Reliable Aerial and Ground based Bracken Control

What is HFM's track record?

The key to a good job is good tradesman. That’s why we employ pilots that have flown and sprayed hundreds of thousands of acres of bracken.

A good tradesman also needs good tools! That’s why we use a Bell Jet Ranger helicopter with GPS mapping. This allows for the pilot to use parallel swathing so he knows exactly where to fly – almost like tram lines in the sky!

HFM's objective is to create long- term relationships through efficient spraying and reliable service. As part of this service, HFM will carry out remedial work on previously sprayed areas free of charge, if other work is being undertaken. Where occasional stripping has arisen or patches of bracken have been left through flying inaccuracy, then these areas will be resprayed in the follow up.

Note: The surface area of a hillside will be greater than the plan measurement of a map. It is important to take this account when considering the amount of bracken that needs spraying. HFM’s helicopter pilot will be able to advise you on the correct surface area when working out slope corrections.

The area of bracken treated should not be so large that the essential follow-up treatment of any surviving bracken cannot be carried out.

GPS mapping

The helicopter is equipped with GPS equipment. This allows the helicopter to fly "along tram lines in the sky" keeping an equal parallel distance from the first run. The GPS inside the helicopter cockpit shows the pilot when the swath width is correct and the pilot is flying in the correct position.

Once an area of bracken is sprayed the swaths the GPS data is downloaded to computer. The raw data as seen in fig1 1 is superimposed on satellite pictures to show the exact area that has been sprayed - fig 2.

Fig 1 Fig 2

How do HFM operate?

• Long-term planning relationships with Estates including guaranteed workmanship
• Efficient and appropriate aircraft and pilots to undertake the work
• Detailed advice and planning to set up effective central programme
• Support in providing a follow up service and sale of Asulox and suitable equipment, (a vital part of successful longer term control)