Variations of Soil Physico-Chemical and Biological Features after Logging Using Two Different Ground-Based Extraction Methods in a Beech High Forest—A Case Study

Considering that forests are crucial in the ecosystem of our planet and provide timber products as well several services, it is evident application sustainable forest operations (SFOs) substantial importance to achieve management (SFM). One most important issues be evaluated when dealing with SFOs limiting disturbance impacts related logging. Harvesting activities can indeed alter conditions soil through compaction litter removal which also lead modifications from biological point view, for example, diminishing presence microarthropods. While keeping these objectives focus, aim present study was evaluate physico-chemical on Mediterranean beech after logging two different extraction systems, forestry-fitted farm tractors equipped winch forwarder. Specifically, authors aimed investigate: (i) levels ground-based methods; (ii) applied forestry intervention; (iii) between winching-skidding forwarding. Findings showed physical, chemical, features were slightly disturbed by itself. In addition, machine traffic clear disturbance, resulting a alteration characteristics. Between techniques tested, winching caused less while forwarding had stronger impacts. However, should noted impact found only approximately 28% surface where carried out. From evidence gathered this study, seems impactful method studied context. On other hand, decrease forwarding, some technical adjustments such bogie-tracks, improved operator training, applied.