Published
2006-08-08
Keywords
- biomass,
- mechanization,
- Alps,
- processor,
- logging
Abstract
In 2003 CNR has launched a four-year research programme aimed at testing the best technology options for harvesting forest biomass on the Eastern Alps. The experimental plan included two tests on the recovery of residue biomass from maturity cuts in tractor terrain. The tests allowed assembling an electronic model that can calculate the profit obtained with alternative technology options, suitable for the group-selection harvest of mature spruce stands in tractor terrain. For the hypotheses tested, the best strategy includes mechanical processing and biomass recovery. Skidding whole trees and processing them at the landing confirms as the most profitable alternative, even when biomass prices are low.