Improved Harvesting Systems

Improved Harvesting Systems

Cable Systems: Mostly used in industrialized countries, this method is gaining popularity in developing countries where it could significantly lower damage inflicted upon the forest.

Animal Harvesting: Although some activists will object, using animals to harvest timber is far less damaging to the environment than using tractors to extract trees. In addition, animal provide natural nutrient supplements to the areas where they work.

Balloon Systems: Although still experimental, balloon harvesting has potential for removing highly desirable species keep most of the surrounding forest intact. Not really practical at this point for most forms of tree harvesting.

Helicopter Logging: A harvesting system whereby logs are extracted vertically from the forest and flown to a drop zone. Helicopter logging is considerably less damaging, but requires more capital and training. On a per log basis, extraction costs may be lower than traditional selective logging techniques. One concern over helicopter logging is it gives loggers access to previously inaccessible forests like those growing on hillsides and mountain tops