Achieving forest management objectives using mechanized harvesting

Most timber sales in Missouri occur without the assistance of a forester. The result is that most of Missouri's forests have been high graded, some repeatedly. The residual forests have a large amount of low quality, low vigor trees present. Management of these forests with conventional methods has proven difficult. The advent of chip mills and mechanized harvesting equipment in Missouri signals a change in the way Missouri's forests can be managed. Chip mills can utilize low quality and smaller diameter trees that sawmills do not utilize. Greater utilization will result in increased value being placed on forest land. Mechanized harvesting equipment used in regeneration cuttings can eliminate the need for post-sale cultural work. Timber stands that previously could only receive pre-commercial thinning, may now be able to receive commercial thinning when using this equipment. Mechanized harvesting equipment can also be used to commercially thin stands that are being converted to savannahs.