Salvaging windthrown trees with animal and machine systems in protected areas

The authors tested animal and machine harvesting as alternative systems for salvaging windthrown trees in regenerated patch cuts. Removal intensity was very low, averaging between 10 and 20 m3 ha−1, or between 30 and 60% of the initial stocking. Both systems performed well. Damage to regeneration never exceeded 5% of the total number. Soil disturbance was very shallow, and interested less than 3% of the total area. No significant difference was found between the animal and the machine treatments. From an economic viewpoint, the animal system broke even, whereas the machine system accrued an average profit of over 200€ ha−1. However, profit was not as large as to become a major driver. Park users may represent the main factor when selecting a specific salvage system, and should be the subject of future research.