Australian timber industry news

Seppi’s Starsoil allows for work on forestry roads, construction sites, and forest paths, utilizing material deposited on the ground to create both temporary and permanent roads, achieving significant energy and cost savings. Source: Timberbiz With its new drive system, the Starsoil offers more efficient and precise work: it can till the soil to a depth of 40cm, crush stones up to 30cm in diameter, and mulch wood up to 60cm in diameter. A special feature is its two-speed gearbox, this system, controlled directly from the ISOBUS terminal, allows the tractor operator to regulate rotor speed during work: the fast gear for surface mulching and the slow gear for deeper work and stone crushing. Possible applications include stabilizing soil for road construction, removing old asphalt surfaces and rubble, renewing farmland and other green spaces, cleaning forests after logging, land development, etc. Seppi’s BMS Forestry Mulcher is equally impressive and perfect for mulching large vegetative residues to ground level. The M-BOOST hydraulic system with automatic variable motor enables automatic pressure adjustment, dynamically adapting to work requirements. In load situations, torque can be increased by up to 40%. Available working widths for the BMS model are 100, 125, and 150 cm, providing the necessary flexibility for a variety of forestry tasks. Both mulchers offer unparalleled performance and reliability in demanding work conditions. With machines like these, materials can be used and reused on-site, reducing transportation to and from construction sites and thereby reducing processing times, fuel consumption, and overall environmental impact. Seppi machines comply with European regulations requiring reduced environmental impact.

Production and deliveries of Swedish wood products decreased slightly in 2023 compared with the previous year. However, future prospects in both the EU Single Market and in the US look good for the Swedish wood products industry. Source: Timberbiz “Broadly, when more people want to build more with sustainable materials, demand for forest products will increase,” Christian Nielsen, Market Expert Wood Products, Swedish Forest Industries Federation said. In 2023, Sweden’s production of wood products amounted to 17.8 million m3, compared with 18.87 million m3 in 2022. Total wood product deliveries decreased somewhat. This decline can be attributed to reduced demand in Sweden due to weak activity in the construction sector. On the other hand, exports of wood products held up well despite tough global economic conditions with annual export growth at 1% buoyed by a weak Swedish krona. “Reduced construction activity in Sweden and Europe means that we can probably expect a further dip in production in 2024. Even if inflation stabilises, it will take some time before this has an impact on the construction sector,” Mr Nielsen said. In the medium term – five to 15 years – the situation looks considerably brighter for the Swedish sawmill industry. Strong demand in particular from the US and the Single Market is set to drive expected growth. Despite global economic uncertainty, coupled with high interest rates, new production in the US is robust. At the same time, Europe is showing strong interest in wooden construction. France, for example, has decided that half of all public buildings must be built from wood or bio-based materials. In addition, the EU’s requirements for climate declarations for buildings, and initiatives such as the EU Commission’s measures to increase the pace of renovations with the aim of improving buildings’ energy performance, will also fuel increased demand for wood products. “The Single Market and the UK currently account for more than 50 per cent of Swedish wood product sales, and we expect increased interest in the US,” Mr Nielsen said. The Swedish wood products sector also benefits from other major producing countries facing challenges. Canada is dealing with declining commodity supplies due to insect infestations such as bark borers and stricter social and environmental requirements. Central Europe has also been hard hit by bark beetle attacks, and imports from Russia and Belarus have effectively stopped due to the war in Ukraine. “Increased construction in wood is one way to achieve global environmental goals. It will fall to Sweden to take on a leading role to supply Europe and the world with renewable, fossil-free building materials,” Mr Nielsen said.

TimberPro, a manufacturer of forestry equipment, recently completed a US$8 million expansion project that added nearly 49,000 square feet to its facility in Shawano, Wisconsin, in the US. The expansion will allow the company to double production capacity, enabling it to meet growing market demand for its equipment and attachments. Source: Timberbiz “Our facility expansion represents a significant step forward for TimberPro, and we were glad to be able to showcase our enhanced capabilities to the community,” said Doug Morris, VP, Forest Machine Business Division, Komatsu. “Forestry is very important to the Wisconsin economy, and this expansion will enable us to provide more good family-supporting jobs, while also allowing us to enhance our research and development capabilities and significantly increase our production.” TimberPro was founded by the Crawford family in 2002. The Crawfords have been involved in the forestry business in Wisconsin for more than 75 years, and in recognition of their contributions, the new expansion was dedicated to the family. TimberPro was acquired by Komatsu in 2019. “This expansion will also allow us to enhance our R&D capabilities and significantly increase our production of existing and new products,” said Lee Crawford, CEO, TimberPro.

A reacceleration in the quarterly pace of growth for national construction costs is suggested to be a return to trend rather than a new surge, according to CoreLogic. Source: Timberbiz The Cordell Construction Cost Index (CCCI) tracks the cost to build a typical new dwelling, recorded a growth rate of 0.8% over the three months to December. This marks a reversal of the easing trend seen over the previous four quarters when the quarterly CCCI reading went from 4.7% in Q3 2022 to 0.5% in Q3 2023. The annual growth rate for the 2023 calendar year was 2.9%. CoreLogic Economist Kaytlin Ezzy said although the quarterly CCCI reading has risen, the latest growth rate remains 20 basis points below the pre-COVID decade average of 1.0%. “This suggests that reacceleration is more a return to trend rather than a new surge in construction costs,” Ms Ezzy said. “While up over the quarter, the annual change in residential construction costs continued to ease as larger quarterly increases fell out of the annual calculation.” At 2.9%, the latest 12-month increase was the smallest annual rise in the national CCCI since the year to March 2007 (2.7%) and below the pre-COVID decade average (4.0%). “This suggests that growth in construction costs have normalised after recording a recent peak of 11.9% over the 12 months to December 2022, albeit at a higher level. Although 26.6% higher than at the onset of the pandemic, the recent surge in CCCI is below the increases seen across national house values, with CoreLogic’s Home Value Index rising 36.5% over the same period,” Ms Ezzy added. CoreLogic Construction Cost Estimation Manager John Bennett said pricing remains generally unsettled, with no clear trend seen across most product types. “Depending on the supplier, both increases and decreases were recorded in timber and metal prices, although we have seen rises in the price of hardware and chemical items. This tells me suppliers are either bringing their product pricing back down to acceptable levels from the increases during the Covid period, or they are increasing to set up for the year ahead,” Mr Bennett said. “In 2023 there was a bit of uncertainty around what the fallout from the interest rate increases would be and therefore the overall impact on the building industry. While the latest figures show the market has settled down, I don’t think we have seen the slowdown many were expecting. “While dwelling approvals are still well below historic averages, there is still an elevated level of projects under construction which is keeping cost pressures high,” he added. Price rises were also varied across the states, with an increased growth rate seen in NSW, Victoria and WA, while SA and Queensland both saw a reduction in quarterly CCCI growth. Ms Ezzy said the outlook for construction costs over the coming year is uncertain. “While it’s unlikely we’ll see any declines in construction costs, the pace of growth could be influenced by several factors. Although national dwelling approvals have risen from a recent low of 12,185 in January, the latest data from the ABS showed that dwelling approvals remained -15.8% below the decade average in November at around 14,500. Although a number of projects are still moving through the construction pipeline, the recent lull in approvals could result in a shortfall in new projects, which would help keep growth in building costs low, due to greater capacity in the construction sector. “However, with the CPI continuing to ease, it’s looking increasingly like we’ll see a cash rate cut in the second half of 2024, which could fuel housing demand for both established and new dwellings. Regardless, the normalisation in CCCI growth will help provide some certainly for builders, insurance companies and homeowners alike,” she said. The CCCI for NSW rose 1.0%, up 40 basis points on the previous quarter but only 10 basis points above the pre-COVID decade average of 0.9%. The annual reading eased to 3.1%, the lowest annual change since the 12 months to March 2021. Victoria’s CCCI rose 1.1% over the quarter, up from 0.3% in the September quarter, making it the fastest acceleration in construction costs among the states. The annual increase continued to ease to 2.9%, down from a recent high of 13.0% over 2022 and is Victoria’s lowest annual change since the 2016 calendar year (2.6%). Queensland recorded the lowest quarterly rise at just 0.1%, down from 0.8% in Q3, bucking the acceleration trend. This is the state’s lowest quarterly result since Q1 2001 when CCCI fell -0.1%. The December quarter’s weaker growth helped bring Queensland’s annual growth rate back in line with the other states at 2.8%. In WA, construction costs rose 0.7% over the quarter, up 50 basis points on Q3. Annually, WA’s CCCI increased by 2.3%, which was the lowest annual rate among the states. SA’s CCCI Increased by 0.5%, down from 0.6% in Q3, also bucking the national trend. This took SA’s annual change in construction costs to 2.8%. CoreLogic researches and reports on materials and labour costs which flows through to its Cordell construction solutions to help businesses make better decisions, estimate rebuild and insurance quotes easily and, ultimately, price risk effectively. For more information visit www.corelogic.com.au/news-research/reports/cordell-construction-cost-index

Increased costs of living are a very big issue across Australia and continues to increase for businesses and homeowners. Source: John O’Donnell The author has previously provided information in relation to this matter in the article linked here: The above linked article considers: Increasing Living Cost Indexes (LCI) and CPI and declining real household disposal income in Australia since 1960. Three major concerns in relation to natural disasters, inadequate mitigation expenditure, cost of living and rising insurance costs. Nine huge opportunities in relation to reducing disaster costs and associated insurance costs. The author has reviewed additional information that has come to hand below. Widespread concern in relation to increasing insurance premiums As highlighted in a recent article by Leith van Onselen in MacroBusiness Australian Economy Call for inquiry into surging insurance premiums dated Wednesday, 6 March 2024, there is widespread concern in relation to increasing insurance premiums: https://www.macrobusiness.com.au/2024/03/call-for-inquiry-into-surging-insurance-premiums/ Former Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) chair Allan Fels has called for the ACCC to investigate the insurance sector over its recent hike in insurance premiums. “There is massive public discontent with the rise in insurance premiums and a deep concern they greatly exceed inflation,” Mr Fels said. “The price rises seem excessive in comparison with increases in costs and risks and seem exploitative of consumers and small businesses in particular.” Current ACCC chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb “shares concerns broadly” around insurance affordability and pricing and said it would be up to the federal government to decide if it wants the ACCC to conduct a general price inquiry into the insurance sector. Indeed, insurance premiums are now the fastest growing component in the CPI basket. The author considers that this widespread concern is being felt by businesses and homeowners. NSW emergency services funding reform consultation paper, an assessment of who is paying what Further information in relation to the increasing costs of living and insurance is outlined within the NSW Government April 2024 emergency services funding reform consultation paper highlighted in the link below: https://www.treasury.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-04/20240410_emergency-services-funding-reform-consultation-paper.pdf The author gives the NSW Government credit for undertaking this review, although it is highly likely that businesses and home owners will still pay the bulk of emergency services funding collections, so it is unlikely that there will be major cost of living benefits.  More on this issue is outlined below. The consultation paper notes Help reform the way the state’s emergency services are funded. On 16 November 2023, the NSW Government announced its commitment to reform the way the state’s emergency services are funded. Three key objectives of the reform are: Reduce insurance costs for households by spreading the levy across all property owners; Protect pensioners and vulnerable members of the community; and Ensure a revenue-neutral model that sustainably funds our emergency services agencies. This consultation paper is the beginning of public consultations to inform the design, scope, features and transition arrangements for reforming the emergency services funding system. The consultation paper also notes: Currently, NSW’s emergency services are funded by the Emergency Services Levy on insurance companies (73.7%), local governments (11.7%) and the State Government (14.6 per cent). These fund the costs of Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Rural Fire Service and the NSW State Emergency Service. The NSW State Government only paying 14.6% is a major concern, it is very low. The author is of the opinion that State and local government should be paying more for these services because: The state and local governments do not adequately focus on nor adequately fund bushfire and flood mitigation, and this results in increasing disasters. Focus on bushfire suppression and minimise mitigation, increasing disasters, especially noting that one dollar spent on mitigation can save at least two dollars in recovery costs. Prescribed burning is at miniscule levels, nowhere adequate to reduce bushfire disasters. Fuel loads are very high and spread over very large areas of the landscape. There is inadequate community protection as evidenced during the 2019/ 20 bushfires. There are limited incentives for the government to optimise/ reform emergency services agencies. Investors should have confidence that the funding they invest isn’t lost in ongoing disasters, which are happening regularly across NSW. The increasing focus on large plane suppression is very costly not that effective in forests. The author considers that State Governments are in the prime position to optimise/ refine the emergency services sector and better able to focus on addressing inadequate mitigation inputs, particularly in relation to bushfire and flood mitigation. Examples where the current approaches in NSW haven’t worked include: Very low fuel mitigation levels and high contiguous fuel loads just before the disastrous 2019/ 20 bushfires. Inadequate extent of flood mitigation protecting north coast and other communities before the disastrous 2022 floods. As noted in the consultation paper, the existing Emergency Services Levy increases insurance premiums in NSW by around 18 per cent for residential property and around 34 per cent for commercial property. According to analysis by the Actuaries Institute, removing the Emergency Services Levy from insurance policies could reduce insurance costs of a typical fully insured home by $387 per year.  Many homeowner insurers on the North Coast of NSW for example would be paying at least three times this amount for the ES, it’s not fair nor right.  Individuals and business should be removed from any levy payments or like, the same approach for police, education, roads. The author considers that the business and resident contributions to the levy are excessive, and increasing. Benefits of increased disaster mitigation across eastern Australia For bushfires, markedly increased bushfire mitigation results in: Reduced bushfire suppression costs. Reduced bushfire impacts and recovery costs for both insured and not insured. In Australia, as noted in https://www.preventionweb.net/media/82890/download This document notes “one dollar spent on mitigation can save at least two dollars in recovery costs.  Committing additional mitigation funding makes economic sense”. Reduced insurance costs and emergency services levy needs. Reduced bushfire environmental Reduced loss on infrastructure, including plantations and timber supply. Reduced consequent flood impacts after intense bushfires. Likely reduced La Nina impacts for the […]

Koala Conservation Australia (KCA) has received its latest delivery of eucalypt seedlings for the annual community koala tree giveaway. The donation from Forestry Corporation consists of a variety of seedlings grown at its Grafton Nursery. Source: Timberbiz Around 25,000 seedlings have been donated this year for local planting projects supporting koala populations on the Mid North Coast. KCA will use the feed tree species, which are favoured by koalas, to support community and private planting programs. These plantings will improve connectivity through the creation of koala corridors while providing future food and habitat for koala populations on the Mid North Coast. Forestry Corporation’s Partnership Leader, Leah Moncrieff said the seedlings have now been delivered with KCA’s koala tree giveaway starting this week. “The seedlings can be ordered through the KCA website and picked up from the Koala Hospital grounds in Port Macquarie for bush regeneration plantings, community plantings and private landholder plantings,” Ms Moncrieff said. “Forestry Corporation is passionate about Koalas and is excited to support KCA’s efforts in providing the seedlings to the public. “The seedlings come with easy-to-follow information from Forestry Corporation to ensure successful growth. “These resources, available from KCA, can assist in selecting the right species to be planted in the right location, when and how to plant, how to alleviate ongoing risks and listing maintenance of the seedlings until they become established.” The initiative between KCA and Forestry Corporation, started five years ago, and has now seen more than 150,000 koala feed trees donated to the Koala Hospital for distribution to local landowners and community groups. KCA General Manager Maria Doherty said the koala tree delivery has been gratefully received. “KCA and Forestry Corporation have a great relationship working together to improve koala conservation in our local region, through tree plantings, tree giveaways and partnering at Guulabaa where the world’s first wild koala breeding program has commenced,” Ms Doherty said. KCA Conservation Manager, Scott Castle said the koala feed tree delivery is perfectly timed with ongoing works at Guulabaa – Place of the Koala, Cowarra State Forest. “We will be using some of this year’s donated trees to regenerate bushland areas and landscape at Guulabaa for the new Wild Koala Breeding Program,” Mr Castle said.

A coalition is being launched in New Zealand to campaign against cuts to science and science funding . The Save Science Coalition is a group of organisations, including unions and scientific societies, with an interest in ensuring that New Zealand has a well-functioning and well-funded science and research system. Source: Timberbiz In addition to opposing cuts, the goals of the Save Science Coalition are to highlight and catalogue what is being lost through the current cuts; defend support for world-leading indigenous research including mātauranga Māori; and make the case for a foundation of support for public science and re-committing to a target of 2% of GDP to be invested in research and development in Aotearoa New Zealand. Government spending cuts forced Scion, the dedicated Crown research institute charged with growing forestry exports, to propose shedding a significant number of scientists. Scion which is headquartered in Rotorua, New Zealand told staff that 30 jobs or around 10% of its workforce may go. This impacts scientists, technicians and support staff. “We know that investment in science and research creates future wealth for Aotearoa New Zealand, ensures we can address the challenges we face in Aotearoa New Zealand such as climate change, resilience, and our growing and aging population, and allows our country to prosper. We are concerned about large parts of the science workforce moving overseas to find work, which will take decades to reverse and rebuild,” says Dr Lucy Stewart, spokesperson for the Save Science Coalition. “This will have devastating impacts in areas where expert knowledge of our landscapes, hazards, ecosystems, and people is globally unique. We are particularly concerned about the harm cuts will cause to world-leading indigenous research, including rangahau mātauranga Māori which can only be done in Aotearoa New Zealand,” says Stewart. The launch of the coalition follows ongoing government announcements, media stories, and cuts to public funding across the science sector. This includes the end of the National Science Challenges, shelving of Te Ara Paerangi Future Pathways program, removal of Wellington Science City funding, announcements about mass redundancies of science staff in government organisations, alongside other funding streams drying up for science organisations. This is compounded by the existing university funding crisis. “Funding for science organisations comes from many different sources. To help the public appreciate the breadth of the current cuts, we are putting together a detailed document for the public about all of the recent funding cuts across the science sector,” explains Stewart. “This government did not campaign on a platform of cuts to science. However – they are pressing ahead with an agenda that the New Zealand public did not vote for.” The Save Science Coalition members are: New Zealand Association of Scientists Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi Te Hautū Kahurangi | Tertiary Education Union Academic Freedom Aotearoa NZ Society of Endocrinology NZ Ecological Society NZCTU | Te Kauae Kaimahi Physiological Society of New Zealand New Zealand Institute of Forestry Geoscience Society of New Zealand Aviation and Marine Engineers Society NZEI Te Riu Roa New Zealand Institute of Chemistry

Great Wrap, a B Corp Certified material science company, has partnered with Opal one of Australia and New Zealand’s leading cardboard packaging and recycling companies, to exclusively offer the only Australian made compostable machine pallet wrap for businesses of all sizes in Australia and New Zealand, enabling them to divert traditional pallet wrap away from landfills. Source: Timberbiz Great Wrap’s certified compostable machine pallet wrap, which is certified by the Australasian Bioplastics Association, is made with compostable biopolymers and plant-based oils, is a packaging solution for businesses that secures pallet loads while minimising supply chain waste. Given Australia generates 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, there is an urgent need to adopt compostable materials. Opal Packaging Plus, which has been appointed as the exclusive distributor of the Great Wrap, is a business unit of Opal. Great Wrap will add to Opal Packaging Plus’ more than 15,000 product range and is the first compostable stretch wrap it offers. “Our machine pallet wrap stands out because it’s fully compostable, capable of a 250% pre-stretch, operates smoothly on high-speed lines, and maintains high tension for ultimate reliability. Our wrap is denser and stronger than traditional wrap, meaning our customers can reduce their wrap thickness to achieve the same results as they would with traditional wrap,” Jordy Kay, Co-founder of Great Wrap said. The Australian Government has set clear national packaging targets including 100% of packaging to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025, and 70% of plastic packaging to be recycled or composted by 2025. While currently targeting the Australian business landscape, Great Wrap is also working to build a biorefinery that will produce a marine-degradable material called PHA, to continue to change the packaging landscape. Later this year, Great Wrap is also planning to supply its compostable hand pallet wrap for exclusive distribution through Opal Packaging Plus.

Brisbane will host the World Conference on Timber Engineering in June next year, only the second time it has been held in the southern hemisphere since its inception in 1998. Source: Timberbiz The conference attracts between 800 and 1200 participants worldwide with WCTE 2025 International Scientific Committee representing 22 countries. Many participants will be presenting in a specific session related to the conference theme and their expertise. The first World Conference on Timber Engineering was held in 1998 in Montreux, Switzerland however, the forerunner of WCTE dates back to May 1984 with the Pacific Timber Engineering Conference (PTEC) in Auckland, New Zealand. In 1998 the world’s timber engineering society decided to coordinate the former world events and to introduce a biennial rhythm with consecutive conferences in Europe, America, Asia and the Pacific. This rhythm was altered in 2020 due to Covid, and since 2021 the conference has been held every odd year. WCTE is a world leading scientific dissemination forum for presenting and discussing the latest technical and architectural developments and innovations in timber engineering and construction. The scope covers research, education, and practice topics from all over the world. The conference has attracted wide international representation and attendance, bringing together researchers, engineers, architects, consultants, contractors, project managers, suppliers, and manufacturers from across the globe. The host of WCTE 2025, The University of Queensland (UQ), is a leader in timber engineering and administers the Australian Research Council Research Hub to Advance Timber for Australia’s Future Built Environment (ARC Advance Timber Hub). This 5-year Research Hub (commenced in 2023) is committed to the future development of sustainable timber buildings and the emerging opportunities and innovations that are needed in manufacture, supply, design, and construction. The Hub’s large research team from 12 Australian Universities and five international universities/research institutes, in collaboration with 28 industry partners, aims to enable an advanced manufacturing transformation of Australia’s timber and construction industries, developing a roadmap to change that unlocks substantial industry and social value. The ARC Advance Timber Hub also collaborates with other research centres across Australia to enhance the collective research in timber engineering in Australia and the Pacific. The centres include: Queensland Government – Department of Agriculture & Fisheries – Forest Product Innovation Centre Centre for Sustainable Architecture with Wood – University of Tasmania National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life – University of the Sunshine Coast – QLD And it has established links with academic and industry research collaborators from past research centres which include: ARC Centre for Advanced Manufacturing of Prefab Housing (2016 – 2022) – University of Melbourne ARC Research Hub to Transform Future Tall Timber Buildings (2016 – 2022) – The University of Queensland. The WCTE 2025 Conference Committee is inviting authors to submit two-page abstracts/mini papers by 30 June 2024. Submissions are sought for both oral and poster presentations, which must address the principal conference theme ‘Advancing Timber for the Future Built Environment’. The WCTE 2025 technical program will have a focus on research carried out by the timber design and construction community due to the rise in engineering and architectural firms, developers, and investors, now emphasising timber engineering as a preferred solution for many projects. For more information, go to https://www.wcte2025.org

On Thursday 23 May, the ABC aired a segment on Mornings with Debbie Rybicki that VicForests says contained false and misleading claims of damage to the ecosystem, not conducting surveys, and failing to adequately regenerate coupes. Source: Timberbiz VicForests was not approached to provide a statement. However, VicForests says that it has provided the ABC with multiple statements contradicting such claims over the preceding years. It has also multiple pages and statements on its website detailing how VicForests met its obligations in protecting threatened species and their habitat and regenerating what was harvested. These are a matter of public record and have been provided to various ABC outlets. VicForests is a government agency, overseen by an independent board and otherwise subject to the ordinary governance obligations and control of any government body. In a statement VicForests said that it has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to meeting, and often exceeding, the explicit rules and regulations for environmental management set by Government. This includes demonstrating that it continued to meet its obligations and the required standards for successful regeneration. VicForests states that it has addressed the false regeneration claims on numerous occasions and you to read them on the VicForests website: Setting the record straight – yet again VicForests response to ABC’s regeneration article Setting the record straight (again) VicForests response to ABC story on regeneration False claims do harm. This includes the impact on the mental health and wellbeing of people who have dedicated themselves to the management of forests for future generations. Broadcasting false information to the public supports an empty rhetoric; the national broadcaster should encourage constructive dialogue and avoid the peddling of false claims.

Seppi’s S7 base is a robust mulcher made of S420 steel for orchards, vineyards, green area maintenance, and forestry. Source: Timberbiz With a power range of 50 to 160 HP, it’s an all-rounder for landscape, grassland, and irrigation maintenance, this innovative mulcher meets the requirements of professionals under various conditions. The S7 base flail mulcher is suitable for AEBI tractors due to its low weight and close centre of gravity to the tractor, making it particularly popular for use on steep slopes. The rotor shaft of the S7 base is equipped with strong SMO or SMW flails, which reliably mulch grass and woody material up to 7 cm in diameter even at high speeds. Due to its robust construction and the spirally arranged flails on the HELIX rotor, forces are distributed particularly evenly, ensuring smooth operation even at speeds of up to 10 km/h. Thanks to its wear-resistant construction, the reversible mulcher is not only suitable for landscape, grassland, and irrigation maintenance but also for light forestry work. The housing contains hardened counter cutters, which are even interchangeable in the S7 series, ensuring their properties are maintained even under heavy use. The combined protection device of chains and flaps prevents twigs from getting tangled and protects against stone impact. The newly designed belt housing corresponds to the sturdy construction of forestry equipment and also features deflectors to protect passing plants. With the optional M-FLAP hood, the shredding degree can be easily adjusted without additional tools. It is available as mechanical or hydraulic if needed. Like all S7 mulchers, this model is equipped with a stable support roller with reinforced 4D-ROLLER bearings. The 4D bearings guarantee smooth operation on uneven terrain. Choose from a wide range of working widths – 150, 175, 200, 225, and 250 cm – according to your specific requirements. The S7 base delivers a perfectly clean cut even at higher working speeds. Its features ensure minimal consumption, and the machine is easy to maintain.

Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that occur in nature and are often harshened by climatic conditions. Long dry spells particularly increase the risk of wildfires breaking out, but other factors also have a huge impact, such as rain and wind, vegetation, the layout of the terrain, and forest management practices. Source: Timberbiz Last year was a record-breaking year, with the largest fires ever experienced in Europe, one of the worst wildfire seasons on record in the EU. Wildfires also severely affected Northern America, as well as many countries in Southern America. Lives were lost, livelihoods destroyed, and many hectares of land burnt all over the world. Last year, the EU reinforced its rescEU firefighting fleet (firefighting planes and helicopters) as well as pre-positioned hundreds of firefighters for immediate support in forest fires-prone countries. The EU Civil Protection Mechanism was activated 10 times to respond to wildfires in the Mediterranean, Chile, Bolivia and Canada. In 2024, the same level of response will be maintained. The fire risk is expected to further increase due to climate change. The season will be increasingly characterised by massive fires that cost lives and burn areas that take longer to fully recover. Between 2007 and 2023, over 16% of all requests for assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism were in response to wildfires. Wildfires have recently become a pan-European concern. In 2022, although France, Spain and Portugal were particularly hit, major fires also took place in Czechia, Germany, Greece, and Slovenia, to name a few. In total, 20 EU Member States recorded more burned areas than average in 2022. The wildfire risk expanded to areas that have not previously been exposed, moving well beyond the Mediterranean region. This causes huge societal, environmental, climate and economic losses across Europe. In 2023 the EU’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) channelled assistance to Albania, Bolivia, Canada, Chile, Cyprus and Greece and Tunisia. Furthermore, the Copernicus Emergency Management Service (EMS) regularly produces satellite maps on demand to help national authorities respond to wildfires. In the same year, Copernicus has been activated 25 times for wildfires across the globe. In 2023, both the number of fires and the EU’s annual burnt area were above average.

Japan’s predominantly wood-based housing sector has historically been a strong market for the world’s softwood lumber exporters, but with an ageing population, demand is declining. However, the government is supporting green building with pro-wood policies, and tall timber buildings are on the rise, potentially opening up new opportunities. Source: ResourceWise In the last six years, Japan’s imports of softwood lumber by volume have fallen by 48%–an average decline of 8% per year with just a 1% uptick between 2021 and 2022. Lumber imports in 2023 dropped by almost 33% compared with 2022 to 3.2 million m3. Between 2017 and 2023, Canada accounted for almost 27% of Japan’s total softwood lumber imports, but volumes from Canada have fallen by 60% in that timeframe. In 2023, Canadian lumber accounted for 758,000 m3, a year-over-year decline of 19%. In February 2024, Japan’s lumber imports from Canada amounted to 60,818 m3, which was almost on a par with imports from Finland (57,057 m3). The average price of imported lumber from Canada in February was $396 per m3. The average price of Finnish lumber was $284 per m3. Japan’s softwood lumber imports from Finland and Sweden in 2023 both declined by more than 30% year-over-year. Japan’s softwood lumber imports from Russia have also declined in recent years, and in 2023 were down 40% year-over-year to 467,000m3. However, despite its invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s share of Japan’s lumber market barely changed in the last five years, to the surprise and disapproval of European forest industry organizations. Several of Japan’s main softwood lumber suppliers saw an upturn in exports in 4Q 2023–Canada’s 4Q exports to Japan were up 33% year-over-year and 37% compared with 3Q. But with Japan’s softwood lumber import volumes closely tied to the housing market, a long-term upward trend seems unlikely. In 2021, wooden buildings accounted for 91% of Japan’s single-family homes, but Japan’s declining birthrate suggests demand—particularly for owner- occupied homes–is likely to wane in the future, according to Japan Lumber Journal (JLJ). In 2023, housing starts decreased by 4.6% year-over- year to 819,623 units, and owner-occupied housing fell by 11.4%. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, on announcing the annual data in January, said consumers had been concerned early in 2023 about the likely impact of the Ukraine war on material prices. The number of prefabricated housing starts declined by 8.1% to 103,403 units and the number of two-by-four houses declined by 0.5% to 90,792 units. Therefore, softwood lumber suppliers cannot, pin their hopes on a dramatic future rebound in Japan’s traditional residential construction market. However, there are signs of emerging opportunities to increase wood-use in the non-residential sector. The Law on the Promotion of Wood Use in Buildings for Contributing to the Achievement of a Decarbonized Society came into effect in October 2021. The revision to this law expanded its scope beyond public buildings to include buildings in general, JLJ reported. The law also encourages the use of forest plantations planted after the Second World War, and the government is offering subsidies towards construction and timber procurement costs. According to Japan’s land ministry, 36 applications were filed in 2022 for the construction of wooden buildings with four or more floors above ground— more than double the number of applications the year prior. Port Plus in Yokohama, at 11 stories, is Japan’s tallest timber building. It now houses construction contractor Obayashi Corp, which is an advocate of greater use of timber in Japanese buildings. According to Australia’s Wood Central, Mitsui Fudosan Co. and Takenaka Corp. plan to erect a 17-story office building in Tokyo by 2025, and Sumitomo Forestry Co. aims to construct a 350-meter high-rise with 90% of the structure made from lumber in 2041 at the earliest. Tall wood buildings might be new to Japan, but their appeal as a “natural climate solution” to aid in the decarbonization of the construction sector is undeniable. Obayashi estimates that carbon dioxide emissions from Port Plus are a quarter of those of a comparable building made from reinforced concrete and half of those of steel-frame buildings. Also, Japan’s existing building codes and policies have set the stage for taller wood buildings. No stranger to earthquakes, Japan enshrined building safety and resilience standards in its Building Standards Law in 1981. Revisions made in 2000, after the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake, tightened the requirements further, focusing on the resilience of wooden buildings and overall structural integrity. Japan recently revised its Building Standards Law further to encourage the use of domestic timbers such as cedar to manufacture building products including veneer, plywood, and panelling. The country also has domestic production of engineered wood products such as glulam and LVL.

The Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry in collaboration with CSIRO, Australia’s National Science Agency, is further enhancing the Australian National Soil Information System (ANSIS). Source: Timberbiz Launched in June 2023, an additional $6 million over five years has been invested through the Natural Heritage Trust for ongoing delivery and enhancement of the $15 million National Soil Strategy initiative. First Assistant Secretary of Sustainability Climate and Strategy Nick Blong said soil is a valuable resource that needs to be protected and sustained. “ANSIS is an important initiative that provides reliable soil data accessible to anyone online, Mr Blong said. “As a system formed to support the evaluation of the health of Australian soil, ANSIS will help to inform stronger soil management practices that will deliver benefits to our agriculture sector and other industries.” The initiative is part of the government’s Natural Heritage Trust Climate-Smart Agriculture Program, which is providing integrated investments to support the agriculture industry to strengthen climate resilience and sustainability, including soil health. It also supports the National Soil Action Plan 2023-2028, a 5-year plan to improve soil health and management using coordinated measures nationally across policy, education, research and investment, and soil data information-sharing. CSIRO lead scientist on the project, Peter Wilson, said the new system had been designed to bring data access efficiency to research, education and policy users. Supporting development of information products and programs that help farmers and decision makers in the agricultural sector. “We can’t underestimate how important soil is to future prosperity for the agriculture sector, particularly in the areas of sustainability, productivity, profitability and food security. “Until now it has been difficult to find and access relevant soil data to get a national picture of the state of soils across the country to inform decision making. “CSIRO has worked closely with stakeholders to develop this valuable platform to deliver nationally consistent soil data that will help inform the future management of our soils including opportunities for change or improvement.”

Western Australia’s Forest Products Commission recognises the important role of volunteer fire brigades, local government authorities, and community organisations in protecting local communities, forests, and State’s plantations from the threat of bushfire. Source: Timberbiz To support their efforts in planning, preparing, and responding to bushfire emergencies, the FPC launched the Community Fire Protection Grants Program last year to provide funding of up to $10,000 per entity for equipment and supplies, training activities, and professional development. The program selected applications aligned with the FPC’s priorities linked to its softwood plantation management, increased understanding about fire management in plantations, and delivered the greatest benefits to local communities. Following a competitive judging process, 12 successful applicants received grant funding under the 2023 program: Allanson Bushfire Brigade (1) – Radios Allanson Bushfire Brigade (2) – LED lights Argyle Irishtown Bushfire Brigade – Radios Beleerup Bushfire Brigade – Tanker equipment and supplies Donnybrook Town Volunteer Bushfire Brigade – Gazebos, chairs, and tables McAlinden Bushfire Brigade – Fast-fill trailer with high-volume pump and standpipe Mumballup-Noggerup Volunteer Bushfire Brigade – Submersible water pump and high-volume petrol pump Shire of Boyup Brook – Radios Shire of Cranbrook – Water tanks Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup – Radio twin packs Shire of Nannup – Radios Upper Capel Bushfire Brigade – Water tank and stand The program was beneficial to community volunteer bushfire brigades and local government authorities who have been able to use the funding to enhance their firefighting and fire protection needs. One of the recipients of the program, Allanson Volunteer Bushfire Brigade in the Shire of Collie, utilised the grant to purchase multi-frequency handheld radios and portable LED lighting systems. It is common to experience poor cellular signal in the bush, hampering effective communication during the critical first few hours of a bushfire where coordination of firefighting plans and teamwork amongst emergency services were crucial. The radios have the capability to communicate across a broad range of frequencies, enabling the brigade to communicate effectively with multiple emergency service agencies during operations. The new handheld radios enable not only high-quality communication between firefighting crews, but flexibility and mobility that allow efficient survey and reporting of bushfire in less accessible locations, which was not always possible with other hard mounted radios. “The FPC Grants program has been extremely beneficial to the Allanson Volunteer Bushfire Brigade,” Shire of Collie Community Emergency Services Manager Kohdy Flynn said. “Without this significant funding opportunity, the brigade could not purchase crucial equipment to fulfill its commitment in helping to protect the community against the threat of fire. The Allanson volunteer members and the Shire of Collie recognise and appreciate the funding that has been provided by the FPC.” Another recipient, McAlinden Bushfire Brigade in Boyup Brook, secured a fast-fill trailer with a high-volume pump and a standpipe. The trailer boosts response speed with quick refill of fire trucks, including private units, and firefighting aircrafts’ water bladders for aerial attack during bushfire emergency response. “We’re pleased that volunteer fire brigades, local government authorities, and community organisations are seeing real benefits from the program,” FPC General Manager Stuart West said. “It further strengthens our collaboration with regional communities to enhance bush fire management and protection in WA.” The 2024 FPC Community Fire Protection Grants Program applications have recently closed with an overwhelming response. The successful applicants will be announced soon.

Forest owners say a new report is a promising step towards addressing complex land use management issues in New Zealand but needs to recognise the value of forestry in building a more resilient environment. Source: Timberbiz The report, Going with the Grain: Changing land uses to fit a changing landscape, was released this week by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment (PCE). It acknowledges the longstanding complexities of land use management in New Zealand and the need to shift to a more granular, mosaic approach in the face of a changing climate. New Zealand Forest Owners Association chief executive, Dr Elizabeth Heeg, says forest owners are supporters of an integrated land use conversation but says forestry must first be recognised as a valued part of that land use mosaic. “Unfortunately, the report paints forests as part of the land use problem when the opposite is true,” she said. “It is time for the government to acknowledge the pivotal role New Zealand’s production forests have in creating a resilient landscape and for the sector to be supported in driving change.” New Zealand’s 1.75-million-hectare production forest estate currently sequesters more than half the nation’s carbon dioxide emissions each year and is arguably one of the most effective tools at the nation’s disposal to mitigate the effects of climate change. Forest owners are concerned that the report’s suggestions to alter the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) and phase forestry out of the ETS, could jeopardise meeting our 2050 climate change target. Dr Heeg says confidence in the ETS is vital for forest owners to continue to invest. “The addition of a biogenic methane-based ETS could disincentivise emissions reductions further, affecting supply and demand at a time where we need a greater commitment to offsetting emissions. “A new scheme may add to the volatility of that market, not to mention the unnecessary complexity and overheads.” Elizabeth says more trees are needed to build New Zealand’s resilience to climate change, not less as the report suggests. “The area of new planting has not exceeded more than 70,000 hectares per year in more than three years,” she says. “Forestry would need to multiply that planting area by at least 11, according to a 2022 report from the PCE, to make inroads to reaching that 2050 emissions target. “It makes no sense for the report to suggest that reducing production forestry is a positive way forward.” Dr Heeg says the report’s view that forestry offers fewer benefits and removes land use options from future generations is fuelling misconceptions about the sector. “Production forests are four times more productive than sheep and beef farming per hectare. They generate significant economic activity for rural communities, including employment for more than 40,000 New Zealanders.” They’re also crucial for supporting our ecosystems, she says. “Pine forests provide a valuable, safe habitat for many of our indigenous species. The strong pest management regimes of these forests outweighs that of native forests and they are increasingly used as an environment for re-establishing at risk or declining species such as the Kiwi. “They help in stabilising erodible land and are home to more than 24,000 kilometres of streams that provide high-quality water to downstream users,” Dr Heeg said. “It’s clear that production forests offer just as many, if not more, ecosystem benefits as other land uses do.” Forest owners are keen to be part of the land use solution and will continue to engage with communities to improve climate, biodiversity and water management outcomes as part of their forest management practices. However, proposed land use solutions and policies must be evidence-based, cost-effective and not value one land use over another. “Like other rural sectors, forestry holds an important role in maintaining a healthy mosaic of land use,” Dr Heeg said. “Forest owners want to help build climate and environmental resilience but need the support of the community and recognition of the sector’s value, to do so.”  

The New Zealand Farm Forestry Association (NZFFA) says the new report from the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment (PCE) raises important land use change issues that farm foresters have been active in for decades. Source: Timberbiz The report, Going with the Grain: Changing land uses to fit a changing landscape, was released this week, acknowledging longstanding land use complexities in New Zealand and the need to shift to a more nuanced approach in the face of climate change. NZFFA Council Chairman Graham West says many of NZFFA’s 24 regional branches already have a high level of engagement with the rural community on land use management issues, including collaboration with local catchment groups. “Farm foresters are seeking a more holistic solution to land use,” Mr West said. “We provide the practical and technical advice on where plantations fit in the property and wider landscape, what species provides most benefit, and what the economic limitations may be.” While greater effort can come from the roles of government and regional councils, farm forestry says it is the direct facilitation of on-farm operations that are vital. NZFFA President Neil Cullen says integration of small-scale forestry into hill country farming will be a key factor in ensuring its survival. “Land use change is not a priority when farmers are in survival mode,” Mr Cullen said. “Practical assistance with on farm facilitation is often needed to get things done like tree planting, that appears to be nonessential to a busy farm routine.” Farm foresters would have liked to have seen more of how they can build their knowledge of what is meant by “resilience” in the landscape, and how that translates into actionable change or decisions on-farm. “Little is known of the mechanical limits of landscapes when disasters occur,” Mr West said. “If land use change is needed, do we have the empirical evidence that suggested alternatives will stand the stressors of the new environment? “Not all land use metrics are biological. Soil physics, root mechanics, overland water flows, wind dynamics all need to be better understood before we can design a resilient land use category. “The existing expected limits for these risk variables are also changing each year as climate change accelerates. “Farm foresters need the support from Government and the Levy to adapt and grow more resilient woodlots that withstand those variables.” A collaborative, integrated approach to planning tools, spatial data, environmental and economic models will be important. “Funding the collaboration between property owners, catchment groups, regional councils, science providers, and rural professionals, will improve knowledge sharing and drive better research,” Mr Cullen said. “Meeting and working collectively to discuss and address these issues has and will continue to be the most constructive approach for finding a way forward.” More information about Going with the Grain here.  

Community members are invited to review and provide feedback on updated forest management plans for the Cypress and inland hardwood forests managed by Forestry Corporation of NSW and Cumberland State Forest in Sydney. Source: Timberbiz Morgan Roche, Information System and Framework Manager for Forestry Corporation, said the forest management plans would be on public display until Friday 17 May 2024 and welcomed community feedback. “Forest management plans summarise our activities as well as the systems, processes and procedures we maintain that ensure we continue to manage forests sustainably,” Mr Roche said. “The State forests in Western NSW cover a vast area of different forest types, from the Cypress forests in the Pilliga region to the River Red Gum forests along the Murray River, while Cumberland State Forest is nestled in the suburbs of Sydney and is Australia’s only metropolitan State forest. “All of these forests are managed for multiple uses, and the forest management plans summarise what these uses are and set out our commitment to planning, monitoring and adapting our activities in response to new information so that we continually improve our practices, processes and outcomes in these forests. “We review these forest management plans every five years and provide an opportunity for public feedback and input every time they are reviewed. In this review, an important change is that we will incorporate the plans into the broader forest management plan for State forests, which was updated in 2022 and covers general forest management as well as specific management of softwood plantations and coastal native forests. “We welcome the community’s input and feedback and invite people to visit our website to find out more about the plans and provide their feedback.”

New Zealand Timber Industry Federation (NZTF) president Bruce Larsen outlines his views on how the change of Government will impact the forestry and timber manufacturing sector… The new Government is bedding in its position and has started with some significant cost reductions — gone are the new ferries for Cook Strait, light rail for Auckland and Industry Transformation Plan. The Labour Government’s RMA 2.0 laws and Fair Pay Agreements have been or will be repealed; legislation is imminent to re-establish 90-day employment trials and disestablish the Maori Health Authority. So, what does this reset mean for the forestry and timber manufacturing sector? As a major export earner, employer, and deliverer of solutions for meeting New Zealand’s carbon emissions reduction targets, it is vitally important that our wood products and forestry sectors remain supported by government to enable future growth — especially in timber manufacturing. Market volatility (domestic and export), inflation, high interest rates and staff shortages have been plaguing the industry over the past few years. Does this government have solutions? Respondents to a study of 200 senior business leaders carried out by Curia Market Research for Datacom (and published in the NZ Herald) seem to think so: “Off the back of both the change in government and after a challenging few years with Covid, businesses are getting back into a growth mindset.” Respondents rated the top business priorities as growth (35%), staff retention and recruitment (24%), and workplace productivity (19%). I’m not sure how many timber manufacturers are looking at “growth” as a major priority, but certainly staff management and productivity are common themes I hear frequently. Often, the answer to the second and third issues is to implement mechanisation and technology projects to reduce the reliance on people, drive down production costs and increase productivity. All very fine, but it becomes problematic in a “down” domestic market with limited export opportunities. There was also some good news recently in the form of a further slowdown for the CPI, which eased from 5.6% in Q3/23 to 4.7% in Q4/23 — still above the Reserve Bank’s target range of 1% to 3% but moving in the right direction. However, house building activity is currently very slow, and has been for over a year. New Zealand structural timber manufacturers have had a very difficult 12 to 18 months with an oversupply of timber, resulting in a sluggish market and significant price reductions. While many mills have been looking offshore, export markets are also under pressure, and the cost of shipping bulk materials such as timber, especially to Australia (our closest and natural market), remains high. So, what is the outlook for housing and, therefore, timber? Although I don’t anticipate a flood of investor activity in 2024, things might look a little more tempting for rental house investors, with rising rents, easing deposit rates, and mortgage interest deductibility likely to go back to 80% during 2024. Timber manufacturers I have spoken with expect 2024 will be an improvement on last year, but it is likely to be at least next spring before the industry sees any real benefits. Pan Sector Accord Subsequently, in response to the poor market conditions right throughout the forest industry supply chain — from silviculture to harvesting to cartage and shipping and on to timber manufacturing — the industry recently signed a Pan Sector Accord, establishing a new body called the NZ Forest & Wood Sector Forum (NZFWSF, see page 22). The Forum’s collective advocacy will be for policies that are socially responsible, environmentally and ecologically sustainable, internationally competitive, and profitable. Foundation signatories include: New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF), New Zealand Forest Owners Association (NZFOA), Forest Industry Contractors Association (FICA), New Zealand Farm Forestry Association (NZFFA), Wood Processing and Manufacturers Association (WPMA), Nga Pou a Tane (NPOT), Log Transport Safety Council (LTSC), New Zealand Timber Industry Federation (NZTIF), Forestry Industry Safety Council (FISC) and Bioenergy Association. On a darker note, we are increasingly hearing of the financial stress city and district councils are under, leading to a significant and rapid reduction in project commitment, many of which use timber. Councils are critically short of money. This disturbing trend comes on top of some major projects being cancelled or paused. While there may be a case for optimism in the medium term because of the sheer amount of work that needs to be done, the immediate situation is very difficult for many businesses in the construction industry. The forest growing sector is also facing extremely difficult times, dealing with market issues and proposed new rules. While no one likes to see the devastation caused on the East Coast, we should remember that while these events are likely to occur more frequently, similar issues have arisen in the past. Destroyed infrastructure Much of the forest land was established after Cyclone Bola (1988) in an attempt to reduce land erosion and, undoubtedly, forest land holds together better than farmland. However, the sea of logs, forest residue and other plant material along with soil and silt that swamped large areas of farmland and destroyed infrastructure has significantly damaged the forest industry’s public credibility. In response, councils are now bringing in new rules around Highly Erodible Land (HEL). While there is no doubt the causes of the damage need to be identified and rules changed to improve safety and resilience, some knee-jerk reactions will significantly impact the forest industry and the whole sector. One example I am aware of is in Northland, where the regional council is proposing to significantly limit the area that can be harvested from HEL on any property. A theoretical case study on one significant forest with about a third of its productive area classed as HEL will now take around 36 years to harvest the existing crop — i.e., if they started logging at age 25 the crop would be aged 61 before it was completed. Normally a forest is harvested between the ages of 26 and 32 to ensure economic viability. This proposed rule would therefore […]

Forestry Corporation has reached an important milestone to explore the potential for windfarms within public pine plantations to contribute to the NSW transition to renewable energy. Source: Timberbiz Chief Executive Officer Anshul Chaudhary has announced that Neoen, Iberdrola Australia, TagEnergy and Mainstream Renewables Power and Someva Renewables joint venture have been awarded permits to investigate wind farm opportunities in some pine plantations in the Central West and Southern Inland regions. Mr Chaudhary said the permits will enable the proponents to investigate windfarm opportunities in pine plantations in the State Forests around Bondo, Orange, Black Springs and Sunny Corner. “Today’s announcement marks the start of the investigation phase under what will be a comprehensive and considered planning process,” he said. “A permit is not a consent to proceed with a project, but it will allow the proponent to start the detailed studies to see if a project is viable within each investigation permit area. Each company will need to conduct detailed wind farm feasibility studies, which will commence with the installation of wind and weather monitoring equipment on meteorological masts. “Each company will also undertake extensive community consultation and work with local communities to consider and address potential concerns around environmental impact, noise, landscape and visual impacts, traffic and transport issues, hazard and risks, heritage, water and soil impacts and waste management.” Once this work is completed the companies would submit the projects for consideration by the State Government and if approved, Forestry Corporation will issue a Construction and Operations permit. The combined investigation, consultation, planning and approval stages could be expected to take between three and six years. Any approved development would be unlikely to be in operation until the early 2030s. “The proponents have demonstrated a strong commitment to build long-term relationships with the local communities and stakeholders, First Nations groups and the Local Government,” Mr Chaudhary said. In 2021 NSW parliament passed changes to the Forestry Act 2012 which allowed renewable energy projects to be considered in softwood plantations. As public land managers Forestry Corporation has a role to play in the transition to renewable energy in NSW. “Wind farms can co-exist with plantation forests without having any long-term impact on tree growth or plantation operations, as the wind turbines are situated well above the top of the trees. Pine plantations are large areas often in windy locations, with access to powerlines, and a good existing road network,” Mr Chaudhary said. “Each project will have a Community Benefit Fund equivalent to a value per megawatt of installed capacity, delivering direct benefit back to impacted residents and the broader community.”