The Logfisher: An innovative harvesting system for reduced impact logging

The functionality of the 'Logfisher' timber harvester is based on the concept of fishing.

A harvesting technology developed in the Asia-Pacific region is the 'Logfisher' timber extraction unit. It has been referred to as the Malaysian version of the Ground Based Mobile Yarder. In July 1999, the operational application of the 'Logfisher' technology and system was developed as an alternative to existing low and reduced impact logging technologies. It has since been acknowledged as an effective and cost efficient alternative to existing low and reduced impact logging technologies like skylines, mobile tower yarders and helicopters. Logs are winched out of the forest by the 'Logfisher' with the use of a long cable. In the process the logs slide along the forest floor creating narrow corridors. The system employs a method of log extraction by combining the process of winching and lifting performed by a single machine. It can be customised to fit any excavator base body. The machine can also be used to handle logs at the landing and to dig.

Three models of Logfisher Timber Harvester are in production, of which the specifications are given below:

1. LOG200 line pull 34,000kgf 1,000 ft (305 m) wire-rope
2. LOG240 line pull 38,000kgf 1,000 ft (305 m) wire-rope
3. LOG330 line pull 48,000kgf 1,000 ft (305 m) wire-rope