Mechanization of harvesting: SFE “Forests of Ukraine” to purchase a large batch of harvesters for forest formation for the first time

In Ukraine, there is an acute need for the development and rehabilitation of young forests. Vast areas of young stands have accumulated, particularly in the northern regions.

They need to be properly structured so that in 15–25 years we obtain healthy, climate-resilient stands with a significantly higher timber volume. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to engage contractors for tending cuts.

Such work is labor-intensive and dangerous—the timber consists of small-diameter trees, harvesting is selective, and the yield is low.

Around the world, logging machines—harvesters—are used for these operations.

As part of the 2025 investment programme, we have announced the procurement of a batch of five harvesters for tending cuts.

Each machine harvests 60–70 m³ of timber per day—three to four times more than a three-person crew (15–20 m³).

The average cost of timber harvesting services for such operations (excluding extraction) is UAH 425/m³ (ex VAT). The cost of machine harvesting is UAH 300/m³ (ex VAT).

The difference amounts to over UAH 8 million per year!

Modern multi‐purpose machines operate with minimal impact on the stand since the objective of tending cuts is to develop a high‐quality stand.

Since such machinery is virtually absent from the Ukrainian market, we have submitted our procurement proposals directly to the manufacturing plants. We are purchasing the harvesters on an ex-works basis—handling logistics and customs clearance ourselves. This approach increases competition and helps us avoid overpayment.

Overall, the 2025 investment programme of SFE “Forests of Ukraine” envisages the purchase of multi‐purpose logging machines, tractors, timber transport trailers, and skidders, for a total investment exceeding UAH 636 million.