Modern Silviculture Symposium - Silviculture 4.0 (Day 2 - Modern Silviculture Technologies)

The Nelson Mandela University forestry department in collaboration with Ellepot hosted the first of its kind modern silviculture symposium – silviculture 4.0 under the theme “Smart technology from nursery to field”. This event was supported by IUFRO-Division 3 and sponsored by Ellepot (Platinum sponsor), ISO Horti innovators (Gold sponsor), and Forslivitech, Novelquip forestry, Stihl, and Bracke Forest (Silver sponsors). As it was a three-day event, the first day focused on nurseries, the second day was on modern silviculture technologies and the third day was a field day. Presentations were delivered by local and international experts in nurseries and silviculture technology in South Africa, Brazil, and the Netherlands. The event took place from 15th to 17th October 2024 in the picturesque town of Howick, located in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa. The symposium was attended by 200 attendees (professionals and students) mostly from South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Eswatini, Uruguay, New Zealand, and Finland. The symposium covered some of the main silviculture strategies and technologies that are currently in use and that will be used in the future, locally and internationally. A total of 16 presentations were delivered on day two and are summarised below.

Dr Dean da Costa from Mondi presented on “Implementing a successful silviculture modernization strategy – lessons and opportunities”. He started his presentation by highlighting key drivers of the modernization strategy, which includes company policies, rising labor costs, mechanization, research initiatives, and significant investments in firefighting equipment. The presentation highlighted workforce challenges such as an aging labor pool, high turnover rates, absenteeism, and health issues like HIV/AIDS, which have impacted productivity. A shift towards mechanization was noted to improve ergonomics and safety and reducing physically demanding tasks. Mondi's strategic pillars include site-genotype matching, residue management, improved establishment practices, and forest protection, and integrating technology across operations. The lessons learned indicate that while the strategy has improved safety, productivity, and innovation, it has also faced resistance, necessitating careful management of job loss concerns. Continuous innovation, employee training, and detailed auditing are crucial for success, reinforcing the understanding that modernization is an ongoing process essential for remaining competitive while emphasizing sustainability.

Dr. José Eduardo Petrilli Mendes presented about “Modern silviculture operations, opportunities, and challenges – Brazilian grower company perspective”. His presentation looked at the pressing need for modernization in Brazil's forestry sector, driven by increased wood demand and labor shortages. He further touched on technological innovations, such as mechanized planting with PC240, PC210, and Plantma X2 planters, as well as mechanized irrigation systems with seedling sensors. Aerial operations for fertilization and drones for herbicide application were also highlighted, alongside forestry tractors like the JD 640 L-II skidder and IRUM 690 S5. The presentation addressed challenges such as access to workforce training, resistance to change, and talent retention in rural areas, while also identifying opportunities in automation, upskilling, and AI-based machinery training. Emphasizing trends like real-time telemetry, AI pest detection, and early forest quality assessments using drones.

Dr. Muedanyi Ramantswana from Nelson Mandela University presented on "Where Are We Going? Global Modern Silviculture Trends". His presentation outlined the future of silviculture re-establishment technologies in plantation forestry, forecasting significant advancements. In his presentation, he mentioned that by we need to reimagine how silviculture operations will be performed by 2035 given the various emerging technologies within the silviculture field globally. He categorised the forecasted technologies into four broad classification (i) Machine specific innovations (ii) Material input innovations (iii) Machine operator innovations (IV) Digital technology applications. For example, he touched on machines being multifunctional, which will integrate multiple re-establishment tasks into fewer operations (one or two pass operations), and the application of drones for monitoring and performing specific activities (e.g. spraying) is expected to significantly enhance silviculture tending operations. He further presented on the operator advancements, forecasting that ergonomic cabs, and simulation training, and integration of artificial intelligence systems will improve operator productivity, safety, and decision-making capabilities. In addition, computerized applications such as real-time machine monitoring, big data processing, and stand assessment will enhance operational efficiency, allowing forest managers to make better-informed decisions and optimize resource use. He also highlighted that while many of these innovations are expected to be significant, certain technologies, such as advanced human-machine interfaces and full remote-control systems, are less likely to be widely adopted soon due to cost and practicality concerns.

Dr. Linnea Hansson from Skogforsk in Sweden presented “Modern Silviculture: Digitalization and Automation”. She spoke about the evolution of modern silviculture, highlighting the transition from manual, labor-intensive regeneration methods to mechanized and automated systems in response to rising costs and labor shortages. Her presentation touched on their ongoing research about the Autoplant which sacrifices plants autonomously using advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and decision-support tools. Another initiative involves teleoperated soil scarification, which allows for remote operation via Wi-Fi, 5G, and Starlink, complete with tools for route planning and user interface optimization. Additionally, the research emphasizes traceability in seedling logistics by employing RFID technology, temperature sensors, and GNSS tracking to monitor the movement of seedlings from nurseries to the field.

She presented key technologies driving these advancements, which included autonomous planting machines like PlantmaX and BraSatt, which are designed for forest regeneration. The integration of various sensors—such as external sensors that capture image data and 3D point clouds, along with internal pressure sensors and GNSS receivers—enables precise positioning and obstacle detection. Teleoperation allows for real-time control using decision support systems and global planning tools like Pathfinder. However, the implementation of these technologies presents challenges, including the need for increased robustness, security enhancements, and legal updates, such as geofencing regulations. Furthermore, efficient logistics for transporting seedlings between nurseries and autonomous machines remain a priority.

Dr. Churchill Mkwalo from the Department of Forestry & Fisheries and the Environment presented on “Finding the balance between modern silviculture and the need for socio-economic upliftment in forestry-department communities”. His presentation discussed the need for balancing modern silviculture with socioeconomic upliftment in forestry-dependent communities. He highlighted the geographical distribution of timber species as crucial for planning and resource management, alongside the characterization of rural areas in South Africa, which often face significant economic challenges. With an unemployment rate of 33.5% in Q2 2024, primarily affecting low-skilled workers and youth, He emphasized the importance of the forestry industry in job creation. He discussed the demand for roundwood, which exceeds the sustainable supply in South Africa, thereby constraining sector and economic growth. While increased mechanization enhances competitiveness and efficiency, a people-oriented model recognizes the need for a healthy labor force. He proposed a balancing act between employment and mechanization, emphasizing the necessity for small-scale forestry and community growers to receive enhanced support for financial, technical, and market access.

Mr. Shaun Biggs from Ellepot presented “Growing Seedlings for Current and Future Planting Technologies”. His presentation touched on the company's global presence in seedling propagation, operating in over 120 countries. The integrated propagation system offered by Ellepot includes machines, paper pots, and trays, aimed at addressing challenges in current planting systems, such as supply chain issues, root damage during extraction, and transplant shock. His presentation went on to discuss the Target Plant Concept (TPC), which focuses on physiological and morphological seedling characteristics linked to successful reforestation. The presentation highlighted the benefits of using ELLEPOTs, which include air pruning, stabilized substrate, and improved survival rates. By addressing key challenges in seedling propagation and planting technologies, Ellepot aims to enhance outcomes in forestry and reforestation efforts.

 Dr. Jacob Crous from Sappi presented “Understanding the Impact of Mulching on early tree growth”. He discussed traditional slash management methods, such as burning, which can effectively reduce fuel load and fire risk but negatively impact soil organic matter, which is essential for water retention, soil fertility, and providing a habitat for soil organisms. Dr. Crous highlighted the numerous benefits of mulching, including its ability to protect soil from erosion and compaction, conserve soil moisture by enhancing retention and reducing evaporation and weed growth, and moderate soil temperature, thereby promoting a stable environment for root growth. Mulching also enhances soil nutrition through organic carbon and mineralization and contributes to increased tree survival and growth rates, particularly in dry conditions. Furthermore, it facilitates mechanization in silviculture operations and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing the need for burning.

Data presented by Dr. Crous indicated that mulching significantly increases total soil water content, which is especially advantageous in areas with poor rainfall. It moderates surface soil temperatures, thereby reducing root heat stress and improving conditions for tree establishment. The results showed improved survival rates and total volume production compared to burning, with an average increase of 8.7% in survival and 14.5% in volume. Additionally, mulching plays a role in fire management by reducing fuel loads and the rate of fire spread. However, Dr. Crous also addressed potential negative effects, noting that certain mulching practices could inadvertently increase surface air temperatures and frost injury. Furthermore, issues such as disease transmission through contaminated mulch and possible nitrogen immobilization at the mulch-soil interface can hinder growth. He stressed the importance of careful management of mulch types and application rates to mitigate these risks. Overall, he recommended mulching as a preferred slash-management practice for its long-term benefits on tree growth and climate change adaptation.

Mr. Sean McKenzie from Silvix presented “Modernized silviculture cost-effective silviculture, promoting productivity and quality”. His presentation looked at the need for increased production, improved quality of operations, social accountability, and ergonomic standards for operator comfort and efficiency. He highlighted the benefits of broadcast spray application, specifically featuring a motorized knapsack equipped with a 3-meter aluminium boom and a 15-liter capacity. This innovative tool includes two OC nozzles and one flat fan nozzle, providing efficient coverage with a swath width of 9 meters and application rates of 80-90 liters per hectare, achieved at a walking pace of 2 meters per second. This knapsack can effectively spray 1 hectare by walking just 1.1 kilometers, making it particularly useful for pre-planting glyphosate applications targeting grass and broadleaf selective.

Mr. McKenzie also introduced the FAKA Plenty planting tool and Squam knapsack, which has an 18-liter backpack capacity designed for robustness and simplicity. It features quick coupling camlock hose connections for ease of use and an operator-calibrated dosage with a beak capacity of 600 milliliters. Furthermore, he presented the Bendi Bar, an advancement derived from the Dribble bar that enhances control and application. This tool allows for direct glyphosate application with minimal drift, extending the spraying window while serving as an alternative to traditional ring hoes. It preserves topsoil moisture and organic matter, leading to high productivity and prolonged weed control with glyphosate, all while preventing mechanical damage to seedlings.

Dr. Rafael Ribeiro Soler from Bracke Forest presented “Flat, moderate, and steep terrain planting technologies”. He firstly described the diverse range of machinery offered by Bracke Forest, including trenchers, planters, mounders, and felling heads for biomass. He introduced several models of Bracke planters, beginning with the Bracke P11.b, which is designed for excavators weighing between 14 and 20 tons and can achieve a productivity rate of up to 300 seedlings per hour. It accommodates container plants with a standard capacity of 196 seedlings (60 mm) and an option for 100 seedlings (75 mm), featuring a slow-release fertilizer applicator and irrigation options. The Bracke P12.b is suitable for excavators weighing 20 to 24 tons and can achieve a productivity of up to 250 seedlings per hour. This model provides options for single or triple rods (400 to 800 mm) and includes similar fertilization and irrigation features as the P11.b. The Bracke P22.b, designed for excavators weighing 24 tons, it can achieve a productivity rate of up to 600 seedlings per hour, with a similar container plant capacity to the P11.b and P12.b. Additionally, he described the application of the D61 planter coupled to the Komatsu D61 bulldozer for application on flat terrain. The planting unit weighs 950 kg and is capable of planting up to 900 seedlings per hour and offers features such as georeferencing capabilities for accurate planting.

Dr. Ribeiro Soler noted that current mechanized silviculture practices are expanding into various slope conditions, including steep, moderately steep, undulating, soft undulating, and flat terrains. He highlighted a transition from manual and semi-mechanized methods to fully mechanized operations, noting a significant increase in mechanization from 15% to 60% across various operations. The presentation emphasized the modernization of silviculture through advanced machinery, such as the Bracke planters, which enhance planting efficiency and productivity while adapting to diverse terrain conditions.

Mr Stephanus Viljoen from Novelquip Forestry shared insights on “Novelquip’s Journey Towards a Modernised Planter”. He began his presentation by giving a brief history and describing the overarching goal of creating the world's best forest planter by balancing quality and productivity. He further elaborated on the mechanics of the project, a planter built on the Ponsse Buffalo 8x8, which features full integration with modular, self-contained planting units. He then touched on some key components of this innovative machine, which include seedling cassettes, irrigation tanks for water and gel, grapples for planting heads, and seedling spools. During testing the machine achieved a maximum efficiency of 1100 plant-only, 640 pit and plant, and 90% of high-quality planting. Mr Viljoen then highlighted some of the challenges and opportunities associated with developing this planting innovation which has demonstrated effectiveness with precision across diverse operational conditions, including different rotations and soil preparations. He further detailed the future project plans aimed at improving the planter’s work quality and efficiency to meet forest grower demands. He then concluded by inviting collaboration with forest stakeholders to contribute to refining the planter.

Mr. Sibusiso Sibanyoni from Mondi presented “Modernization of Pre-canopy weeding operations: Mondi’s Journey”. In his presentation, he emphasized the primary objective of leveraging advanced science and technology to ensure the sustainability of plantations. He indicated that modernization efforts are driven by several key pillars: safety and ergonomics, which aim to address incidents and reduce physically demanding tasks; adapting to site conditions, including slopes, ground roughness, accessibility, compartment size, and row lengths; ensuring productivity and cost-effectiveness for financial viability; and selecting herbicides that comply with registration, quality, and regulations.

To achieve these goals, Mondi has implemented modern equipment suitable for various site conditions and is continuously improving operations with emerging technologies. Technological implementations adopted include the introduction of 3-point linkage boom sprayers and trailed boom sprayers, such as the Sam Sprayer and John Deere, along with double tanks and tracked tractors. Additionally, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) are now utilized for spraying, and boom sprayers with lances and slashing tools have been incorporated. The focus on smart chemicals for herbicide registration enhances efficacy in operations. Mondi plans to focus on data collection to track the impact of modernized operations, visualizing fully mechanized processes and stump kill techniques while continuing registrations for selective herbicides and pre-emergent applications. To support these initiatives, enhanced data analysis capabilities and the development of digital tools, including apps and web-based solutions, are needed. There is also an emphasis on integrating systems and collaborating with machinery and herbicide manufacturers, along with standardizing operations.

Innovations in pre-canopy weeding have transitioned from manual operations to pre-emergence herbicides, which significantly reduce manual labour. The implementation of semi-mechanized dribble line spraying has increased productivity and improved ergonomics. The evolution from manual knapsacks to advanced boom sprayers and RPAS for full compartment coverage has further enhanced precision and capability for data collection. Data presented during the presentation demonstrated significant increases in productivity with modern equipment, such as the Jactor Sprayer, which achieved an impressive 40 hectares per productive machine hour (ha/PMH). Comparisons between various sprayers indicated marked improvements in efficiency for both spot and full-cover spraying. Furthermore, the introduction of tools like bashing axes and double-edged slashers has aided in managing coppice regrowth, while partnerships with Eco-guard for herbicide registration have improved stump treatment outcomes. Notably, treatments such as Turbodor have achieved a 0% coppice presence at 12 months, highlighting the effectiveness of various herbicides in suppressing coppice regrowth. This presentation underscored the significant advancements in the modernization of pre-canopy weeding operations, emphasizing the critical role of technology in enhancing productivity, safety, and overall operational efficiency in forestry practices.

Mr Duncan Fryer from Stihl presented on " Knowing the condition and performance of your tools – digitalization through smart connections". His presentation spoke about Stihl connected which is a cloud-based system comprising of hardware and software. The STIHL Smart Connector captures the machines’ usage data, saves it, and transmits the data via Bluetooth to the STIHL connected App on a smartphone or tablet within range. The STIHL connected app stores the incoming machine data and submits it to the STIHL cloud via Wi-Fi or mobile network. The app also provides a quick overview of your machines and their usage data. The STIHL cloud is the central data platform of STIHL connected. All data is subject to data protection policies and is handled and stored securely. The machine data stored in the STIHL cloud is then made available to the customer in the STIHL connected portal for analysis. The connected portal allows for easy management of the entire fleet, e.g. adding or removing power tools, scheduling work, and managing maintenance schedules.

Mr. Roedolf Nieuwenhuis from CROPWATCH AFRICA (BIOSYNTRIX) presented on the “Use of advanced data-driven technology for pest and disease detection in forestry”. The approach begins with high-resolution satellite imagery, which enables large-scale monitoring of forest areas, while Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping integrates this satellite data to identify pest hotspots and disease-prone zones. Drones equipped with multispectral or thermal sensors further enhance this monitoring by conducting aerial surveillance to detect forest health issues, including pests and diseases. This technology allows for precise observation of extensive areas, facilitating the early identification of stressed zones.

Automated pest traps also play a crucial role in this system, utilizing AI to provide real-time pest detection and counting. Continuous monitoring through these traps optimizes the timing for targeted pest control interventions. Complementing this, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors monitor environmental conditions such as soil moisture, temperature, and humidity, feeding real-time data into integrated cloud systems for comprehensive forest health analysis. Additionally, satellite-based ground weather stations provide critical real-time data on local microclimates that influence pest behaviors, while predictive analytics powered by AI models analyze weather trends to forecast pest outbreaks.

Machine learning and AI are essential in this context, as they analyze environmental data to detect early signs of pest outbreaks, with predictive models assisting in forecasting pest and disease risks based on both real-time and historical data. Centralized cloud platforms integrate data from drones, satellites, sensors, weather stations, and traps, facilitating the development of decision support systems (DSS) that provide actionable insights and alerts for effective forest management and pest control. By combining these advanced technologies, forest managers can adopt a holistic, data-driven approach to pest and disease management. This integrated management strategy emphasizes early detection, precision interventions, sustainable practices, and adaptive management. The presentation underscored the importance of these advanced data-driven technologies in modern silviculture, highlighting their role in enhancing pest and disease detection and promoting sustainable forest management practices.

Mr. Matt Houghting from PACSys delivered a presentation on the opportunities to improve silviculture operations through the integration of drone technology, outlining the company's significant contributions to the agricultural and forestry sectors. The presentation highlighted key historical milestones, beginning with PACSys's establishment by KZN Sugar Farmers in 2016 and expansion to date.

The benefits of using drones in silviculture operations are significant. Drones such as the DJI Agras provide precise and consistent coverage, enhancing productivity, particularly in canopy penetration and crop management. He indicated thatdrone technology reduces fuel consumption, pesticide drift, and overall pesticide use, while improving safety and minimizing trampling, leading to higher yields and better water conservation. The presentation concluded by emphasizing the successful integration of drones in timber management since 2020, showcasing their efficiency and environmental benefits in modernizing silviculture operations.

Mr Ferrando from Uruguay presented about " Mapping of manually planted trees using the STA logger- Sarapico". His presentation started with the challenges they had which was to achieve 95% traceability in planting, replanting, and replacement operations with clones to understand the causes of plant mortality. He then spoke about the STA logger technology and adaptation of the Sarapico. He further presented the key achievements of the project being more than 95% traceability in planting and replanting operations. The benefits of the STA logger implementation enabled them to achieve 95% traceability in planting, replanting, and replacement operations, data to develop actionable recommendations, enhanced decision-making, and improved recording planting locations with less than 1 m precision.  He shared the next steps of the project, which are to finalize data validation, improve the accuracy of the equipment, large-scale testing and improved data accessibility, make improvements in the design of the planting sarapicos and the base support for transportation, improve the protection of parts exposed to field use, and test the use of battery/solar panel on-site charging of the device. He concluded his presentation by indicating that the integration of the modern technology has the potential to significantly improve planting precision, reduce clone mortality and increase overall efficiency. The project is aligned with sustainable forestry goals and the broader vision for digital transformation in the industry 

Mduduzi Junior Khoza from Nelson Mandela University presented a “Comparison of the operational productivity and quality of manual and semi-mechanized planting methods, South Africa”. His study compared manual planting tubes (pitless) and semi-mechanized high-pressure planting methods on burnt forests with different slash loads. The results found higher productivity for the manual method (50 and 60% higher) across the different slash conditions. In terms of planting quality, both methods achieved high planting success rates (90%), with manual planting having a slight edge (+3%). He concluded that while manual planting methods continue to be productive, there is significant potential for semi-mechanized approaches in cleaner conditions, thus supporting ongoing initiatives to modernize planting techniques.

Mr. Angel Goldsmith from Stellenbosch University presented “Combined effects of slash burning and disc harrowing on fuel load reduction and stand productivity of Eucalyptus” in Mpumalanga plantations. The primary objective of the research was to assess the effectiveness of these practices in reducing fuel loads, mitigating wildfire risks, and enhancing soil and tree productivity throughout a full rotation. He revealed that disc harrowing plays a crucial role in fire management by breaking the horizontal continuity of fuel, which reduces both the rate of fire spread and overall fuel loading, thereby lowering fire intensity. However, the study noted a lack of quantified evidence regarding the long-term effects of these practices.

The research further explored how the incorporation of burning and disc harrowing impacts various soil properties, including bulk density, nutrient pools, and root distribution. Specifically, it investigated the effects of these methods on the availability of essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and organic carbon (C) in the soil. Additionally, the study highlighted that repeated disc harrowing and prescribed burning influence root distribution patterns, significantly affecting the overall growth of Eucalyptus grandis × nitens, as well as tree stand density, volume, and biomass production.

Mr Thembinkosi Zulu presented a “Comparison of the productivity of pitting machine operators under different site conditions”. The study focused on mechanized pitting, an essential process in silviculture for preparing tree planting positions, which is increasingly replacing manual methods due to its improved efficiency and consistency. The research aimed to compare the operational productivity of pitting machine operators on burnt and mulched sites, while also assessing the quality of the pits they produced in terms of depth and diameter. Using an M-PAT Single Head Pitting Machine mounted on a Volvo EC55B compact excavator, data were collected from two compartments with similar terrain and soil types but different residue statuses (90% burnt versus 80% mulched). Each operator was assigned 10 plots, with a total of 160 pits per plot, and productivity and pit quality were recorded. The results showed that mulched sites had higher productivity (158 pits/plot) compared to burnt sites (136 pits/plot), and more experienced operators consistently outperformed others, with productivity ranging from 200 to 600 pits per hour. Pit quality was strongly linked to operator experience rather than the specific site conditions, with more experienced operators producing a higher proportion of good-quality pits. The study concluded that operator experience significantly impacts both productivity and pit quality, and that marking planting positions on mulched sites increased efficiency.