Timber Harvest Planning Course Learning Objective: Be able to describe the harvest planning process including different levels (or types) of harvest plans, and harvest planning objectives related to sustainable forest resource management. Be able to complete a “paper – based” tactical harvesting and road plan.

Timber Harvest Planning Topics: – The harvest planning environment…..different types of harvest plans – Harvest planning criteria/objectives – Decision making framework for matching harvesting systems to the site – Introduction/overview of the Oregon Forest Practice regulations – Steps in completing a harvesting plan Lab: – Yarding distance terminology and calculations – Road grade layout & road numbering systems – Harvest planning class exercise/discussion – Harvest planning group project (begin) – Week 10 Lecture Topic – Loading and Transportation

The Planning Environment – Different Types of Harvest Plans

An Example of a Tactical Plan An Example of a Tactical Plan

An Example of an Operational Plan An Example of an Operational Plan

Harvest Planning Criteria/Objectives 1.The harvest system selected must be physically capable of accomplishing the silvicultural and other resource management objectives (including safe operating practices). 2.The harvest system selected must be economically efficient and feasible. 3.The harvest system selected must meet environmental requirements. 4.The harvest system selected must be socially acceptable (including forest practice regulations and best management practices).

Decision Making Framework Tree size, Ground slope, Yarding distance, Soil & Water protection

Harvest Planning and Implementation Flowchart

Harvest Planning Steps 1.Review the specific forest resource goals and objectives for the planning project (feasibility & safety, economics, environmental, and social). 2.Specify the constraints that limit the choice of logging, road and transportation alternatives. 3.Gather the necessary information to develop the harvest plan. 4.Plan the field reconnaissance (if appropriate – operational planning) 5.Complete a “first draft” harvest plan that shows areas for different logging methods, road and landing locations, and areas that require special protection. Often there are several alternative plans. 6.Choose one plan to pursue with further analysis and design. 7.Prepare the final harvest plan (maps, written explanations and harvesting requirements) for review by forest resource managers. 8.Complete a cost analysis of the proposed harvesting and obtain contractor bids (if appropriate – operational planning).