Stand Damage of a Selection Cutting System in an Uneven Aged Mixed Forest of Çimendaği in Kahramanmaras-Turkey

Abstract

In the uneven-aged mixed forests, logging operation is generally performed by using selection cutting method. However, logging activities result in serious residual stand damages during felling and skidding operations in these stands. Therefore, the effects of main factors on stand damage should be well understood by the logging managers to plan proper logging operations with minimum damage. In this study, the residual stand damages from a logging operation was studied in an uneven-aged mixed forest to examine the main factors (i.e. logging stages, tree species, and location, size, and type) affecting stand damages. Then, some of the
suggestions and practices that can be implemented during logging operations to reduce stand damage were presented.