Algorithms for Skidding Distance Modelling on a Raster Digital Terrain Model

Abstract

Algorithms for determining skyline skidding and tractor skidding distances on raster digital terrain models are introduced and presented. Modules named DOWN, UP, STRDOWN, STRUP were programmed in Turbo Basic language to work with a raster Digital Terrain Model. The DTM, interpolated from a set of digitized contours, and all other data were handled in the IDRISI GIS environment.

Implications of these algorithms are discussed, especially their advantages and disadvantages relative to the opening of forests, and more broadly forest operational planning. Flowcharts illustrating the method for calculating tractor and skyline skidding distance are included.