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Harvesting Plantations
One important advantage of intensive culture of plantations is the suitability of such plantations for mechanized harvest. Considerable effort has been made in developing new machines and in modifying existing equipment for more efficient harvest of short rotation material. Growers should consider the harvest operation in planning the layout and spacing of biomass plantations. This section briefly discusses harvest options. For a more in depth discussion please refer to "High Yield Hybrid Poplar Plantations in the Pacific Northwest."
Small Scale Plantations -
Recommendations for establishment and culture of smaller plantations are similar to those for commercial plantations. The major difference in operations between large and small plantations is in the harvesting scale. Felling in a small scale harvest is generally done with a chain saw.
Larger Plantations -
Although harvest in large plantations can involve highly efficient yarding equipment, chainsaws are an option for felling trees. Most harvesting presently underway in the Northwest uses conventional feller bunchers and grapple skidders.
Soil and Plant Considerations in harvest timing -
Harvesting in the dormant season is desirable under two situations. The first occurs where resprouting is needed. Dormant season harvests give the most consistent and vigorous resprouting. The second is where year-round supply of wood is required, such as for a pulp mill. Soild suited for these plantations may not support harvesting equipment during wet periods without sustaining compaction. Considerable effort is required to restore puddled and compacted soil to former productivity.