Harvesting should be done with consideration to season, stand composition, soil type, soil moisture and type of equipment used. When done correctly, harvesting can benefit site productivity for future forests, improve regeneration and benefit the overall hydrologic function of a wetland site.
BMPs for Wetland Harvest Operations
- Harvest during dry periods if possible to minimize rutting.
- Use low-pressure/high-flotation tires or wide tracks where possible so that excessive damage to residual stand will not occur.
- Keep skidder loads light when rutting is evident.
- Fell trees away from watercourses if possible.
- During harvesting, remove any obstructions in channels resulting from harvesting operations.
- Limit operations on sensitive sites and in SMZs during periods of wet weather.
Rutting
Ruts should not be present to the extent they impede, restrict or change natural water flows and drainages. The determination of excessive rutting is highly subjective and must be made only by a forester or other qualified individual who evaluates rutting extent, depth, soil type, direction and position and other local factors.