Dragging full length tree stems – horse logging
The image is from a collection of slides and photographs ‘rescued from the skip’ and handed to Forestry Memories. Generally very little information with or about them and for details we will have to rely on readers’ memories or geographical knowledge.
This great action shot shows a horse and one assumes its handler in real working conditions where each load is a fine balance between being over heavy and making some piecework earnings.
There is no need to lead the horse as it knows the route down and where all the snags are. This enables the horseman to walk behind and to observe any upcoming snags and to call out instructions. Very heavy work and downhill pulling was the only way that it worked.
It is difficult to see what is happening with the horse collar – is it burst or is something hanging there? Instead of a simple back band there appears to be some type of back saddle. The chaining system of the swingletree hook to the logs is also unclear. Perhaps there are separate slings being used.
Any thoughts and comments very welcome.
Location is not known.
Download Large Version (572kB)
Groups: Forestry in Action, Horses at work in Forests, Mystery and unknown