The determınation of the effects of logging technıques on some properties of forest soil ın Artvin region

In this study, the effects of three timber logging techniques (skyline, tractor, manpower and chute system) on some physical properties and chemical properties of forest soil were investigated. Some physical (permeability, moisture, water holding capacity, bulk density, fine and coarse soil and soil texture), and chemical (organic matter, electrical conductivity, lime) and soil nutrients (P2O5, K2O, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Zn, Cu ve Mn content) at two soil depths (0-15 cm and 15-30 cm) were determined at the loading, unloading, skid road, and undisturbed plots.The results show that in the region machine passes and manpower can have an important influence on soil permeability, bulk density and the soil water balance, and may therefore considerably affect soil organisms, root development, nutrient and water uptake and in turn lead to reduced trees growth. Besides, the tractor and manpower techniques can significantly reduce soil organic matter and nutrients. It was noted in the field that these two logging techniques constantly removed the litter and humus on the forest floor. This reduced the amount of soil organic matter and nutrients. The removal of the organic matter and nutrients from the soil will also affect soil organisms which play an important role on organic matter decomposition rates. It is concluded that all these negative factors can deplete soil nutrients in the soil and in time reduce the growth and productivity of trees.Key Words: Logging, forest soil, chemical and physical properties, damage, skyline, skidder, manpower, Artvin Region