Mechanization of precommercial thinning has increased significantly in Quebec since 2003. The development of new machines designed specifically for semi-mechanized precommercial strip thinning has contributed greatly to the implementation of this new method. FERIC conducted studies to compare the productivity and treatment costs with three different machines. Our studies demonstrated the potential for a reduction in treatment cost under easy to moderate operating conditions. However, under difficult operating conditions, the treatment cost was slightly higher than the reimbursement rate.