Waste reduction - Improved log yield
It takes several decades to grow a tree, but we have only one opportunity to turn it into lumber. That's why we need to make sure we're using the best tools, technologies and processes, producing the highest volume of boards from every log.
In 2016, following the development of new technologies from log optimization to lumber classification, we took the decision to modernize more than 50% of our machine centers. This $50 million investment involved new saw lines with advanced scanning, optimization and cutting tool technologies, which create a 3D image of each log to extract the most volume or of lumber value.
The Sawmills Division has also implemented a timber supply optimization system, interconnecting all structural timber sawmills, to determine the best cutting solution for each log, specific to each sawmill. , on a weekly basis. This optimization tool takes into account a variety of factors in order to produce the lumber required by our customers, while maximizing log yield.