Impact Assessment of Different Propulsion Systems in Forestry Machinery on Soil Properties

Abstract

In forest ecosystems, the selection of appropriate machinery for logging operations is crucial for soil conservation. This study aimed to evaluate the ecological impact of various forestry machines, including wheeled, semi-tracked, and fully tracked types, on key soil parameters. Field experiments were conducted in forested stands, wherein the influence of these machines on soil porosity, compaction, and slope stability was systematically assessed. It was found that wheeled machines, characterized by multiple tires, adversely affect soil structure, leading to increased compaction and reduced porosity. Conversely, machinery with full tracks exhibited significantly lesser impact on soil integrity, suggesting their role in minimizing soil disturbance. Semi-tracked machines, integrating both wheels and tracks, presented an intermediate effect on the soil properties. Parameters such as slope angle, soil porosity, and particle density were meticulously measured and analyzed, providing insights into the varying degrees of soil disturbance caused by each machinery type. The findings underscore the necessity of employing tracked machines to preserve physicochemical soil properties in forest ecosystems. This research contributes to the understanding of the ecological consequences of machinery use in forestry, highlighting the importance of selecting machinery types that align with sustainable forest management practices. The results advocate for a paradigm shift towards machinery that mitigates soil disturbance, thereby supporting the health and sustainability of forest ecosystems. Future research should focus on developing and implementing forest management strategies that prioritize soil conservation, ensuring the long-term viability of forested landscapes. © 2024 The authors. This article is published by IIETA and is licensed under the CC BY 4.0 license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).