Impact of winch-assisted logging machinery on soil disturbance in the mountainous forests of Western Carpathians

Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, Год журнала: 2024, Номер 7

Опубликована: Сен. 30, 2024

Introduction Timber harvesting on steep terrain is a challenge in terms of economic viability, safety, and environmental performance. Felling with chainsaws use yarders seems optimal this environment. However, using mobile traction winches allows for the safe work ground-based technologies even these challenging conditions. Methods Our study assessed impact winch-assisted cut-to-length soil disturbance young forest stands (up to 40 years old) across slopes 14.9°-27.4° (27–52%). Utilizing 78 measurement points (i.e., 234 measurements), we analyzed samples from trail ruts, between undisturbed areas bulk density (g.cm −3 ) moisture content (%), simultaneously measuring penetration resistance (MPa), depth (cm) rut (cm). Results The results highlighted that without winch assistance experienced most significant increases 22.35%) 26.8%), though differences were not statistically significant. Linear mixed effects models did confirm effect ( p > 0.05) (g cm (MPa) ruts forwarding trails. Mean profile depths ranged 4.63 7.28 cm, maximum 10.86 17.25 showing deeper non-assisted areas. Moreover, presence < significantly affected maximal rut. Conclusion findings suggest may mitigate (rut depths) slopes, offering sustainable option utilizing machinery reduced impact.

Язык: Английский

Using pack animals instead of tractors in Central Italy's protected areas: No evidence of reduced soil disturbance

Forest Ecology and Management, Год журнала: 2024, Номер 572, С. 122312 - 122312

Опубликована: Окт. 2, 2024

Язык: Английский