editorial

AS YOU READ THIS YOU ARE NO DOUBT RELIEVED TO BE BACK in the bush but following new protocols you could never have imagined when forced to down tools more than a month ago. The industry was rushed into lockdown in just two days to COVID-19 Alert Level 4, with worksites being abandoned as forestry was declared a non-essential industry.

Returning safely is imperative. Safe distancing and cleaning down equipment are just two of the protocols forest workers will need to keep topof-mind, says Forest Owners Association President, Phil Taylor, not to mention checking machinery and equipment, earth and roading works, and even for signs of vandalism, returning to empty worksites.

“Our worksites are complex operations and, even when their close-down is planned, there has to be a lot of testing and checking for safe operations before work fully resumes,” he says.

And he’s not alone in his concerns, as the recent FICA COVID-19 Alert 3 Forestry Protocols Survey revealed that contractors’ top four concerns are travel to and from work, additional costs, breaking too many bubbles and lack of PPE gear and suppliers.

FICA recommends that contractors speak to forest owners to avoid confusion and make expectations clear, as well as factoring additional travel and protective gear costs into their contract rate. 88% of contractors surveyed say they do feel comfortable and able to go back to work under Alert 3 protocols while 76% say they do have a complete workforce.

With 237 respondents in just 24 hours, it’s clear that contractors are keen to start on the right foot. FICA stresses that there is no room for complacency and COVID-19 safe practices are critical to the continued success of our industry. At Alert Level 3 MPI, WorkSafe and Police NZ will all be authorised to visit and audit operating businesses to verify COVID-19 safe practices are being implemented effectively.

These are certainly trying times, but the New Zealand forestry industry won’t let a virus stand in its way. See our Forest Talk pages for more on the guidelines established for the industry during this time, the Government’s support for forestry as well as the industry’s response.

Also inside, you’ll find an overview of an exciting pilot project testing the use of continuous cover forestry to generate a new industry recognising the value (both cultural and commercial) of Northland Tōtara. And we take a look at forestry stalwart, Doug Ducker’s 45 years at Pan Pac. Integrally involved in, not only the company, but the greater industry too, he’s seen plenty of change over the years, both good and bad. He believes that despite the current challenges, NZ forestry is “very strong”.

You may have noticed our usual Iron Tests have been few and far between the past few issues as we face the same challenges as you, accessing forests. We hope to be able to bring them back soon!

There is no denying we all face economic uncertainty as log prices have come sharply down and links are hanging loose on supply chains. The sector will likely take months to stabilise, but in the meantime ports are once more exporting logs and the industry is innovating. Conferences are going digital and so are we for now. Next month you will be able to hold your copy of NZ Logger in your hands once more, as the country constantly navigates the changing economic landscape.

Until next time, stay safe.