Optimal assignment of equipment in forest harvesting activities

Abstract

Logging activities require consideration of a large number of resource combinations, and there is a need to use the money invested in them effectively. For this reason, computational tools, principally optimization models, are used in their design. This paper shows a practical application of this technique for planning horizons of variable length (three months ideally), divided into five periods. The model is designed to guide the operative harvest decisions, such as choosing harvest areas, logging equipment and labor considerations. This application proves the feasibility and advantages of its utilization for minor companies.