Horse Logging at Carey
Carey is home to approx. 50acres of either conifer plantation or mixed woodland, largely untouched for many decades. Some areas have become rich in habitat whilst others are in need of sensitive management to enhance and regenerate them.
Toby Hoad, of Dorset Horse Logging, based in Corfe Castle, is helping us to manage these areas by felling and removing timber using the traditional method of ‘horse drawn logging’.
What is Horse Logging?
Horse logging is the removal of felled timber using horses. Horse-logging has become increasingly popular in recent years. This traditional method of timber extraction is eco-friendly and great for sites in which machinery would struggle to get to or risk getting stuck in! Horse logging is also much quieter and therefore less invasive for sensitive woodland areas and habitats.
By contrast, heavy machinery often disturbs drainage, damages flora, compacts the soil, and may damage surrounding trees therefore horse-drawn logging was the obvious choice for us here at Carey.
Dorset Horse Logging specialises in low impact timber extraction using a pair of experienced, well-trained heavy horses mixed with modern horse-drawn forestry equipment. Toby and his horses provide a safe, commercially viable, efficient, and environmentally friendly service.
Meet Toby and his team
What are the benefits of using horses to extract timber?
Minimal disturbance on the woodland floor and paths, leaving no ruts, if anything the ground is lightly scarified creating a seed bed for natural regeneration.
No reinstatement costs
Timber can be pulled out to rides or roadside, where forwarders can access it
Horses work safely on the side of slopes
Horses can access woodlands through narrow paths and gates
No damage to other trees and stumps especially on first thinning and coppice sites
Horses become an attraction on public sites and there’s no need to close footpaths
No noise or pollution
Watch Toby and his horses working at Carey
