Timber harvesting on fragile ground and impacts of uncertainties in the operational costs

Forested wetlands with high water tables are sensitive to disruption from harvesting yet support commercially desired tree species like northern white-cedar. Winter harvest was conducted in Maine, USA, compare operational costs and productivity of cut-to-length cedar (fragile soil) non-cedar stands (mixedwood, sturdy soil), evaluate uncertainties influential factors, forecast time for post-harvest recovery pre-harvest volumes. Operational were calculated using detailed motion studies. the higher than non-cedar. Regression models developed harvesters, forwarders, self-loading trucks; number logs per cycle a common factor. Sensitivity analysis showed dependence on labor fuel costs. Forest Vegetation Simulator projections used assess sustainability suggested required regrow harvested merchantable volume is comparable cutting cycles recommended similar treatments region. Predicted growth rates exceed those reported regionally sites, suggesting additional study response warranted. Results highlight site constraints both stand lowlands will be useful timber decision-making forest management planning if combined assessment residual response.