Pic. 1: Stack alongside a forest road
Short- to middle-term storage over bark alongside forest roads – still commonly used (in Germany) in "normal" times between processing and transport to the customer – is in principle not a conservation method, but occurs automatically where timber is sold after logging. The timber is presented in stacks broken down by tree species and grade and ready for removal.
In principal, this storage method could also be applied after calamities, but here the risk of quality degradation through insect infestations is higher. Also, one can’t count on finding a buyer quickly in such cases. The longer the storage period, the worse the degradation. Therefore it is important to store the timber in a way that inhibits or at least slows down quality degradation.
Preconditions
- Green, sound timber, broken down by species, grade, length and diameter;
- Storage over bark. No bark wounds;
- Stacks as big and compact as possible, on shady sites, high humidity, no wind;
- The method is suitable for spruce, fir, and pine (also Douglas fir).
Advantages
- Simple and inexpensive method;
- No investments necessary;
- Storage sites are available in the forest.
Disadvantages
- Success dependent on weather conditions;
- Changes in moisture within the tree can not be influenced;
- Not suitable for long-term storage (> one vegetative period);
- Forest protection situation has to be closely monitored;
- Depending on this, insecticides might have to be applied.
Evaluation and recommendation
Storage of logs over bark alongside forest roads can only be recommended for green, sound, winter-cut timber without bark wounds. In addition, sale of the timber should at least be expected within the next 6 – 12 months.
Depending on forest protection situation, application of insecticides might be necessary.
Costs
No further costs arise.
Storage duration
Storage duration should not exceed 6 – 12 months.
Forest Crises Management Advisory Guide
Back to the main page of the Forestry Crisis Management Advisor Guide: Overview of the different topic collections
Back to the article overview in the: Storm Topic Collection – Coping with Storm Damaged Timber