Residual tree damage during selection cuts using two skidding systems in the Missouri Ozarks

Abstract

Today, there is an interest in using alternative silvicultural systems like selection and two-aged management, because the public finds these systems more acceptable than clearcutting. However, repeated entries into forest stands to remove timber increase the risk of residual stand damage. Harvest techniques are desirable that (1) reduce the risk of stand damage and (2) are economically efficient. Animal logging provides a feasible alternative to conventional rubber-tired skidder harvesting systems used in the Ozarks. Residual stand damage following selection harvests was examined for both (1) a rubber-tired skidder and (2) a mule logger, to provide a case study comparison of logging damage between the two systems. We found that only 7% of the residual trees >5" dbh were damaged by the mule-logging system while 22% of the residual trees were damaged by the skidder system. Conventional skidding destroyed three times as many residual trees as mule logging. Residual stocking was similar across both sites.

Citation

Ficklin, Robert L.; Dwyer, John P.; Cutter, Bruce E.; Draper, Tom. 1997. Residual tree damage during selection cuts using two skidding systems in the Missouri Ozarks. In: Pallardy, Stephen G.; Cecich, Robert A.; Garrett, H. Gene; Johnson, Paul S., eds. Proceedings of the 11th Central Hardwood Forest Conference; Gen. Tech. Rep. NC-188. St. Paul, MN: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station: 36-46