The Hazards of Horse Logging
The Hazards of Horse Logging
by Vicki Schmidt of Hebron, MA
this article first appeared in the March 2008 issue of ‘Farming’
Logging and forestry activities have always been one of the most dangerous professions. In decades past, when horses were the primary power for logging, they were just as subject to injury and death. There is a reason every logging camp had a butcher shop. It wasn’t just for moose and deer, cattle and pigs. With the return of horses for logging, horses are once again subject to the loss of life and limb due to these activities.
Though statistics are hard to come by discussions around most draft horse clubs tout the stories of who’s been hurt, and what horses have been disabled. Horse logging skills that were once handed down from generations are now left to potential horse loggers to learn mostly on their own usually by trial and error. Sadly those errors often mean severe injury and sometimes death to the trusting logging horse.
Aside from tree felling errors by loggers that result in hung trees or limbs as “widow makers” the most common types of injury for logging horses are confined to the foot and lower limb. To a lesser extent, the eyes of horses worked with “blinderless bridles” are also a target for woods work related injuries.
In rocky terrain, catching a hoof between rocks can tear the hoof wall off before the teamster knows what has happened. Barbed wire from old fencing along former tree or property lines can completely remove much of a horse’s leg, or sever its hoof completely in just a few seconds. Old dumps, ripe with rusted metal, pose nasty slicing threats to the hoof and lower leg. And lastly, roots and small stumps can pierce the sole of the hoof in record time.
The good news is, every threat to your logging horses well-being and safety in the woods is easily mitigated by paying attention to a few key points: First, evaluate every wood lot or logging area with a critical eye. Ask the land owner or manager about the history of the farm. Homesteads at the turn of the century, and sometimes up until a few decades ago, had trash and garbage dumps in the woods or back areas of the property. Firewood sized trees now populate former “out back” rusted metal, glass, and old equipment dumps; and are a high hazard area for your logging horse.
While cruising a prospective horse logging woodlot scout for old apple trees, rock walls, lines of grape vines, and other signs of former pasture land boundaries that could hide dangerous wire. Be on the look out for trees that are laterally scarred at waist height, as these could easily signal overgrown fencing, or worse yet, barbed wire. If you see an oddly scared tree, use a rake or spade and drag for wire. The wires blend with the ground and leaves, but are easily snagged if present. Carry a pair of cutters and a grain bag to stash any rusty wire and make sure it’s carried out of the woods. Do not trust yourself to remember where the wire is, or for the land owner to remove it.
Along with wire, another threat of stone walls is their ability to hide in decades of fallen leaves, trees, and other woods debris. Rocks that were strategically placed decades ago are loosened by frost action and serve as the perfect “hoof hold” for your unsuspecting horse. Rocky stream or forested wetland crossings also pose this same threat. Portable bridges, often required by environmental regulations, can prevent this in water course areas. And while a horse can survive the tragic removal of its hoof capsule, it is not a pleasant experience for either horse or owner.
If you’re new to horse logging or considering a new woodlot, do not neglect to scrutinize the areas your horses will be working in. Carry flagging tape with you at all times and tag any potential hazard. Most of us log with our horses because we enjoy horses, the peace and quiet of working in the woods, and the gentleness to the land that properly worked horses can offer. They are an asset to our farms and logging businesses and their injury or loss can mean as much as losing a trusted friend and co-worker. As family farms and their histories are lost, and new owners with little knowledge of the land take over, be wary of the hazards that may be lurking. Take heed of a few simple tips to help keep you and your horse returning home, safe and sound.
Hazard Mitigation Tips for Horse Loggers:
When considering a horse logging area pay attention to transition zones between woods and fields. These may be marked with several feet of smaller trees and bushes that may lead to old fencing, barbed wire, and stone walls. If possible, research town records, deeds, and other possible maps that may give clues as to where field boundaries, old dumps, stone walls, or foundations once existed.
Avoid rock dump areas, and remove rocks from any stone walls that cross skid trails, and from walls that your horses have to pass over. Whereas fences often ran along stone walls it is also a good idea to rake and scurf these areas. Watch for wire scars in trees and make sure wire is not buried a few inches underground below the leaves and packed debris.
Unless pristine logging roads and skid trails are present, seriously consider shoeing your horse and padding with thick leather or neoprene pads. This is especially important in areas of old dumps and mechanically brush cut areas. While the pastern and fetlock are still at risk, the pad will prevent the frog and sole from puncture and slice wounds caused by old metal and other piercing hazards.
Winter’s ice, frost and snow also add their own set of risks for horse loggers. Unless you know the woodlot well or have fully scouted it in the off season, do not venture off known roads or trails until you clear a path for your horse. Snow and ice hide dangers and frost action can create holes near rocks that can easily trip your horse or trap a hoof. In addition, don’t neglect the proper traction shoes and snowball pads for your winter logging horse. Ideally, logging only when the ground is fairly dry or frozen and doing your best to avoid wet, rocky, and partially frozen terrain gives you and your horse the best advantage.
One important fact for horse loggers to remember: horses are highly susceptible to tetanus. Tetanus bacteria live in soil and all horses, especially logging horses, should have an annual vaccination for this painful and deadly but easily preventable disease.
While logging with horses can offer great reward it also comes with great responsibility. A working horses’ combination of spirit, ethic, dedication, and strength is unmatched. When logging with horses, as with all aspects of working horses, we must accept the role of hazard reduction and equine guardian for our trusted companions.
If you’re curious about horse logging, new to it or considering it as an alternative for firewood lots and smaller operations, take the time to research the economics as well as safety issues. Visit with horse loggers and horse logging operations, talk to knowledgeable teamsters, and spend some time taking lessons and learning the finer techniques of horse logging professionals. The investment is well worth the time, and you’ll be rewarded with years of loyal and honorable service.
Vicki Schmidt is owner and manager of Troika Drafts in Hebron ME. The working farm features woodlots and offers lessons and training for drafts and crosses. Visit their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/troikadrafts/