Masters Theses

Date of Award

8-2002

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Forestry

Major Professor

Donald G. Hodges

Committee Members

Wayne Clatterbuck, Alan Barefield

Abstract

The demand for hardwood pulpwood has increased through the 1980's with the introduction of engineered wood products and the increased use of hardwoods in paper production. However, the economic feasibility of harvesting pulpwood-sized stems on steep slopes with manual felling and cable skidding is unknown. This study was designed to determine how stem diameter affects cost and productivity of manual systems on slopes greater than 15 percent. Two different logging crews operating on similar sites were evaluated by way of a continuous time study during the summer of 2000. The two study areas were characterized by steep topography with slopes greater than 30 percent, rock outcroppings, and benches. Times for the felling cycle were recorded in four disaggregated components: walk, acquire, fell, and limb and top. A total of 242 observations were recorded in Warren County and 157 were made in Franklin County. Times for the skidding cycle were also recorded in four disaggregated components: travel empty, choking, travel loaded, and unchoking. In Warren County 69 skid cycles were recorded and 47 were observed in Franklin County. Distances for felling and skidding functions along with log measurements were recorded during the study period as well. Overall cut and haul costs per ton were calculated and costs per ton by diameter class were estimated. The crews times differed significantly in the walk/acquire and felling elements of the felling cycle. Significant differences in time by travel empty distance were found for Warren County, but not Franklin County, for the skid cycle. Distance and volume significantly influenced travel empty times in Warren, while only distance significantly influenced travel empty time in Franklin. All average cycle time components were larger for Warren County in the skidding function. Differing skidding cycle components (travel empty, choking, travel loaded, and unchoking) required the majority of time for the two sites. Cut and haul costs per ton varied for the two crews ($10.16 for Warren County vs. $13.04 for Franklin County).

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