As part of the BIO4RES project, a pilot test is being carried out in the Lles mountains (Cerdanya), in Catalonia, to evaluate new ways of improving forest resilience through innovative forest harvesting systems. This initiative, led by the Centre de Ciència i Tecnologia Forestal de Catalunya (CTFC), seeks to compare the efficiency and sustainability of two different skidder models:
- Equus 175: equipped with clambunk and crane, a system designed to ensure greater versatility and more careful management of the forest environment.
- Camox: a more classical model with two drums.
The main objective is to determine whether the clambunk and crane system (Equus 175) is more efficient, allows for more respectful forest management and minimises damage to uncut trees, compared to the more traditional model.
Details of the pilot test
The trial will be carried out on an area of approximately 5 hectares, with an estimated harvest of 70 m³/ha, in areas with second thinning or thinning characteristics where the timber is marketable. Alternatively, its application will also be evaluated in thinning treatments in irregular forests.
For one week, both skidders will work simultaneously to obtain comparative results to validate the initial hypothesis on the versatility and efficiency of the Equus 175 system compared to Camox.
It should be remembered that the main objective of the BIO4RES project is to improve the prevention and management of fire risk in the forests of the SUDOE area, consolidating the viability of prevention plans through the valorisation of the biomass extracted. Through this approach, BIO4RES promotes the sustainable extraction of biomass as a renewable energy resource, strengthening the resilience of forests and ensuring the preservation of their ecosystem, economic and social services.
