Timber Harvesting for Windfarm Development

Euroforest Ltd was engaged to deliver large-scale timber harvesting and marketing operations in advance of a major onshore windfarm development in East Lothian.

Departments: Silviculture & Timber Marketing
Region: East Lothian
Project Duration: Approximately 8 months

Overview

Euroforest Ltd was engaged to deliver large-scale timber harvesting and marketing operations in advance of a major onshore windfarm development in East Lothian. The project involved the removal of 100 hectares of roundwood and 16 hectares of brash and stump clearance, forming a crucial part of the site’s preparation for renewable energy infrastructure.

Project Goals

  • Complete harvesting of 100ha of woodland.
  • Remove brash and stumps across 16ha of the future infrastructure footprint.
  • Support the windfarm construction timeline with timely and safe delivery of all forestry operations.
  • Contribute to Scotland’s carbon-neutral targets by supporting renewable energy development.

Current Status

The project is in its final stage, with brash and stump removal currently underway.

Significance of the Project

This operation highlights Euroforest’s key role in enabling renewable infrastructure through forestry expertise. Working as part of a broader delivery team, we have contributed to one of several windfarm projects aligned with Scottish Government carbon neutrality goals.

This case exemplifies our capabilities in:

  • Sustainable land use
  • Efficient timber marketing (50,000 tonnes delivered to market in a short period)
  • Supporting net-zero energy projects

Challenges and Solutions

Challenge:

  • Large volumes of timber movement within tight timeframes.
  • Active construction on-site required careful coordination.
  • Environmental considerations and access limitations.

Solution:

  • Regular site inspections by Euroforest managers.
  • Close liaison with construction engineers to manage operational interfaces.
  • Use of GPS-tracked machinery and LOGR-tracked timber lorries to monitor real-time locations and improve safety and efficiency.

Reflecting Our Values

Euroforest brought over 15 years of experience in supporting construction-linked forestry projects. Our success is built on:

  • Collaboration with principal contractors, developers, and local stakeholders
  • Deep knowledge of CDM regulations, with project managers trained to CITB SMSTS standard
  • A highly qualified team with FISA Forest Works Manager, Chainsaw Supervisor, and forestry-specific first aid training

Tools & Technologies

  • Modern John Deere 1270 & 1910 machines
  • Real-time vehicle tracking with LOGR and GPS systems
  • Specialist arboricultural services for clearing access routes for turbine deliveries

Results

  • 100 hectares of timber harvested
  • 16 hectares of stumps and brash cleared
  • 50,000 tonnes of timber marketed to a range of customers, from international buyers to local firewood businesses

What’s Next?

Euroforest is now preparing to deliver a new windfarm harvesting project in Central Scotland, continuing our commitment to supporting the UK’s renewable energy transition.

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