The Argyll Timber Transport Group will explore the logistics of transporting wood on trains and boats as opposed to the road network.

John Home Robertson will launch the project

The Deputy Minister for Rural Affairs, John Home Robertson, will give the scheme his backing when he officially launches it on Friday.

But timber hauliers say their businesses will be adversely affected and they are calling for compensation.

The pilot project is in part a response to figures which suggest Scotland's timber harvest is set to double over the next 15 years - putting untold pressure on the roads.

The problem is most acute in rural areas where huge lorries carry timber supplies from remote country forests to processing plants.

Timber vehicles are causing concern

The timber freight takes its toll in areas like Argyll were timber is transported in loads of up to 30 tonnes.

They are viewed as causing traffic hold ups and over time damage the country's narrow roads.

Local authorities say they can no longer afford the maintenance, so they are combining forces with the government and the transport industry to explore alternatives.

BBC Scotland's Environment Correspondent Louise Batchelor reports.

Mr Home Robertson will learn how alternative transport can be made possible.

He will see timber being loaded on to a boat bound for Irvine and meet representatives of EWS Railfreight in Arrochar.

Timber hauliers, whose businesses could be damaged by the move, say they will ask for tax free diesel to take timber short distances to the railways and ferry terminals.