The first thinning of pole stands took place on Pohorje and Goričko research plots in August 2010. It was carried out by Maribor Forest Management with mechanized logging operations. At both sites harvester Eco Log 580 C and forwarder John Deere 1110 were used. The purpose of this thesis was to test the track recording methods, to determine the suitability of the machinery used on selected sites, to determine differences in rut depths after logging and timber exports and the impact of logging residues to reduce the rut depths. Before thinning 42 profiles on Pohorje and 59 on Goričko were marked.Soil moisture content was measured during the logging and coordinates of track characteristic points after it. The same procedure was followed afterforwarding of timber. Next to profiles the strength of undisturbed soil and the slope of tracks were also measured. The findings show that the method used is appropriate and precise enough. Average width of tracks on Pohorje was366 cm after harvesting and 369 cm after forwarding. And in Goričko it was 409 cm and 417 cm. Tracks were too wide according to the forest age. Average rut depth after both processes is the same, 5 cm on Pohorje and 6 cm in Goričko. There was no significant difference in rut depths between both processes. 91% of the rut depths were under 10 cm on both sites, which means that both machines used were suitable. The effect of logging residues contributed to smaller rut depths. The thicker layer of logging residues is reflected in smaller rut depths and vice versa.
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