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Forest Technology on New Paths
Innovative forestry technology is shaping the forest of tomorrow. Experience cutting-edge machinery, intelligent systems, and sustainable drive concepts at INTERFORST.
- Modern forestry technology increases efficiency, safety, and sustainability—from autonomous machines and intelligent assistance systems to soil-protecting harvesting methods.
- Innovative technologies enable climate-resilient and economically stable forest management—precise, resource-efficient, and optimized across the entire value chain.
- INTERFORST showcases the latest developments and trends in forestry technology live—from wood energy and robotics to SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS Forestry by DLG.
Modern forestry technology is far more than powerful machinery—it is a key driver of innovation for sustainable, future-ready forest management. It supports forest owners, foresters, and forestry companies across the entire value chain: from precise planning and timber harvesting to forest management, storage, and processing. The result is increased efficiency, lower costs, maximum workplace safety, and responsible stewardship of soil and forest stands.
Especially in the face of climate change, modern forestry technology is becoming increasingly important. Proven solutions alone are no longer enough. Innovative, forward-looking technologies are needed to make forests climate-resilient and economically sustainable. This is exactly where modern forestry technology comes into play. Autonomous and semi-autonomous machine systems, high-precision concepts for targeted interventions, health and vital-sign monitoring systems to protect workers, and connected “smart machines” are opening new dimensions in efficiency, transparency, and sustainability. Digital controls, real-time data, and intelligent assistance systems enable informed decisions—fast, precise, and resource-efficient.
Forestry technology is thus becoming the key to a resilient forest of tomorrow: economically strong, environmentally responsible, and technologically advanced. At INTERFORST, you will find the latest developments, trends, and innovations in forestry technology.
Advanced Forestry Technology for Safe and Healthy Forest Work
Technology and machinery have evolved dramatically in recent years. The overarching goal of this development is to make machine systems and tools more efficient, resource-saving, safer, and more ergonomic. In forest operations, safety clothing with integrated vital sensors, connected work management systems, and intelligent assistance systems to reduce physical strain are increasingly being used.
Examples of advanced AI and sensor applications in forestry technology include:
AI-supported person and obstacle detection (360° awareness)
Camera systems combined with AI detect obstacles or people in the blind spots of machines such as harvesters and forwarders. This enhances safety by warning the operator or triggering an automatic stop in critical situations.
Intelligent rollover protection sensors
Sensors monitor machine tilt and analyze stability in real time based on terrain conditions and load. AI algorithms calculate rollover risks to provide early warnings in rough terrain and prevent accidents.
Thinning assistance systems
AI systems, such as those developed by Nordic Forestry Automation, assist harvester operators in selecting trees. This improves focus, efficiency, and operational safety.
Real-time structural monitoring (predictive maintenance)
Sensors monitor critical machine parameters such as pressure, temperature, and vibration in hydraulic systems, cranes, and engines. Potential component failures can be detected early, allowing preventive maintenance before breakdowns or hazardous situations occur.
Autonomous forestry crawlers and robots
Robots and small autonomous machines perform tasks such as forwarding operations or log sorting in difficult and hazardous terrain. Operating independently from human workers, they significantly reduce accident risks.
Forward-Thinking Forestry Technology for Sustainable Forest Management
In addition to functional improvements, sustainability plays a central role in technological development. Machines are designed with soil protection, water conservation, and efficient fuel use in mind. As a result, forestry technology is becoming not only more powerful but also more environmentally responsible.
Examples of sustainable forestry technology in practice:
Low-impact harvesting machines (harvesters & forwarders)
Wide tires and bogie axles distribute weight evenly and reduce ground pressure, preventing soil compaction and protecting root systems.
Articulated forestry tractors
These machines offer high maneuverability, allowing them to operate in narrow skid trails without damaging the remaining stand.
Cable yarding systems
In steep terrain, cable systems transport timber suspended above the ground, minimizing soil disturbance.
Alternative drive systems
Hybrid, fully electric, and other renewable energy-based systems are increasingly being developed and implemented.
Digital Forestry Technology: Smart, Precise, and Autonomous
As conventional machines reach their physical performance limits, additional potential is unlocked through digitalization. Modern sensors, comprehensive data management, and improved human-machine interaction are redefining forestry technology. AI-supported applications enable digital inventory management, real-time monitoring, and predictive modeling—creating entirely new decision-making capabilities.
Examples of digital precision technology include:
GPS-based skid trail planning
Machines use GPS technology to stay precisely on designated trails, protecting untouched forest soils from unnecessary impact.
Drones and LiDAR
Equipped with high-resolution cameras and LiDAR sensors, drones create detailed forest maps that capture tree density, timber volume, and forest health—enabling more efficient and targeted forest management.
Smart harvesting
Computer-assisted measurement systems in harvesters optimize cutting processes in real time to maximize value recovery and minimize waste.
Semi-autonomous and autonomous machines as well as robotics
Digitalization is the key enabler for semi-autonomous and autonomous machines as well as robotics in modern forestry technology.
Processes across the entire production chain are being restructured, automated, and data-driven.
For more details on digitalization, see our key topic article “Digitalization in Forestry & Timber.”
NEW 2026: SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS Forestry by DLG
With the new exhibition area SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS Forestry by DLG, INTERFORST 2026 is expanding its portfolio in cooperation with the DLG (German Agricultural Society) to include a dedicated section focused entirely on technical components and complete systems for the forestry sector.
This new area will serve as the home base for OEM engineers, designers, developers, and procurement managers. As a B2B marketplace and hub for professional exchange, it will showcase and discuss the latest solutions and innovations from the supplier industry.
More informationInnovative Forestry Technology for Wood Energy
Modern forestry technology enables the efficient and sustainable production of wood energy. Specialized machines harvest, process, and transport residual wood, thinning material, and low-grade timber for energy use. Equipment includes harvesters with energy-wood heads, chipper harvesters, mobile chippers, and high-capacity industrial chippers.
As a renewable resource, wood contributes to energy security and replaces fossil fuels. At the same time, modern forestry technology supports cascade use: wood is used materially for as long and as efficiently as possible before being utilized for energy at the end of its life cycle. This conserves resources, extends value creation, and optimizes carbon storage.
INTERFORST showcases how innovative forestry technology implements these processes in practice, presenting a wide range of specialized machines and systems.
Frequently asked questions
What is modern forestry technology?
Modern forestry technology includes advanced machinery, digital systems, and innovative solutions that make forest management more efficient, safer, and more sustainable. It supports planning, harvesting, forest care, and wood processing while reducing costs and improving soil and stand protection.
How does forestry technology contribute to sustainability?
Through GPS-based planning, AI analysis, and sensor-supported systems, forest operations become more precise and resource-efficient. Machines are designed to reduce soil compaction, protect water resources, and lower energy consumption, helping forests become more climate-resilient and economically sustainable.
What role does artificial intelligence play in forestry technology?
AI enhances efficiency and safety in forestry machinery. Applications include obstacle detection, intelligent rollover systems, thinning assistance, and predictive maintenance to prevent machine failures and hazardous situations.
What are autonomous machines in forestry?
Autonomous and semi-autonomous machines such as robots and forestry crawlers perform demanding tasks like forwarding or log sorting independently. They are especially valuable in hazardous or difficult terrain, significantly reducing accident risks while increasing productivity.
How do digital technologies improve forestry?
echnologies such as GPS, drones, and LiDAR enable more precise forest management. GPS ensures machines stay on designated trails, drones and LiDAR assess forest health, and smart harvesting systems optimize timber value recovery in real time.
What machines are used for sustainable harvesting?
Low-impact harvesters and forwarders with wide tires and bogie axles reduce soil pressure. Articulated tractors protect residual stands, and cable yarding systems minimize ground disturbance in steep terrain.
What are alternative drive concepts?
Hybrid, fully electric, and renewable energy-based systems reduce CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption, making forestry operations more environmentally friendly.
How does forestry technology support wood energy production?
Specialized machines efficiently harvest and process residual timber for energy use, supporting energy security while conserving resources.
What can visitors expect at INTERFORST 2026?
INTERFORST 2026 will showcase the latest innovations and trends in forestry technology.
A special highlight is the new exhibition area SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS Forestry by DLG. Beyond that, you’ll discover cutting-edge innovations presented by our numerous exhibitors across a wide range of
exhibition segments.
What is SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS Forestry by DLG?
This exhibition area focuses on technical components for the forestry sector, connecting suppliers, OEMs, research institutions, and engineers to drive cross-industry innovation.
How does digital forestry technology improve efficiency and safety?
Real-time data, AI-supported systems, and connected machines enable precise control and better decision-making, reducing accidents and increasing operational efficiency.
Other key themes at INTERFORST 2026
Forest & People in Focus: Forest Careers ✓ Generational Change ✓ Skilled Labor Shortage ✓ Regional Value Creation ➤ Discover new perspectives!
Digitalization in Forestry: GIS ✓ Drones ✓ Sensor Technology ✓ AI ➤ Discover Practical Solutions Now!
