The introduction of chain saws and tractors in the early 1950's marked the beginning of a change in tree harvesting techniques from the old manual methods to mechanized operations. It was followed by a rapid evolution both technically and systematically. Hence, the requirements for improved know ledge of operational efficiency also increased. Changing relations between Man, machines and environment brought about new experiences and awareness of a physiological and ergonomic nature. Improved knowledge of both machine technology and planning of work on a small or large scale has grown increa singly important for an efficient utilization of expensive machines and other equipment. The need for a textbook on tree harvesting techniques including expe riences made in recent years is enhanced. The book presented here is prima rily based on lectures given on the subject of Forest Techniques at the Faculty of Forestry at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and after modifications also at the University of Nairobi (Kenya). Thus, the book is written primarily for students at the faculties and institutes of forestry. However, it is also useful for persons actively occupied in forest operations. The presentation of this book in its original Swedish version in 1972 created a considerable interest in the preparation of a condensed edition in English. Thus interest has been expressed in Finland, Norway, Holland, Canada, U.S.A., Brazil, Japan, Poland, Scotland and Yugoslavia.

Of High Reference Value To Foresters And Students Of Forestry, This Book Discusses In Detail The Principles And Practices Involved In Harvesting Timber Crops, With Special Emphasis On Forestry Related Aspects. The Introductory Part Examines The Place Of Harvesting In The Field Of Forestry And Describes In Brief The Activities Related To Planning A Timber Harvest And The Necessary Provisions To Be Made For Workers Engaged In The Actual Harvesting Operation. Making Use Of Appropriate Visual Material In The Form Of Diagrams And Photographs, The Subsequent Chapters Discuss In Detail The Principles And Procedures Concerned With Cutting And Transporting Phases Of Harvesting, In A Logical Sequence. The Last Part Of The Book Is Devoted To The Organisation Of Harvesting Operations, Scaling And Measurement Of Timber Products, And Maintenance Of Records On Costs And Output. A Select Bibliography And An Exhaustive Subject Index Has Been Appended To The Text. Contents Introductions: A Tribute To American Loggers; Part 1- Considerations Preliminary To Actual Harvesting; Chapter 1: Timber Crops- The Goal Of Forestry; Chapter 2: The Development Of Forest Industries In America; Chapter 3: The Origins Of Modern Timber-Harvesting Methods; Chapter 4: Planning The Timber Harvest; Chapter 5: Woods Labor; Part 2- Preparation Of Trees For Removal From The Forest; Chapter 6: Selection Of Trees To Cut; Chapter 7: The Felling Operation; Chapter 8: Bucking Felled Trees; Chapter 9: Hewing, Riving And Peeling; Chapter 10: Tools Used In Felling, Bucking And Processing Trees; Part 3- Movement Of Products From The Forest; Chapter 11: Bunching Products In The Forest; Chapter 12: Skidding Forest Products; Chapter 13: Loading Forest Products; Chapter 14: Transportation Of Products From The Forest; Part 4- Organization And Control Of Harvesting Operations; Chapter 15: Measurement Of Forest Products; Chapter 16: Organization Of Harvesting Operations; Chapter 17: Costs And Records; Chapter 18: Regional Harvesting Practices.