Evaluation of Tree Length and Assortment Logging Methods with Respect to Timber Production in Caspian Forest in the Northern Iran

In order to find an efficient way of selective logging methods, two logging methods, in ground skidding systems, were compared with respect to productivity. In this study, for estimating production and cost of a unit volume of wood in two logging methods the work study technique was used. The total productions in tree length and assortment logging methods, without delays were 18.60 and 13.38 m3 h-1, respectively and with delays were 14.60 and 11.43 m3 h-1, respectively. The results of this study show that timber production in the tree length method with the use of trailers for transporting timber to factory yards was higher than the assortment method which used truck for transporting timber. The production costs without delay times in tree length and assortment logging method were 4.30 and 6.27 $ m-3, respectively and with delay time in the tree length method was 5.43 and 7.25 $ m-3 for the assortment logging method.