In an effort to reduce "hit the ditch" incidents and improve logger, trucker & forester communication - the DNR has established a Forest Road Safety Channel.

This channel is intended for use by those who use DNR forest roads.   

• The frequency is narrowband - 151.497
• The use of the channel is strictly voluntarily. There is no intention of ever making it part of the timber sale contracts.
• There is no charge to use the channel. 
• As of right now, there are 11 counties where this can be used (due to other users of the frequency in other parts of the state). Those counties are: Cook, Lake, St. Louis, Aitkin, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods, Beltrami, Hubbard, Cass and Crow Wing. There are 5 other counties that the DNR is trying to get covered: Roseau, Clearwater, Wadena, Pine & Carlton.
• The channel will be shared with county land departments, USFS foresters, industry foresters, etc. So when loggers are working on other agency sales, they'll all have the option of using it between themselves.
• An authorization form must be filled out by everyone who wishes to use it. Basically just requires a signature and number of radios that will have the channel installed. As of now, they need to be renewed annually.

We all know equipment maintenance is time well spent and can save money in the long run.  However, knowing and doing are two different things.  I know I am guilty of this - especially when it comes to my lawn mower.   

An article on skidder maintenance, provided by John Deere, was featured recently Logging & Sawmilling Journal.  The article provides some good tips and reminders that can also be applied to other pieces of equipment.  Proper maintenance is a safety issue as well.  Consider sharing and discussing this article at your next monthly safety meeting with your crew.