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1. GENETIC IMPROVEMENT
In the field, we select genetic materials that
improve the performance and quality
of fibre in our forest plantations. The
genotypes are rigorously tested to
verify their productivity in terms
of volume, quality, rooting and
health.
The Forestry Chain
2. MICROPROPAGATION LABORATORY
By selecting superior genotypes, controlled crossings and vegeta-
tive propagation, we were able to obtain the most productive
materials, which are better adapted and which have the
technological characteristics required by the pulp and
paper industry. Having confirmed the best genotypes,
we begin propagating the genotypes in the
micropropagation laboratory.
7. HARVESTING
After 8 years, the trees are in a position to be harvested.
Harvest planning takes into account, in addition to demand
at the plant, aspects such as species, distance from the factory,
age structure of the forest plantations, growth curves and environ-
mental conditions.
For reasons of safety, ergonomics, accuracy and flexibility, wherever possible
we chose to carry out mechanised harvesting, minimising the risks of accidents
and harvest times. On land where this is not possible, we carry out a semi-mechanised
harvesting. Harvest activities take into account: the characteristics of the area to be har-
vested; presence of species of flora and/or fauna with special conservation status; proximity
to riverbanks or areas close to water courses. The most appropriate systems and techniques are
always applied and the best time of the year is chosen, among other aspects.
Harvesting techniques
Forest harvesters/forest forwarders. The harvester carries out the cutting, trimming,
debarking and chopping of the tree, leaving the logs stacked on site. System
performance is approximately 55 trees/hour, corresponding to 11m/hour
depending on the average volume per tree of each trunk in particular.
Secondly, the forwarder enters the area, loads the logs and transports
them to the edge of the roads. The performance achieved is
approximately 14 m/hour.
8. OUR CUSTOMERS
After harvesting, the timber is trans-
ported to our customers by companies
specialising in forest freight and transport
. In Uruguay, our main client is the pulp mill
in Fray Bentos, to which we supply 3.5 million
m3 of timber every year. We also carry out
export activities according to demand.
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