Mechanised Forestry, Timber Processing & Replanting

The Client

Oz Group Contracting Ltd was engaged on a series of forestry operations across multiple sites in the South East, supporting both commercial forestry management and conservation-led woodland programmes. The works formed part of wider plans for disease control, woodland improvement, timber recovery, and replanting.

The client required a contractor capable of delivering mechanised felling and processing while maintaining strong ecological controls and meeting environmental compliance requirements. A key priority was operator safety, efficient material handling, and ensuring all sites were left prepared for successful replanting and regeneration.

Project Scope

The scope of works covered mechanised tree felling, processing, and site preparation across a range of woodland types and ground conditions.

Operations included clearance of lower-grade and diseased timber, selective thinning, and full felling where required, followed by timber sorting, biomass processing, and ground preparation for restocking.

Replanting formed a critical part of delivery, ensuring sites were not only cleared efficiently but also restored in line with long-term woodland management objectives and environmental guidance.

Equipment & Machinery

A mechanised approach was adopted to improve safety, efficiency, and consistency across all sites. The primary machine was a Doosan DX180LC-5 High Track excavator, selected for its suitability in forestry environments. The high-track undercarriage provided improved ground clearance and stability on uneven, muddy, and stump-littered terrain, while full forestry guarding protected both operator and machine during demanding operations. Depending on site conditions and timber specification, the excavator was paired with either a Westtech C350 tree shear or an AFM 55 harvester head. This flexibility allowed works to be tailored to each site’s objectives, whether rapid clearance or higher-value timber processing was required.

Forestry Operations Approach

Where rapid clearance or biomass-led work was required, the Westtech C350 tree shear was used to fell and handle timber efficiently. Its robust cutting capability allowed safe, controlled removal of lower-grade material and dense growth, particularly along woodland edges or access routes.

For thinning and higher-value forestry operations, the AFM 55 harvester head was deployed. This enabled fully mechanised felling, delimbing, and cross-cutting, producing consistent log lengths and improved timber quality. The harvester head also supported accurate volume tracking and yield data, assisting clients with forest management and reporting.

All felling and processing was carried out from within a fully guarded cab, significantly reducing risk compared to chainsaw-based systems and improving overall site safety.

Environmental & Ecological Controls

Environmental protection was integral to project delivery. Pre-operational ecological assessments were completed to identify nesting birds, bats, reptiles, amphibians, sensitive habitats, and important ground flora.

Where required, works were adjusted or delayed to align with seasonal constraints and avoid disturbance. Buffer zones were maintained around watercourses, root protection areas were respected, and veteran trees were retained where specified. Brash mats were used extensively to protect soils, reduce compaction, and maintain ground integrity during machine movements, particularly on softer or more sensitive sites.

Timber Handling & Sustainability

All felled material was processed and utilised responsibly. Merchantable timber was cut, sorted, and stacked by grade, including sawlog, cordwood, and biomass. Lower-grade timber and brash were processed into biomass using Oz Group’s chipping capability and transport fleet. This material was supplied to renewable energy supply chains, supporting sustainable energy generation and ensuring none was sent to landfill.

This approach reduced waste, improved site efficiency, and supported the client’s sustainability objectives while maintaining a clean and well-managed working environment.

Site Preparation & Replanting

Following clearance, sites were prepared for restocking in line with woodland management plans. Ground preparation included mulching brash to return nutrients to the soil, creating clear planting lines, and leaving ecological buffer zones undisturbed to encourage natural regeneration.

Replanting was completed using native broadleaf or mixed conifer species, selected to support biodiversity, timber resilience, and long-term woodland health. Species choice was based on pest and disease resistance, climate adaptability, and ecological value.

This end-to-end approach ensured sites were not only cleared efficiently but also restored with a clear focus on sustainability and future productivity.

The Result

The programme delivered safe and efficient mechanised forestry operations across multiple hectares, with all timber processed and utilised responsibly.

Operator safety was significantly improved through mechanised systems and fully guarded machinery. Ground damage was minimised through high-track equipment and brash mat use, while environmental safeguards protected habitats and sensitive features.

Replanting and habitat restoration ensured long-term value for landowners, stakeholders, and the wider environment, with positive feedback received across completed sites.