A group of Highlands and Islands-based forestry businesses are heading to Sweden on Thursday where they will have the opportunity to see and trial some of the latest timber harvesting machinery developed for their sector.

In particular they will be testing out an innovative hybrid powered (diesel/electric) forwarder, used to extract timber from the forest, developed by EL-Forest AB in North East Sweden. The machine's hybrid technology has the potential to reduce running costs and the carbon footprint of forestry harvesting activities.

The group will also visit the John Deere Forestry Equipment factory in Joensuu, Finland to trial the very latest in harvesting equipment.

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The trip has been organised by the Highlands and Islands Forest Industry Cluster (HIFIC), funded by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE). The organisation provides an industry-led series of topical events and meetings throughout the region. Steve Conolly, HIFIC Chairman said: "I am delighted that through HIFIC we have been able to facilitate this trip. It is vital for the forest industry in the Highlands and Islands to be able to see and trial the latest harvesting equipment and ensure that we have the opportunity to see the technologies being developed by our Nordic colleagues."

Joining the group is third year HND student, Matt Watts from Inverness College, Scottish School of Forestry. Matt underwent a selection procedure to join the group and will produce a comprehensive report and presentation for use at a future HIFIC event. Matt said: "This is an excellent opportunity to see the machinery of the future in action. It will be really valuable for me and I hope my report will also provide value for others."

Calum Davidson, HIE's head of key sectors, said: "Early adoption of new technology is vital to keep our industries globally competitive. HIE is pleased to be able to support the work of HIFIC which is pro-actively creating opportunities for our industry operators."

(GK)