Thinning aged Douglas-fir: An analysis of mobilization costs and a log bucking strategy for revenue improvement

ontract harvest operations have become the preferred approach to reducing the largest cost component of timber production through free market competition amongst logging contractors bidding or negotiating for work. The goal of this research was to investigate economic components of harvesting operations not previously studied for steep slope thinning harvests in Douglas-fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii) stands. This research explored three important issues affecting Pacific Northwest costs and revenues. On the expense side, mobilization costs associated with wildlife protections restricting harvest operating seasons were modeled for nine Siuslaw National Forest timber sales. Mobilization costs resulting from seasonal restrictions imposed for nesting of northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis ) and marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) were...