Logging and Timber Harvesting

Technology and knowhow

Over 100 Years of Experience in Logging and Timber Harvesting

Lesoteka combines companies that form a complete forest-wood chain. The first step includes sustainable forest management and efficient forestry services, which also encompass timber harvesting, logging, afforestation, and other services. The quality execution of these services is ensured by Lesoteka's team of experienced foresters. However, such services involve a series of technologically demanding and hazardous tasks, often exacerbated by challenging working conditions. In the northern part of Slovenia, these are predominantly steep, mountainous terrains with cold and long winters. In such conditions, logging and timber harvesting become particularly challenging.

Forest Harvesting

Forest harvesting in our forest-wood supply chain

Forest harvesting is the process of removing trees from a forest to obtain wood. This process involves inspecting trees for harvesting, cutting them down, and removing them from the forest. Choosing which trees to harvest is crucial, as it is essential to ensure that only trees suitable for the timber industry are removed while preserving the health and stability of the forest. Factors such as the age and size of the trees, their health, growth sites, habitat for animals and plant species, and environmental protection must be taken into account. Next comes the felling of trees, usually done with the help of chainsaws. Safety measures such as using protective equipment, reliable tools, and proper felling techniques must be considered. It is also important to control the direction of the falling tree to prevent damage to surrounding trees, infrastructure, and people.

Expertise and Experience

For the Best Yield from Your Forest

Despite the challenging terrain and the fact that a significant amount of timber is still obtained using traditional methods, Lesoteka is consistently committed to gradually increasing the proportion of mechanized logging and timber harvesting through processor technology and the use of specialized machinery (harvesters, forwarders) in suitable terrains. The percentage of roundwood obtained through mechanized logging steadily increases each year. Automation of work processes translates to lower production costs for us and a better yield for the forest owner.

Timber Harvesting

Timber Harvesting in Our Forest-Wood Chain

Once trees are felled, they need to be removed from the forest and transported to a processing site. This can involve various transportation methods, such as tractor trains, cable cars, helicopters, and trucks. Timber harvesting is the process of removing wood from a forest or another wooded area and transporting it to a location where the wood can be processed or sold. This process includes removing branches and bark and transporting the wood out of the forest. Timber harvesting is typically done using various machines, such as tractors, trucks, cable cars, or helicopters, depending on the terrain and the amount of wood that needs to be transported. The timber harvesting process can be time-consuming and requires careful planning, as well as the selection of appropriate tools and technologies. The goal of timber harvesting is to transport the wood to the processing or sales location correctly and safely. At the same time, it is essential to minimize environmental impacts during this process and maintain the health of the forest. This may include using methods that reduce soil and vegetation damage and choosing transport paths that minimize impacts on water sources and animal habitats.

What is the first step if I want to harvest my wood?
As a forest owner; how much can I harvest?
How do I know what dimensions to cut?
When is harvesting allowed, and when is the right time?

First, you need to contact the Slovenian Forestry Service (Regional units or Local unit where you own the forest) and request the responsible district forester for a tree-felling permit. Based on this, you will receive a felling permit manual and a decision for harvesting. You can harvest as much as your annual quota allows, determined by the annual growth in the forest (regular felling). If it's a sanitary felling (due to snowbreak, windbreak, icebreak), then everything damaged is harvested. In the case of bark beetle infestation, the district forester determines what needs to be cut. Before harvesting, you need to know where the wood will be sold or obtain instructions from the buyer for basic cutting dimensions (length, diameter at the thinner end, etc.) and sorting of the wood. There are no specific restrictions regarding the timing of harvesting, but there are deadlines, especially for wood damaged by bark beetles, windbreak, snowbreak, etc.