternative Structures in Centurion, Gauteng, says the combination of internal stresses and external factors affecting the quality of the wood does not end there. "There are no shortcuts when you work with hardwoods. For example, warping and splitting during sawing and horizontal checking during drying reduces the recovery of sawn products," he comments. 

Over the years, eucalyptus growers and sawmillers on every continent have invested significantly in researching the best methods for stopping or minimising end-splitting in newly-felled logs by applying sealants, embedding steel S- or C-hooks or anti-split plates, or strapping. 

Boardman says it is internationally accepted that applying a device to the developing split at or immediately after felling and cross-cutting minimises end-checking during log handling and transporting to the processing plant. 

The split must be between the two cross hairs

The “usual” methods

"Roundwood suppliers of hardwoods for sawn products, exports and mining timber in Southern Africa tend to use steel S-hooks or anti-split plates. These are time-consuming to remove, and if the processing machine operator is not careful, it will damage the saw blade," he explains. 

"The usual method is to trim and discard the log ends containing the anti-split devices. It is a loss of valuable materials, and the splitting continues," Boardman explains. Another factor to consider is that wood high in tannic acid, such as oak, reacts with the metal and produces dark stains that reduce the product's value.

Boardman's Alternative Structures supplies services and solutions for technical forestry and sawmilling problems. It represents several international and local manufacturers, including the award-winning Austrian company Latschbacher and its brands, WinforstPro and Signumat.

The WinforstPro electronic tree, log and lumber tracking tags and monitoring software are popular in Brazil, the USA, and Europe. The Signumat's forest equipment includes felling wedges, sliding callipers, dendrometers and split-stoppers.

The split-stoppers in action

Alternative solutions

"The Signumat split-stoppers are perfect alternative solutions for southern Africa's hardwood harvesters and processors," asserts Boardman. 

There are two types of split stoppers, and both are simple, lightweight "staples" made of fibreglass-reinforced plastic. The Premium is made of virgin composite materials, while the Eco has a small percentage of recycled material. 

"They are quick and easy to install with a single blow of the Signumat Premium hammer. The logs and timber fitted with the devices can be processed in sawmills without damaging saw blades or harming the machine operators".

Signumat stops splits

The 11cm long Premium model is highly tensile, designed to penetrate wood easily and does not fade when it encounters moisture or during long-term storage. Latschbacher has patented the wave-shaped tip and barbs that securely hold the staple. The two intermediate crossbars distribute the tensile load equally across the area. 

The Signumat Premium split-stopper and hammer

"The extremely stiff end crossbars disappear completely in the wood when applied by one hammer blow, making the Premium and Eco split-stoppers suitable for sawn lumber and logs," explains Boardman. He says speed and accuracy matter when working with hardwoods, and "although most hammers will do the job, the Signumat Premium hammer is best."

The hammer has a flexible joint that reduces the penetration resistance of wood by about 30%. It assists the user in applying a split stopper with a single blow, even if the impact is not parallel to the log surface.

John Deere H-Series wheeled harvesters raise the bar for forestry performance in Africa

John Deere’s next-generation 1270H and 1470H wheeled harvesters mark a significant leap forward in forestry technology. These new H-Series machines are equipped with many improvements designed to boost productivity, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance operator comfort, all while standing up to the rugged demands of forestry work in Africa. 

John Deere has built a solid reputation with machines like the 1270G and 1470G wheeled harvesters. These machines are well-known among operators for their resilience, reliability, and productivity. They have proven themselves in the field with powerful engines, excellent fuel efficiency, and smart operator-assist features like the Intelligent Boom Control (IBC) system that’s been enhancing operator precision since 2013.

The John Deere 1470H wheeled harvester prepares for action

Powerhouse redefined

The H-Series models boast a 9-litre high-performance engine John Deere engine offering 10% more power and torque. It is paired with a new hydraulic system with three dedicated pumps, delivering simultaneous operation of the harvester head, boom and drive. The result is significantly higher productivity and lower fuel consumption per cubic metre harvested, a huge plus for operations focused on sustainability and profitability.

Next-level stability and reach

Forestry operators will appreciate the Active Frame Lock. This feature enhances machine stability on steep slopes and level ground. It also allows for easier operation when the boom is extended sideways, giving operators a larger, more stable working area.

Speaking of booms, the new H7 and H9 harvester booms provide around 10% more lift power. The H9 model also benefits from 5% more slewing torque than previous versions. With boom lengths ranging from 8.6m to 10m, these machines can easily accommodate a wide range of attachments and applications.

Designed for the future

John Deere redesigned the rear chassis, rotating the engine 180 degrees and improving layout efficiency. Hydraulic oil, fuel tanks, and pumps are now at the front, while the fan and cooler are positioned at the rear creating a quieter cab and greatly improved rear visibility. The rotating and levelling cab, now standard, can turn 220 degrees, adding an additional 30-degree swing to either side.

Inside, the cab has been reimagined with a user-friendly climate control system, optional 5-button joysticks, various seat upgrades, and a new secondary display, making long shifts more comfortable and productive.

Why choose John Deere?

John Deere’s commitment to innovation, long-term reliability, and after-sales support sets its wheeled harvesters apart in a competitive market. 

With the H-Series, customers get a machine and a productivity partner ready to meet Africa’s unique forestry challenges head-on.

The JD 1270H wheeled harvester and H424 harvesting head are a formidable and productive combination

Haglöf enumeration equipment demonstrated at the Precision Forestry Symposium

Alternative Structures, Africa’s agent for Haglöf enumeration equipment, displayed and demonstrated a range of advanced instruments during the international Precision Forestry Symposium at Stellenbosch University.

Philip Boardman and Lourens Zietsman represented Alternative Structures at the field demonstration and static exhibit during the symposium. 

Philip Boardman and Lourens Zietsman of Alternative Structures demonstrated their products at the Precision Forestry Symposium in February

“The main focus of our involvement was showcasing the Haglöf enumeration equipment. We have been Haglöf’s agent for the whole of Africa for the past 13 years”, Boardman explained. 

“We were impressed by the well-organised symposium. There were presentations by the best subject-matter experts in the world, and the participants were professionally accommodated during the day. 

Philip Boardman, Lourens Zietsman and Chris Erasmus at the Alternative Structures stand at the Precision Forestry Symposium at Stellenbosch University

“The most important aspect of the symposium was that the presenters and attendees were specialists who could benefit from the Haglöf Enumeration equipment. We had one-on-one conversations with many senior personnel of the biggest forestry companies in Southern Africa. Most of these companies are already using Haglöf equipment and, after noting the latest technologies, are considering adding certain of our products to their research arsenal”, he said. 

The in-field demonstrations were most successful. The participants were split into three groups, allowing Zietsman and Boardman to effectively demonstrate the innovative equipment and answer questions.

The programmable Vertex Laser Geo 2 handheld laser rangefinder can measure, map, process and store forest and field data

“The highlight of our presentation – and one that really took most people by surprise – was our new Haglöf Vertex 2 (Vertex Laser Geo 2 & Laser Geo 2). It measures diameters at any height and returns precision diameters with the heights at which they were measured”, Boardman said. 

Click on the link to see the Geo 2 in action

Ponsse marks 55 years in business with its 21,000th machine

Finland's Ponsse is celebrating two significant milestones – 55 years in business and the production of its 21,000th machine.

In January 2025, the 21,000th Ponsse-manufactured machine, a Buffalo forwarder, left the production line at the  Vieremä factory en route to the American company Scheff Logging & Trucking. 

This Buffalo is Ponsse's 21,000th machine

This year marks five and a half decades since Ponsse founder Einari Vidgren opened the Finnish plant, with the brand now well-established in most plantation forestry countries. The company employs over 2,000 people.

Ponsse staff with the 21,000th machine and Scheff Logging & Trucking's Jhace Pearson and Matthew Vosika

Jarmo Vidgren, chair of Ponsse's board of directors, commented, "Since the earliest days, Ponsse's driving force has been the belief that only the best people, in cooperation with customers and stakeholders, can develop and manufacture the best forest machines in the world". 

Vidgren said, "As a result of long-term cooperation, Ponsse has grown over the years to become the world's leading manufacturer of cut-to-length forest machines."  

Since 2020, Ponsse's partnership with its South African dealer, MTS, has increased the brand's presence in the region.

MTS is based in Mbombela, Mpumalanga. This province, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and Southern Cape are the country's forestry centres. MTS appointed a network of sub-dealers to assist Ponsse and it in providing state-of-the-art equipment and service.

The sub-dealers are in Mkhondo in Mpumalanga, Empangeni and Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu Natal, and George in the southern Cape. Ponsse, MTS and the sub-dealers believe the future of South Africa's forestry industry is promising. They reiterate their commitment to maintaining strong customer relationships and providing exceptional support. 

Tigercat launches LX877 feller buncher

The new Tigercat LX877 feller buncher

Tigercat has released the LX877 feller buncher, the second model built on the new sloped tail platform. The LX877 is equipped with Tigercat's closed-loop drive system. Its 260 kW (350 hp) engine is best suited to high production, steep slopes, and mature timber clear-fell applications.

Optimised weight distribution, low centre of mass, and Tigercat's patented levelling undercarriage provide the operator with comfort, stability and confidence on sloped terrain.

A distinctive design feature is the sloped tail profile. It provides increased levelling capability to 26 degrees and enhanced cable clearance in winch-assisted applications. Tigercat says the LX877 best matches its 5702 and 5702-26 felling saws.

Along with the improved levelling angles, Tigercat redesigned the ER boom system to provide a larger envelope with tighter tuck and increased below-grade capability. Through-tip hose routing protects the boom hoses that lead to the felling head. 

Other enhancements include service access improvements and in-tank hydraulic filtration for extended service intervals. The side-opening engine enclosure completely exposes the engine's top and sides and most hydraulic components. When open, the enclosure roof is a safe, spacious and convenient work platform.

Owning a legend made easy

Owning a legend made easy

It's an easy choice when a chainsaw combines performance and reliability with fuel savings and user comfort. The STIHL MS 382 is this machine...

Specifically designed for the rigorous demands of professional forestry, plantation management and agricultural applications, the 3,8kW MS 382 delivers an impressively fuel-efficient performance, saving up to 20% less than previous models, thanks to an improved 2-MIX engine (according to in-field testing conducted by independent forestry contractors both locally and abroad). That's a significant saving over a year! 

How does it work?

A 2-MIX engine is a 2-stroke engine that replaces unburned fuel with fresh air, which would have been emitted via the exhaust during the transfer process. This is achieved by adding an extra 'fresh air' port on either side of the inlet manifold between it and the transfer ports. 

The air induction system introduces a buffer of clean air between fuel charges to purge the system efficiently. Clean air from the transfer ports enters the combustion chamber first when the ports are uncovered by the downward-moving piston. 

This air (oxygen) joins the remainder of the exhaust gas emitted via the exhaust port, lowering nitrous oxide levels and reducing the hydrocarbon content by 60 – 80%. 

The result is groundbreaking, with high torque over a wide speed range, fuel consumption cut by up to 20%, and exhaust emissions reduced by up to 50% compared to conventional two-stroke engines without 2-MIX technology. 

Light yet robust

The petrol-powered MS 382 chainsaw is ergonomic and lightweight (weighing just 6.2kg) with an excellent power to weight ratio and various upgraded features that make it easy to handle. The flywheel is aluminium with fewer fins, making it lighter with enhanced cooling. The reduced rotating mass reduces wear on the crankshaft and main bearing, adding to its reliability with minimal need for servicing. 

The starter wheel is made of polymer instead of magnesium, allowing for more airflow and better cooling. Plus, the new-looking starter cover helps to prevent dirt from entering the cylinder fins, which means there is less need for maintenance.

A host of other benefits

The MS 382 is economical to operate in other ways. The STIHL Ematic bar lubrication system facilitates longer wear and reduces chain oil consumption compared to conventional methods of chain lubrication; impressively, up to 50% less, depending on the cutting attachment and the type of wood being cut. The enhanced oil pump has a one-gear drive system and ensures a steady oil flow to the saw chain links and guide bar rails. 

Another helpful feature is the compensator, a control system in the carburettor, which prevents the fuel-air mixture from getting richer as the air filter becomes clogged over time. 

The correct quantity of fuel is delivered to the carburettor depending on the amount of air passing through the air filter. This keeps the fuel/air ratio in the combustion mixture constant and, therefore, the engine power. There is no need to clean the air filter until there is a noticeable drop in performance.

User-friendly for less fatigue

In addition to being fuel-efficient, easier to service and cost-effective to maintain, the MS 382 also has reduced noise levels, lower emissions, and features the STIHL anti-vibration system, which all help limit operator fatigue during extended work periods. 

Side-mounted chain tensioning ensures simple, safe chain tensioning and replacement, and the tool-free fuel cap allows easy refuelling.

With the single-lever master control system, all critical functions are operated using a single lever. 

The MS 382 has a decompression valve and ElastoStart for hassle-free starting.

Nationwide support

Supported by a nationwide network of STIHL dealers that offer expert advice, after-sales servicing and spares, the iconic MS 382 chainsaw embodies the typical STIHL legacy of robust performance, cost-effective operation, and professional-grade delivery. 

No wonder STIHL is the world's largest-selling chainsaw brand.