Finning (Canada) and Caterpillar Donate Use of Log Loaders to Assist in Stanley Park Recovery Operations

July 5, 2007 (No. 41) - Park Board Chair Ian Robertson and Finning (Canada) General Manager for Surrey and Vancouver Island Enzo D'Angelo were on hand this morning to welcome the arrival of two Caterpillar log loaders to Stanley Park. Use of the massive log loaders (known colloquially in the industry as "hoechuckers") is being donated by Finning (Canada) and Caterpillar to assist in the removal of timber from the forest as part of the park restoration program. The equipment will be crucial to the next stage of recovery operations following the devastation caused by last December's windstorms which downed more than 10,000 trees in the park. The value of the in-kind donation is estimated at $70,000.

Chair Robertson said, "Much of the work we have done over the last six months has been in preparation for the recovery operations we begin today. We are very grateful that Finning and Caterpillar have stepped forward with their generous offer. It is this kind of outstanding private industry leadership, coupled with continuing strong public support, that will help us succeed in the monumental task of restoring this important national treasure."

"Stanley Park is a jewel within our urban landscape - a valued resource that has been enjoyed for generations," said Mr. D'Angelo. "Like many others who observed the destructive forces dealt to Stanley Park last winter, Finning and Caterpillar were moved to respond to the restoration effort. We are pleased to do our part to ensure that Stanley Park continues to be enjoyed by generations to come." Finning has deep roots in the Vancouver area, having been granted the Caterpillar dealership for this territory almost 75 years ago.

Finning (Canada) and Caterpillar are donating a 330 D FM loader and a 324 FM loader for a maximum of 200 hours of operating time per machine; they will also significantly discount any machine hours required in excess of the 200 hours per machine service. The donation also includes insurance coverage and labour required for service work on the machines.

An important feature of these brand new loaders is their minimal environmental impacts. Both use technologies that optimize engine performance with low exhaust emissions, reduce noise pollution and can be operated on biodiesel fuel derived from biological sources (such as vegetable oils).

The tracked machines also tread lightly on the forest. They operate with a light ground pressure similar to a 220 pound person walking through the park. The reach and 360 degree turning ability of the loaders also allow for minimal ground disruption during forest operations. It is expected that the machines will be in service over the next few months, beginning in the largest blowdown area which is located between Park Drive and the Seawall near Prospect Point.

- 30 -

For more information contact:
Carol DeFina, Communications Coordinator, Vancouver Park Board, at 604-257-8440 or 604-377-3950
Joanne Miller, Manager, Corporate Communications, Finning (Canada) at 780-994-7411 (cell)

www.finning.ca

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains 200 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment.