thumb|Tree [[Harvester (forestry)|harvester doing cut-to-length logging<br> (Click for video)]]

thumb|Forwarder

Cut-to-length logging (CTL) is a mechanized harvesting system in which trees are delimbed and cut to length directly at the stump. CTL is typically a two-man, two-machine operation with a harvester felling, delimbing, and bucking trees and a forwarder transporting the logs from the felling to a landing area close to a road accessible by trucks.

CTL is the primary logging method in European countries,

Advantages compared to full-tree logging

  • Cleaner wood since the logs are not skidded on the ground to the landing (in tree length more than full tree)
  • More fresh wood (in tree length more than full tree)
  • Less damage to retained trees in thinning operations
  • Typically requires fewer types of machines in an operation
  • No need to clear large landings close to the road
  • Greater personnel safety due to enclosed/protected machine cabs
  • More environmentally friendly due to:
  • less soil disturbance than in skidding operations (if improper skidding practices take place)
  • no slash dumped at the landing
  • higher retention of foliar nutrients within the harvested area

Disadvantages compared to full-tree logging

  • Somewhat higher capital cost per volume when used in large scale clear cuts
  • Use of more advanced technology requires more operator knowledge and training

Cost

The capital costs for a typical CTL operation, with one harvester and one forwarder, are quite high. The price of a pair of machines alone are approx. US$1,000,000.

See also

  • Logging truck

References

  • Stump Grinder