Summary
This programme covers a range of large and small scale harvesting and utilisation operations including harvesting, extraction, environmental protection and value adding operations such as sawmilling and aims to:
- Assess methods and issue operational guidance, in relation to existing guidance and objectives
- Promote operator good ergonomics and performance practices
- Build knowledge and experience on harvesting and utilisation in Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF).
Research objectives
The main research objectives are to:
- Investigate the use of mechanised harvesting at the small and medium scale
- Study mechanised harvesting systems in CCF. Evaluate appropriate harvesting systems, costs and techniques to reduce environmental impact.
- Investigate and provide guidance on work on steep slopes
- Promote sound practices by contributing to the development of standards for the industry (BSI, ISO).
Funders and partners
This research is funded primarily by the Forestry Commission Sustainable Management Programme Advisory Group and is performed by Forest Research Technical Development.
Technical Development also works in partnership with the Forest Research Continous Cover Silviculture Programme Group.
Forestry Commission policy
One objective of the Forestry Commission is to support the Government's policy of sustainable forest management. This includes enhancing the economic value of forests and woodland resources.
Mechanised harvesting systems have significantly reduced working costs and with appropriate techniques site impact can be minimised.
Publications
Harvesting and transport publications
Status
Ongoing work includes:
- Small scale working
- Operator ergonomics
- Steep ground working
- Development of method for fuel usage assessment.
Contacts
- General harvesting operations: Colin Saunders
- CCF harvesting: Duncan Ireland
- Small scale harvesting: Martin Price
