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Abstract
Harvesting cost and revenue models were used to evaluate yarding costs by yarder type and to compare stump-to-mill harvesting costs to revenues available from multiproduct thinnings in eastern hardwoods. This analysis includes six types of cable yarders and thinnings in stands where the average diameter at breast height of trees harvested ranged from 7 to 12 inches. To include market factors, the analysis also includes four types of primary products, three product price levels, and three truck-haul distances. Results show that substantial cost savings can be realized by selecting the appropriate harvesting equipment: and that given favorable market conditions and efficient yarding, early entries for thinning can be economically feasible. Results also show the importance of factoring product mix, product prices, and market location into the economic analysis of thinning opportunities.
Citation
LeDoux, Chris B.; Baumgras, John E. 1988. Analysis of harvesting opportunities for thinning eastern hardwoods on steep terrain. In: International mountain logging and pacific northwest skyline symposium; 1988 December 12-16; Portland, OR: Oregon State University: 93-96.
