12 research outputs found
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Questions about optimal bucking
A compilation of Oregon State University research work on computer-aided crosscutting (bucking) of trees into logs. Major considerations for deciding whether to adopt optimal bucking and steps to implement it are described. The bulletin references field studies which evaluated and tested prototype optimal bucking systems
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Logging incentive systems
The use of crew incentives in logging operations in the western United States is an effective way to reduce costs and provide attractive wages. However, such systems require a reliable method of setting the price, a good estimate of the daily costs of labor and equipment, and a method of tracking production output. The introduction of an incentive system requires a substantial initial investment of company managerial time as well as the goodwill and trust of workers. The cost and wage behaviors, as well as the advantages and disadvantages, of five incentive systems are described in this paper. Calculations for the systems are demonstrated. The principles described can be applied to cutting, hauling, yarding and loading, or road construction. They are applicable to the operations of independent contractors or large companies and to union or nonunion crews
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Skyline thinning production and costs : experience from the Willamette Young Stand Project
Production rates and costs for skyline harvesting were examined over a range of residual thinning intensities, operational methods, and sites. The sites included three stands of 40- to 50-yr-old Douglas-fir on the Willamette National Forest in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon. Three silvicultural treatments were studied at two sites, and one silvicultural treatment at the third site. Detailed time studies were conducted on manual felling and uphill skyline yarding with small or mid-size yarders. Separate regression equations were developed to predict delay-free felling cycle time and delay-free yarding cycle time at each site. The three silvicultural treatments had no consistent influence on production rates and costs, because the initial stocking levels varied among treatments and the volume harvested did not necessarily correspond to the silvicultural treatment. Cost differences within sites, where operational methods were uniform, were small. Cost differences among sites for each activity, such as felling or yarding, were larger because of differences in operational methods. Total harvesting costs among the three sites were similar, ranging from 64/100 ft鲁
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Optimal bucking : two trials with commercial OSU BUCK software
Trials to achieve optimal bucking were made with updated OSU-BUCK software in an eastern and a western Oregon location during the summers of 1993 and 1994. The commercial version of the software allows tagging of each log with bar-code identification numbers and therefore provides tracking from stump to customer. Data management is enhanced by automatic creation of input and output files in spreadsheet format. The software allows a choice of scaling rules, and accommodates multiple species while increasing measurement accuracy. The trials showed that, as with previous software, preferred-length requirements are a stumbling block to achieving the most effectiveness. Value and volume increases achieved with OSU-BUCK were moderate. Pairing a Log-Quality Technician with a faller appears to be a promising method for users of optimal-bucking software
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Key issues and future directions of mechanized harvesting : discussions and guidance from working groups
Recognition of the problems and opportunities in mechanized harvesting should help in development of solutions and maximum realization of its potential. This paper presents feedback from five working groups, the members of which were involved in mechanized harvesting issues with various organizations in the Pacific Northwest. The groups identified needs and assigned priorities for research in all areas of mechanized harvesting. Most participants thought the working groups were effective. Suggestions for future workshops included encouraging a broader mix of participants, scheduling a longer session for working groups, and providing more guidance to summarizers. Plans for future studies and stronger interactions with other interests in the forest industry may develop from suggestions of the working groups
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Skyline thinning a western hemlock-Sitka spruce stand : harvesting costs and stand damage
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Economic impact of proposed Oregon Forest Practices Rules on industrial forest lands in the Oregon Coast Range : a case study
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