SYNOPSIS
Poorly-planned roads and skid trails are largely responsible for the sediment reaching streams in forestry watersheds. Compaction, destruction of topsoil structure and reduced infiltration are increased by harvesting during wet weather on a variety of soils. Sound pre-harvest planning to reduce the area of skid trails and the need to consider the entire machine-soil system are stressed. A preliminary survey of harvesting impacts in Southern Africa show high risks and damage of considerable proportions. There is an urgent need to educate those responsible for managing harvesting and transport operations.