An automated adjustment system is provided for positioning a speed reduction belt assembly to receive an elongated wood article exiting a processing machine. The speed reduction belt assembly has opposite first and second ends. The automated adjustment system includes a horizontal adjustment mechanism operable to adjust an angle of the speed reduction belt assembly in a horizontal plane. The automated adjustment system also includes a vertical adjustment mechanism operable to adjust the height of one of the first and second ends of the belt assembly relative to the other of the first and second ends of the belt assembly, thereby adjusting an inclination of the belt assembly. The automated adjustment system further includes a control unit in communication with the horizontal and vertical adjustment mechanisms for sending control signals thereto. The control signals determine the angle and inclination of the belt assembly.