Comparison of Harvesting Systems for Western Juniper
Authors
Elizabeth M. Dodson
Forest Management, College of Forestry and Conservation, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, 59812, USA; Phone: 4062435542; Fax: 4062434845
Abstract
Western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) is considered a relatively untapped source of woody biomass with potential to serve as a significant feedstock for regional woodtoenergy systems. A barrier to further development of this market is a lack of information concerning the productivity and costs of juniper harvesting systems. One published study and three unpublished case studies of harvesting western juniper are compared using consistent stand and site variable values and machine costs. Felling, skidding, and log processing processes are compared across a range of conditions. Stump to landing harvesting costs for average conditions ranged from approximately $35/tonne($32/ton) to $96/tonne($87/ton), averaging $74/tonne($67/ton). A lack of robust estimators of juniper volume is identified as a critical research need to aid in the development of western juniper as a woody biomass feedstock.
