Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Forestry is increasing on an industrial scale where collection of logging residues takes a greater part. This has resulted in more machinery and heavy machinery driving in the clear felled area, this increases the risk of soil damage that will occur in the form of soil compacting and rutting in the clearings. This affecting on the nature in a negative way and especially in rivers and lakes that are affected by siltation and acidification leading to increased levels of heavy metals and methyl mercury. The purpose of this study was to investigate why there is damage to the ground when working with the slash in forest management from the forest officer point of view. A self-designed questionnaire was used and 45 questionnaires were sent out to various companies all over Sweden. Of these, 25 answered the questions, with a shortfall of 44%. The question if there are to few educations possibilities, 8% fully agreed and 80 partly agreed that it was too little education. Of these 33% thought that education paid off afterwards. The issue of follow-up 13 % found it sufficient and 52% said it was not enough follow-ups. It was 67% who had no onsite review where soil loss has occurred, but all 67% would consider introducing onsite review. There are communication gaps between the entrepreneur and employees (45%) but not between the contractor and production managers (35%). 25% find it sufficient and 63% partially agree that it should be more means in the forest such as bridges. On the issue of planned head roads, 45% think it is a solution, while no one is completely against. About ground disturbance and slash in the future, 92% believe that ground damages will not prevent the levying of slash. The belief in slash is strong and 67% believe completely in slash whatever ground damages will occur. Lack of education, follow-ups and communication about ground damages in slash-jack may be possible explanations why there are damage on the ground. Better planning and greater use of supporting devices may be ways to reduce ground damages in the future. The belief in the future for the slash is strong regardless of ground damage effects and to some extent accepted, but in the longer run it should be avoided.