Identify site limitations and job needs. Coordinate harvest tree selection, skid trails, log landings, and access roads.
General Guidelines:
- Keep the number and size of landings to the minimum needed to operate safely and efficiently.
- Choose a site that will hold up under anticipated use by heavy equipment.
- Avoid sensitive areas, such as riparian management zones, waterways, caves, springs, seeps, and open sinkholes.
- Maintain an undisturbed buffer strip between log landings and sensitive areas.
- Locate landings on slightly sloping ground where soil and site characteristics facilitate drainage and minimize erosion problems.
- Design landings to provide safe access and visibility onto the highway when next to public roads.
- Consider aesthetics when planning log landings next to roadways and other visually sensitive areas.
- When possible, maintain a buffer screen next to public roads and trails for aesthetic purposes.
- Notify appropriate utility companies before locating landings near overhead and underground utilities.