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As technology and machine forms advance, the need for skilled operators has grown dramatically. Although equipment may be easier than ever to run, the additional technology and features on new machines often require operators to have additional training to maximize their full potential. Forestry training simulators allow operators to become comfortable on a machine in a classroom environment before working in the woods.

As the saying goes, life happens when you’re making plans. Such was the case for James Johnson, owner of Johnson Timber Harvesting in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Johnson began skidding wood in high school; however, after graduation he switched gears and went to college to major in criminal justice. After earning his degree, he decided the woods were where he belonged and he returned to the forest.

Since he was a child, Darryl Booker knew his future was in the woods. A third generation logger, the 30-year-old from Oxford, Mississippi, is using his father's passion and his own drive for success to push the business to new heights.

At John Deere, we're proud of the relationships between our customers and dealers. Just as you are an expert in the forest, dealers have experts in servicing and meeting your equipment needs, to help you with the challenges that your business faces. When their in-depth knowledge is combined with your experience in the field, it's a win-win for all -- we're able to improve our products based on your input and you

As a logger, you don't just see trunks and branches when you stand in the woods -- you see the opportunity to use one of nature's greatest gifts to contribute to the growth and development of our world. Responsible logging allows us to maximize the use of trees, but you've most likely encountered people who disagree.

The ability to predict the future would be nice, but where’s the fun in that? Not knowing what lies ahead may be intimidating, but in forestry, opportunities are on the horizon. As a logger, you have the chance to drive the industry in new directions and capitalize on the potential of forestry. Rather than waiting to see what tomorrow holds, be proactive today and make an impact beyond your current circle of influence.

You're a good driver with a proven safety record. Why should you worry about driving on forest roads; they can’t be that much different, right?

The timber industry is changing rapidly, and loggers need to take a progressive business approach to survive. There is good news and bad news for loggers.

The Rapid Cycle System (RCS), now standard for our new 800M Series Tracked Feller Bunchers and Harvesters, allows faster, low-effort operation, using a single joystick to control all boom functions. By automating felling-head arm cycling and providing simple boom control, RCS shortens the learning curve and boosts productivity with less fatigue.

With the ubiquitous nature of smartphone apps, it seems only logical that the next step would be apps created specifically for logging.