Gefällführung

Gefällführung is a term used in forestry to describe the planning and execution process of timber harvests. It encompasses the organization of felling operations, the selection of trees to be felled, the direction in which trees are felled, and the safety and environmental measures associated with harvesting. The aim is to conduct timber removal in a controlled, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner while protecting workers and the remaining stand.

In planning, Gefällführung involves inventory assessment, determination of harvesting targets, assessment of potential hazards, and the design of access routes and fall lines. It includes decisions on the sequence of felling, protection of soil and watercourses, the minimization of damage to adjacent trees, and the consideration of wildlife habitats and regeneration requirements. The planning stage also covers logistics, such as the placement of skidding paths, temporary roads, and storage areas for timber.

During execution, Gefällführung coordinates the actual felling, delimbing, and extraction using appropriate equipment, such as chainsaws, harvesters, and cable yarding if necessary. It emphasizes safety procedures, communication among crew members, and adherence to established fall lines and buffer zones. Monitoring of environmental impact and post-harvest site restoration are integral components.

Legal and professional frameworks governing Gefällführung include occupational safety regulations, forest management laws, and standards for sustainable forestry. The concept supports sustainable timber production by balancing economic objectives with ecological protection and long-term forest health. See also: Fällung, Holzernte, Forstwirtschaft, Waldbau.