SMALLWOOD

Important results from the project

The overall objective of the SMALLWOOD project is to develop and evaluate new technologies and business and operational models that can support a sustainable management and utilization of different types of small diameter wood. This will be achieved by optimising and testing new Harvesting and Extraction Innovations (HEI) and systems in four European countries (Sweden, Finland, Slovenia and Spain). Studies are done in conventional thinning and coppice stands, strips at beside forest roads and on bushlands for reducing the risk of forest fires.

Expected long term effects

Studies of Bracke C16 show that it is possible to achieve economy when thinning of small dense stands while improving the development potential of the remaining stand. Boom corridor thinning (CT) with Bracke C16 is an efficient work method. The perception among private forest owners is mainly positive towards CT. The perception within forestry companies or state forestry is more varied. CT may become the normal first thinning, but only under the condition that there is a long-term demand for forest biomass in the form of unbranched small trees.

Approach and implementation

Functionality, time consumption and productivity in various small diameter stand (SDS) conditions in Sweden, Finland, Slovenia and Spain was studied on a modified Bracke C16c felling head operated by the same driver. Two other machines was also studied in Spain. The motivation and willingness of private forest owners to utilize SDS resources was analysed. Soil and tree damages on the remaining stand was studied. Materials and energy consumption, as well as emissions was assessed by applying LCA. The forest fire risk was evaluated with wildland fire simulator softwares.

External links

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