Skidder and Tire Size Effects on Soil Compaction

Abstract

Abstract Soil compaction in a Chewacla silt loam was significantly reduced by the use of larger tire sizes when the soil was moist (at its plastic limit). Reducing the skidder size slightly did not reduce soil compaction significantly. More important in determining compaction levels were soil moisture content and the number of trips the machine made across a site. Although larger tires can reduce soil compaction, reducing logging activity in wet soil or confining traffic to skid roads can minimize site damage.