The first fuel powered machines used in Mahogany extraction in Belize
- Posted by Frantz Smith
- 0 Comment(s)
Machine powered haulage of mahogany came in the form of treaded traction engines used in place of oxen to haul logs for longer distances. The first trials of this type of engine were done in Mexico but this innovation was quickly adopted by the Belize Estate and Produce Company (B.E.C.). Holt and Caterpillar treaded traction engines were introduced as early as 1909. These tractors extended the workable area for mahogany extraction to 15 miles from the nearest watercourse. In addition to haulage, these tractors helped in the clearing of new forestry roads.