Experiences in timber harvesting from reforestations and timber plantations in Calabria

Abstract

Forest harvesting operations carried out in reforested stands in Calabria reveal several critical issues related to excessive stand density, limited accessibility, and the diverse silvicultural management approaches applied over time. This article examines the main timber harvesting methods, distinguishing between first- and second-thinning interventions and operations in stands that have never been managed. Different felling and extraction systems are compared, ranging from manual chainsaw operations to modern specialized machinery such as harvesters, skidders, and forwarders, with particular attention to productivity, costs, environmental impacts, and operator safety. The results indicate that advanced mechanization provides markedly superior performance compared with traditional methods, although it requires higher initial investment. The study highlights the importance of careful planning, regular silvicultural management, and continuous operator training to guide reforested stands toward greater stability and biodiversity. The adoption of innovative and sustainable technologies emerges as a key condition for improving the productivity of Calabrian forest enterprises, reducing operating costs, and enhancing the value of the regional forest heritage.