GIS-AHP Approach in Forest Logging Planning to Apply Sustainable Forest Operations

This study represents the first attempt of integration, within a Forest Management Plan (FMP), Geographic Information System (GIS) and an Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach for selection most suitable logging method. It is important to underline that developed methodology applicable worldwide in each environmental context which there need planning intervention selecting from among several possible methods or harvesting systems. Schematically, main aims this were: (i) develop GIS-AHP method based on open-access GIS software; (ii) compare results simulations statements two different groups experts around world, determine reliability predictive probability The extraction performed with RTS (experts research technical sector) input data showed option major part area was cable skidder, followed by yarder, finally forwarder. system OS (people operative revealed limited differences. Thus, considering what reported above, it assert applied good performance high consistency best alternatives methods. idea comparing obtained survey pool researchers forest engineers (RTS) taken as target simulation be evaluated. derived expert operators (OS) used check other simulation. innovation these kinds studies. were encouraging, 51 sub-compartments, only changed selected between OS.