Forest engineering experts will be presenting a first ever three week course for managing mechanised logging operations.

The summer school will focus on managing integrated mechanised harvesting, road and transport operations. The course targets practitioners (forest managers/experts and contractors), researchers, academics, and equipment manufacturer staff. The course is structured to integrate theory and practice, and will equip delegates with knowledge, skills and tools to make a difference in the work environment. Most forestry schools and universities provide practitioners with a good knowledge base of forestry operations. However, the application of the knowledge is often not at the desired level due to a lack of experience. Also, even experienced logging operations managers often do not have the rounded knowledge and skills to make a real difference in the work environment. This ground-breaking course is certain to make a difference to the operational efficiency of even the most experienced forestry managers, while also improving the management capabilities of less experienced people to levels that would not otherwise be possible in such a short space of time. The course will also provide a solid basis for logging researchers and equipment manufacturer personnel to much better understand what is required to effectively manage mechanised logging operations.

The course is organised by CMO, with the presenters being international forest engineering experts with extensive backgrounds in practical logging operations, training of logging machine operators and forestry managers, and forestry higher education. They have presented courses around the globe on managing logging, roading and transport operations. The course also includes a wilderness experience, where delegates will be involved in team building exercises. The venue chosen for the first summer school is in the beautiful Southern Cape region of South Africa, at the Saasveld campus of the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. For more information, visit http://cmo.co.za/international-forest-engineering-summer-school_content_op_view_id_53