Innovative forest management company SFM Environmental Solutions, has been
successful in obtaining funding for a major new project which will recover specialty
timbers underwater, which were submerged during the creation of hydro electric
schemes in the past.

Hydrowood is a highly innovative project, which will utilise specialised equipment to
recover standing timber underwater in lakes managed by Hydro Tasmania. It will provide
access to a unique subset of Tasmanian’s highly valued special timbers.

General Manager, Darryn Crook said, “SFM is delighted with today’s announcement and
is excited to be leading this innovative project.”

“As a Tasmanian company with extensive experience in forest management, harvesting
and marketing, this project will allow SFM to expand our current business, whilst creating
employment not only in the western region of Tasmania, but statewide. The specialist
equipment required to recover the timber will also be designed and developed in
Tasmania.”

“Recovered or salvaged timber is a growing niche industry across the globe and with
Tasmania’s unique indigenous timbers this project will allow furniture makers, sawmillers
and craftmen to access exciting new markets.”

SFM commenced a feasibility study in 2012 and with the assistance of historical images,
anecdotal evidence and GIS mapping, timber samples were extracted and found to be
structurally sound and in commercial volumes.

The feasibility study for the project was assisted by funding from Hydro Tasmania and the
Department of Economic Development.

Funding for the $5 million project was approved by the Abbot Coalition Government
under the Tasmanian Jobs and Growth Package. The project will create upto 20 full time
positions in the construction phase with an additional 40 downstream positions as timber is
extracted and processed.

About SFM

SFM is a leading forest management company operating Australia-wide since 2001. SFM
provides forestry management solutions to private, corporate and government entities.

SFM is certified under the Australian Forestry Standard and Forest Stewardship Council®
Schemes.
SMF General Manager, Darryn Crook