Small Woodlot Management:
Low Impact Harvesting
Peter Smallidge. NYS Extension Forester. Cornell University Cooperative Extension. Ithaca, NY
pjs23@cornell.edu
607 / 592 – 3640
www.ForestConnect.info
Low impact logging is one part of the small-scale woodlot management approach. Woodland
owners are able to utilize trees that specifically meet their objectives. They are not
obligated to harvest a minimum volume, value, or area to satisfy the necessary operational
thresholds associated with conventional forest harvesting. Owners benefit from a more
thorough knowledge of how their woodland functions. Small-scale systems allow for a more
thorough utilization of trees than is possible through conventional harvesting.
Low-impact logging, with ATV or other small sized equipment, is desired by owners for
many reasons. Low impact logging has a smaller impact on the woodland, often resulting in
less soil disturbance and a reduced likelihood of damage to root systems and the trees left
behind to grow. Do-it-yourself, or small-scale management provides options for woodland
owners not available through conventional, commercial systems. Both small and
conventional systems have appropriate roles.
Low impact logging is also low productivity logging. These systems are not intended to
produce as much wood in a day as the equipment used in larger sized systems. Low impact
equipment is less expensive, with ATV costs between $5,000 and $10,000 and a logging
arch for less than $2,000. Some owner have a small 4 wheel drive tractor, and a log
skidding attachment is about the cost of the arch, or a winching system for about $3,500.
Low impact systems can provide a woodland owner with their wood needs for firewood or
to cut into boards. Small-scale systems may produce about 0.25 to 0.75 full cords per
hour, or 100 to 300 board feet per hour, assuming easy and short skids.
Low impact systems can mesh with owner objectives to utilize small quantities of wood.
Owners can take classes through Cornell University Cooperative Extension to learn about
selecting which trees to cut and which trees to leave. Directional felling is a safe way to
cut trees. Owners operating chainsaws should use a chainsaw safety helmet that protects
head, eyes, and ears. They should also wear cut resistant chaps or pants. Steel toe and
cut resistant boots will protect their feet. A hands-on directional felling course is taught
through the Game of Logging. These courses are offered through ForestConnect, county
offices of Cornell Cooperative Extension, and the NY Forest Owners Association.
Videos of an example low impact system in operation are available on YouTube. Either go
to www.YouTube.com/user/petersmallidge or go to YouTube and search for
“petersmallidge” or “low impact logging”.
Small-Scale Woodlot Management
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Low Impact Logging Safety Considerations
1.
Be where you are! Avoid distractions that take your mind away from the task at hand. If you
find yourself thinking about something other than your low impact logging activity, stop and
either quit for the day or take a break.
2. Keep yourself in good physical condition. Discuss your intended activities with your physician.
Exercise regularly, eat healthy food, and drink plenty of water. Do not use any equipment if you
are taking any drugs, medications, or alcohol.
3. Be familiar with your equipment and know its limitations. Obtain training as needed.
4. Felling trees is the most dangerous activity in low impact logging. Participate in a certified
course that allows participants to practice directional felling. Game of Logging is a nationally
recognized program and has a training curriculum designed for woodland owners. An article
about Game of Logging for Landowners is available at www.ForestConnect.info
5. Inspect your equipment before each use and correct any damage or wear and tear before
operation.
6. Many injuries happen when there is more than one person working. If you work with a partner,
use extra caution.
7. Most low impact logging equipment, ATVs and tractors, are not intended to driven on a sideslope. Avoid side-slopes and the potential to tip and crush the operator.
8. Do not exceed the safe load capacity of your equipment. You may be able to move the log, but
turning and stopping may be compromised.
9. Go slowly in the woods. This reduces wear and tear on your equipment, allows you to look for
hazards, and increases your ability function safely.
10. Use equipment that, minimally, lifts the front end of the log to prevent the log end from
catching on a stump or rock. Examples of this equipment includes an arch, skid cone, or roller
bar. Full suspension with an arch eliminates dirt that dulls chain and band saws.
Operational Strategies & Best Practices
1.
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6.
Obtain and follow a management plan.
Apply silvicultural principles at a smaller scale
Focus on one area of a few acres per year.
Match equipment with the desired annual volume and products.
Anticipate merchandising, multiple objectives and improved utilization using your equipment.
Keep the work area clear. Invest time to create a trail that matches the limitations of your
equipment.
7. Use physics to your advantage.
8. Anticipate and visualize each step of the process, from felling to unloading, before you start.
Small-Scale Woodlot Management
www.ForestConnect.info