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Abstract

Comparison of forwarder cut-to-length and skyline yarder cut-to-length systems in a natural, eastern Oregon stand

by E. Drews, B. Hartsough, J. Doyal, and L. Kellogg

Two harvesting systems were compared for reducing fuel loadings in overstocked conifer stands; forest managers also set a high priority on minimizing soil disturbance. Both systems employed cut-to-length harvesters. One used a forwarder and the other a small skyline yarder. Both systems produced very similar and acceptable results in terms of fuels and soil disturbance, but at different stump-to-mill costs: $42/green ton for the forwarder versus $72/green ton for the yarder.