Have you realised full potential from your woodlands?
Have you realised full potential from your woodlands?
WHILE the vast majority of farmers have the knowledge to grow and market produce from their farm, few would claim to have much idea on how to realise the financial potential of their woodlands, reasons David Balfour of BSW Harvesting.
Timber, he says, is a very specialised market which can often seem alien to farmers and landowners. The result is that many turn to harvesting companies for assistance – but choosing a particular company can be a difficult decision.
"First and foremost, find out how your timber will be marketed. Obtaining the right price relies on using a company which has strong trading links with sawmills and other users," he insists. "Such companies will be able to find a ready market for timber and negotiate a good price."
Mr Balfour points out that a chosen company should be able to offer a range of harvesting techniques based on the size, quality and species present and recommend the most appropriate form of machinery extraction to be used.
"On a small site, for example, where woodlands need thinning – rather than clearing – manual harvesting may be the most suitable method," he says.
The Forest and Water Guidelines – information produced by the Forest Authority to advise owners and managers on how woodlands and forests influence freshwater ecosystems, and how operations should be performed to protect and enhance the environment – should be discussed with prospective marketing companies.
Harvesting plan
Mr Balfour also suggests that companies should also be asked to draw up a harvesting plan which can be monitored throughout the contract. And its worth checking on what training is provided for staff and contractors regarding the use of machinery and working practices.
"A woodland is a growing investment and, at the time of harvesting, the best possible returns for the crop should be strived for," he says. "The use of a specialist harvesting company which has the necessary expertise should help to achieve this goal." *
Clear felling good quality conifers – expect up to £5000/ha, though this depends on tree size and how well theyve been managed.