2018 International Forest Industries December 2017 January 2018 | Page 60

Steep Slope Logging Levelling the playing field The landscape for steep-slope logging presents an opportunity for loggers and manufacturers alike W hen we first launched this magazine almost exactly a decade ago, we asked professionals where they were likely to see the next major industry-shaping development. At the time, they told us it was difficult to see where advancements might be made. Manufacturers would tinker with comfort in cabins and increase capacities. They would bring down fuel consumption and improve efficiencies. But these developments were likely to be 58 Intern ational Forest Industries | DECEMBER 2017 / JANUARY 2018 incremental. It may not be akin to the mechanisation of the industry but the battle to supply loggers with equipment for steep slopes is shaping up as a generation- defining event for manufactures as forest owners identify the ability to access steeply-sloping stands as an avenue to unlocking material increases in revenue. This battle at the moment centres on the ability to level the cab and limit ground pressure without compromising capacity or safety. It is a tough ask though the industry is proving up to it. Here, we present two of the leaders in this race to establish themselves as the leader in the steep-slope frontier. Steep slope logging innovations have completely revolutionized the industry, allowing loggers to access