Electronic tablets fitted with a GPS and sophisticated mapping software are being installed in all harvesting machines used by VicForests to allow for live mapping to be introduced to VicForests’ coupe planning. The technology will help protect habitat values by giving real-time navigational support to contractors working in the field. Source: Timberbiz
Rather than relying on paper maps our timber harvesting contractors now see themselves as a moving dot on the tablet screen. This shows them exactly where they are relative to the coupe’s internal and external boundaries, making it easier to comply with conservation requirements.
The new tool is part of VicForests’ broader work to attain the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Controlled Wood standard, which is currently being sought.
The tablets deepen the understanding of forest composition, which has in turn informed more complex coupe planning. By placing live maps within the cabins of around 40 harvesters VicForests planners can clearly and easily translate the details of coupe plans directly to contractors.
This should enhance accuracy in identifying coupe boundaries and conserving specific trees.
Scott Arnold, VicForests’ Resource Analyst, has helped lead the initiative, which he began planning about five years ago.
He notes that while blue tape is still used to physically lay out the edges of a coupe, the tablets give contractors added security in seeing those edges.
Also, within the coupe, the tablets not only let VicForests planners precisely show the location of certain trees but they also allow contractors to accurately measure tree spacing. This has a bearing on possums such as the Greater Glider, which relies on tree ‘connectivity’ to jump from one tree to the next.
Another plus is the reduced time that both contractors and planners will need to spend within each coupe. Mr Arnold estimates that for VicForests planners this could mean up to four days less fieldwork as the tablets allow for running changes to coupe design. In turn this should further improve safety as fewer hours need to be spent on the ground in thick bush.
