The Effects of Soil Moisture on Harvesting Operations in Populus spp. Plantations: Specific Focus on Costs, Energy Balance and GHG Emissions

Background: Poplar tree plantations for wood production are part of a worldwide growing trend, especially in moist soil sites. Harvesting operations sites such as poplar require more study detailed and increased knowledge on environmental economic aspects issues. Methods: In this study, the effects moisture content (dry vs. moist) productivity, cost, emissions greenhouse gases (GHG) caused by different harvesting systems (chainsaw-skidder harvester-forwarder) were evaluated three (two Italy one Iran). Results: The productivity (m3 h?1) both dry significantly higher (20% to 30%) than those Production costs (€ m?3) GHG (g also lower harvester-forwarder system was about four times higher, its cost 25% 30% that chainsaw-skidder system, but calculated 50–60% system. Conclusions: Logging be avoided where there conditions high (>20%). result will cost-effectiveness reduction emission pollutants.