The Marshall Tree Saw is a mechanical device that is attached to a skidsteer for woody weed treatment.  Although it is called a saw, it uses a shearing action, powered by two hydraulic rams, which cut through the stem of the plant. The device is also equipped with a sprayer which may be used to treat the cut surface of the plant with a herbicide and diesel mixture.

The Tree Saw can be used for the control of prickly acacia, chinee apple, mesquite, parkinsonia and other woody weeds in the Burdekin Dry Tropics, Southern Gulf Catchments, Northern Gulf Catchments, Wet Tropics and Desert Channels regions of Queensland.

Multiple NRM Benefits

The selective nature of the Tree Saw and subsequent spraying, makes it an ideal tool in the management of weeds.  The saw allows for plants to be selectively treated, ensuring protection of native species in environmentally sensitive areas.  It also allows minimal impact to the hummus layer of the soil, reducing erosion and allowing greater regeneration of native grasses.  The Tree Saw is particularly useful for weed management along fence lines and around water points where improved access is of benefit.

Economic & Efficient

Recent trials in the Southern Gulf Catchments observed a treatment speed from 6 hectares per hour in low density (40 plants/ha) to 0.5 hectares per hour in very high density (700 plants/ha).  Herbicide and diesel mix usage varied from about 1 L/ha to about 46 L/ha depending on the density within the treatment area.

Key Advantages

• Provides immediate treatment results

• Provides supplementary fodder from fallen trees (e.g. Prickly Acacia)

• Improves stock access and mustering ease

• May be used in the treatment of weeds without damage to nearby native vegetation

• Increase in grass ground cover

• Minimise erosion, due to negligible soil disturbance

• Less regrowth, especially with follow up spraying

Further Information

Further information is available by contacting Owen Blacklock at Ausfield Services