What's Happening?
Tilhill Forestry, through its subsidiary Maelor Forest Nurseries, has introduced a pioneering cold chain delivery service aimed at improving the transport and establishment of trees. This service integrates cold chain vehicles, specialist flatbeds, and truck-mounted forklifts to maintain tree health from nursery to planting site. The initiative is designed to protect trees from weather-related and handling stress, ensuring safer and more efficient delivery. Andrew Henry, nursery director at Tilhill Forestry, emphasized that the development focuses on quality and consistency, providing trees with the best possible start. The service is part of the UK’s largest integrated forestry and timber business, which aims to innovate across the supply chain.
The cold chain transport maintains saplings in a stable, dormant state, preventing respiration and preserving energy stores, which minimizes dehydration and disease risks.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of this cold chain delivery service is significant as it addresses the challenges posed by erratic weather patterns and temperature fluctuations during tree transport. By maintaining a stable environment for saplings, the service enhances the likelihood of successful tree establishment, which is crucial for forestry operations. This innovation could lead to stronger establishment results, benefiting foresters, landowners, and investors. The service also reduces operational risks and time on site for forestry teams, potentially lowering costs and increasing efficiency. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, such innovations are vital for adapting forestry practices to ensure sustainability and productivity.
