Measurements for the thesis took place in the summer and fall of 2009 in the Novo mesto forest management region, Poljane forest management unit, conpartment 43. The purpose of the thesis is to compare the effects of combined machine logging (machine logging combined with a worker using a chainsaw) with motor-manual cutting (the use of a chainsaw and a tractor) in a spruce stand in regeneration with admixture of beech, sycamore maple and fir. Before cutting the trees, we constructed a network of sample plot for analysing mature trees and regeneration and recorded all the specimens on the plot. Following the logging, we analysed the damage to the remaining trees and regeneration and we recorded the light conditions. Findings have shown that both methods yield no significant difference. Combined machine logging brought about 14% of trees to be newly damaged, whereas with motor-manual cutting the damage was done to 16% of trees. All together with old injuries, it accounts for 42% and 45% of trees to be damaged, respectively. In combined machine cutting predominant damage was done to the trunk and in motor-manual cutting damage prevailed on lower part of the bole and roots. With both methods severe damages predominated. The extent of the newly damaged trees and regeneration was greatly dependent on both the position of the plots with regard to the proximity to the skid trail and the intensity of the logging. The damage done to regeneration in combined machine logging in average amounted to 34%, compared to 38% caused by motor-manual cutting. An additional 4.6% of damage to young forest was caused by wild game. Most damage was observed on specimen of up to 50 cm in height and situated close to the skid trails.
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