Timber Scaling (Wood Measurement)

Timber Scaling is defined as the act of measuring timber to determine its volume or mass. The procedures follow clearly defined methodologies as outlined in the Provincial Timber Scaling Manual(5.31 MB).

Information and data collected from timber scaling may be used to:

  • determine wage payments in commercial timber transactions;
  • determine wood volumes for Royalty payments;
  • verify annual harvest as calculated by the allowable annual cut (AAC) growth models;
  • monitor inventory control, or
  • perform statistical analysis.

Legislation

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Timber Scaling Resources

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Timber Scaling Certificate

In Newfoundland and Labrador, a person must first obtain a Timber Scaling Certificate in order to legally measure timber. To become a certified scaler, you must successfully complete a Provincial Timber Scaling Training Course. Courses are administered throughout the province, on an as needed basis, by the Chief Scaler. A Timber Scaling Certificate is valid for five years, expiring five years from the date of issue. A scaler is responsible to renew their certificate every five years.

Fee

The fee for a Timber Scaling Certificate is $50. A timber scaling certificate is valid for a period of five years.

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Timber Scaling Certification Program

The objective of the Timber Scaling Certification program is to provide a uniform standard of training for individuals involved in scaling timber harvested in Newfoundland and Labrador.

To qualify for the Timber Scaler Certification Program, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Applicants must be 18 years of age before December 31 of current year;
  • All applicants are required to have an adequate level of mathematical proficiency prior to admission.This proficiency would normally have been obtained through the completion of high school diploma or equivalency; and
  • Previous experience in Forestry or scaling would be considered an asset.

Timber Scaling Course Breakdown

The provincial timber scaling course is divided into three classes of scaling, consisting of five separate training modules. It is an option to attend one or more training modules, to obtain a restricted scaling certificate endorsing the scaler to scale certain categories of timber. Candidates for a scalers certificate must successfully complete both written and field exams.

Class Endorsement
“A” – Scaling of Timber Collectively/Uniform Length Fuelwood Measurement – m3
Studwood & Pulpwood Measurement – m3
“B” – Scaling of Timber of Individual Units Sawlogs – F.B.M. (Log Rule)
Sawlogs – m3
“C” – Scaling of Primary/Secondary Forest Products by Mass Mass Scaling

Fees

There is no fee for the provincial timber scaling course.

To Apply

Persons meeting the above criteria, who wish to enroll in the Timber Scalers Certification Program must first submit an Application for Timber Scaling Certificate (144 KB).

For more information, please contact the Chief Scaler.

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