Biond, in partnership with Ascendum and Ponsse, has recently launched the Manual on Mechanised Forest Harvesting — a Portuguese-language adaptation of the internationally recognised work “Mechanized Harvesting” by Heikki Ovaskainen, a world authority in the field of mechanised forest harvesting.
This manual focuses on mechanised timber and biomass cutting and forwarding operations, bringing together modern practices, efficient working methodologies and technical content tailored to the realities of the Portuguese forestry sector. At a time when updated technical documents aimed at operators, technicians and forest managers are scarce, this publication stands out as a reference resource for training, planning and continuous improvement in the field.
Throughout its pages, the manual compiles modern working models, current forest management recommendations and content designed to facilitate learning and the practical application of concepts. Particular highlights include technical illustrations, materials drawn from PONSSE simulators and guidelines specifically adapted to the national context — making it especially relevant to the Portuguese reality.
Learning from the best
Developed as part of Advance Forest, a programme dedicated to the qualification of forestry operators, the manual helps translate the different levels of strategic, tactical and operational planning into concrete, applicable working models — both in simulator environments and on real machines in the field.
The content includes detailed recommendations on mechanised harvesting techniques, process optimisation, work organisation and operational safety, reinforcing best practices that contribute to more efficient, safe and sustainable operations. It is a highly valuable resource for operators, technicians and forestry companies seeking to increase productivity, reduce risk and raise the technical standards of their teams.
Innovation and continuous training
With this initiative, the forestry sector in Portugal takes an important step towards making up-to-date technical knowledge more widely accessible, reinforcing the role of innovation, technology and continuous training as pillars of modernisation across forestry activities.
We invite you to access the Manual on Mechanised Forest Harvesting free of charge and discover how to apply more efficient, safe and sustainable practices in your operations.
