MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS FOR SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF REDUCED IMPACT LOGGING

Transcription

1 MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS FOR SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF REDUCED IMPACT LOGGING September, 2006 Ministry of Forestry

2 FIFTH TECHNICAL PROCEDURES MANUAL PROJECT ITTO PD 110/01 REV.4 (I) : PROGRAM TO FACILITATE AND PROMOTE ADOPTION OF REDUCED IMPACT LOGGING (RIL) IN INDONESIA AND THE ASIA PACIFIC REGION Management Considerations for Successful Implementation Executing Agency : Center for Forestry Education and Training Forestry Department of Republic of Indonesia Jl. Gunung Batu, P.O. Box. 141 Bogor 16610, Indonesia Phone : (0251) / / Fax : (0251) [email protected] Bogor, September 2006

3 TROPICAL FOREST FOUNDATION Manggala Wanabakti Build., Block IV, Floor 7, Wing B Jl. Jend. Gatot Subroto, Jakarta 10270, Indonesia Telephone: (62-21) , Fax. (62-21) [email protected] ISBN : This publication is intended for widespread use and distribution. All parts of this document may be reproduced to advance the adoption of improved forest practices, providing the is acknowledged as the source. Digital copies of all or part of this manual can obtained from the upon payment of a dupplication and handling charge.

4 Management Considerations for Successful Implementation of Reduced Impact Logging Author : Art Klassen Editor : Hasbillah Design Layout : Mario Ekaroza September, 2006 Prepared for ITTO Project PD 110 / 01 Rev. 4 (I) TROPICAL FOREST FOUNDATION Forestry Departement REPUBLIK OF INDONESIA

5 FOREWORD Foreword This manual is the fifth in a series of technical manuals intended to provide clear, guidance on the implementation of a Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) management strategy in the lowland and hill Dipterocarp forests of Indonesia. Management Considerations for Successful Implementation, goes beyond the technical aspects of RIL into the much more crucial domain of Management. This manual provides a synthesis of how the policies and practices of a forest management concession, fundamentally influences the final outcome of the technical aspects of RIL. In this over-arching perspective, the role of Management is often the most fundamental and influential factor in determining whether a forest management unit can succeed at implementing improved forest management as defined by an RIL standard. This is the final manual on RIL developed by the with i

6 Foreword funds provided by the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO). Preceding manuals in this RIL Technical Procedures series include: 1. Technical Procedures for Topographic Forest Surveys and Tree Mapping. In this first manual, we provide a stepby-step procedure for collecting inventory and contour data in order to produce accurate tree position and contour maps for operational planning. 2. Planning Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging, Explores the various considerations and standards which should be taken into account when planning logging activities under an RIL regime. The manual takes the reader through the recommended steps for preparing a site-specific logging plan. 3. Operational Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging, spans the operational activities from opening the forest, through the felling, bucking, and skidding process, through to the final deactivation of skid trails. A special section on utilization focuses on the issue of logging waste: its causes and suggestions for solutions. 4. Planning, Location, Survey, Construction & Maintenance for Low-Impact Forest Roads. This is a special, stand-alone manual which focuses on the broad spectrum of activities associated with the planning, location, construction and maintenance of a forest road network. The emphasis is on impact reduction. The underlying theme of the manual is that impact costs money and, conversely, less impact results in savings. These manuals have been prepared by the Tropical Forest Foundation under a funding grant from the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO). The executing agency for this grant is the Centre for Forestry Education and Training (CFET) with implementation activities shared by TFF and CFET. Critical comments and suggestions for improvements are welcomed. Please address your correspondence to: ii

7 The Regional Director Manggala Wanabakti, Blk.IV, Lt. 7, Wing B Jl. Jend. Gatot Subroto, Senayan, Jakarta 10270, Indonesia Tel. (+021) Fax. (+021) [email protected] Foreword This manual is available free of cost on request while copies last. This manual is also available as a PDF file and can be downloaded from the TFF website iii

8 Table of Contents TABLE OF CONTENTS FOREWORD... i TABLE OF CONTENTS... iv LIST OF FIGURES... vi LIST OF TABLES... vii LIST OF PHOTOS... viii PREFACE... 1 CHAPTER I An Introduction to RIL Scope of Management Considerations What is RIL? A Framework to Guide Implementation...14 CHAPTER II Government Policy and Practices The Management Role of Government The Intention of the Regulatory Framework The Impact of Poor Regulations The Corruption of Practices CHAPTER III Organizational and Operational Requirements for RIL Organizational Requirements Sufficient Staff Adequate Qualifications Organizational Structure Operational Requirements Definition of tasks and responsibilities Integration of function Communication Feedback CHAPTER IV The Role of Technology and Techniques The Role of Technology Appropriate Equipment iv

9 4.1.2 The Right Tools It s Mostly About Techniques APPENDIX I Sample Standard Operating Procedures...35 SOP 22 : SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREAS...39 Table of Contents SOP 24 : LOGGING PLANNING SOP 25 : SKID TRAIL & LANDING LOCATION SOP 40 : SKID TRAIL & LANDING CONSTRUCTION...53 SOP 41 : UTILIZATION STANDARDS...57 SOP 42 : FELLING AND BUCKING...61 SOP 43 : EXTRACTION ACTIVITIES v

10 List of Figures, Tables and Photos LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 : You can create an SOP for sharpening a pencil!! Figure 22-1 : Constraints to logging Figure 24-1 : Sample logging plan Figure 40-1 : Creating a log matt on minor stream crossing Figure 41-1 : Optimizing recovery of the main stem volume Figure 42-1 : Decission making framework for the faller vi

11 LIST OF TABLES Table 1 : RIL IMPLEMENTATION CRITERIA & INDICATORS FOR INDONESIA...15 List of Figures, Tables and Photos Table 2 : Elements of RIL Compared with Existing Ministry of Forestry Regulations and Suggestions...21 Table 3 : A Proposed Framework for Standard Operating Procedures Covering Forest Administration, Planning and Operations...37 vii

12 List of Figures, Tables and Photos Photo 1 : LIST OF PHOTOS Managements close involvement in operational aspects of RIL is important for successful adoption of RIL techniques... 7 Photo 2 : Collecting tree data Photo 3 : Producing contour maps from field data Photo 4 : Preparing a logging plan Photo 5 : Locating the skid trail network Photo 6 : Opening a skid trail prior to felling Photo 7 : Bucking to minimize waste Photo 8 : Preparing to winch a log Photo 9 : Cross ditching Photo 10 : Waste assessment as part of the evaluation activity Photo 11 : The Sikorsky S-64F Photo 12 : Photo 14 : Normally associated with cable logging in the Pacific Northwest of America and Canada, this Thunderbird TTY-70 skyline yarder Looks can be deceiving! This is not your average crawler tractor Photo 13 : The Rimbaka Timber Harvester Photo 15 : The rubber tired skidder Photo 16 : Using felling wedges; simple but effective in improving directional felling viii

13 PREFACE Preface Ignorance is no longer a legitimate excuse not to implement Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) for most forest concessions. The concept has been around for many years and the technical aspects are fairly well understood. Information and training in RIL is now being offered by a number of organizations so lack of resources is no longer a good excuse either. The benefits of RIL have been demonstrated again and again and the old excuse that, it is too expensive to implement is simply not valid. Furthermore, there are now well known examples of RIL being implemented successfully by forest concessions in Indonesia. However, most forest concession companies who start the process of adopting RIL practices, do not actually follow through with full adoption to the point where the benefits of RIL can be realized at an operational level. Why is something which is obviously of benefit to a forest management company, not being adopted more readily? What are the stumbling blocks? And how can they be removed? This manual sets out to explore these questions and to provide some answers and some guidance towards a more effective adoption of RIL. Increasingly, researchers and practitioners alike, are finding that it 1

14 Preface is often the Management which presents the biggest obstacles to improving forest practices. This can occur in many ways related to attitude, neglect, and inappropriate institutional or operational arrangements. Management can also create an obstacle for RIL adoption by failing to promote suitable techniques and technologies. This manual explores the main obstacles to successful adoption of RIL, which are under the direct control of the Management of a forest concession. The manual also provides guidance on how to overcome these obstacles. Although the primary focus of this manual is the Management of the forest concession company, it is recognized that the Ministry of Forests also has a major role to play in the management of the forest resource. This role is enshrined in forest laws and regulations and brought to bear on the forest concession staff and Management through a system of field visits and regulatory controls. It is becoming increasingly obvious that the forest regulatory system as set by the government, contains many disincentives for the adoption of sustainable forest management and specific management strategies such as RIL. The disincentives can be in the form of poorly formulated regulations or, in the way in which the regulations are administered. Although the manual does not go into detail on the management role of the Ministry of Forests, it highlights the impact which existing policies, regulations, and practices have on the willingness of the forest concession Management to adopt RIL. 2

15 CHAPTER I AN INTRODUCTION TO RIL 1.1 Scope of Management Considerations An Introduction to RIL Reduced Impact Logging (RIL) is usually thought of in very practical terms involving modifications to logging planning, directional felling, appropriate equipment, deactivation of skid trails, and a host of related technical modifications to existing practices. Indeed, these are all important elements of RIL and these are also the elements which are the easiest to address through information dissemination, training, and demonstration. There is however, a much more significant aspect of RIL implementation which is frequently overlooked and which has a much greater influence on whether RIL is effectively adopted or not. This aspect is the role of Management. Company Management will fundamentally determine whether RIL strategies are effectively adopted or whether the entire idea will die a slow death of frustration as individuals within the company struggle with jurisdictional and communication issues as they try to adopt technical solutions. Managements role is one of providing the vision, guidance, and facilitation. To carry out this role, management needs to meet some very basic but crucial conditions. 1. There must be a good understanding of what makes up an RIL system. What the goals, opportunities, and challenges are, and what technical aspects are involved. 2. Management must be fully committed to achieving the implementation of RIL. This is the management commitment which researchers and practitioners of RIL frequently refer to when discussing the problems of RIL adoption. 3. Management must ensure that the right policies, organization structure, trained staff, and appropriate operating procedures, are in place to ensure that all the activities of RIL are implemented in synergy with each other. Chapter I 3

16 An Introduction to RIL In this manual, we try to provide guidance to facilitate a clear understanding of these three crucial conditions. We also look briefly at the role of government in the management equation. In the Indonesian context, the forests belong to the State and the right to harvest is granted to the private sector. Although the private sector conducts all forest management activities which impact directly on the forest, the government through the establishment and implementation of a regulatory framework, significantly influences the behavior of the private sector forest manager. Essentially, the government actions can be seen as either establishing incentives or disincentives for the adoption of sustainable forest management practices such as RIL. 1.2 What is RIL? Reduced-Impact Logging (RIL) consists of technologies and practices that are designed to minimize environmental impacts associated with industrial timber harvesting operations. There is no single, globally applicable definition of what constitutes the technical aspects of RIL because government regulations, forest conditions, terrain, tree sylvics, management practices, logging equipment, and a host of other variables, are different for each tropical forest situation. In the Indonesian/Malaysian situation, a RIL operation should normally include the following: Chapter I Pre-harvest inventory and mapping of individual crop trees. Preparation of accurate, operational scale contour maps. Pre-harvest planning of roads, skid trails, and landings to provide access to the harvest area and to the individual trees scheduled for harvest while minimizing soil disturbance and protecting streams and waterways with properly engineered crossings. The development of written environmental and operational standards to guide planning and operational activities and the integration of these standards into the company structure. The use of controlled felling and bucking techniques including directional felling The development of written felling and bucking standards to minimize logging waste and to maximize volume and value 4

17 recovery. Construction of roads and landings so that they adhere to engineering and environmental guidelines while minimizing soil disturbance, damage to residual vegetation, impact on the forest stream system, and overall impact on the forest landscape. Marking skid trail locations on the ground so the skidder operators can find them easily. Opening skid trails prior to felling. Minimize soil disturbance during the construction and utilization of skid trails through the application of simple guidelines and adequate supervision Winching logs to planned skid trails and ensuring that skidding machines remain on the planned skid trails at all times. On sloping topography, deactivation of skid trails after the operation has been completed (eg. by cross-ditching) to minimize erosion. Conducting post-harvest assessments to provide feedback to the timber concession holder and the logging crews, and to evaluate the degree to which RIL guidelines were applied successfully. An Introduction to RIL For these practices to be applied in a cost-effective and environmentally sound manner, the following prerequisites are essential: The concession holder and logging operator must be able to provide documentation showing that they are legally entitled to harvest the timber within the operational area and that the operation is being conducted in adherence to applicable laws and regulations. A detailed set of operational and environmental standards must exist to which the logging operation will conform, and the managerial, planning, and logging crews must all be thoroughly familiar with these standards. The planning and logging crews must be trained in their respective functions, and they must understand not only what is to be done and how to do it, but also why it is important. Crews must be provided with proper safety equipment and must be trained in its use and maintenance. Knowledgeable, well-trained supervisors must be present in the field to oversee the work, to maintain prescribed standards for the operation, and to ensure that the schedule of activities is followed. Where lodging in a field camp is required, the camp must Chapter I 5

18 An Introduction to RIL adhere to sanitary and dietary standards applicable to the jurisdiction in which it is located. Logging equipment must be suited to the operating conditions and must be maintained in good working condition. Planning and operational activities must be thoroughly integrated in order to ensure that the plans are properly implemented. This may require adjustments to the company s structural and procedural arrangements. A management and control system must be in place that will provide timely operating information to the concession holder, the logging manager, and external auditors. Such a system includes detailed job descriptions, staffing information, equipment inventories, standard operating procedures, and similar information. The conventional approach to logging, as still practiced by most concessions in Indonesia and Malaysia, indeed in most of the tropical world, results in a very high level of impact. Felling and extraction of logs from the forest is usually relatively unplanned. In the conventional operation, the logging crews are free to carry out their logging activities within designated blocks with very little supervision. This unplanned entry into the forest results in a high level of impact to the residual trees which are the basis for the next cutting cycle. It also results in excessive machine movements, hence excessive soil disturbance and destruction of forest vegetation. This, in turn, encourages the establishment of low-value pioneer tree species and the spread of invasive and non-productive vegetative cover. Excessive soil disturbance can also results in major soil erosion and sedimentation of the forest streams with associated negative impacts on local communities. An important implication of the conventional and relatively unplanned approach to logging with the associated excessive impact due to uncontrolled machine movements, is that this approach almost invariably implies inefficiencies. RIL works to correct this situation and provides the forest manager with opportunities to reduce costs through higher productivity, greater efficiency, and better volume recovery. Chapter I RIL can be viewed as a series of techniques which, when taken together, make up a comprehensive management strategy. This strategy takes the planning of the extraction process to the individual tree level. RIL also emphasizes the adoption of standards and operating procedures, which will lead to a greater 6

19 awareness and a more effective implementation of the harvesting activities. Some extra costs are incurred to develop the information needed for this more detailed planning, but most practitioners agree, that significant and immediate financial benefits can be had from better planning, field preparation, and operational control. These benefits are usually expressed in terms of improved efficiency or, production cost savings, which provide a net financial gain to the forest operation. An Introduction to RIL The long-term economic benefits of following an RIL approach to planning and harvesting, are undisputed although not as well studied. By minimizing damage to the forest during the initial harvesting activity, an equal or better second harvest can be expected. Also from both an ecological and social perspective, less impact results in a more sustainable forest. For the purposes of promoting the adoption of RIL through demonstration and training, the has defined an RIL strategy within the context of a series of discrete elements. Most of these elements already exist in a normal logging operation, however, to comply with an RIL standard, most of these elements will require the development of special skills or modifications of existing practices. In some cases additional activities or elements will have to be added to a company s operations. Element 1 Creating an Appropriate Management Environment It is all too often the perception that RIL is essentially a strategy of techniques based largely on technical aspects of planning and extraction. Yet without a firm commitment from Management, it is unlikely that improvements in technical practices alone will ensure the successful Photo 1 : Managements close involvement in operational aspects of RIL is important for successful adoption of RIL techniques. adoption and implementation of the RIL strategy. A strong commitment, based Chapter I 7

20 An Introduction to RIL on an understanding of the potential benefits, is the starting point. Equally important, is a recognition of the existing gaps in skills and understanding of the RIL concept at all levels of the production process. This understanding must, of course, be followed by the implementation of the necessary corrective actions. In many companies, successful implementation of technical or procedural changes necessary for the implementation of RIL, would benefit from the development of clear operational and environmental guidelines, often referred to as standard operating procedures (SOP). The value of a series of SOP s, is only now gaining gradual recognition among the more progressive companies. In order to successfully implement a new set of SOPs, it may be necessary to hire additional personnel, upgrade the technical capability of existing staff, or even, adjust the hierarchy of function and responsibility within a company. (Appendix I for sample SOPs) Element 2 Conducting an Operational Inventory Tree mapping is the product of the 100% inventory which is carried out by most companies under the TPTI 1) silvicultural and administrative system. The regulations governing the 100% inventory require only that tree positions be shown on the maps. It is safe to say that in most companies, these maps are not used for any meaningful operational purpose and that their utility is largely confined to meeting the bureaucratic requirements of the Ministry of Forests. Chapter I Photo 2 : Collecting tree data. 1) Under an RIL system, enhanced data collection can be incorporated into an existing survey procedure to produce maps that have a clear TPTI = Tebang Pilih Tanaman Indonesia / Indonesian Selective Cutting and Planting Silvicultural System. This is the official silvicultural and administrative system under which most of Indonesia s forests are being managed. 8

21 planning and operational utility. Tree positions are usually combined with contours and planimetric detail to produce a comprehensive and useful map. Element 3 Preparing an Operational Scale Contour and Tree Position Map There is little disagreement that operational scale contour maps are a fundamental prerequisite for the successful implementation of RIL, specifically for the successful planning and location of skid trails in the broken topography of Indonesia and Malaysia. Operational scale could vary from 1:1,000 to 1:5,000. The choice of map scale and contour interval should be a function of topographic variability and the level of detail that a forest operation may wish to include on the map. An Introduction to RIL The preparation of such contour maps can be achieved by conventional mapping techniques from aerial photographs, however, for a variety of reasons, this is still far from an achievable reality in Indonesia. TFF has promoted a pragmatic approach to the collection of topographic Photo 3 : Producing contour maps from field data. data whereby the existing 100% inventory procedure is modified slightly to include the collection of elevation data which then makes possible the production of accurate, operational scale contour maps 2). Experience has shown that this modification increases the cost of the inventory by $1.50 to $1.80 per hectare. Operational scale maps which combine contours, planimetric detail and tree position information can be produced using manual cartographic methods or through the use of a variety of computer assisted mapping techniques. 2) Technical Procedures for Topographic Forest Surveys and Tree Mapping, April 2004, first of a Chapter I series of technical procedures manuals covering the implementation of RIL. 9

22 An Introduction to RIL This step will require training of the inventory crews, not so much too collect the necessary data but, more importantly to follow a disciplined survey protocol in order to avoid unmanageable data errors at the mapping stage. Of all the steps in the RIL process, this one presents the biggest technical challenge. Element 4 Planning the Skid Trail Network The operational contour and inventory maps are the basis for the planning of the skid trail network. Skid trail planning 3) is a fundamental element in the RIL system. Be sure to consider the spatial context. Most concessions still use the 100 ha square logging unit boundary system to organize and administer their planning and operational activities. Such boundaries should not be used as the limits of the skid trail planning. Natural barriers such as streams, swamps, ridge tops or excessively steep ground should form the limits of the area which will be skidded to each landing. Successful skid trail system planning must look beyond the artificial administrative boundaries within the approved annual operating area and must be carried out in the context of planning for the most efficient harvest unit. Chapter I A vital ingredient of the logging planning under an RIL Photo 4 : Preparing a logging plan. system, is the incorporation of basic operational and environmental standards. Operational guidelines could refer to simple considerations such as maximum slope of a skid trail or location and design of landings. Environmental standards could relate to slope considerations, riparian management zones, and other possible environmental constraints. Such standards may be best defined and promoted within the context of a comprehensive set of SOP s (see Appendix I). 3) Planning Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging, August 2005, the second in a series of technical procedures manuals covering the implementation of RIL. 10

23 The use of maps for operational planning is poorly developed at the formal education levels and within the concession staff. This skill requirement is often in need of significant training inputs before it can effectively contribute to the implementation of RIL and sustainable forest management. Element 5 Field Location of Skid Trails and Landings Confirm the validity of the planned skid trail network on the ground and demarcate all skid trails by using paint or flagging ribbon. An Introduction to RIL Both the planning and field location of skid trails should be governed by standards which give guidance on how to deal with skid trail slopes and optimum skidding distances as well as dealing with issues of steep ground, environmentally sensitive sites, and streams. Photo 5 : Locating the skid trail network. Crossing streams should be avoided if at all possible in order to maintain water quality and overall hydrological function. Element 6 Opening of the Skid Trails Prior to Felling 4) The benefits of opening the skid trail network prior to felling are not always clearly understood A crawler tractor or skidder should drive along all located skid trails with its blade raised slightly above the ground. The benefit of doing this prior to commencement of felling and skidding activities, is that a clearly visible extraction network is established prior to the commencement of these activities. Photo 6 : Opening a skid trail prior to felling. 4) For guidance to Elements 6 to 10, refer to Operational Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging, March 2006, the third in a series of technical procedures manuals covering the implementation of RIL Chapter I 11

24 An Introduction to RIL The faller has better access and a better sense of the need for directional felling. The soil should not be disturbed and all pole and sapling size trees need to be left on the skid trail. This woody material will help to protect the soil during the skidding operation. Where the skid trail must pass along a sloping hillside, side cutting will, however, be unavoidable. Element 7 Felling - Develop Appropriate Felling and Bucking Guidelines Considerations which could be included in such guidelines include, directional felling, avoiding protected trees and future crop trees, proper bucking to maximize utilization, the use of appropriate techniques, riparian protection zones, and worker safety. Photo 7 : Bucking to minimize waste. Fallers should be trained to take these guidelines into account when choosing the most appropriate felling directions. Since cruising procedures already require the marking of future crop trees and other protected trees, it seems a logical expectation that a faller who knows how to fell a tree, can be taught a few additional points to keep in mind when choosing the most appropriate felling direction. The underlying recognition here, is that the faller is essential the main decision maker in a forest operation since what the faller does has one of the greatest impacts on the forest. The skill level of the faller should be adequate to carry out directional felling effectively. Companies need to ensure that the faller is supplied with appropriate tools to permit directional felling. Chapter I Element 8 Skidding - Develop Appropriate Skidding Guidelines In conventional extraction practices, the skidding activity creates some of the worst damage to the soils and to the residual stands. By planning, locating, and opening the skid trails prior to the commencement of felling activities, 12

25 significant improvements in skidding efficiency and in damage reduction can be achieved. Additional reductions in skidding damage will require close supervision and the adoption of simple skidding guidelines that are appropriate to the individual company or situation. Some Photo 8 : Preparing to winch a log. points to consider include the increased use of the winch, the need to stay on existing predetermined trails, avoiding stream crossings, and, adopting proper strategies for dealing with sensitive sites. An Introduction to RIL Development of such guidelines, or SOP s, should be the responsibility of the individual company so that the guidelines are appropriate to the management system and the physical situation within the concession. For both the felling and skidding activities, it is important that appropriate equipment be used to further enhance the benefits of improved planning and operational control. Element 9 Deactivation In many cases it will be desirable to deactivate the skid trails, particularly in hilly terrain. This should involve cross ditching to minimize channeling and erosion of skid trails with steeper gradients. This activity should be incorporated into Photo 9 : Cross ditching. the normal job description of the tractor operator and should be carried out as soon as each skid trail is finished in order to avoid unnecessary additional cost. As with many of the other operational aspects of the RIL management system, clear and simple guidelines should be developed within the context of the individual operational unit or concession, to best reflect the operating and management Chapter I 13

26 An Introduction to RIL conditions unique to that situation. Where necessary, or appropriate, reclamation of landings and skid trails may be part of this activity, and various techniques can be deployed. Element 10 Evaluation and Monitoring In order to ensure successful implementation of the RIL system and, to provide a meaningful feed-back to the management and staff of a concession, an appropriate evaluation procedure should be developed. This might involve post-logging surveys of the skid trails as a sampling of soil disturbance or other, sampling procedures, or, it might involve a simple field inspection of a logging unit by a designated person and the preparation of a simple report. Photo 10 : Waste assessment as part of the evaluation activity. The purpose of such evaluation and inspection is to provide an internal feedback so that any shortcomings in implementation can be quickly identified and corrected. Such evaluation is also necessary to ensure that management and staff, are constantly aware of the objectives, achievements, and areas requiring improvement with respect to successful implementation of the RIL system. For more detailed technical guidance on the operational considerations of RIL implementation, refer to the manual, Operational Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging, March A Framework to Guide Implementation Chapter I During the process of developing training modules for the adoption of RIL, TFF has found it useful to elaborate on the procedural and technical requirements in the format of a criteria and indicator matrix. 14

27 This matrix can be used by the forest manager as a guide to understanding and implementing the changes necessary to realize the benefits of a RIL system. It can also be used by an outside party to evaluate and monitor the performance of a forest management unit s efforts at adopting RIL. An Introduction to RIL Table 1 : RIL IMPLEMENTATION CRITERIA & INDICATORS FOR INDONESIA Activity or Element Implementation Indicator Implementation Verifier Additional Comments 1. A pre-harvesting, operational inventory has been conducted which identifi es all trees to be harvested and trees to be protected according to the standards set in the Indonesian TPTI 5) or TPTJ 6) silvicultural and administrative systems. 1.1 Field visits verify that the inventory has been conducted and that trees are labeled and numbered according to regulatory requirements Spot checks should be conducted in multiple locations. 1.2 The Company has written standards for its cruising activities including a clearly stated policy, on which trees are suitable for inclusion in the inventory (see audit notes below). 1.3 Cruising summaries (LHP) are available for the entire area to be harvested. 1.4 Document check should verify that species protected by Indonesian law and CITES protocol are not included in the list of species proposed for harvesting. COMMENTS : A 100% inventory is mandatory for Indonesian forest concessions. Requirements and procedures for such an inventory is well documented by the Ministry of Forests (MoF) and available to all companies. MoF regulations detail the inventory, marking, mapping, and reporting procedures for commercial, protected, and future crop trees. The regulation (SK) on minimum stocking standards for concession license and RKT renewal is not considered legitimate for RIL audit purposes as it is counterproductive to the goals of RIL and contains completely unimplementable expectations. 2. Operational scale contour and tree position maps of adequate accuracy are available for the entire area to be harvested annually. 2.1 The company has acquired appropriate scale contour maps through remote sensing methods or has adopted suitable ground survey procedures to permit routine contour and tree position mapping An appropriate operational map scale is not greater than 1:5,000 with contour intervals of not more than 5 m Minimum information content of the operational contour and tree position maps includes all permanent and seasonal watercourses, contours, roads (existing and planned), block boundaries, physical features which could infl uence logging planning, and the location of all trees suitable for harvesting It is recommended that systematic ground surveys leave behind a recognizable survey grid which can be used for fi eld orientation. 5) Tebang Pilih Tanaman Indonesia (Indonesian selective cutting and planting system) Chapter I 6) Tebang Pilih Tanaman Jalur (Selective line cutting and planting system) 15

28 An Introduction to RIL Chapter I Activity or Element COMMENTS : Implementation Indicator Implementation Verifier Additional Comments 2.2 Accuracy of the maps must be adequate to permit accurate planning of skid trails according to contours, location of physical features (streams) and tree location information Field checks will verify accuracy of the map. Tree location should be accurate within a radius of 20m. Although contour mapping is recommended under MoF regulation, it is not an enforceable requirement. However, accurate contour maps play a much larger role in RIL planning than tree position maps, consequently, these indicators and verifi ers are important preconditions to RIL implementation and should be subjected to signifi cant audit scrutiny in the fi eld. 3. Forest roads are planned, located, constructed, and maintained so as to minimize the impact on the forest and related values. 3.1 Company specifi c road standards have been developed to guide the planning, location, construction, maintenance, and deactivation of forest roads. 3.2 Roads are located and constructed according to company standards. 3.3 Road locations are routinely positioned on operational planning maps prior to commencement of logging planning and operations. 3.4 Roads are maintained to minimize erosion. 3.5 Roads no longer required for forest management activities, are deactivated so as to prevent erosion and to safeguard against unauthorized activities. Technical guidance on roads is provided in the TFF Planning, Location, Survey, Construction and Maintenance for Low Impact Forest Roads COMMENTS : 4. Harvesting boundaries are established in the fi eld and shown on the maps according to existing regulatory requirements. 4.1 Procedures for the establishment of logging boundaries are clearly stated Random and representative fi eld checks verify the existence of operational boundaries 4.2 Harvesting boundaries do not confl ict with or overlap with protected area boundaries as identifi ed on a higher order plan, either inside or outside of the concession boundary. COMMENTS : Boundary demarcation is required under MoF regulations. Procedures are prescribed by the MoF in detail. Both map and fi eld checks will be required to verify compliance. 5. The company is in possession of valid concession license and a valid annual cutting permit (SK RKT) COMMENTS : 5.1 Current concession license and annual cutting permit are signed by appropriate authorities A document check verifi es the existence of valid license documents. Possession of a valid concession license and annual cutting permit are part of the legality standard and one of the main pre-conditions for participation in the RIL verifi ed program. 6. Operational scale harvesting plans are prepared showing how the company proposes to carry out harvesting activities. 6.1 Harvesting plans are prepared on the contour and tree position maps. 6.2 The company has developed operational and environmental standards to guide planning and logging activities Operational standards include considerations for maximum gradient of skid trails, soil considerations, location of landings, organization (sub-compartmentalization) considerations 7), and stream crossing procedures. 16

29 Activity or Element Implementation Indicator Implementation Verifier Additional Comments Environmental standards include a policy on maximum slope suitable for ground based logging, riparian buffer zones, stream crossing, considerations for landings, and considerations related to cultural aspects 8). 6.3 The company has designated capable personnel responsible for carrying out detailed logging planning Accurate plans incorporating existing contour and tree position information as well as planning standards, are being routinely prepared. An Introduction to RIL COMMENTS : This is an RIL requirement. The only MoF logging planning requirement is the division of the annual harvest area into +/-100 hectare blocks and the planning of the trucking roads two years prior to harvesteing. However, the preparation of detailed harvest plans by competent personnel is a key element in the successful adoption of RIL practices. 7. Skid trails and landings are located prior to the commencement of felling activities in accordance with operational and environmental standards. 7.1 The company has designated capable personnel responsible for carrying out detailed skid trail and landing location Field checks confi rm that skid trails and landings are being routinely located according to the logging plan and the standards which have been specifi ed. 7.2 Updated maps have been prepared showing actual location of landings and skid trails where there is a variation of the original plan. COMMENTS : Field checking is required to confi rm compliance. 8. Skid trails are opened prior to the commencement of felling activities and in accordance with operational and environmental standards 9) 8.1 The purpose and procedure of opening up skid trails is clearly communicated to operational supervisors and personnel Foremen in charge of logging activities, have up-to-date and accurate maps to guide the extraction activities 8.2 Simple technical guidelines exist for opening the skid trails 10) Field checks confi rm that skid trails and landings are being routinely opened prior to felling and that skid trails and landings are built according to the specifi ed standards. COMMENTS : This is an RIL requirement whcih seeks to ensure that the benefi ts of detailed harvest planning is actually passed on to the operational stage. Experience has shown that opening of the skid trails progressively with the logging operation, does not work effectively in the tall timber and broken terrain conditions commonly found in Indonesia, consequently, opening of the planned and located skid trails prior to felling is an important step in the process of implementating an RIL system. 9. Felling and bucking is carried out according to RIL principles and guidelines. 11) 7) Operational Standards will be published in the manual, Considerations for RIL Planning. 7) Operational Standards will be published in the manual, Considerations for RIL Planning. 8) Environmental Standards will be published in the manual, Considerations for RIL Planning. 9) An operational procedures manual will be published as part of the ITTO project output. 10) These will be included in the procedures manual (see footnote #5) Chapter I 11) See footnote 5. 17

30 An Introduction to RIL Chapter I Activity or Element COMMENTS : Implementation Indicator Implementation Verifier Additional Comments 9.1 Fallers have been instructed on simple decision making criteria to guide their efforts at directional felling. This includes considerations for: personal safety, alignment to skid trail, location of future crop and protected trees, recoverability of the felled tree, and minimizing felling breakage Do the fallers have a pocket sized card covering basic falling and bucking considerations? 9.2 Fallers are equipped with basic safety equipment and tools appropriate for the implementation of directional felling Fallers are supplied with and use basic safety equipment (hardhats) as well as appropriate felling aids such as felling wedges. 9.3 The company has a clear, written utilization policy and bucking standards. This policy should specify maximum tolerable defect, preferred log lengths, and acceptable species. For additional technical details, the manual Operational Considerations for RIL should be consulted. 10. Skidding is carried out in such a way as to minimize soil disturbance and damage to the residual stand. COMMENTS : 10.1 The company has issued operating instructions to tractor operators which seek to ensure that machines remain on the skid trails and maximize winching If the log is within 20 m of the skid trail, it should be extracted using the winch only unless its position is such that there is no clearance under the log for the cable or if there is an obstacle which would prevent direct winching The tractor operator does not develop new skid trails which are not marked in the fi eld without consulting with the foreman There is no evidence of criss-crossing or duplicate skid trails. This is an RIL requirement dealing with skidding. In the Dipterocarp forest, minimizing soil disturbance is the key to ensuring good regeneration. The forest fl oor usually has an abundance of seedlings. With the opening of the forest canopy, the existing regeneration grows agressively. Soil disturbance not only implies destruction of poles and sapplings, but also of the seedlings. Soil disturbance/displacement is the single most important factor affecting forest regeneration. 11. The company has a clearly stated policy for deactivating landings and skid trails aimed at minimizing the risk of erosion. COMMENTS : 11.1 Deactivation guidelines for skid trails should specify how and under what conditions cross-ditching will be done Cross-ditching of skid trails is a part of the tractor operator s normal job description Field checks verify that cross-ditching and deactivation of landings is done according to the company s standards. Field checks are required. Technical guidance is available in the manual, Operational Considerations for RIL. 12. Monitoring and post-harvesting evaluation is being carried out with the intention of providing continuous self-evaluation and feed-back to the management on the implementation of RIL practices Monitoring and evaluation activities have been identifi ed as job descriptions and competent personnel have been instructed to carry out these functions These duties may be added on to the job description of the foreman or new personnel may be appointed as block inspectors. 18

31 Activity or Element COMMENTS : Implementation Indicator Implementation Verifier Additional Comments 12.2 Routine fi eld monitoring is carried out during the logging activities to ensure that RIL objectives are being achieved 12.3 A post harvesting evaluation procedure has been adopted, which assesses compliance with RIL objectives and reports to management Block reports are available. They should cover all aspects of the logging and deactivation requirements and should also report on utilization matters. An attached map indicating the areas logged is desirable. Technical details are provided in the TFF publication, Operational Considerations for RIL. 13. Management has put in place appropriate policies, instructions, and personnel to ensure that all sectors of the operation are clear on the need to modify practices to make the adoption of RIL practices an operational reality. COMMENTS : 13.1 Company policy and instructions to inventory, planning, and operations personnel, state the objectives of adopting RIL and clearly inform on individual job responsibilities Policy statements and/or standard operating procedures exist which describe the various elements of the RIL system Job descriptions exist which demonstrate the integration of function and responsibility Personnel have been designated, trained, and adequately instructed to ensure that all RIL activities are carried out effectively. Guidelines for implementation are provided in the TFF manual, Management Considerations for RIL. An Introduction to RIL Chapter I 19

32 Government Policy and Practices CHAPTER II GOVERNMENT POLICY AND PR ACTICES 2.1 The Management Role of Government Although the focus of this manual is on the management considerations of the private sector forest manager and how he can affect the implementation of RIL, a discussion of this issue would be incomplete without an examination of the role of government as a partner in management. Indonesian forest legislation clearly states that the forests belong to the state and that the government retains the management responsibility to ensure the sustainable management of the country s natural forests. The forest legislation also makes provision for the transfer of the right to harvest the forest, to the private sector, in return for the exercising of management responsibilities and the payment of royalties and taxes as set by government. The government exercises its management responsibility through the development of a regulatory framework consisting of laws, regulations, decrees, and special letters of instruction. This framework includes a complex set of requirements for reporting and inspection. The Ministry of Forests and its provincial and district level forestry agencies are responsible for implementing and administering forest policy through the application of this regulatory framework. Government Commitment The Ministry of Forests has recognized the important and complimentary role, which RIL can play in achieving the goal of sustainable forest management. Chapter II The Government s intention to support the implementation of RIL is mentioned under Criteria 2 and 3 of Criteria and Indicators of Sustainable Forest Management (SK Menhut No. 4795/KPTS 11/2002) signed by the Minister of Forests. Although specific details are not provided in this SK, it is nevertheless an enforceable requirement for the forest concessions. A second SK has been issued by the Director General of Production Forest Management 20

33 (SK DirJen Prod. For. Mgmt. No. 274/VI-PHA/2001). This SK is in the form of a letter of suggestion and provides considerable detail on the technical aspects of RIL. Regulation versus Recommendation The basis for most forest management regulation in Indonesia is the TPTI 1) silvicultural and administrative system. Some of the recognized activities crucial to RIL are clearly spelled out under the TPTI regulations. Other activities are either not explicitly mentioned or are only referred to in broad generalities. Government Policy and Practices Government regulators have attempted to institutionalize the concept of RIL within the overall regulatory framework, by issuing two letters of instruction. The first is in the form of a regulation defining sustainable forest management. In this regulation, the Table 2 : Elements of RIL Compared with Existing Ministry of Forestry Regulations and Suggestions Description of RIL Elements and Activities Commitment of Management TPTI Regulations (SK No. 151/Kpts/IV-BPHH/1993) - Standard Operating Procedures Not specifi cally mentioned - Standards and systems, etc. Pre-harvesting inventory (and vine cutting) Topography and tree position mapping Skid trail planning Yes. Detailed prescription for the inventory procedures Tree position map required; Topography map not mentioned General mention of need to do skid trail planning MoF Letter of Suggestion for RIL (SK No. 274/VI-PHA/2001) Emphasized but no specifi c activities spelled out and no detail provided. Yes. Referred to TPTI inventory procedures (Vine cutting not mentioned) Yes. Both tree position map and operational scale contour map mentioned as important prerequisites The need for skid trail planning is clearly identifi ed Location of skid trails Not mentioned Not specifi cally mentioned Opening skid trails before felling Not mentioned Recommended Felling (standards) Skidding (standards) General comments regarding care in felling General comments regarding care in skidding Deactivation of skid trails Not mentioned Recommended Post harvesting monitoring and evaluation Prescribed as a detailed systematic procedure covering 100% of the area (ITT) Directional felling recommended Discuss need to minimize skidding damage through more emphasis on winching. More subjective evaluation and monitoring emphasized Chapter II 1) Tebang Pilih Tanaman Indonesia or Indonesian selective felling and planting system. 21

34 Government Policy and Practices need to adopt RIL practices is cited under criteria 2 and 3. The second instruction is in the form of a letter of suggestion which provides a much more detailed definition of RIL activities. It should be understood, however, that this detailed definition of RIL is in the form of a suggestion and has no enforceable status. 2.2 The Intention of the Regulatory Framework The purpose of the regulatory framework, is to ensure that the forests are managed sustainably for the production of timber and that their ecological functions are maintained to the benefit of society. The collection of forest revue is one of the ways in which government realizes the benefits of the forest on behalf of the greater society. Indonesia has committed itself repeatedly to the achievement of sustainable forest management in a variety of national and international forums. One of the more notable of these commitments was to the ITTO 2) year 2000 objective which stated that all member countries would strive to achieve the goal of sustainable forest management by the year Although the year 2000 goal was viewed by many as overly optimistic, developments both outside and within the control of the Indonesian government, have resulted in a general movement away from, rather than towards the achievement of this goal. In many areas of Indonesia, the achievement of sustainable forest management will inevitably be linked to the achievement of sustainable development, which, according to the 1987 World Commission on Environment and Development, is defined as: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Chapter II This realization is placing a greater urgency on the need to bring Indonesia s forests under sustainable management where the demands of the industry and society as a whole do not compromise the capability of the forest to fulfill those demands. Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) is, therefore, defined by the ITTO, as: 2) International Tropical Timber Organization 22

35 ... the process of managing permanent forest land to achieve one or more clearly specified objectives of management with regard to the production of a continuous flow of desired forest products and services, without undue reduction of its inherent values and future productivity and without undue undesirable effects on the physical and social environment. 3) 2.3 The Impact of Poor Regulations Government Policy and Practices An argumentative self defense one commonly hears in the halls of the Ministry when discussing the obvious gaps between the intent of the regulatory framework and the substantial different reality one commonly sees in the typical forest concession, is the statement that, the problem is not the regulations, but their implementation. There is obviously substantial truth in this statement but the argument is not entirely one-sided. Indonesia has seen a wealth of forestry projects most of which have included components that analyzed forest administration policy in one form or another. An almost uniform finding has been that the Indonesian forestry sector must deal with an overwhelming maze of laws, decrees, regulations, guidelines and instructions; many having very little or no technical validity; often conflicting in their effect; in some cases actually harming the achievement of sustainable forest management; and in many cases, fundamentally unimplementable for a variety of reasons. Rules, regulations, laws, etc. which are not technically sound or economically viable, or which do not contribute anything positive to the goal of achieving sustainability in overall forest management, will not get properly implemented and will only contribute to a culture of corruption. 2.4 T h e C o r r u p t i o n o f P r a c t i c e s Inappropriate and excessive regulations tend to lead to corrupt practices as company managers seek to avoid excessive costs in applying illogical or inappropriate regulations, and government officials whose job is to enforce the regulations, see this as a means of leveraging extra income. Chapter II 3) ITTO, Criteria for the measurement of sustainable forest management,

36 Government Policy and Practices There is little doubt that Indonesia s regulatory framework is fraught with problems. This has lead to a culture of corruption which adds significantly to the cost of doing business. It has an additional effect in that it frustrates the motivation to work towards sustainable forest management. As a partner in forest management committed to the achievement of sustainable forest management practices such as the adoption of RIL, the Ministry of Forests bears a considerable degree of responsibility for the fact that relatively few of the country s forest concessions have successfully adopted better practices. The solution to this dilema is not more regulations, but better regulations. A simple test should be applied to every regulation or decree : Does it contribute positively to the achievement of sustainable forest management? If the answer is no, not sure, or not clear, serious consideration should be given to revising or even repealing such a regulation. The Indonesian regulatory framework must become more outcome orientated and less restructive to provide forest managers with more insentive to adopt better forest management practices. Chapter II 24

37 CHAPTER III ORGANIZATIONAL AND OPER ATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR RIL Organizational and Operational Requirements for RIL The success or failure of a forest concession s attempt to adopt a RIL forest management regime, depends not so much on mastering the technical aspects as it does on the willingness of the company management to make the necessary adjustments in the way the business of logging is conducted. However, enthusiastic initial endorsement of RIL on the part of company management or ownership, does not automatically lead to the adoption of RIL. Examples abound where a concession company has successfully converted its inventory, mapping, and planning functions to RIL methods only to have the entire effort fail because the logging teams did not implement the RIL logging plans. Such failure of RIL uptake can usually be traced to a breakdown in either (or both) the organizational and operational arrangements within a company. To ensure the adoption of new methods and technologies, is first and foremost a Management responsibility. A strong commitment on the part of the Management is an obvious prerequisite, however, this is not enough. Management must ensure that the necessary organizational and operational requirements are met. From an institutional perspective, one way of ensuring that all the elements of an effective management structure are put in place, is to start with the development of a company-specific set of standard operating procedures (SOPs). Of course this does not eliminate the need for Management to monitor closely all efforts to change to a RIL system, but it can provide a useful framework for ensuring that all personnel in the organization know their job functions and understand how they relate to the previous and the next step in the production process. Chapter III 25

38 Organizational and Operational Requirements for RIL Management Consideration for Successful Implementation A number of sample SOPs have been presented in Appendix I. These should be viewed as a guide only when developing companyspecific SOPs O r g a n i z a t i o n a l R e q u i r e m e n t s The broad goals of an RIL system are to minimize the impact of the logging activity and, to maximize the efficiency of the operation. These are not always mutually achievable in every phase of the operation. A complete inventory of the operating area will obviously cost more than no inventory at all, however, the benefits which can be realized in machine productivity through more effective planning and improved supervision in the logging activity, can more than offset the additional inventory cost and result in the overall realization of both goals: lower logging impact and greater logging efficiency. To achieve this optimization of goals, a forest manager will have to ensure that an important set of preconditions are met. These can be highlighted by posing a series of questions Sufficient Staff Are there sufficient staff to carry out all the key activities? Manpower requirements for labor intensive activities such a forest inventory are well known and the adequacy of existing staffing is relatively easy to verify Adequate Qualifications Do the staff and the forest workers have the necessary skills and qualifications? Basic skill requirements vary with each job. Management must be able to evaluate the competence of the people it puts in charge of the different activities. Chapter III If skill levels are inadequate, is there an external training program available to upgrade the job competence or do internal training programs have to be developed? Organizational Structure Has the manager put in place an organizational structure that 26

39 ensures all essential tasks are carried out? In some cases, changing to an RIL system will require the creation of new job functions. Does the organizational structure accommodate these new job functions and integrate them into an effective system? An example might be the creation of the job function of block inspector to provide effective oversight and monitoring reports to the Management to ensure that the logging activities meet the desired goals. Organizational and Operational Requirements for RIL 3.2 O p e r a t i o n a l R e q u i r e m e n t s The successful adoption of RIL practices is often frustrated by unresolved operational problems Definition of tasks and responsibilities The forest manager or camp manager is primarily interested in achieving production targets and often pays scant attention to essential functions such as operational planning which play an important role in realizing greater efficiency in a logging operation but which traditional have little bearing on the achievement of production targets. If the camp manager does not understand the potential benefits of adopting RIL practices and, if he does not receive clear direction from upper management, he is unlikely to be guided by the efforts of the Planning Department, even though he may have tolerated the development of RIL skills and methodologies at the data collection, mapping, and planning stages. A common outcome of this common situation is that the adoption of RIL never gets past the planning stage. Part of this problem relates to the clear definition of tasks, or job description. For example, unless the requirement of crossditching of completed skid trails is added to the tractor operators job description, it is unlikely to get done Integration of function Most forest concession companies have an organizational structure based on function, hence, inventory and mapping may be carried out by the Inventory Department. There may be a Forest Engineering Department responsible for forest road Chapter III 27

40 Organizational and Operational Requirements for RIL Management Consideration for Successful Implementation planning, location, and survey. Logging is carried out by the Production Department, and so on. The change to a RIL system often begins with the data collection and planning functions. A high level of technical competence can be achieved in the generation of accurate maps and the detailed logging planning, however this does not guarantee the realization of the RIL goals. Management must ensure that systems are in place which define how the efforts of the Planning Department are transferred to the Production Department to ensure that planned and located extraction networks are followed by the tractor operators Communication Effective communication is an unavoidable prerequisite for bringing about change. Improved techniques, new management systems, expanded job descriptions, and trained personnel are all necessary but do not guarantee the adoption of RIL unless there is clear and effective communication. Changes need to be explained. Written instructions are helpful. Meetings are often a useful forum for communicating the intentions and rationale for change and for ensuring effective adoption of new procedures or techniques. It is the Managements role to ensure that effective communication takes place Feedback Changing the habits of people who have become used to do a job in a certain way is not often easy and will take time. Management needs to be aware of problems in adoption as they occur so that corrective action can be taken. For this reason, an RIL system recommends the creation of a monitoring and evaluation function to provide current evaluation of the logging operation against clearly stated goals. Chapter III In most companies, this will require the creation of a new job function or the expansion of the job description for existing staff. Monitoring and evaluation can take various forms and collect 28

41 a variety of information depending on the priorities set by Management. Monitoring is generally an ongoing activity which ensures that production and impact goals of RIL are met. This can be performed by expanding the role of a logging foreman or by creating a new, block inspector position. Evaluation is generally an activity which takes place after the logging has been completed and is intended to provide more formal feedback to the Management. It can also be developed as a procedure which creates a permanent record of activity and outcome for each logging block. In such a case, it could involve: Organizational and Operational Requirements for RIL updating skid trail map to show actual skid trails surveying and sampling skid trails to evaluate overall impact on soil disturbance assessing damage to the residual stand checking for unnecessary skid trails checking for unfinished activities such as crossditching checking for left logs and excessive waste wood identifying and reporting on any corrective actions required identifying on the maps, areas not logged due to environmental or other constraints The outcome of a block evaluation should be an updated map and a brief written report which together form a permanent record of the logging activities in each block. Recommendations for any corrective action required should be clearly stated. Chapter III 29

42 The Role of Technology CHAPTER IV THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY AND TECHNIQUES Technology and techniques is the primary focus of the preceding four procedures manuals for RIL so why include this topic under management considerations? The simple answer is that Management decides on which technology to use and can be instrumental in promoting ensuring the successful adoption of the best techniques. 4.1 The Role of Technology Appropriate Equipment In Indonesia, the Caterpillar D7-G (or the Komatsu) equivalent is the machine of choice for the logging industry. Its attractiveness lies in the fact that it is big enough for road construction and powerful enough to handle the big timber of the Indonesian forests. It is also manufactured in Indonesia which makes its price and the availability of spare parts, an added attraction. It is, however, designed primarily for pushing, not for pulling and is massively destructive in the context of a selective logging operation. Chapter IV The Manager (or Owner) of a forest concession company has the ultimate decision on the choice of equipment. The fact that the standard D7-G bulldozer is the default choice, does not mean there are not options available. Let s take a look at a few. Photo 11 : The Sikorsky S-64F 30

43 The Sikorsky S-64F seen here selectively logging in Sarawak, is an attractive option in terrain conditions which are beyond the economic limits of a conventional crawler tractor. Its high operating cost is partially offset by its production capacity. With an effective payload of 11 tonnes, it can replace up to 17 crawler tractors! The Role of Technology Its use has been well accepted and refined in Sarawak where log prices are set by international markets, unlike the Indonesian market where log prices are typically just over half the Malaysian prices. But log prices in Indonesia have been rising sharply. Perhaps it s time to look again at this very efficient and very low impact logging option. Normally associated with cable logging in the Pacific Northwest of America and Canada, this Thunderbird TTY-70 skyline yarder looks a little out of place in the Dipterocarp forest of East Kalimantan. But PT Sumalindo has made it work in the mountainous terrain where it can access steep slopes and avoid the necessity for applying destructive ground based tractor logging. However, this is not an option that should be considered lightly. It is costly to operate and requires a great deal of specialized training and sophisticated planning. The Rimbaka Timber Harvester is a local Photo 12 : Normally associated with cable logging in the Pacific Northwest of America and Canada, this Thunderbird TTY-70 skyline yarder.... innovation which very effectively addresses the issue of low impact logging. Chapter IV 31

44 The Role of Technology This is a converted excavator and is a collaboration between a Malaysian company and Hyundai of Korea. The excavator arm on this Hyundai 320 has been replaced with a fixed boom supported by a smaller excavator arm which braces the machine when winching and which can also be used to lift logs and excavate skid trails. Photo 13 : The Rimbaka Timber Harvester. A single drum whinch mounted becide the boom, allows whincing in all sorts of terrein from either side of the skid trail. Purchase price and production capacity of this machine is comparable to a Caterpillar D7-G. On the issue of impact, there is no comparison! The Rimbaka Timber Harvester can winch logs from just over 100 meters in all kinds of terrain and leaves the forest in remarkably good condition. An alternative well worth exploring!! Looks can be deceiving! This is not your average crawler tractor. The Caterpillar 527 Track Skidder represents a major redesign of the standard bulldozer. Chapter IV Photo 14 : Looks can be deceiving! This is not your average crawler tractor. Built on the chassis of a D-5 with a repositioned center of gravity, it has comparable power to a D-6 and a winching and pulling capacity not much different than a D-7. Its lower weight ration, high idler configuration, and improved mobility, allow it to outperform the traditional Caterpillar D7-G when it comes to skidding. Designed specifically for pulling, this is an ideal, low impact track skidder highly suited to the SE Asian 32

45 terrain, soil, and timber conditions. It is in widespread use in Sarawak and Sabah but has only made small inroads in the Indonesian logging scene, due primarily to the cost competitiveness and utility of application of the D7-G. The Role of Technology Photo 15 : The rubber tired skidder. For a logging manager looking for a high production, dedicated logging machine which can reduce the impact of logging, this is definitely an option worth considering. The rubber tired skidder is the mainstay of the logging industry in South America and much of tropical Africa but it has had only limited application in SE Asia. It is a faster, more productive logging machine than the crawler tractor but its use in SE Asia is limited due to the steepness of the terrain conditions and the heavy clay soils typical of the region. If you have suitable terrain in your concession, here is a low cost, low impact, high production option to consider The Right Tools Sometimes it s the little things that can make a big difference. Managers need to be open to technical suggestions from their staff that can make a difference in achieving improved efficiency or lower impact. It might be the use of survey ribbon, a new model of chainsaw with anti vibration mounts, a blueprint machine in the production camp, or something as simple as felling wedges. Photo 16 : Using felling wedges; simple but effective in improving directional felling. Chapter IV 33

46 The Role of Technology There are countless ways to make improvements in achieving RIL goals. Having the best tools certainly helps! 4. 2 I t s M o s t l y A b o u t T e c h n i q u e s Technical options to the conventional, high impact crawler tractor are certainly available, but they require major investment decisions. The greatest effect in reducing the impact of logging can still be had through the application of improved techniques. Even the low impact Rimbaka or the improved 527 track skidder won t make a difference if it is not used correctly. By the same token, the performance of the traditional crawler tractor can, in most cases, be greatly improved in terms of increased productivity and reduced impact through the application of RIL techniques. Improved information, better planning, and tighter operational control, are simple techniques which can pay back substantial dividends for minimal investments. It is ultimately up to the Manager to ensure the achievement of RIL goals by supporting the adoption of improved techniques. This can be achieved through: the encouragement of individual initiatives. putting in place the management systems that ensure the creation of a synergy for improvements. promoting training and improvement of worker skills. supporting technical change and innovation, and, encouraging operational trials and research. When it comes to the role of technology in furthering the adoption of RIL, it s mostly about techniques! Chapter IV 34

47 APPENDIX I SAMPLE STANDARD OPER ATING PROCEDURES A standard operating procedure or SOP, is partly a job description, but also a lot more. A good SOP should clearly state the scope of the job or task. It should define the objectives, and, it should indicate how that task relates to the preceding and the following job functions in the overall production process. Sample Standard Operating Procedure A system of SOPs is a useful framework for strengthening Management control and direction of any production process. Creating such a framework is the responsibility of Management and is strictly a internal company affair. TFF has provided a few sample SOPs in the Appendix to help Managers develop their own SOP system. The following table provides an outline for structuring and administering such an SOP system and includes: 1. A document number : Usually a series of numbers is reserved for similar functions within a management or production process. In the table, the numbers 0-9 are reserved for job functions related to Administration matters; the numbers are reserved for job functions related to Management Planning and Policy matters; the numbers are reserved for Operational Planning matters, and so on. 2. The SOP Framework and Title identifies general sections or departmental functions and the individual job descriptions. 3. The Description & Comments column provides a brief description of the content of each general section heading or individual SOP. It is easy to get carried away when developing an SOP framework. Start by conceptualizing an overall system and a method of administering it. Then develop individual SOPs starting with the job descriptions which may be most in need of clarification. If the goal is to implement RIL, perhaps the way to start is to create SOPs for the key jobs which are new to the overall operation Appendix I 35

48 Sample Standard Operating Procedure and which need changes or clarifications. In this Appendix, we present sample SOPs for the job functions that have been shaded blue in the following table. Note that within individual SOP, entrees in blue are editorial comments and are not part of the SOP. The structure of the SOP as reflected in the following table, and the content of the sample SOPs, are suggestions only. Each company should develop their own SOPs which properly reflect their operating and management realities. An SOP is a living document. It is not cast in stone and needs to be reviewed from time to time, and revised as necessary. Administration of an SOP system should take this reality into account. Finally, an SOP system is no good to anyone if it is not applied. Supervisors should be conversant with the SOPs covering the job functions under their jurisdiction. Each worker should understand his responsibilities as defined by the SOP covering his job description. Management will have to ensure that a system of SOP s is properly socialized to ensure its maximum effectiveness. Appendix I Figure 1 : You can create an SOP for sharpening a pencil!!... But, would you want to!! 36

49 Table 3 : A Proposed Framework for Standard Operating Procedures Covering Forest Administration, Planning and Operations Doc. No. SOP Framework and Title Description and Comments 0-9 Administration All administrative procedures; Management Planning and Policy Low level inventory; 20 year and 5 year plans; environmental policy; plicy on rare and endangered species; Operational Planning Stock mapping (100% inventory); contour mapping, block planning; boundary demarcation and survey; etc. 20 Operational Inventory (100%) and Tree Marking Organize existing requirements into a standard SOP format; cross-reference to existing Government procedures and guidelines; add any improvements related to additional data collection requirements; etc. 21 Contour Mapping Supplement to the 100% Inventory SOP for manual data collection and mapping 22 Special Management Areas Riparian zones; steep slopes; buffer areas; protected species, etc. 24 Preparation of Logging Plans Block plans (petak) to include operational and environmental considerations, use of contour and stock maps, etc. 25 Skid Trail and Landing Location Forest Roads Road system planning; road location, survey and design; road construction; road maintenance; road deactivation; 32 Road Location, Survey, and Mapping 34 Road Construction 35 Salvage of Right-of-Way Trees 36 Road Maintenance 37 Erosion Control Measures 39 Road Deactivation Harvesting Operations Skid trail and landing construction; felling and bucking; utilization policy; extraction; 40 Skid Trail and Landing Construction 41 Utilization Standards 42 Felling and Bucking 43 Extraction Activities 44 Log Preparation and Scaling 45 Log Marking and Administration 46 Skid Trail and Landing Deactivation BLUE entries indicate broad categories which make up the SOP system RED entries indicate individual SOP s to be developed as a core priority by TFF Numeric entries indicate a tentative numbering system for the SOPs Sample Standard Appendix I Operating Procedure 37

50 Sample Standard Operating Procedure Doc. No. SOP Framework and Title Description and Comments Monitoring and Evaluation Block assessment and reporting; continuous history mapping; post harvesting survey; 51 Harvesting Supervision and Control 52 Block Assessment Post Harvesting Silvicultural Activities Forest nursery; planting policy and practice; stand improvement; permanent sample plots Health and Safety Community Relations BLUE entries indicate broad categories which make up the SOP system RED entries indicate individual SOP s to be developed as a core priority by TFF Numeric entries indicate a tentative numbering system for the SOPs Appendix I 38

51 1. SCOPE STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 22 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREAS Page Number 1 Special Management Areas include environmentally and socially sensitive areas or values, which require special management consideration during the planning and harvesting operations. This may involve exclusion of logging activities or a restriction of activities that can be carried out within the Special Management Area. Special Management Areas shall include: Sample Standard Operating Procedure Steep slope areas Riparian buffer zones Areas adjacent to settlements or village cultivation areas Protected or socially significant trees or sites. 2. OBJECTIVES 2.1 To comply with national regulations and guidelines governing environmental protection and the preservation of protected tree species. 2.2 To minimize the risk of erosion on steep slopes. 2.3 To minimize the risk of sedimentation of the forest stream systems. 2.4 To minimize the risk of social conflict by protecting values of significance to local communities and by minimizing the impact to environmental values which could affect local communities. 3. REFERENCES TPTI Guidelines / Pedoman TPTI, 151/KPTS/IV- BPHH/1993 Principles and Practices for Forest Harvesting in Indonesia Planning Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging Planning (TFF technical procedures manual) Appendix I 39

52 Sample Standard Operating Procedure STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 70+ Community Relations SOPs SOP # 24 Preparation Of Logging Plans SOP # 42 Felling And Bucking SOP # 40 Skid Trail and Landing Construction SOP # 20 Operational Inventory and Tree Marking SOP # 22 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREAS Page Number 2 4. PROCEDURES 4.1 Steep Slopes: Steep areas will be excluded from ground-based logging if the slope is >50% for a continuous distance of 100m or more Skid trails are not permitted on slopes >50% except where unavoidable when trying to reach a gently sloping area which is suitable for ground based harvesting Felling may occur on slopes over 50% as long as the trees can be felled safely and can be winched out of the steep area. 4.2 Stream Buffer Zones: A stream is a clearly defined watercourse which has running water for at least 2 months per year. Streams are usually characterized by exposed bedrock, gravel, or mineral soil bed and having a well defined channel Streams will be classified according to their average width measured at the high water mark. Streams will be protected by buffer zones as follows: Appendix I Class Stream Width Stream Buffer (L & R) 1 10 meters or more 50 meters meters 25 meters 3 Less than 5 meters 10 meters 40

53 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 22 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREAS Page Number Buffer zones for Class 1 and 2 streams will be marked in the field with paint on trees or, with survey ribbon. Marked trees or survey ribbons will be inter-visible. The paint mark should face into the logging area. Sample Standard Operating Procedure Buffer zones along class 3 streams do not need to be marked in the field but activity constraints must be observed for the planning and during the logging activities A 100m buffer will be maintained and marked around any lake, sea shore, or mangrove swamp area A 50m buffer will be maintained and clearly marked in the field, around any fresh water spring No skid trails are permitted to enter a buffer zone except at designated stream crossings as shown on the logging plan and as located in the field Where stream crossings are unavoidable and have been planned and field checked, care should be taken in the preparation of the stream crossing as described in the SOP # 40 for Skid Trail and Landing Construction Trees may be felled in buffer zones only if they will not fall into or across the stream channel and if they can be winched out of the buffer zone. 4.3 Village Buffer Areas: Buffer zones will be established around forest villages and traditional ladang areas The boundary of the village or village cultivation area will be determined through negotiations with the recognized representatives of the village and in accordance with the procedures described in SOP #70+ for Conflict Resolution Appendix I 41

54 Sample Standard Operating Procedure STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 22 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREAS Page Number The boundary of traditional village lands will be located and marked in the field jointly with representatives of the Company and of the village Village boundaries will be surveyed and shown on all Company maps No logging will be permitted within the designated, surveyed and mapped village buffer zone unless agreed to in writing by the village authorities as provided in SOP #70+ for Conflict Resolution. 4.4 Sites of Special Cultural Significance: Burial sites, shrines or other sites of special cultural or religious significance will be identified and protected During the 100% inventory two years prior to harvesting, the inventory teams will record any features (such as burial sites, shrines, culturally significant trees) which they encounter during their systematic surveys. These features will be mapped on the contour and tree position maps which are prepared for each block according to procedures provided in SOP# The company shall consult with local communities regarding appropriate buffer zones or appropriate protection measures for the culturally significant sites which have been identified in the annual cutting area Exclusion zones will be clearly marked around culturally significant sites as agreed to with local communities. Exclusion zones will be shown on the RIL planning and operational maps. Appendix I 4.5 Protected Species: The following species are excluded from commercial harvesting as per Ministry of Forests regulation, but may be harvested for local consumption under special 42

55 permit only. STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 22 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SPECIAL MANAGEMENT AREAS Page Number 4 Ulin (Eusideroxylon zwagery) Pulai (Alstonia scholaris) Jelutung (Dyera costulata) (Additional species may be added to this list. Consult your local regulations) Sample Standard Operating Procedure In respect of adat rights of local communities, trees bearing fruit such as Durian and Tangkawang will not be cut. Pohon sialang (trees bearing bee hives) shall not be cut Protected species will be marked, recorded, and mapped as described in SOP # 20 for Operational Inventory and Tree Marking Ecologically sensitive sites such as special wetland habitats, cave habitats, identified nesting trees, etc. will be identified where possible during the 100% inventory and shown on the RIL planning and operational maps. Where such features are identified after the inventory is completed, the information will be introduced onto the RIL planning map and included in the RIL planning process. Appendix I Figure 22-1 : Constraints to logging. 43

56 Sample Standard Operating Procedure 1. SCOPE STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 24 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 LOGGING PLANNING Page Number 1 Detailed logging plans will be prepared on a block-by-block basis for the entire annual operating area (RKT). This level of planning is intended to guide logging activities and will make use of the following information to facilitate the planning process. Tree position maps Contour maps Operational Standards (as defined in SOP#22 Special Management Areas) Environmental Standards (as defined in SOP#22 Special Management Areas) 2. OBJECTIVES The objective of a logging plan is to provide detailed, on the ground guidance, to all subsequent logging activities. This is intended to, improve efficiency of the logging operations, maximize recovery of trees felled, and ensure that environmental impact is minimized. A detailed logging plan is intended to supplement information provided in the annual harvesting plan (RKT). Specific objectives of the logging plan are: i) Defining operational limits within the constraints of environmental and social guidelines as detailed in the SOP#22 for Special Management Areas. ii) Defining the optimum extraction network within operational constraints in order to optimize the efficiency of harvesting activities. Appendix I iii) 3. REFERENCES Providing a clear benchmark against which all, subsequent field operations and harvesting activities can be managed and monitored. TPTI Guidelines / Pedoman TPTI, 151/KPTS/IV- 44

57 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 24 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 LOGGING PLANNING Page Number 2 BPHH/1993 Principles and Practices Prinsip dan Praktik Pemanenan Hutan di Indonesia Reduced Impact Logging Guidelines for Indonesia / Pedoman Reduced Impact Logging Indonesia (CIFOR 2001: Elias, Applegate, Kartawinata, Machfudh, Klassen) Planning Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging (TFF technical procedures manual) SOP #22 Special Management Areas Sample Standard Operating Procedure 4. PROCEDURES 4.1 Responsibility: The preparation of detailed logging plans, is the responsibility of the designated staff in the Planning Department Detailed block plans must be approved by the Head of the Planning Department and the Head of the Production Department. 4.2 Maps: Detailed block plans will be prepared on operational scale contour and tree position maps which are prepared as an output of the 100% operational inventory (see SOP#20 for Operational Inventory (100%) and Tree Mapping and SOP#21 for Contour and Tree Position Mapping) Approved copies of the detailed operating plan maps will be made available to the production supervisor, to the foreman in charge of the harvesting activities for each block(s), and to the fellers and tractor operators. (see sample map, Figure 24-1) 4.3 Planning Considerations Operational Constraints The planning of skid trails and landings will take into account Appendix I 45

58 Sample Standard Operating Procedure STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES operational constraints which include: - Skid trails to be planned at gradients of: SOP # 24 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 LOGGING PLANNING Page Number 3 Favourable Skid (down-hill to landing) 35 % Clay soils 45 % Rocky soils Adverse Skid (up-hill to landing) 30 % Clay soils 35 % Rocky soils - Wherever possible, skid trails should be located on ridgetops or gently sloping locations. - Planning should seek to minimize skidding distance within the constraints established by the environmental considerations in section 4.4 of this SOP. - Landings should be planned on gently sloping or ridgetop locations to permit good drainage. 4.4 Planning Considerations Environmental Constraints Environmental considerations to be observed when preparing a detailed logging plan include all environmental constraints identified in SOP#22 Special Management Areas and include: - Skid trails should not cross streams unless absolutely necessary. Where a stream crossing is unavoidable, care should be taken to pick a crossing on the map which shows gently sloping approaches to the crossing. Planned stream crossings must be confirmed in the field. Appendix I - No skid trails in riparian buffer zones unless required for crossing the stream. - No skid trails on slopes over 50% unless required to 46

59 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES access gently sloping areas. 4.5 Plan Preparation: SOP # 24 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 LOGGING PLANNING Page Number 4 Sample Standard Operating Procedure A detailed logging plan will be prepared according to the principles and guidelines established in the manual, Planning Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging. The detailed logging plan will be prepared on an operational scale contour and tree position map. Plan preparation will include the following steps. 1. Ensure that the planning map includes all necessary information including all existing and planned roads. 2. Identify possible landing locations. 3. Identify operational compartments or sub-petaks according to natural boundaries (streams) and the location of the landings. Boundaries of these operational compartments should correspond with logical skidding limits. 4. Mark all areas with a slope over 50% on the contour map 5. Mark all riparian buffer zones 6. Highlight the position of all potentially commercial trees 7. Project a skid trail network which takes into account the operational and environmental planning constraints as defined above. 4.6 Written Plan: A brief, written plan for each petak will be prepared. The written plan will be based on the logging plan map which shows how the petak will be divided into operational units or sub-compartments, utilizing natural boundaries or limits to the logging activities based on topographic considerations Appendix I 47

60 Sample Standard Operating Procedure STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES (see sample map, Figure 24-1). SOP # 24 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 LOGGING PLANNING Page Number 5 The written plan will include summary tables of the operational compartments and will provide anticipated areas to be logged (in hectares), number of potential trees by species, and anticipated volumes to be harvested by species. The written plan will also contain information on areas within the map, which require special attention or protection such as culturally significant sites, ecologically sensitive areas, protected species information, etc. The written plan will also identify the personnel who are responsible for implementing, supervising, and monitoring operational activities. Appendix I 48

61 SOP # 24 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 LOGGING PLANNING Page Number 6 Sample Standard Operating Procedure Appendix I Figure 24-1 : Sample logging plan. 49

62 Sample Standard Operating Procedure SOP # 25 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SKID TRAIL & LANDING LOCATION Page Number 1 1. SCOPE This guideline deals with the location of all landings and skid trails and provides basic standards and procedures for these activities. 2. OBJECTVES 2.1 To locate landings in a way which will minimize loss of productive forest area and still provide an efficient and safe working environment for the loading of logs. 2.2 To guide the location of skid trails in order to optimize skidding distances and to provide a skid trail network which will minimize extraction problems 2.3 To locate skid trails in a manner that will minimize the impact of the extraction process on the residual trees, on the soil, and on the forest hydrology. 3. REFERENCE Principles and Practices for Forest Harvesting in Indonesia TPTI Guidelines / Pedoman TPTI, 151/KPTS/IV- BPHH/1993 Reduced Impact Logging Guidelines for Indonesia (CIFOR 2001: Elias, Applegate, Kuswata, Machfudh, Klassen) Planning Considerations for Reduced Impact Loggiong (TFF technical procedures manual) SOP #24 Preparation of Logging Plans 4. PROCEDURES Appendix I 4.1 Landings (TPN) Landings will be located outside of areas excluded from harvesting and at least 40m from the edge of streams. 50

63 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 25 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SKID TRAIL & LANDING LOCATION Page Number Wherever possible, landings will be located on ridgetop locations and/or on well drained and gently sloping sites. Sample Standard Operating Procedure Landings will be located to optimize skidding distance Where major landings are required, they will not exceed 900 sq.m. in size. The size of a landing includes the area of spoil as well as the working surface. The size of a landing will be determined by the number of logs which are expected to be skidded to that landing. This information can be determined from the contour and tree position map once a skid trail plan has been prepared Care will be taken in constructing the landing so as not to damage adjacent trees and to ensure that good drainage is provided. 4.2 Locating Skid Trails Skid trails will be located and marked by the Planning Department staff. Skid trails may be marked with plastic flagging tape or paint marks which must be easy for a machine operator to follow Skid trails will be located according to the logging plan, taking into account all operating and environmental standards Skid trails will be located so as to avoid abrupt changes in direction. This is intended to minimize skidding damage to residual trees adjacent to the skid trail and to ensure that logs will not get stuck on a poorly located skid trail due to an abrupt change in direction of the skid trail If ground and slope conditions do not permit full implementation of the logging plan, or if trees shown Appendix I 51

64 Sample Standard Operating Procedure STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 25 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SKID TRAIL & LANDING LOCATION Page Number 3 on the map are found to be unsuitable for felling, the logging plan may be modified in the field The final skid trail and landing locations shall be accurately sketched onto the logging plan map. Copies of this updated map must be made available to the logging supervisor, logging foreman and to all fallers and tractor operators for each specific logging compartment. Appendix I 52

65 SOP # 40 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SKID TRAIL & LANDING CONSTRUCTION Page Number 1 1. SCOPE Sample Standard Operating Procedure Skidding includes all activities associated with the opening of the forest in preparation for felling and skidding activities. The two principle activities included in this SOP are: The preparation of landings or TPNs. The opening of the skid trail network. It is assumed that the tractor operator will open only skid trails that have been located and marked in the field according to the procedures and standards described in SOP#25 Skid Trail and Landing Location. A very basic assumption is that the skid trail operator will conform to clear guidelines and standards in the opening of the forest in the interest of minimizing the impact on all resource values, and, in the interest of maximizing production efficiency. 2. OBJECTVES 2.1 To construct landings in a way which will minimize loss of productive forest area and still provide an efficient and safe working environment for the collection, storage and loading of logs. 2.2 To open planned and located skid trails prior to the commencement of felling activities so as to facilitate the felling and extraction process and to minimize the impact on the forest soil, streams, and residual trees. 3. REFERENCE Principles and Practices for Forest Harvesting in Indonesia TPTI Guidelines / Pedoman TPTI, 151/KPTS/IV- BPHH/1993 Reduced Impact Logging Guidelines for Indonesia / Appendix I 53

66 Sample Standard Operating Procedure STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 40 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SKID TRAIL & LANDING CONSTRUCTION Page Number 2 (CIFOR, 2001: Elias, Applegate, Kartawinata, Machfudh, Klassen) SOP #25 Skid Trail and Landing Location Planning Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging (TFF technical procedures manual). Operational Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging (TFF technical procedures manual). 4. PROCEDURES 4.1 Landings (TPN) A supervisor or forest engineering staff will mark the area of the landing before the tractor operator starts the clearing work Landings will not be located in areas excluded from harvesting and will be at least 50m from the edge of a stream Wherever possible, landings will be located on ridgetop locations on well drained and gently sloping sites Landings will be located to optimize skidding distance The size of the landing will be governed by the anticipated log volume which is expected to be delivered to that landing. Harvest planning maps showing skid trail locations and tree positions should be consulted before a landing is constructed Where major landings are required, they will not exceed 900 sq.m. in size. The size of a landing includes the area of spoil as well as the working surface. Appendix I Care will be taken in constructing the landing so as not to damage adjacent trees and to ensure that good drainage is provided. Surface drainage should be directed into the adjacent forest. 54

67 4.2 Opening Skid Trails STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 40 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 SKID TRAIL & LANDING CONSTRUCTION Page Number Skid trails will be opened only as located and marked in the field by the Planning Department. Sample Standard Operating Procedure Skid trails will be opened in each compartment before felling activities begin Care will be taken to avoid soil disturbance during the opening of skid trails. The tractor operator will keep his blade raised unless the skid trail location requires side cutting across steeply sloping ground A chain saw man should accompany the tractor to crosscut old, wind-thrown trees which may be blocking the path of the skid trail or to cross-cut trees which have to be pushed down in order to open the skid trail. This is intended to minimize damage to the surrounding trees by making it easier for the tractor to push aside large woody debris. Appendix I Figure 40-1 : Creating a log matt on minor stream crossing. 55

68 Sample Standard Operating Procedure Where stream crossings are unavoidable and are part of the planned and located skid trails, care will be taken to place logs across the stream to provide a matt for the machine when crossing the stream. The chain saw operator will fell the tree(s) necessary to create a logmatt crossing and will cut the trees into appropriate log lengths Skid trails shall be no wider than the blade width of the tractor. Appendix I 56

69 1. SCOPE STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 41 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 UTILIZATION STANDARDS Page Number 1 Utilization standards set out the company s policy on what portion of a felled tree is taken out of the forest for downstream manufacturing. Sample Standard Operating Procedure Utilization standards are partly a reflection of the company s industrial configuration consequently, they will vary between companies. Utilization standards are also heavily influenced by government policy to the extent that government policy gives a forest concession company leeway to pick and chose which trees it will cut and how effectively it will utilize those trees. This SOP is a management guideline, which establishes primary utilization policy of the company. It is the company s policy to maximize recovery of the main stem volume of all trees which are felled. It is recognized that the faller is a major decision maker in forest management. It is also recognized that how the faller converts a tree into logs, is the first, and possibly the most important determinant on how effectively a tree is utilized. It is further recognized that the final implementation of the company s utilization policy at the forest level, is determined by the scaler at the landing. 2. OBJECTIVES The objective of this SOP clearly state the companies utilization policy at the forest level in order to ensure that all felling, bucking and trimming activities can achieve maximum utilization of the industrial timber resource. 3. REFERENCES Principles and Practices for Forest Harvesting in Indonesia Appendix I 57

70 Sample Standard Operating Procedure STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 41 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 UTILIZATION STANDARDS Page Number 2 Reduced Impact Logging Guidelines for Indonesia / (CIFIR, 2001: Elias, Applegate, Kartawinata, Machfudh, Klassen) Indonesia Grading Rules Ministry of Forests, Decree 212/KPTS/IV-PHH/90 Technical Guidelines for Minimization and Utilization of Logging Waste (Pedoman Teknis Penekanan dan Pemanfaatan Kayu Limbah Pembalokan) Chainsaws in Tropical Countries, 1980, FAO Training Series 2 Operational Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging (TFF technical procedures manual) SOP #42, Felling and Bucking SOP #44, Log Preparation and Scaling 4. PROCEDURES This utilization standard shall guide the company s logging operations to ensure maximum recovery of felled trees and to avoid felling of trees which are unlikely to meet the company s utilization standard. 4.1 Responsibility: The logging supervisor (or logging foreman) is responsible for ensuring the effective implementation of this utilization policy Each faller shall be issued a plasticized, pocket version of the bucking standard to ensure this utilization policy is understood and implemented. 4.2 Species: Appendix I (Provide the fallers with a list of species which are acceptable for felling. This list will vary from company to company depending on their industrial requirements and their transportation constraints. Also provide the fallers with a list of protected species.) 58

71 SOP # 41 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 UTILIZATION STANDARDS Page Number Felling: Sample Standard Operating Procedure Only trees of commercial species and reasonably free of defect, shall be felled Felling height should be as near to the ground as possible in non-buttressed trees. On buttressed trees, felling height should not be above the point where the diameter of the bole begins to diminish into the buttressed portion of the tree. 4.4 Defect Tolerance: Defect tolerance is usually very company specific. Each company should develop clearly stated tolerance limits for the various forms of defect and ensure that logging foremen, supervisors, fallers, and scalers are well informed of these standards Heart rot or hollow logs can be tolerated in logs with a diameter >50 cm as long as the maximum diameter of the hole is not more than 25% of the diameter of the log Knots : tolerance in terms of number of knots per meter and size of knots should be clearly specified Spiral grain is usually not permitted. Any tolerance of spiral grain needs to be clearly stated Crocodile eyes (matta buaya) is generally only permitted in sawlogs Ring shake usually allowed in sawlogs with maximum tolerance limits Off-centre heart (hati pinggir) Degree of tolerance is usually specified for plylogs; usually tolerated in sawlogs. Appendix I 59

72 Sample Standard Operating Procedure SOP # 41 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 UTILIZATION STANDARDS Page Number Diameter and Length: Minimum diameter is 30 cm under bark Minimum knot free length to be included in the bucking of the felled tree is 2 m. (refer to diagram) 4.6 Bucking: Preferred bucking lengths are usually specified by the company Buttresses to be bucked from the butt log at the point where the circular diameter of the log begins to diminish. Any remaining flanges to be bucked off at the felling site When bucking off the crown of the tree, ensure that any section of the bole knot free for 2 m or more is included in the top log. Branches or protruding knots to be bucked off at the felling site. Appendix I Figure 41-1 : Optimizing recovery of the main stem volume. 60

73 SOP # 42 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 FELLING AND BUCKING Page Number 1 1. SCOPE Sample Standard Operating Procedure The felling and bucking of trees is one of the most significant actions in the management of the forest because: How trees are felled impacts on the residual trees which must be protected for future harvests, hence, the felling activity has a direct bearing on sustainability of the productive functions of the forest. Felling can also significantly influence skidding productivity and, therefore, has a direct bearing on operational productivity. Felling and bucking are hazardous tasks which account for some of the highest incidences of injury and fatality in the forest operations. Safety considerations, therefore, are of paramount importance. Bucking of the felled tree is the most significant action which can be taken to ensure maximizing the utilization of the forest and, therefore, is of considerable financial significance. This SOP covers all aspects of the felling and bucking activities and is, therefore, a major aspect of the realization of a forest concession company s utilization policy (SOP #41). 2. OBJECTIVES Objectives of this SOP relate to both felling and bucking activities. Specific objectives of this SOP are to ensure that: Felling: 2.1 Trees are felled safely. 2.2 Trees are felled in a manner that will help to facilitate extraction and efficient production. 2.3 Damage to future crop trees and protected trees is minimized. Appendix I 61

74 Sample Standard Operating Procedure STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 42 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 FELLING AND BUCKING Page Number Trees are felled so that breakage is minimized and trees are not felled into a position where they cannot be extracted 2.5 Buffer zones and protected areas are observed. Bucking: 2.6 Trees are bucked in a way that will maximize wood recovery according to company utilization standards. 2.7 Trees are bucked safely. 2.8 Government and Company policy regarding log tracking and production monitoring is followed. 3. REFERENCES Principles and Practices for Forest Harvesting in Indonesia Reduced Impact Logging Guidelines for Indonesia, (CIFOR 2001: Elias, Applegate, Kartawinata, Machfudh, Klassen) Indonesia Grading Rules Chainsaws in Tropical Countries, 1980, FAO Training Series 2 Operational Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging (TFF technical procedures manual) SOP #41 Utilization Standards SOP #22 Special Management Areas The company may want to develop plasticized felling and bucking standards which include utilization guidelines. Such guidelines should be pocket sized, well illustrated, and should be issued to each faller. Appendix I 4. PROCEDURES 4.1 Responsibility: Each faller has a responsibility to ensure that the objectives and procedures of this SOP are 62

75 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 42 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 FELLING AND BUCKING Page Number 3 implemented The Falling Supervisor or Foreman is responsible for ensuring overall compliance by the fallers under his supervision. Sample Standard Operating Procedure 4.2 Faller Safety: The company will provide fallers with basic safety equipment including a hard hats and gloves Chainsaws will be equipped with basic safety equipment including a chain brake Felling supervisors will ensure that basic safety equipment is being worn during working hours The faller will ensure safety on the work place by: - Evaluating direction of lean - Clearing around the tree - Choosing and clearing two escape paths at each felling site - Checking for felling obstacles, interconnected branches, or high risk crown connectivity. - Use proper undercuts for appropriate for straight trees, leaning trees, etc. according to technical procedures manuals. - Implement a warning procedure before beginning the felling of each tree. - Maintain a safe working distance from other fallers. 4.3 Felling Considerations: a Decision Making Framework Felling procedures should be viewed as a decision making framework for the faller. The following points are considerations that a faller should take into account before felling a tree. The process of decision making may include all or some of the following considerations Determine if the tree is of desirable species and quality. If the tree is suspected of being hollow, make a vertical Appendix I 63

76 Sample Standard Operating Procedure STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES cut to determine presence and diameter of hole. SOP # 42 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 FELLING AND BUCKING Page Number When choosing a felling direction, consider: - The natural lean of the tree - The location of the nearest skid trail so that the felling direction can be aligned to the skid trail to facilitate easy extraction - The location of nearby future crop trees or pohon inti - Avoid felling the tree towards broken terrain to minimize the risk of breakage to the main stem during felling Felling on steep areas (>50% slope) shall be permitted only if the tree can be extracted by winching Buffer zone and protected area guidelines as described in SOP #22 shall be observed at all times. Trees must not be felled into or across streams. 4.4 Bucking to Optimize Utilization It is Company s policy to buck trees so as to maximize recovery according to the utilization standard defined in SOP #41. It is suggested that each company develop plasticized, pocket sized cards or booklet which illustrates the utilization standard and which the fallers must follow. 4.5 Log Administration Appendix I When the tree has been felled (and bucked if necessary), the faller will retain one part of the red tree label for his production record. The second part of the label will be nailed onto the butt end of the log, and the third part of the label will be fixed to the stump. 64

77 SOP # 42 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 FELLING AND BUCKING Page Number 5 Sample Standard Operating Procedure Figure 42-1 : Decission making framework for the faller. Appendix I 65

78 Sample Standard Operating Procedure SOP # 43 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 EXTRACTION ACTIVITIES Page Number 1 1. SCOPE Skidding includes all activities associated with the extraction of logs from the forest to the roadside. 2. OBJECTVES 2.1 To conduct the extraction of logs in a cost efficient manner. 2.2 To minimize the impact of the extraction process on the residual trees, on the soil, and on the forest hydrology. 3. REFERENCE Principles and Practices for Forest Harvesting in Indonesia TPTI Guidelines / Pedoman TPTI, 151/KPTS/IV- BPHH/1993 Reduced Impact Logging Guidelines for Indonesia / (CIFIR, 2001: Elias, Applegate, Kartawinata, Machfudh, Klassen) SOP #40 Skid Trail and Landing Construction Operational Considerations for Reduced Impact Logging (TFF technical procedures manual). 4. PROCEDURES 4.1 Responsibility: Appendix I Each tractor operator has a responsibility to ensure that the objectives and procedures of this SOP are implemented The Logging Supervisor or Foreman is responsible for ensuring overall compliance by the tractor operators under his supervision. 66

79 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SOP # 43 Version 2.0 TFF.specialV-2.0 EXTRACTION ACTIVITIES Page Number The tractor operator is responsible for keeping his machine in good operating condition and performing the daily safety and operational check before beginning the work day. Sample Standard Operating Procedure 4.1 Skidding The tractor operator will confine his movements to the approved and opened skid trails. If it becomes apparent that new trails are required during the course of felling and skidding operations as a result of oversight by the Planning Department, the tractor operator shall contact his supervisor for guidance Wherever feasible, the cable and winch will be used to access felled trees up to a distance of 20m from the skid trail If the tractor has to leave the skid trail to access a tree, the operator should reverse the machine into a position were winching becomes possible Where ever possible, skid trails should enter a landing on an upslope gradient to prevent surface runoff from entering the landing area. 4.2 Rainfall Skidding operations will stop at the onset of rainfall and will resume a minimum of four hours after cessation of rainfall. 4.3 Safety The tractor operator should never start winching a log until he receives an all clear signal from the chockerman The chockerman shall guide the tractor operator to the next log and indicate the best position for accessing a log. Appendix I 67

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