what we do
We provide a wide array of forestry and ecological services across Alberta.Regeneration Surveys
We have been doing regeneration surveys since 2003, and as surveys changed so did Apical, moving from a paper to a spatial digital data system. All surveys are georeferenced and processed in a format compliant with our customers. Experienced, well-trained auditors ensure that we meet quality standards.
Our surveyors have expertise in and are training compliant for all RSA surveys:
- Stocking
- CSR
- Establishment
- Aerial Performance
- Non-Photo Performance
We provide a turn-key service for our customers!
Forestry research projects
Foothills Growth Organization of Western Canada (FGrow)
Apical Forestry has been a consultant for FGrow since 2000. We assist in the forecasting and monitoring of the growth and yield of managed lodgepole pine stands. We completed the initial ecological site classification to determine the best locations, established numerous sites, and have been responsible for site maintenance, measurement, and tending needs of the sites since their inception.
Tree Improvement Progeny Site
Since 2000 we have been involved in Tree Improvement programs for companies in Alberta. The programs have covered a wide variety of species and our work includes: identifying superior trees, collecting scions and cones, and establishing, measuring, and maintaining progeny sites throughout Alberta forests. Our work involves both large silviculture programs as well as more technical programs.
Western Boreal Growth and Yield (WESBOGY)
WESBOGY is another long-term, province-wide program where Apical Forestry provides maintenance and measurements services of WESBOGY sites, many of which have been established for more than 25 years. Our work contributes to the research into stand dynamics and the growth and yield of white spruce and aspen.
Woodland Caribou and Lichen
The woodland caribou is a federally listed endangered species in Canada. Traditional forest practices do not meet the needs of these animals and companies have been developing strategies to lessen the impact of forest activities on the caribou population.
Apical Forestry assists researchers studying the general movements and feeding habits of caribou. The research examines the effects of logging on the growth of terrestrial lichens, a main source of food for caribou during the winter months.
Tree planting
We focus on technical and specialized planting such as reclaimed leases, roads, and difficult access cut-blocks.
Our extensive planning process includes ordering the correct seedlots, coordinating with scarification companies, planning proper site treatment, and navigating difficult access – ask our planters! Combining this with the coordination of scarifying equipment and planning proper treatment has made Apical a leader in forest reclamation in Alberta. We hire only experienced planters with quality reputations.
We can take on your entire project and deliver our services on budget and on time while meeting and exceeding safety standards.
Permanent Sample Plots
Apical Forestry has been providing Permanent Sample Plot (PSP) establishment and remeasure services across Alberta for many years. Our customers include both industry and government. Our accurate data collection and measurements help companies understand the stand dynamics on their land bases. We have developed a number of data collection programs to meet the needs of clients and the information they wish to collect. The field auditing programs we have developed help provide an extra level of data quality. Combining this with a stringent internal auditing system in and out of the field means that Apical can provide an efficient and superior product.
Our company understands that accurate permanent sample plot measurements provide the vital information needed to implement long term, sustainable plans. Apical has completed a variety of different research PSP’s over the years from Grande Prairie to High Level, Sundre, Fort McMurray, Blue Ridge and more!
Pre-harvest assessments
If you need ecological land classifications done, Apical has both the background and expertise to do the job, including soil classifications to the great groups and more. PHA assessments will give you the information needed to choose the best method of harvesting, scarifying, and planting. These choices can make all the difference on achieving a superior MAI and keep costs down. As with other services, we continue to make technological advances to make data collection from efficient.
Our PHA services will help you maximize your growth potential!
Herbicide monitoring and layout
Apical has extensive experience with herbicide layout and monitoring for both aerial and backpack spraying programs provides another turn key service, managing the entire process from informing the public to government reporting.
Stand tending
As the practice of forestry moves from basic reforestation towards continual stand maintenance, tending prescriptions will insure that future stand growth is optimized. Proper species control and density management optimize crown development and therefore maximize the value of regenerating stands.
With our years of stand tend maintenance and prescriptions, we can help you optimize your future stand growth.
Seed, scion and cone collection/ordering
We have years of experience doing seed and scion collection for tree improvement programs for companies in Alberta, collecting from a wide variety of species, from aspen to black spruce, pine and willow.
Whether you have a bulk silviculture program or more technical needs, we can help you with superior tree collection.
FRIAA Service provider
Apical is proud to be a service provider for FRIAA for the Grande Prairie, Hinton and Peace River areas. We manage the silviculture practices of land bases harvested under the Community Timber Program (CTP). We take great pride and responsibility in this work and continue to be excited about practicing silviculture in a responsible and cost-effective manner.
