OutSource takes seriously the need to reduce our footprint on the land and protect our wildlife. We begin by screening each project to identify any environmentally sensitive areas and/or historically significant resources. Careful, advanced planning to utilize existing access as much as possible is always undertaken. New and innovative cutting technologies allow us to strategically cut lines to a bare minimum width of 1.5m. This line width greatly reduces the overall damage to forest habitat rather than the conventional 5.0m wide cutline. The use and method of cutting equipment has also dramatically changed how seismic activity impacts the environment.  The current use of mulchers as opposed to bulldozers has greatly reduced the width of cutlines and soil compaction; resulting in less fragmentation and damage to soils. This Low-Impact Seismic (LIS) technique is norm on most Canadian operations. Helicopters are now used frequently to transport equipment and crews, thereby reducing direct ground traffic.
Through preplanning concepts, using a combination of Aerial Photography, LIDAR, GPS and extensive ground scouting, the method of clearing a line width greater than 2.75 is seldom necessary.  
In addition, wildlife surveys are conducted to determine what species are present in an area with subsequent mitigation's to minimize harmful impacts on species’ habitats or individuals.  Communication, education and monitoring of field crews by trained in-field environmental specialists help ensure compliance with operational guidelines. Due diligence practices by all office and field personnel help ensure the success of our programs.

Eliminating the Footprint Left Behind Utilizing Existing Cut Access Narrow Line Cutting Heli-Assist and Heli-Portable Jobs Low Impact Seismic Respect of Parks & Protected Areas Concede Exploration Restritions Left: Comparing a traditional 5.0 Meter cat cut line with currently practiced 3.0 Meter avoidance line. Bottom: White Pelicans sun bathing on the shore of a small slough.

Reducing the Impact on Habitats Wildlife Survey's Minimizing Habitat Impact Species at Risk Compliance Sensitive Species Recognition Eductation of Field Crews

Low Impact Seismic Handcutting Handcutting diminishes the need for heavy equipment in sensitive areas. It is generally used on steep slopes, water and wetland crossings as well as forested and ecologically sensitive areas. Left: Handcutting through an ecological sensitive area. Bottom: A muclher cuts through a heavy forested line. This line is approximatly 1.75 meters accross.

Low Impact Seismic Mulching A Mulcher can manoeuvre through thick forested terrain and avoid significantly large standing timber. The timber that is cut is mulched and dispersed throughout the line. Mulching not only reduced the size of the line but it also reduces the cost and environmental impact of the line. The risk of erosion is minimal therefore seeding is typically not required.