PTR Company Profile - 2016

Purser Tarleton Russell Ltd. Forest Sector Consultancy, Management & Research

COMPANY PROFILE

2016 Purser Tarleton Russell Ltd. 36 Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin 2, Ireland

Purser Tarleton Russell Ltd. – Forest Industry Consultancy, Management & Research Page 2 of 22

Purser Tarleton Russell Ltd. Forest Sector Consultancy, Management & Research

Registered Address: 36 Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin 2, & Office Address Ireland. Contact Numbers: Office: +353-1-6625621 / +353-87-2633766

Email: [email protected] Company History: Purser Tarleton Russell Ltd. (PTR) was officially incorporated on

January 1st 1996. The directors have been working together on various forestry related projects since 1994.

Directors / Employees: Patrick Purser B.Agr.Sc. (Forestry) M.Agr.Sc. (Forestry)

Mark Tarleton B.Agr.Sc. (Forestry) M.Agr.Sc. (Forestry)

Fionán Russell B.Agr.Sc. (Forestry) Services Offered: Purser Tarleton Russell Ltd. is a long established firm of

consultant, management and research foresters providing services throughout the Irish forest sector and farther afield since 1995. We offer the following forestry related services:

• Forestry Investment Appraisal • Woodland Establishment & Silviculture • Forest Resource Inventory & Mapping • Forest Resource Planning & Management • Industry Consultancy • Industry Research & Development • Forestry and Environment • Socio-Economic Surveys • Timber Measurement • Timber Valuation • Timber Marketing • Training in Timber Measurement

Recent Clients: Coillte (Irish Forestry Board)

COFORD (National Council for Forest Research & Development) NPWS (National Parks & Wildlife Service. Department of Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht) Forest Service (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food) Teagasc (The Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority) Forest Industry Transport Group (FITG) Irish Forestry Contractors Association (IFCA) PEFC Ireland FSC Ireland SGS Forestry (member of the SGS Group) Irish Distillers (Pernod Ricard) Element Power Wicklow Private Woodland Owners Group Laois Farm Forestry Group Wicklow Deer Management Group FTEI (Forestry Training & Education Ireland) University College Dublin Waterford Institute of Technology The Heritage Council Timber processing sector (sawmills) Numerous private timber growers & investors


Directors' Bios

Paddy Purser M.Agr.Sc. (Forestry)

Age: 45 PTR director since 1995 Paddy is a founding director of PTR with responsibility for forest management and timber sales services. He manages a diverse portfolio of forest properties on behalf of our private clients while also working on a wide range of consultancy and applied research projects, particularly in the area of forest management & the environment. Paddy has developed wide-ranging experience in all aspects of commercial forest management in Ireland and has a proven track record in a meeting our clients’ objectives with his “hands-on” approach to forest management. While Paddy’s formal training has been in managing plantation forests using a clearfell and replant system, he has been developing skills in Close to Nature Silviculture over the last 15 years and many of PTR’s clients’ properties are now commencing a conversion to permanent forests using close to nature silvicultural systems. Paddy is a founding member and committee member of Pro Silva Ireland. He is a former Council Member of the Society of Irish Foresters and is a founding member of the Association of Irish Forestry Consultants.

Mark Tarleton M.Agr.Sc. (Forestry)

Age: 45 PTR director since 1995 Mark is a founding director of PTR with responsibility for research and training services. He has led an extensive range of projects in the areas of forest inventory, forest management, timber measurement & valuation, forest harvesting, forestry information technology, forestry investment and sectoral training needs analysis. Mark has developed wide-ranging experience in project management and industry consultation, working with individuals, businesses, state agencies and representative bodies in advisory, training, research and project management roles. He has proven ability in producing high quality documents and reports, ranging from public information leaflets to scientific papers. Mark is a founding member and former chairman of the Association of Irish Forestry Consultants.

Fionán Russell B.Agr.Sc. (Forestry)

Age: 56 PTR director since 1995 Fionán is a founding director of PTR with responsibility for afforestation and reforestation services and is our liaison with the Forest Service, Ireland’s forestry sector regulatory body. While he has wide-ranging experience in all aspects of commercial forest management in Ireland, Fionán has developed particular expertise in woodland establishment and in the administration of the various Forest Service grant and premium payment schemes that are supporting the establishment and on-going management of many of our clients’ forests. Prior to joining PTR, Fionán worked as a timber procurement manager in Balcas Sawmills (Enniskillen), one of Ireland’s largest timber processors. He also has previous experience in forest research and the timber processing sector. Fionán is a founding member of the Association of Irish Forestry Consultants and is an active member of the Agricultural Consultants Association of Ireland.


Current & Completed Projects In order to provide a profile of the scope of PTR’s expertise and services, we have presented a synopsis of some on-going and completed projects. These have been classified into the following categories:

FOREST RESOURCE & INVESTMENT APPRAISAL ……………… Page 5

FOREST MANAGEMENT ………………………………………………. Page 7

FOREST POLICY & INDUSTRY PLANNING ………………………… Page 9

TIMBER MEASUREMENT & WOODFLOW MANAGEMENT ……… Page 13

ENVIRONMENTAL ………………………………………………………. Page 17

TIMBER HARVESTING …………………………………………………. Page 21

PTR INHOUSE PROJECTS – SOME EXAMPLES ………………….. Page 22

More detailed information on specific projects can be provided on request.


FOREST RESOURCE & INVESTMENT APPRAISAL

Project: Valuation of Large Scale Forestry Fund Prior to Purchase Description: PTR assisted an Austrian Investor in the assessment and valuation of a Forestry

Fund comprising 23 Forest Properties encompassing 356 hectares of commercial woodland. The Fund was subsequently bought by the Investor.

Client(s): Austrian Investor Status: Completed 2012

Project: Compilation of Information Report on the Irish Timber Industry Description: This report was written following a request from Indufor Oy to provide an

overview of the Irish Timber Industry. The report was structured under four specific headings: Overview of the Irish Timber Market; Profile of companies buying wood in Ireland; Analysis on pricing & timber sales methods; Forest Management Costs. The report formed a basis for further consultation.

Client(s): Indufor Oy, Finland Status: Completed 2014

Project: Economic Potential Analyses for Low Yield Class Sites in Western Ireland Description: Projection of the internal rates of return for low Yield Class afforestation sites in

the West of Ireland and assessment of the silvicultural and management options for maximising timber productivity and financial return on such sites.

Client(s): Private forestry investors Status: Completed 1997

Project: Production of a User Interface for Irish Dynamic Yield Models Description: This work involved the development of a user interface (GROWFOR) for Irish

Dynamic Yield Models. The software interface permits the user to enter forest inventory data for specific forest compartments and to “grow these data on” using a specific management regime for a specific period. The interface also allows for the addition of administrative data concerning the forest property and timber prices which are used to generate values for harvests specified in the management regime. A user manual for the interface was also prepared. PTR provide ongoing training through regular workshops and online support for GROWFOR users.

Client(s): COFORD, Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine Status: Completed 2002. Training and User support services ongoing.

Service: Sourcing & Valuation of Land for Investors in Forestry and Production of Development Plans for same

Description: This involves the maintenance of nation-wide contacts in the land market arena, the identification of available land as suitable for afforestation, in terms of price and quality, and the production of various forest investment scenarios for interested clients. Following the successful purchase of such land, a site specific development plan and financial forecast is prepared.

Client(s): Prospective private forestry investors Status: Ongoing


Project: The Development of a Mechanism for use in the Determination of Round Log Value which takes Account of the Price and Volume Yield of Sawn Timber

Description: Work commissioned by Coillte to produce a computerised mechanism which factors price and volume yield of sawn timber into their existing mechanism for round log valuation. Our experience of the sawmilling sector was a key factor in securing this contract.

Client(s): Coillte Status: Completed 1998

Project: Study of the Forestry Market in Co. Wicklow Description: PTR was selected by competitive tender to carry out a market survey of private

forestry in Co. Wicklow. The study involved an assessment of the private forestry resource in quantitative and qualitative terms. It also involved an attitudinal study amongst forest owners and a capacity study of the contracting / forestry labour resource and of the current and potential markets for timber in the county.

Client(s): Wicklow Private Woodland Owners Group Status: Completed 2010

Project: Study of the Forestry Market in Co. Clare Description: PTR was selected by competitive tender to carry out a market survey of private

forestry in Co. Clare. The study involved an inventory of the private forestry resource in quantitative and qualitative terms. It also involved an attitudinal study amongst forest owners and a capacity study of the contracting / forestry labour resource and of current and potential markets. There was a particular emphasis in the study on those private forests which are approaching the age of first thinning and on the silvicultural and economic options for these forest and their owners. The project was managed by a steering group with representatives from Teagasc, the Forest Service, Coillte, The Irish Farmers Association, Private Forestry, The Irish Forestry Contractors Association and the project client, Rural Resource Development Ltd.

Client(s): Rural Resource Development Ltd. (Clare Leader) Status: Completed 2004

Project: Study of the Forestry Market in North East Co. Cork Description: PTR was selected by competitive tender to carry out a market survey of private

forestry in North East Cork. The study involved an inventory of the private forestry resource in quantitative and qualitative terms. It also involved an attitudinal study amongst forest owners and a capacity study of the contracting / forestry labour resource and of the current and potential market. There was a particular emphasis in the study on those private forests which are approaching the age of first thinning and on the silvicultural and economic options for these forest and their owners. The project was managed by a steering group with representatives from Teagasc, the Forest Service, Coillte, The Irish Farmers Association, Private Forestry and the project client Blackwater Resource Development Ltd.

Client(s): Blackwater Resource Development Ltd. (North Cork Leader) Status: Completed 2008

Project: Study of Private Sector Forestry Resources in Co. Laois Description: PTR was selected by competitive tender to carry out a survey of private sector

forestry resources in Co. Laois. The study involved a detailed ground survey of a sample of farm forestry plantations approaching or at 1st thinning stage and the extrapolation of survey results to a county level. It also involved a survey of forest owners to identify operational and attitudinal issues currently affecting the counties farm forestry sector.

Client(s): Laois Farm Forestry Group Status: Completed 2011


FOREST MANAGEMENT

Service: Forest Management Description: PTR currently oversee the management of over 3,000 hectares of private forests

in Ireland. Most of these are commercial woodlands which are required to produce a regular income for their owners. Management is organised through the preparation and execution of detailed maps, inventories and management plans. Management operations which PTR oversee include: • Forest Establishment • Early Maintenance of New Forests • Pre-Commercial Thinning and Improvement • Forest Inventory & Mapping • Timber Measurement • Timber Marketing • Commercial Thinning • Hunting Licences and Targets • Development of Forest Access • Removal / Control of Invasive Exotic Species • Forest Valuation • Transformation from Even Aged Plantations to Permanent Forests

Our formal training has been in managing plantation forests using a clearfell and replant system. However, over the last 15 years, Paddy Purser has been developing skills in Close to Nature Silviculture and many of our clients’ forests are now commencing a conversion to permanent forests using close to nature silvicultural systems. This is being done in the long term commercial interests of the forest owners.

Project: Low Impact Silvicultural Systems Project Description: PTR, represented by Paddy Purser, were partners in this project which:

• established research trials in transforming even aged spruce stands to continuous cover forestry;

• established the AFI Inventory system in 7 Irish forests being managed using continuous cover forestry;

• prepared and published 3 different papers on the status of continuous cover forestry in Ireland, the economics of continuous cover forestry and the attitude of different stakeholder groups to continuous cover forestry.

Client(s): COFORD, Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine Status: Completed 2015

Service: Forest Establishment & Management Services Description: Establishment and management of coniferous and broad-leaved forestry for

various clients. This work involves planning and implementing forest operations and administering government (Forest Service) grant applications. With the current difficulties being experienced by the Irish farming sector in relation to CAP reform coupled with the attractive forestry grant and premium schemes presently available, more land owners are considering the forestry option. As higher quality land becomes available to Irish forestry more flexible management approaches are required, particularly due to the fact that many land owners now want to play a more active role in developing and managing their plantations. PTR provide a forestry consultancy & management service tailored to the requirements of each client.

Client(s): Private land owners, farmers and forestry investors Status: Ongoing


Service: Forest Inventory, Mapping & Management Planning of Private Forest Estates

Description: PTR provide a forest mapping and planning service for private timber growers to satisfy the government’s (Forest Service) requirement for the submission of management plans with general felling licence applications. Digital mapping of forest management units is carried out through fieldwork and the use of ortho-rectified aerial photography. Comprehensive stand inventories and 5 year management plans are subsequently produced. PTR’s services in this area have been employed by a number of large (>250 ha.) woodland owners who have subsequently retained our consultancy services to assist in the implementation of their management plans. This is a nationwide service.

Client(s): Private forestry owners / managers Status: Ongoing

Project: Production of Irish Oak for Coopering Purposes Description: PTR are contracted by Irish Distillers to supply sustainably harvested, coopering

quality Irish oak for production of Whisky Casks. This is for a premium quality Whisky named Midleton Dair Ghaelach which was launched in 2015. Each cask produced and bottle of Whisky sold is traceable back to a tree felled in the wood which is managed using close to nature forest management techniques. Each forest estate from which oak is supplied will have a unique brand.

Client(s): Irish Distillers Ltd. (Pernod-Ricard) Status: 4 batches (estates) completed to date, 1 estate launched, 2 more estates in

pipeline.


FOREST POLICY & INDUSTRY PLANNING

Project: Development of PEFC Irish Forest Management Standard Description: PTR were selected by competitive tender to assist a technical group in the

drawing up of a new Irish forest certification standard for sustainable forest management. The standard has been completed, has been through the PEFC vetting procedures and is now an active Forest Management Standard in Ireland.

Client(s): PEFC Ireland Status: Completed 2011

Project: Development of Forest Stewardship Council Irish Forest Management Standard

Description: PTR were invited to participate in a multi-disciplinary standard development group charged with the drawing up of a new Irish forest certification standard for sustainable forest management. When completed, the standard will be used in independently certifying forests as being sustainably managed.

Client(s): FSC Ireland Status: Commenced 2008 – ongoing

Project: Assessment of Sustainability of Oak Supplies for Coopering for Irish Distillers

Description: PTR were asked by Irish Distillers to carry out a generic assessment of the sustainability of oak supplied for coopering in the Eastern USA, Spain and Portugal. The expansion of production at the Irish Distillers plant in Midleton, Co. Cork will require significantly greater quantities of oak for barrel making than previously used and it is essential for Irish Distillers that this supply is sustainably sourced.

Client(s): Irish Distillers Ltd. (Pernod-Ricard) Status: Phase 1 Completed 2012; Phase 2 – ongoing

Project: Provision of Expert Forestry Services in Wind Farm Development Projects Description: Patrick Purser has worked on a number of wind farm projects located on forest

properties in counties Galway, Cork, Clare, Roscommon and Tipperary in Ireland. PTR provide expert input into issues concerning felling licence legislation, forest management planning, contractual arrangements with the Forest Service for grant aided forests, tree height assessments & modelling, and tree crop stability modelling following wind farm development.

Client(s): Private Land / Forest Owners, Element Power, Fehily Timoney & Co., ESB International, Coillte, Finavera Renewables Inc., Jennings O’Donovan & Partners and WindProspect

Status: Ongoing Project: Training Needs Analysis with specific reference to Harvesting of Thinnings Description: PTR was selected by competitive tender to carry out a training needs analysis

for the Irish timber harvesting sector. The study assessed current and future training needs for timber harvesting machinery operators, with particular emphasis on those employed in thinning operations. This involved a review of existing training resources available, an assessment of the likely levels of activity within the sector over the next decade and the development of a plan to accommodate forecast demand while ensuring that training systems accommodate the need for ongoing developments in technology and operational management systems. A new vision for operator training was presented.

Client(s): Forestry Training & Education Ireland (FTEI) Status: Completed 2009


Project: Irish Forestry Sector Training and Education Needs Analysis Description: PTR was commissioned by competitive tender to carry out a forestry sector wide

training and education needs analysis in order to identify current training priorities within the industry and to assist in the development of a plan for the sustainable delivery of education and training resources into the future. Predicting future developments and associated training needs helped to form a more strategic approach to the provision and funding of training and, in the context of funding limitations, implementation of more informed prioritisation of training provision. A critical analysis of prevailing training structures and funding arrangements helped to identify improved systems of training delivery to meet future needs.

Client(s): Forestry Training & Education Ireland (FTEI) Status: Completed 2011

Project: Irish Forest Policy Review – Heritage Council Description: PTR was selected by competitive tender to work on a multi disciplinary team that

conducted a wide-ranging review of current Heritage Council forest policy. This review was implemented to reflect the changing context of forestry and to provide a vision for the future development of forestry in Ireland, with a particular emphasis on the national heritage.

Client(s): The Heritage Council Status: Completed 2008

Project: Irish SFM Certification Protocol Description: PTR was selected by competitive tender to draft a Sustainable Forest

Management Certification Protocol specific to Ireland. This document provides Irish forest owners with a guide which can be followed when seeking sustainable forest management certification by an independent body such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). PTR worked with the Irish SFM Audit Protocol Steering Committee.

Client(s): The Forest Service (Department of Agriculture & Food) Status: Completed 2006

Project: Irish Forest Management Specialists to SGS Forestry (UK) during Coillte QUALIFOR Programme Certification Process

Description: Provision of local (Irish) forest management knowledge to SGS Forestry, the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) accredited certifier engaged in Coillte’s FSC certification process. This project involved reviewing the woodland management activities and associated documentation of Coillte, in the context of its compliance with the SGS QUALIFOR Programme.

Client(s): SGS Qualifor (UK) Status: Completed 2000

Project: Peer Review of FSC Certification Report Description: PTR was requested to carry out a peer review of a final certification report

prepared by SGS Qualifor on an Irish Forest Management company seeking group certification (Forest Stewardship Council) of Sustainable Forest Management for a number of their clients. The review required a full and thorough knowledge of the certification standard against which the assessment was made and an intimate knowledge of Irish forestry and its stakeholders.

Client(s): SGS Qualifor (UK) Status: Completed 2003


Project: Georgia Forest Development Project Description: PTR were joint consultants with ALBA Trees PLC (a major UK tree nursery) on

this project. The aim of the project was to establish approximately 8,700 ha. (3,100 ha. of afforestation and 5,600 ha. of reforestation) in nine State Forestry Department districts in Georgia. Our work involved overseeing the establishment of a new nursery facility, the standardisation of afforestation and reforestation plans, the co-ordination and logistical planning of the project over a five year period and the production of technical guidelines for all procedures and operations involved in afforestation and reforestation in Georgia.

Client(s): Georgian Forest Sector Development Centre Georgian State Forestry Department World Bank

Status: Completed 2004 Project: An Efficiency Analysis of the Irish Timber Procurement Sector (OptiLog) Description: PTR were the lead consultants on this project which, following an intensive

survey of stakeholders and operations in the Irish timber procurement sector, developed strategic recommendations for a phased evolution of the timber supply chain into a more streamlined and cost effective process, characterised by optimal utilisation of our timber harvesting, haulage and supply chain management resources.

Client(s): The Irish Timber Council Coillte COFORD

Status: Completed 2003

Project: Development of Operational Costing Structures Specific to the Forest Service Native Woodland Scheme

Description: Development of sustainable costing structures for woodland development and management operations specific to the Forest Service Native Woodland Grant Scheme.

Client(s): The Forest Service (Department of the Marine & Natural Resources) Status: Completed 2001

Project: Development of Forest Service Bio-Diversity Premium Description: Development of mechanisms to assess the levels of revenue foregone (and thus

compensation premiums payable) by managing woodlands for bio-diversity and conservation rather than for timber production.


Project: Review of Government (Forest Service) Policy on the Threshold Yield Class of 14 for Woodland Establishment Grant Aiding Purposes in Ireland

Description: This study was commissioned by the Forest Service in order to provide an independent and objective justification of the Forest Service policy to grant aid woodland establishment sites with the potential to achieve a minimum Yield Class of 14. The study primarily focused on low level blanket bog sites along the Atlantic sea board of Ireland. The assessment involved a review of the biophysical, economic and environmental issues and consultation with relevant bodies, including County Councils, fisheries boards, Coillte and the private forestry sector.


Project: Cost Benefit Analysis of Proposed Investment in Sawmilling Machinery Description: Several projects, undertaken for various sawmilling clients, have involved the

quantification of physical and financial differences in sawn yields from milling production lines under existing and proposed (simulated) configurations.

Client(s): Irish sawmilling ventures Status: Ongoing


Project: Development of a Rate Setting Mechanism for Contracted Forestry Operations

Description: This project involved the development of a computer-based model for determining contract payment rates for forest establishment, harvesting and haulage operations based on contract specific input variables.

Client(s): The Irish Forestry Contractors Association Status: Completed 1998

Project: Development of a Production Based Payment System for Sawmill Operational Staff

Description: PTR were commissioned to assist in the design of a new bonus payment system for operatives in a hardwood processing facility. Specifically, PTR designed methods to monitor operational performance in key processes. New performance indicators were developed along with systems to compile and analyse the required data.


Project: Development of a Strategy for the Economically Viable Adherence to Irish Road Haulage Legislation within the Irish Timber Industry

Description: PTR has been working with the Forest Industry Transport Group to research and develop strategies to ensure the long-term economic viability of timber haulage operations in Ireland in the light of increasing operational restrictions due to revised environmental and health & safety legislation.

Client(s): Forest Industry Transport Group (FITG), comprising: Coillte, the Irish Forestry Contractors Association, the Irish Timber Council, the Irish Timber Growers Association, Medite, the Forest Service (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food), University College Dublin and a number of regional Government administrations (County Councils).

Status: Commenced 1999 – ongoing Project: Co-ordination of activities of the Forest Industry Transport Group (FITG) Description: The FITG was formed in February 1998 to address issues specific to timber

haulage in Ireland. The main function of the group is to provide a forum for debate of all issues relevant to timber haulage, to share information on topics of common concern and agree collaborative action. The group has been responsible for producing the Code of Practice for Timber Haulage and more recently (2014) the Good Practice Guide for Managing Timber Transport PTR have been instrumental in the co-ordination of the group activities since its inception.

Client(s): Coillte Status: Commenced 1998 - Ongoing

Project: Review of Government (Forest Service) Funded Training Courses Offered by Coillte, Teagasc & Enterprise Ireland

Description: This review was commissioned by the Forest Service to assess the training courses currently provided by the above agencies at a technical level and to assess their relevance in the context of the developing Forestry Sector. An analysis of the cost effectiveness of specific courses and the quality of record keeping by the training agencies also formed an important part of the project brief.


Project: Survey of Farm Woodland Owners in the Republic of Ireland Description: This work was carried out as part of a COFORD funded project entitled

"Management Requirements for Farm Woodlands". The survey visited 120 Irish farmers involved in private forestry in 26 counties. Interviews were conducted in order to compile data relating to current requirements of farm forestry participants for management information & advice.

Client(s): University College Dublin Status: Completed 1996


TIMBER MEASUREMENT & WOODFLOW MANAGEMENT

Project: WoodFlow – Implementation of More Efficient and Secure Log Transportation Administration Systems

Description: PTR project managed Coillte’s “Woodflow 2014” project which introduced new state-of-the-art paperless systems to manage more efficiently and securely log transportation operations from their forests to their customer mills. Using on-truck computers and satellite tracking technologies, Coillte have linked their in-house ICT systems to the Irish log haulage fleet to create a real-time “smart timber security” system. This new system will form the basis for improved efficiencies in Woodflow management and centrally dispatched log haulage operations. As well as providing project management services, PTR also contributed to project work packages relating to industry engagement and consultation, software design specification and software user acceptance testing.


Project: Recommendations for the Most Appropriate Measures for Standardised Volume/Weight Timber Measurement Procedures at Sawmills

Description: Consultancy process involving a review of existing non-standard sawmill based timber measurement procedures in Ireland and the subsequent development of procedures for a nationally standardised volume/weight measurement system. Recommended procedures were adopted by the industry and are currently in use.

Client(s): Coillte The Irish Timber Council


Project: Implementation & Control of a Nationally Standardised Volume/Weight Timber Measurement System

Description: This contract was awarded to PTR by Coillte to implement and control a volume/weight system of timber volume measurement in a nationally standardised manner. It has involved the development and documentation of new Standard Operating Procedures, the implementation of these procedures in the 16 largest Irish sawmills, the continuous monitoring and maintenance of standards set and the development of a more centrally administered system of volume/weight timber measurement. This contract is now in its fifteenth year.

Client(s): Coillte Status: Commenced 1996 - ongoing

Project: Implementation of New Automated Weighbridge Systems Description: PTR provided consultancy and project management services to assist in the

development of initiatives to rationalise operations relating to timber weighing transactions at Coillte’s customer mills. This involved the procurement of state-of-the-art weighbridge transaction interface systems resulting in a move to a driver operated transaction process with minimal requirement for input by Coillte staff. PTR ensured that the rollout of Automated Weighbridge System (AWS) technology was compatible with the ongoing implementation of the nationally standardised Volume/Weight Timber Measurement System (see above). PTR continue to provide project management services relating to new AWS software functionality development arising from Coillte, processing sector and haulier requirements.

Client(s): Coillte Status: Commenced 2002 - ongoing


Project: Quality Control of Timber Intake at two Panel mills owned by Coillte (MEDITE & SMARTPLY)

Description: This work involves auditing the quality of timber at the point of intake to the Coillte Panel board mills, Smartply and Medite. These mills account for approximately one third of all the timber harvested in Ireland annually and the timber is used in the production of Oriented Strand Board (OSB) and Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF), mainly for export.

Client(s): Coillte Status: Ongoing

Project: Investigation into Telemetric Data Communication Systems Description: PTR worked with Coillte’s Harvesting Development team to investigate the most

appropriate state-of-the-art technologies for the effective real-time communication of data to and from timber harvesting machines. The study tested various wireless communication technologies under Irish conditions, including satellite and 3G/GPRS.


Project: A Feasibility Study into the use of Terrestrial Laser Scanning Technology in Pre-Harvest Timber Measurement Operations (TreeScan & ForestScan)

Description: This project aimed to demonstrate the potential for terrestrial laser scanning technologies in the compilation of pre-harvest timber measurement data for use in sawmill simulation systems. Moving the point of tree scanning from the sawmill to the forest has the potential to provide both timber growers and sawmillers with more accurate data for end use decision making prior to timber harvesting. PTR were technical consultants on this project, providing timber measurement, data analysis and reporting services.

Client(s): COFORD; Waterford Institute of Technology (TreeScan) UCD; TreeMetrics (ForestScan)

Status: Completed 2014 Project: Coillte Timber Measurement Strategy 2012 Description: Development of a Timber Measurement Strategy outlining a programme of

continuous improvement for Coillte’s timber measurement & PEPing (Potential End Product estimation) systems in order to best serve the changing needs of Coillte’s strategic, tactical and operational planning processes. Existing timber measurement & PEPing systems were critically reviewed and problems were highlighted in the context of existing and planned timber supply models. New timber measurement & PEPing requirements associated with planned timber supply model changes were defined and an overview of required timber measurement interventions was presented. Strategic developments necessary to deliver new or adapted timber measurement PEPing systems to meet the new planning requirements were outlined. A phased development timeline was prepared, identifying the required actions and key delivery and decision points regarding the adoption of new PEPing systems.


Service: Forest Inventory and Timber Measurement Skills Training Description: PTR provide inventory and timber measurement skills training to students, forest

owners and forestry professionals. Our courses incorporate the practical implementation of timber measurement standards and the incorporation of technology to improve accuracy and reduce costs.

Client(s): University College Dublin, Waterford Institute of Technology, Teagasc, Coillte, private sector forestry professionals.

Status: Ongoing


Project: International Review of Currently Employed Timber Measurement Systems for Sale of Round Timber

Description: This work was funded by the Forest Service with support from the Irish Timber Council, Coillte, the Irish Timber Growers Association, the Irish Forestry Contractors Association and COFORD. It involved a detailed review of timber measurement systems currently employed in Ireland and abroad with a view to developing and documenting national timber measurement standards in Ireland. The review included an assessment of existing harvester head measurement technology with particular reference to its suitability for Irish timber harvesting conditions.


Project: Production of an Irish Timber Measurement Manual Description: This work was a continuation of the project documented above. It involved the

development and publication of an Irish timber measurement manual documenting nationally standardised measurement procedures. The Timber Measurement Manual was published by COFORD in 2000.


Project: Testing of Irish Dynamic Yield Models Description: New Irish Dynamic Yield Models for three different species were tested by PTR

for a number of different management scenarios. Comparisons were carried out with British Forestry Commission Static Yield Models and with verified Irish timber volume production data.

Client(s): COFORD Status: Completed 2003

Project: Assessment of Mean DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) Estimation Methods Currently Employed in the Irish Timber Industry

Description: This study assessed various methods of mean DBH estimation with a view to recommending a cost-effective system in which statistical confidence could be placed. Findings and recommendations resulted in the national standardisation of Coillte’s DBH estimation for timber sale advertisement purposes.

Client(s): Coillte The Irish Timber Council


Project: Review and Redesign of Coillte’s Standing Timber Measurement Procedures for the Compilation of Timber Sale Advertisement Data

Description: PTR worked with Coillte to redesign timber measurement procedures used in compiling timber sale advertisement data. The work focused on relating measurement intensities and associated costs to timber sale values and introducing efficiencies in measurement data capture and compilation. An automated decision making model was developed to prescribe various timber measurement procedures to Coillte’s management units in a company-standard manner. PTR was retained to help in the process of implementing redesigned procedures across Coillte’s forest management structure.


Service: Timber Measurement and Valuation Description: PTR offer a comprehensive timber measurement, valuation and marketing

service to timber growers and purchasers. Client(s): Private timber growers

Timber purchasers Coillte

Status: Ongoing


Project: Study of the Potential for Harvester Head Measurement to Provide Coillte with Timber Volume Data for Invoicing Purposes

Description: This study assessed the potential for harvester head measurement data to be used by Coillte for invoicing purposes and the potential costs of such a system. The work involved analysing the accuracy of harvester head measurement data and compiling an up-to-date inventory of harvester head measurement systems and their current capability vis-à-vis volume measurement and auditability. The work was carried out in conjunction with forest harvesting contractors, machine suppliers and Coillte staff.


Project: Harvest Volume Residue Assessment on Coillte Timber Sale Sites Description: This study quantified the volume and nature of timber left on site after the

completion of harvesting operations in sales of timber sold standing to Coillte’s sawmilling customers and measured using volume/weight measurement procedures. The results were used to quantify the influence of residual timber volumes on agreed sale prices.

Client(s): Coillte Status: Phase 1 completed 1997

Phase 2 completed 2001 Project: Standing Timber Quality Assessment of Coillte Sales Description: This project involved the development of Standard Operating Procedures for

Coillte’s standing timber quality assessment operations, reflecting, as close as was practical, the system of quality assessment previously employed by the company which relied on intuitive assessments being carried out by experienced forestry personnel.


Project: Review of Production Processes and the Harmonisation of Measurement Methodologies at a Palletwood Sawmill

Description: This project involved an initial review of production processes, the identification of points of measurement, and recommendations in relation to the harmonisation of timber volume measurement methodologies at a palletwood sawmill. Physical and financial yield models were developed for existing production processes and theoretical simulation exercises were developed in respect of alternative production processes.

Client(s): Laois Sawmills Ltd. Status: Completed 2002


ENVIRONMENTAL

Project: Forestry Advisor to KerryLIFE Project – “Sustainable Land Use Management for the Conservation of the Freshwater Pearl Mussel”

Description: Purser Tarleton Russell Ltd. were selected by competitive tender as the forestry advisors to this 5 year project. KerryLIFE is a demonstration project to restore the endangered freshwater pearl mussel populations in the Blackwater and Caragh river catchments in south Kerry. This is a partnership project between Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Forest Service, South Kerry Development Partnership Ltd, Coillte Teo, Teagasc and Pobal. The project is co-funded by the EU LIFE+ Nature programme.

Client(s): National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht

Status: Ongoing Project: Forestry Management for the Freshwater Pearl Mussel Margaritifera Description: Paddy Purser assisted in researching and preparing guidance on forest planning

and operational measures in relation to freshwater pearl mussel catchments. This was part of a Department of Agriculture (Forest Service) and EPA funded project with Trinity College, Evelyn Moorkens and Faith Wilson as partners. The project required a recognised expert in forest management and in transformation from Even Aged Plantations to Permanent Forests. National and international experience in close to nature strategies for forest management and experience in writing management plans for forests in the context of the freshwater pearl mussel was also specified as essential.

Client(s): Department of Agriculture (Forest Service) & Environment Protection Agency (EPA)


Project: Development of Forestry Measures for Freshwater Pearl Mussel Catchments

Description: Paddy Purser, in conjunction with Evelyn Moorkens and RPS were selected by competitive tender to develop appropriate forest management measures in a number of Fresh Water Pearl Mussel catchments in Donegal and Tyrone. The project is funded by INTERREG and through Donegal County Council and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency.

Client(s): RPS, Donegal County Council, Northern Ireland Environment Agency Status: Completed 2014

Project: The Development of Guidelines on Forest Harvesting and the Environment Description: This project involved a comprehensive review of the potential environmental

impacts associated with timber harvesting and forest road construction under Irish conditions. It resulted in the drafting of recommended planning and operational procedures for minimising the adverse effects of these operations. These recommended procedures have been incorporated into the Forest Service Code of Best Practice and the Forest Service Guidelines on Forest Harvesting.



Project: Forest Management Plan for the Wicklow Mountains National Park Description: Patrick Purser and Faith Wilson (ecologist) were selected following a competitive

tender to prepare a management plan for woodlands in the Wicklow Mountains National Park. The plan covers a 20 year period with the objective of transforming existing woodlands to native woodland.

Client(s): The National Parks and Wildlife Service (Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government)


Project: Development of Practical Methods of Integrating Sustainable Forest Management Principles into Current Forest Inventory and Planning Procedures (PractiSFM)

Description: This project was jointly led by PTR and a team from University College Dublin. The project aimed to develop practical means whereby non-timber forest values can be assessed and enhanced through the practical adaptation of forest inventory and management procedures. The project was focused on the development of field methodologies for non-timber inventory data capture and the development of decision support tools for use in optimal resource planning.


Project: Assessment of Forest Management Options for Lesser Horseshoe Bat Habitat in Co. Kerry

Description: Paddy Purser was requested by the Vincent Wildlife Trust to advise on potential future forest management options for a woodland in their ownership near Kenmare, Co. Kerry. The management priority is to improve the woodland as a habitat for various bat and mammalian species, in particular the lesser horseshoe bat.

Client(s): Vincent Wildlife Trust Status: Completed 2014

Project: Site Assessment and Operational Prescriptions Prior to Forest Harvesting Operations in a Fresh Water Pearl Mussel Catchment

Description: Paddy Purser, in conjunction with Faith Wilson completed a site assessment and provided necessary precautionary operational prescriptions prior to a forest harvesting operation in the Clady Catchment, Donegal. These prescriptions were for inclusion in a forest harvesting operational plan.

Client(s): ESB Status: Completed 2012

Project: Preparation of a Paper on the Potential Impact of Climate Change on Irish Forestry

Description: Paddy Purser is the principal author of a paper on the potential Impacts of Climate Change on Irish Forestry which formed part of the Irish Environmental Protection Agency’s “Climate Change Report – Scenarios and Impacts for Ireland” that was published in 2003. The research conducted in preparing this paper required a clear appreciation of the major technical issues concerning carbon fluxes and climate change issues, particularly in relation to their potential impact on temperate and continental Europe.

Client(s): Environmental Protection Agency in association with NUI Maynooth Status: Completed 2002


Project: Report on Effects of Rising Deer Populations Description: Following a competitive tender, PTR in conjunction with Faith Wilson (ecologist)

and Dr. Ruth Carden (deer expert) were selected to prepare a report on • deer population trends; • an assessment of current and potential deer damage to woodlands in both

ecological and economic terms; • an outline of other negative impacts of uncontrolled deer populations such

as Lyme disease, the spread of bovine TB to cattle, collisions with vehicles on public roads and damage to other crops (agricultural and commercial forestry).

The report has been used as a basis to lobby the relevant authorities to develop a new policy with respect to deer management.

Client(s): Woodlands of Ireland Status: Completed 2010

Project: Strategy for the Wicklow Deer Management Group Description: Following a competitive tender, PTR in conjunction with Faith Wilson (ecologist)

and Dr. Ruth Carden (deer expert) were selected to prepare a strategy for the Wicklow Deer Management Group. The report points the way to a more practical modus operandi whereby the WDMG starts to be effective in achieving sustainable deer populations in Wicklow. The report includes the following: • An outline of what is known of current deer management practice and

ecology in Wicklow; • A review of international practice with regard sustainable deer management

planning and implementation; • A summary of the different habitats and other biodiversity elements in

Wicklow that are impacted by deer; • A review of existing deer management in Wicklow and a discussion of issues

that should inform how the WDMG should approach deer management on a strategic basis;

• Practical recommendations (and associated budgets) on how best to proceed as a common interest group including a proposed timetable for these works.

Client(s): Wicklow Deer Management Group (An Organisation made up of Coillte, The National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Irish Farmers Association, the Irish Timber Grower Association, the Irish Deer Society and the Wicklow Deer Society)


Project: Review of Native Woodland Scheme in Relation to Native Upland Gully Woodland

Description: Paddy Purser in co-operation with ecologist Faith Wilson conducted this review with a focus on the specific case study of the Upper Dodder Catchment in County Dublin. The review examined how the Native Woodland Scheme might be adapted in order to cater for upland gully woodland restoration projects in important catchments with a view to enhancing ecological, landscape and water regulation services.

Client(s): Woodlands of Ireland (An Organisation equally funded by The Forest Service in the Department of Agriculture, The Heritage Council and the National Parks and Wildlife Service in the Department of Environment)



Project: The Preparation of an Ecological Assessment and Forest Management Plan for Woods at Derrynafulla, Glengariff, Co. Cork

Description: Following a competitive tender, PTR in conjunction with Faith Wilson (ecologist) and Dr. Evelyn Moorkens (Malacologist) were selected to prepare this plan. The objective of the project is to prepare a management plan for: • The removal of conifer species from the site over time; • The transformation of conifer woodland to native woodland over time where

appropriate; • The maintenance and enhancement of existing native woodland area; • The retention of existing meadow areas; • The removal of rhodedendron from the site; • The retention and enhancement of any other habitats for biodiversity value.

Client(s): National Parks and Wildlife Service Status: Completed 2011


TIMBER HARVESTING

Project: Assessment of Current and Future Needs of Mechanised Harvesting in Ireland

Description: This project involved the quantification of the current production capacity of the national (Irish) timber harvesting fleet and the expected future infrastructural requirements based on forecasted timber production figures.


Project: Forest Harvesting Machine Classification Description: An extensive review of all modern harvesting machines in Ireland was conducted

in order to establish criteria which would allow machinery to be categorised in relation to their suitability for specific timber harvesting work, for the purpose of allocating government grants for machine purchase.


Project: International Review of Systems of Harvesting, Tailored to Small-Scale Forestry, and the Application of such Systems to the Irish Forest Industry

Description: PTR were the lead consultants on this project to review systems of small-scale harvesting in use throughout Europe, North America, New Zealand and South Africa. The main challenges for the private small-scale forestry sector lie in the development of organisational structures as well as the motivation of small-scale forest owners to become involved in the management of their forests. The project included the dissemination of information to interested parties and the generation of debate on the topic through workshops and reports.


Project: Quality Control Audits of Coillte Harvested Timber Sales Description: PTR conducted a nationwide cycle of on-site audits of Coillte harvested timber

sales to assess the quality of harvesting operations being carried out and to audit Standard Operating Procedure compliance in relation to Harvest Plan documentation, harvesting contractor implemented log quality control procedures and environmental compliance procedures. Findings were reported in a predefined and standardised format on a quarterly basis.



PTR INHOUSE PROJECTS – SOME EXAMPLES

Project: Introduction of Electronic Timber Measurement Equipment to the Irish Forest Industry and Associated Research, Development & Marketing

Description: This work has involved the establishment of links with two Finnish Companies (Savcor Forest Oy and Masser Oy) and the introduction of their labour saving forest management and timber measurement systems into Ireland. Their products are being designed, adapted, tested and marketed in Ireland by PTR.

Client(s): Sawmills, Coillte, Consultant Foresters, University College Dublin, Waterford Institute of Technology, Teagasc, Harvesting Contractors

Status: Commenced 1996 - ongoing Project: Development of www.timbersales.ie Website Description: www.timbersales.ie is a free web-based roundwood timber marketing service for

private timber sales in Ireland. It provides a much needed link between the timber seller (forester or forest owner) and buyer (sawmill, board mill or contractor) and serves as a one-stop-shop for those involved in timber marketing, sales and purchasing in Ireland. This site provides a facility for timber sellers to advertise their timber sales on an on-line catalogue and timber buyers to view this catalogue. Any time a new timber sale is posted to the website, an email is automatically issued to all registered timber buyers. Timber sellers can advertise parcels of standing or felled timber by using the on-line sales data entry form. Timber buyers can review information about the latest available sales posted to the on-line sales catalogue. The website also hosts an energy wood catalogue and a hardwood catalogue sponsored by COFORD. The site was designed and is operated and promoted by PTR.

Status: Commenced 2008 - ongoing

Project: Development of Kiln Dried Hardwood Firewood Business (Forest Fuels Ltd.) trading as HotLogs (www.hotlogs.ie)

Description: PTR are 75% shareholders in Forest Fuels Ltd., producers of Hotlogs, a kiln dried hardwood firewood product which guarantees moisture content less than 20%. The product is sold throughout Ireland both in wholesale and retail bags. The business has developed fast as the preferred supplier to owners of fuel efficient wood burning stoves, open fires and to restaurants using fires for both flame cooking and ambiance. Forest Fuels Ltd. was the first company to be certified by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) under the Irish Wood Fuel Quality Assurance (WFQA) Scheme.

Status: Commenced 2007 - ongoing

Documents

PTR Company Profile - 2016