Under The Microscope

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS ON FOREST HARVESTING IN THE MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS (FRI Bulletin No 166), by G E Murphy, W M Blundell & B D Fahey; Forest Research Institute 1991; 36 pages; $20 plus GST

This bulletin provides some concrete data on how various factors combine to affect the feasibility of logging in the Sounds. While skyline systems to transport logs could substantially reduce sedimentation problems associated with cutting roads and contour tracks, they also increase costs by as much as 100% and can reduce the net revenue by 60%.

Forest managers need to be aware of the different factors affecting forest resources, particularly in an area like the Sounds where more than simple logging efficiency must be considered.

Cathryn Crane, NZSM