A short Review of efficient Ground-based Harvesting Systems for Steep and Mountainous Areas

Abstract

There is an increased interest to find cost-efficient and environmentally sound options for timber harvesting in steep terrain since such operational conditions are widespread around the world. Several low or fully mechanized options were tested in steep terrain in order to assess their performance. This study gives an overview of achieved results when testing ground-based forest equipment such as harvesters, forwarders, skidders, and chutes on steep terrain. The results as well as the testing conditions presented herein may help forest practitioners in decision making on what kind of equipment to use in similar work conditions.