Improved Methods for Achieving Traceability of Tree and Log Identities in Timber Processing Studies

Abstract

We successfully tracked the identities of over 550 selected 13-year-old trees from a Eucalyptus nitens (Deane & Maiden) progeny trial through tree felling, harvesting of butt-logs, sawmill processing to finished sawn boards using a two-stage approach. To track log identity from the standing tree to the log-yard, we used a numbered under-bark wooden identification plug, glued into a hole drilled in the trunk prior to harvesting. To track tree identity for individual sawn boards, log-end templates with corresponding tree identification numbers were glued to the log-ends before milling. Materials and methods used withstood harvesting and debarking, log transportation, milling, air and kiln-drying, steam-reconditioning and final machining. A second study confirmed the success of the under-bark plug method to successfully track 548 selected standing trees through harvesting and transportation to the mill.