Assesment the effect of skidding techniques on the ecological efficiency of the skidding tractor

The study aims to build a model for the assessment of soil compaction processes, which take place under the influence of individual components of the skidding system such as a forwarder and a log being moved over the terrain. This aim is relevant in the context of forest preservation and ecological footprint-related issues. The model of a single log impact on the soil is based on establishing calculation formulas for determining soil compaction factors and shelterbelt size. The efficiency of the model was assessed on different soil categories and compared to experimental findings. The value of relative soil compaction within the trail boundary and the size rs of the maximum compaction area in the radial direction from the track, the width of the shelterbelt of undergrowth or cut-to-length root system were estimated based on the initial contact parameters.