A Second-Generation Model of Timber Harvesting

Abstract

Increased demand for wood and wood products coupled with changes in timber harvesting systems in the Southeastern United States from a labor-intensive to a more costly, almost totally mechanized operation requires optimal use of harvesting equipment. Simulation can provide an inexpensive tool for evaluating harvesting procedures or use of new equipment.Existing harvesting simulation models were evaluated and found to be insufficiently documented and difficult for one lacking computer experience to use.No consensus of what constitutes the essential elements of a model exists.This paper presents the design criteria for a new second-generation model that will be modular, useroriented, and uniform in the level of detail it provides.