Mechanised Harvesting of Broadleaved Tree Species in Europe

Abstract Purpose of the Review The application cut-to-length (CTL) technology for harvesting and processing timber from broadleaved tree species is a challenging process, due to thick branches, stem sweep, forks high wood density. objective this review was describe current state harvester use characterise effectiveness mechanised forest operations mixed stands in Europe, paying particular attention productivity product quality aspects. An additional aim identify greatest difficulties associated with today indicate future challenges areas improvement. Recent Findings interest wider started after storm Lothar France 1999. Early experiences demonstrated that lower common when species, limitations delimbing frequency sweep. Initially, modifications were made heads, while newly designed head (CTL 40 HW) later developed within European project 2005–2007. Using various very achieved some cases, but log recovery unsatisfactory, large tops left without delimbing. length inaccuracy observed, as well economic losses damage plywood caused by feed rollers. These issues resulted change construction, including work on patent specifically species. Summary heads have been date mainly used Central where incidence their morphological features (thick branches sweep) are major challenge CTL technology. There many research projects related issue: last 15 years, there few larger initiatives leading design development participation institutions universities France, Germany Poland. currently no ongoing initiatives, formation new ones strongly recommended because today’s forests growing share being managed an increasing extent