Investigation of the effect of the harvester operator's operating mode on the preservation of undergrowth

Key Points

• The duration of the harvester operator's work significantly impacts undergrowth preservation, with longer shifts leading to more damage.
• Introducing a two-shift operation schedule could potentially reduce the negative effects on underbrush left by logging machines.
• This analysis highlights the need for optimized operational practices within timber enterprises to better protect forest ecosystems.
• The proposed 8-hour work shift may help in balancing productivity with the conservation of thin-grained trees and undergrowth.