Productivity and cost study of mule logging in Astara watershed forests

Mule logging is one of the traditional logging systems in Caspian forest of Iran، as in many other areas of the world. The objective of this study was to evaluate the productivity and cost of mule logging operation by means of continues time study. The project area was located in district 7 of Astara forest. Time model for wood extraction was calculated using continues time study method after determining work elements. The hourly productions of mule logging with and without delay were 0. 187m3/h and0. 202m3/h، respectively. In model of skidding، skidding distance، slope and load volume were significant variables. Skidding costs with and without delay were 426834 and 395138 Rial per m3، respectively. The results indicated that this timber extracting system is feasible، applicable، and reasonable for small wood procurement area and small size trees and the area which is not in access due to poor road network.