Winter Logging Effects on Soil

Research promotes understanding of methods used to protect soil during managment operations.

Currently, a variety of methods are used to protect soil resources during management operations. One recommended method is for use when logging during winter conditions, particularly for wet sites.

In a joint project with the San Dimas Technology Development Center, a pilot study is being conducted on the Hiawatha National Forest (UP-Michigan) to identify suitable winter logging guidelines that can extend the treatment while minimizing impacts to soil resources.

The objectives of the study were to:

1. Identify and test robust indicators of soil conditions including frozen ground, and/or snow conditions by measuring soil temperature, soil moisture, air temperature, and snow depth;

2. Correlate the above and below ground indicators with the mechanical operations used during the treatment; and

3. Develop low-cost, science-based guidelines that can be easily identified in the field by the sale administrator and logger.

A variety of methods were used to collect information on site conditions. First, in fall of 2008, pre-harvest monitoring was conducted to assess site condition and bulk density. During harvest, frost tubes and data loggers were used to collect on-going information regarding the air and soil temperature and moisture status. Also during harvest, data was collected on compacted and uncompacted snow depth, and depth of frost in soils on and off skid trails. The stands will be evaluated again in the 2009 field season to assess post harvest disturbance and compare it to the data collected during harvest operation.

Like all successes, many people worked together to make this project happen, including personnel from the Hiawatha National Forest Soils/Watershed and Timber Programs, the San Dimas Technology and Development Center, Rocky Mountain Research Station, and Michigan Technological University. Furthermore, during the field assessment, two Soil Scientists from the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest helped evaluate the data sheets and field conditions.

It is proposed to extend the study to other Forest Service units in the coming years to assess conditions on a wider range of sites and climatic conditions.

For more information, contact: James Gries at 906-789-3340 or Dan Range at 906-643-7900 x112.