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Case study of qualitative sorting of raw wood assortments in the conditions of a forestry enterprise in Slovakia

Case study of qualitative sorting of raw wood assortments in the conditions of a forestry... Valuation of timber growing in commercial forests is a key issue for forest owners, forest enterprises, but also a start- ing point for long-term planning in the field of forest management. The subjective approach of the evaluator can, to a large extent, lead to inconsistencies in the area of wood qualitative evaluation. This paper aimed to perform an objective qualitative analysis on a selected set of 179 logs of hardwood raw-wood assortments in a selected Forest enterprise in Slovakia. Qualitative analysis, which was performed by the Technical Conditions used by Lesy SR, š.p. confirms the identical classification of raw-wood assortments, in comparison with the classification performed by the management of the forestry enterprise, in 65 logs (36.3% of logs). In 114 (63.7%) logs, the log assortment was classified in another quality class. Most of the logs, which were reclassified to lower quality classes, showed limiting qualitative features of multiple sweep (83 logs), resp. significant simple sweep over 8 cm/m (5 logs), soft rot over 20% of the end diameter area (10 logs), and decaved knots (19 logs). Our work confirmed that the qualitative evalu- ation of raw-wood assortments in forestry enterprises in Slovakia is not optimal and correct. The work should thus contribute to improving the setting of optimization processes in the timber production phase in forestry enterprises. Key words: raw-wood assortments; qualitative sorting; technical standards; qualitative features; qualitative classes Editor: Miloš Pánek 48 0055 Qualitative classification of softwood round 1. Introduction timber and STN 48 0056 Qualitative classification of The qualitative classification of wood is usually car- hardwood round timber). These standards have under- ried out according to the negative qualitative features gone multiple revisions since their inception in 1983. that arose during its growth or were caused by specific The last revision was carried out in 2007. Pursuant to harmful factors (Gejdoš et al. 2021). Based on the per- Act Nr. 264/1999, as amended, any technical conditions mitted range of occurrence of these features, raw wood can be used for quality sorting and trade in timber and usually classifies the relevant technical conditions into become binding only when the trading parties agree on quality classes of raw wood assortments (Karaszewski et them in the commerce treaty (Suchomel & Gejdoš 2010; al. 2013; Šafránek et al. 2016; Malinowski & Wierusze- Gejdoš et al. 2014). Under this legislation, some large wski 2017). Valuation of timber growing in commercial forestry enterprises use different technical conditions, forests is a key issue for forest owners, forest enterprises, which differ in part from the quality standards set in the but also a starting point for long-term planning in for- technical standards. E.g. Forestry enterprise “Lesy SR, est management (Kankare et al. 2014; Korhonen et al. š. p.” use “Technical conditions for the supply of soft- 2016). The quality classes take into account, in particular, wood and hardwood timber in the state enterprise” the way how raw wood is used and processed. An excep- (Holiga & Minďáš 2009). tion is a group of European standards that qualitatively The basic prerequisite for the objective classification classify raw-wood assortments without a known purpose of raw-wood assortments is knowledge of qualitative of use (EN 1316–1, 2, 3 and EN 1927–1, 2, 3). features and methods of measurement and evaluation. In Slovakia, technical conditions from standards Knowledge of the business environment and the portfolio that qualitatively sort raw-wood assortments for which of available customers with their preferences is also often the purpose of their use is known, are generally used required. Unless the quality requirements and the method for qualitative sorting of raw-wood assortments (STN of qualitative classic fi ation of the wood are strictly set out *Corresponding author. Tomáš Gergeľ, e-mail: tomas.gergel@nlcsk.org M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 in the commerce treaty, subjective assessments depend- features did not have a decisive influence on the subject matter of the investigation. ing on the human factor cannot be ruled out. As part of The “Technical conditions for the supply of softwood improving the evaluation process of qualitative features, and hardwood timber in the state enterprise”, valid from current trends are mainly directed towards the process of 1.2.2009 (Holiga & Minďáš 2009) were used for qualita- automating the evaluation of qualitative features. How- tive sorting. These technical conditions were used by the ever, they are mainly implemented in wood processing management of the forestry enterprise in the qualitative enterprises (Geerts 1984; Gejdoš et al. 2019; Gergeľ et classification, which preceded the control qualitative al. 2020). Optimization approaches to the evaluation of assessment. Quality class “III.C2” of these technical qualitative features in the form of expensive technolo- conditions was referred to on the strains as class “III.D”. gies are still economically unprofitable in field forestry Standard certie fi d tools were used for measuring and operations. evaluating the quantitative and qualitative features of the The subjective approach of the evaluator can, to a logs – measuring tape, meter, caliper, extrusion blade, large extent, lead to inconsistencies in the area of quali- axe, portable chain saw. Photographic documentation tative evaluation. These discrepancies may have objec- of the logs was made with a Nikon D850 digital camera. tive reasons in the insufficiently precise specification of A simple Huber formula [1] in the form was used for technical conditions in the wood sorting or the purposeful the approximate calculation of the logs volumes (Šmelko approaches of individual workers in the qualitative evalu- 2015): ation. This paper aims to perform an objective evaluation ଶ ଷ of a selected set of hardwood raw-wood assortments in a ܸ ൌ Ǥ݀ Ǥ ܮ ሾ݉ ሿ [1] Ȁଵ ଶ selected forest enterprise and its comparison with the ini- tial quality classification and subsequent control quality Where: classic fi ation, which was performed by the management V – log volume, d – diameter in the middle (m), of the forestry enterprise. 1/2 L – log length (m). MS Excel software was used for electronic calcula- 2. Material and method tions and records. Only an extract from the Forest Man- The case study of the qualitative evaluation of raw-wood agement Plan in the forest division unit in question was assortments included 179 logs in 4 m wood lengths Eng- available within the documents from the forestry enter- lish oak (Quercus robur), Turkey oak (Quercus cerris), prise. Red oak (Quercus rubra), Black locust (Robinia pseu- As part of the objectification of the evaluation of the doacacia) and Wild cherry (Cerasus avium), which were production and evaluation process of harvested timber, harvested in March 2021 and at the time of the inves- we were allowed to inspect the transport point in the for- tigation stored at the wood storage yard of a forestry est from which the assortments were transported. enterprise in central Slovakia. Qualitative classification We did not have an overview of the supplier-customer as of the assessment date was performed twice. For the relations of the forestry enterprise and commerce treaties first time, the logs were qualitatively assessed during the with business partners. We also did not receive a task list implementation of the assortment harvesting method of supply works for harvesting and skidding in the for- by a group of forest workers who carried out harvesting, est division unit in question. We note that the setting of and the work was taken over by a forester in the field, supplier-customer relationships and commerce treaties who reported these logs to the forest enterprise records in the timber trade can be a major factor that affects the in March 2021. A second qualitative assessment by the quality grading and timber trade, especially in hardwood management of the forestry enterprise in August 2021 logs, the qualitative parameters of the logs are left solely was carried out. Within these two qualitative classifica- to the agreement between the supplier and the customer. tions of logs, there was a discrepancy between the classi- The Information List of the Rapporteur of the National c fi ation of forest workers and e fi ld forester, who classie fi d Forestry Center on Wood Prices from the 3rd quarter of these logs as pulpwood, and the second classification by 2021 (NLC, 2021) was used to compare the economic the enterprise management, which classie fi d a large part evaluation. of these logs (137 pieces) as assortments saw-logs. For objective assessment of the quality of produced assortments, a third control classification was per- 3. results formed. A physical measurement and assessment of the logs of the raw-wood assortments and the quality features The resulting part is focused on a comparative analysis that appeared on them on 10 August 2021 was carried of the quality classic fi ation of 179 logs in 4-meter lengths out. For objectivity, in terms of longer storage period (5 in confrontation with the first and second quality clas - months), could be caused by long-term storage (e.g. sea- sification, which took place in the forestry enterprise in soning cracks, suffocation, discoloration, etc.). However, the months of March to August 2021. in terms of the subject matter of the investigation, these 233 M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 rowest place was 8 m. With such dimensional param- 3.1. Production and technical conditions eters with woodpiles placed on an unpaved surface, an and logs production logistics extended area cannot be considered for additional han- The assessed assortments were harvested in the spring dling of raw wood assortments. For these reasons, the period (March 2021). The assortments were produced chosen harvesting method and method of timber removal directly in the stand in the harvesting process or at the can be considered correct. When selling from a collection transport point. The forester was responsible for the point and producing raw wood assortments by untrained implementation in the assigned forest district. In terms workers, there are often quality losses due to incorrect of the scope of work duties on the two forest districts, quality classification. which are cadastral distant from each other, he could not be physically present in the entire process of harvesting and production of raw-wood assortments, which was 3.2. Qualitative analysis of produced approximately 320 m . The harvest was marked by the raw-wood assortments relevant professional forest manager, forest cultivation officer, and responsible forester. In the marking of log - As part of the qualitative analysis, 179 logs of raw wood ging, a discrepancy between the regulation of the Forest assortments were evaluated in a total volume of 73.22 m Management Plan and the real reality of the true tree- (determined by Huber’s formula). Each log was photo- species composition of the stand (absence of English graphically documented, its quantitative and qualita- oak wood) was found. After the harvesting, the produced tive features measured. At the first classification by field assortments were reported to the head of the forwarding forestry and logging workers, all logs were classified wood storage yard and the management of the forestry as pulpwood. Qualitative reassessment and secondary enterprise. classification were performed by the management of the It was not possible to transport the assortments pro- forestry enterprise at the wood storage yard. It took place duced immediately from the forest stand, as in the spring 5 months after the first classification. An overview of the of 2021 unfavorable weather conditions prevailed and the secondary classification of sections into quality classes transport point and the forest road to it were unpaved. by the management of the forestry enterprise is shown The exit from the transport forest road to the first-class in Figure 1. main road was complicated by heavy traffic and poor After performing a qualitative reassessment, which views on both sides. For these reasons, raw logs in full took place in August 2021, by “Technical conditions length could not be transported to the wood storage yard for the supply of softwood and hardwood timber in the and the assortments produced had to be weighed. It was state enterprise”, the management of the forestry enter- not possible to use semi-trailer and semi-trailer trucks, prise classified and identified 137 logs (76.5%) in higher but only solo trucks, as the spatial parameters of the tim- quality classes than the first qualitative classification by ber storage site did not allow such trucks to turn (Allman forester (V. quality class) in a total volume of 59.48 m . et al. 2019). We physically measured the parameters of Control qualitative classification, which we per- the transport site. Assortments of raw wood were stored formed on 6 August 2021 by “Technical conditions for on a total length of 143 m along the haul road. The widest the supply of softwood and hardwood timber in the state place, even with stored piles, was 14.3 m and the nar- enterprise” conr fi med the identical classic fi ation of raw- Fig. 1. Qualitative classification of raw-wood assortments performed by Forest Enterprise Directorate on centralised timber yard. 234 M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 wood assortments, in comparison with the second clas- with insufficient professional qualifications and in dif - sification performed by the management of the forestry ficult production and technical conditions. enterprise, in 65 logs (36.3% of logs). In 114 (63.7%) From the point of view of economic evaluation, with logs, we classie fi d the log into another quality class. In all the classification of all logs into the quality class of pulp- cases, the logs were reclassified to lower quality classes. wood (as performed by a forestry worker in the field), a The results of our qualitative analysis are shown in Fig- monetization of € 3,038.63 would be achieved. With a ure 2. qualitative classification carried out by the management Fig. 2. Qualitative classification of raw-wood assortments performed by aut hors on centralised timber yard (6.8.2021). Our analysis classified a total of 142 logs (79.32%) of the forestry enterprise, the level of monetization would in the V. quality class in a volume of 57.85 m according reach € 7,449.71 (a difference of € 4,411.08). When re- to the Huber formula. 25 logs (13.9%) in quality class evaluating the logs by our qualitative classification, the D (designation III.C2 in the sense of “Technical condi- total monetization would reach the level of € 4,173.63 tions”) in the volume of 10.46 m . In quality class III.C (a difference of € 1,135). However, these values are only (designation III.C1 in the sense of “Technical condi- indicative and only real business practice would show tions”) 11 logs (6.14%) in the volume of 4.53 m were whether they were real. classified. One log in the total volume of 0.38 m was included in quality class III.B. Most of the logs, which were reclassified to the V. quality class in comparison with the classification of the management of the forest enterprise, showed qualitative features of multiple sweep (83 pieces), resp. significant simple sweep over 8 cm / m (5 pcs.), soft rot over 20% of the end diameter area (10 logs), and decaved knots (19 logs). Some logs involved several limiting qualitative features at the same time. Some examples of a false qualitative classification with a classification class are shown in Figures 3 and 4. It should also be noted that in accordance with “Tech- nical conditions for the supply of softwood and hardwood timber in the state enterprise” there were 25 logs classi- fied in quality class III.D (in the “Technical conditions” it is referred to as “III.C2”). The commercial realization of these logs as a sawlog remains questionable. However, this fact could only be confirmed or refuted by real busi- ness practice. Regardless of this, it can be stated that in the implementation of the production of raw-wood assortments at the transport point/stand during the first quality sorting, a total of 37 logs were mi staken, which Fig. 3. Logs nr. 37 and 85 with multiple sweep and decaved represents 20.6%. It is in the expected interval of error in knots classified by forestry directorate in quality class III.D the implementation of qualitative sorting at the transport (Nr. 37); III.C1 (Nr.85) after control classification in quality point, respectively in forest stand when using workers class V. (both logs). 235 M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 4. Discussion The aim of the expert assessment was primarily to per- form a quantitative and qualitative analysis of 179 pieces of logs stored in the wood storage yard of the forestry enterprise. The performed analysis showed significant differences between the original qualitative classifica - tion and our analysis. The results confirmed the clas- sification of 142 pieces of logs into the V. quality class (pulpwood), as they were classified in the initial phase of the harvesting and production process. 37 logs were classified according to the “Technical conditions” used as sawlogs. Without knowledge of business relations and concluded commerce treaty, it was not possible to assess how many of them will be realized as this assortment, or how many logs from quality class V. customers will take them as sawlogs. In 114 cases, the qualitative classifica- tion was different from the one originally performed by the enterprise’s management. In the future, it is recommended to devote increased attention to the preparation of the harvesting process, the harvesting method used and the logistics of skid- Fig. 4. Logs nr. 89 and 136 with multiple sweep and decaved ding and transporting timber. Although the trend of the knots classified by forestry directorate in quality class III.C1 timber trade is rather moving towards a transport point after control classification in quality class V. (both logs). in forest stands (Borecki et al. 2016), this work has also confirmed that the production of raw-wood assortments 3.3. Economic analysis of produced raw-wood is of better quality at the wood storage yard. However, assortments the conditions and circumstances, in this case, made it very difficult to allow this procedure and, in view of this For the economic evaluation of the produced raw-wood fact, it cannot be described as a significant mistake of assortments, the Price list for III. Quarter for state enter- the workers who carried out the initial classification and prises from the NLC newsletter – Forest Market Infor- production of assortments. mation System (2021). The following table 1 shows a The situation is also complicated by the inconsist- comparison of the qualitative classification in the cases ency of technical standards at the national and interna- carried out in terms of economic impacts. tional levels, as confirmed by work in other countries After taking into account the qualitative evaluation −3 (Malinowski & Wieruszewski 2017). and recalculation of prices in € m by the above price list, the potential realizable amount for the entire vol- ume was € 3,038.63 in the first qualitative classifica- tion, € 7,449.71 in the classification performed by the 5. Conclusion enterprise‘s directorate and € 4,173.63 in the case of our It can be stated that the analysis performed showed sig- qualitative assessment. It can therefore be stated that nificant differences between the original classification after the assessment, the potentially achieved realization and the control classification. Out of the total number of price could have been higher by 1,135 €. However, this 179 pieces of logs in 114 cases, the qualitative classifica- fact can be influenced by many other factors, which we tion was different from the one originally made. have already mentioned above. As a critical qualitative feature when it significantly proved the most common misclassification is a sign of multiple sweep. Table 1. Economic assessment of the qualitative classification in different cases. First qualitative assessment by forester Second qualitative re-assessment by forestry Qualitative analysis performed by authors Qualitative class in forest directorate on centralised timber yard 3 3 3 Volume [m ] Total price [€] Volume [m ] Total price [€] Volume [m ] Total price [€] III. 0 0 1.06 260.99 0 0 III.B 0 0 3.66 701.33 0.38 72.82 III.C 0 0 22.19 1711.74 4.53 349.44 III.D 0 0 32.57 4205.44 10.46 1350.60 V. 73.22 3038.63 13.74 570.21 57.85 2400.78 Together 73.22 3038.63 73.22 7449.71 73.22 4173.63 236 M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 The accuracy of the preparation of the harvesting Gejdoš, M., Suchomel, J., Slováková, I., 2014: Creation process, the harvesting method used and the logistics of of new standard – wood for the production of musical skidding and transporting timber is crucial for the correct instruments. Akustika, 21:14–21. classification of logs. Depending on the conditions, it is Gergeľ, T., Sedliak, M., Bucha, T., Oravec, M., Slamka, not always possible to ensure accuracy. This work also M., Pastor, M., 2020: Prediction Model of Wooden conr fi ms that the production of raw wood assortments is Logs Cutting Patterns and Its Efficiency in Practice. of better quality in the dispatch centralised timber yard, Applied Science, 10:3003. which is the current trend in the timber trade. Holiga, J., Minďáš, J., 2009: Technické podmienky pre In conclusion, it can be stated that the qualitative dodávky ihličnatého a listnatého dreva v š. p., Lesy evaluation of raw-wood assortments in forestry enter- slovenskej republiky, platné od 1. 2. 2009. Lesy SR, prises in Slovakia is not optimal and correct. However, š. p., Banská Bystrica. there is relatively little work that would strictly evaluate Kankare, V., Vauhkonen, J., Tanhuanpää, T., Hol- the accuracy of the qualitative evaluation of raw-wood opainen, M., Vastaranta, M., Joensu, M. et al., 2014: assortments in forestry enterprises. This work should Accuracy in estimation of timber assortments and thus contribute to the improvement and setting up of stem distribution – a comparison of airborne and ter- optimization processes in the production phase in for- restrial laser scanning techniques. Journal of Photo- estry enterprises. grammetry and Remote Sensing. 97:89–97. Karaszewski, Z., Bembenek, M., Mederski, P. S., Szc- zepanska-Alvarez, A., Byczkowski, R., Kozlowska, A. et al., 2013: Identifying Beech Round Wood Qual- Acknowledgements ity – Distributions and the Influence of Defects on This project has received funding from the European Union’s Grading. Drewno, 56:39–54. Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant Malinowski, Z., Wieruszewski, M., 2017: Comparison agreement No. 862681 and APVV-20-0118 “3D CT detection of the large-size wood defects in the European Union and beech log yield optimization”. countries normalization. Sylwan, 161:795–803. Malinowski, Z., Wieruszewski, M., 2017: Comparison of the large-size wood defects in the European Union references countries normalization. Sylwan, 161:795–803. Suchomel, J., Gejdoš, M., 2010: The Inu fl ence of Selected Allman, M., Allmanová, Z., Messingerová, V., Janko- Factors on the occurrence of false heartwood in beech vský, M., 2019: Preprava dreva cestnou a železničnou (Fagus sylvatica). Acta Facultatis Xylologiae, 52:5– dopravou na Slovensku, súčasný stav, technika a technologické možnosti. Technical University in Šafránek, Z., Honzová, M., Vala, V., Dvořák, J., 2016: Zvolen, 154 p. Sorting and covnersion of spruce timber into money Borecki, T., Stepien, E., Wojcik, R., Orzechowski, M., depending on the occurrence of damage caused by 2016: Verification of the principles of accounting for browsing and peeling. Zprávy lesnického výzkumu, the size of the allowable fellings in forest management 61:298–304. planning. Drewno, 59:61–75. Šmelko, Š., 2015: Dendrometria. Technical University Bošeľa, M., Redmond, J., Kučera, M., Marin, G., Adolt, in Zvolen, 401 p. R., Gschwantner, T. et al., 2016: Stem quality assess- ment in European National Forest Inventories: an Other sources opportunity for harmonised reporting? Annals of National Forest Centre, 2021: Informations list. Availa- Forest Science, 73:635–648. ble online: http://www.forestportal.sk/lesne-hospo- Geerts, J., 1984: Mathematical solution for optimising darstvo/informacie-o-lesoch/trhove-spravodajstvo/ the sawing pattern of a log given its dimensions and Informan%20listy/3q2021.pdf [accessed on 10. 2. its defect core. New Zealand Journal of Forestry Sci- 2021]. ence, 14:124–134. STN 48 0055 Qualitative classification of hardwood Gejdoš, M., Danihelová, Z., Suchomel, J., 2021: Analysis round timber (2007). of Qualitative Features Of beech and Oak Trunks As STN 48 0056 Qualitative classification of softwood a Determinant of the Quality Assessment. Forests, round timber (2007). 12:15. STN EN 1309-3 Round and sawn timber – Methods of Gejdoš, M., Gergeľ, T., Bucha, T., Vyhnáliková, Z., 2019: measurements – Part 3: Features and biological deg- Possibilities of image analysis for quality wood sort- radations (2018). ing. Central European Forestry Journal, 65:218–222. http://www.deepdyve.com/assets/images/DeepDyve-Logo-lg.png Forestry Journal de Gruyter

Case study of qualitative sorting of raw wood assortments in the conditions of a forestry enterprise in Slovakia

Gejdoš, Miloš; Gergeľ, Tomáš
Forestry Journal , Volume 68 (4): 6 – Dec 1, 2022
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Abstract

Valuation of timber growing in commercial forests is a key issue for forest owners, forest enterprises, but also a start- ing point for long-term planning in the field of forest management. The subjective approach of the evaluator can, to a large extent, lead to inconsistencies in the area of wood qualitative evaluation. This paper aimed to perform an objective qualitative analysis on a selected set of 179 logs of hardwood raw-wood assortments in a selected Forest enterprise in Slovakia. Qualitative analysis, which was performed by the Technical Conditions used by Lesy SR, š.p. confirms the identical classification of raw-wood assortments, in comparison with the classification performed by the management of the forestry enterprise, in 65 logs (36.3% of logs). In 114 (63.7%) logs, the log assortment was classified in another quality class. Most of the logs, which were reclassified to lower quality classes, showed limiting qualitative features of multiple sweep (83 logs), resp. significant simple sweep over 8 cm/m (5 logs), soft rot over 20% of the end diameter area (10 logs), and decaved knots (19 logs). Our work confirmed that the qualitative evalu- ation of raw-wood assortments in forestry enterprises in Slovakia is not optimal and correct. The work should thus contribute to improving the setting of optimization processes in the timber production phase in forestry enterprises. Key words: raw-wood assortments; qualitative sorting; technical standards; qualitative features; qualitative classes Editor: Miloš Pánek 48 0055 Qualitative classification of softwood round 1. Introduction timber and STN 48 0056 Qualitative classification of The qualitative classification of wood is usually car- hardwood round timber). These standards have under- ried out according to the negative qualitative features gone multiple revisions since their inception in 1983. that arose during its growth or were caused by specific The last revision was carried out in 2007. Pursuant to harmful factors (Gejdoš et al. 2021). Based on the per- Act Nr. 264/1999, as amended, any technical conditions mitted range of occurrence of these features, raw wood can be used for quality sorting and trade in timber and usually classifies the relevant technical conditions into become binding only when the trading parties agree on quality classes of raw wood assortments (Karaszewski et them in the commerce treaty (Suchomel & Gejdoš 2010; al. 2013; Šafránek et al. 2016; Malinowski & Wierusze- Gejdoš et al. 2014). Under this legislation, some large wski 2017). Valuation of timber growing in commercial forestry enterprises use different technical conditions, forests is a key issue for forest owners, forest enterprises, which differ in part from the quality standards set in the but also a starting point for long-term planning in for- technical standards. E.g. Forestry enterprise “Lesy SR, est management (Kankare et al. 2014; Korhonen et al. š. p.” use “Technical conditions for the supply of soft- 2016). The quality classes take into account, in particular, wood and hardwood timber in the state enterprise” the way how raw wood is used and processed. An excep- (Holiga & Minďáš 2009). tion is a group of European standards that qualitatively The basic prerequisite for the objective classification classify raw-wood assortments without a known purpose of raw-wood assortments is knowledge of qualitative of use (EN 1316–1, 2, 3 and EN 1927–1, 2, 3). features and methods of measurement and evaluation. In Slovakia, technical conditions from standards Knowledge of the business environment and the portfolio that qualitatively sort raw-wood assortments for which of available customers with their preferences is also often the purpose of their use is known, are generally used required. Unless the quality requirements and the method for qualitative sorting of raw-wood assortments (STN of qualitative classic fi ation of the wood are strictly set out *Corresponding author. Tomáš Gergeľ, e-mail: tomas.gergel@nlcsk.org M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 in the commerce treaty, subjective assessments depend- features did not have a decisive influence on the subject matter of the investigation. ing on the human factor cannot be ruled out. As part of The “Technical conditions for the supply of softwood improving the evaluation process of qualitative features, and hardwood timber in the state enterprise”, valid from current trends are mainly directed towards the process of 1.2.2009 (Holiga & Minďáš 2009) were used for qualita- automating the evaluation of qualitative features. How- tive sorting. These technical conditions were used by the ever, they are mainly implemented in wood processing management of the forestry enterprise in the qualitative enterprises (Geerts 1984; Gejdoš et al. 2019; Gergeľ et classification, which preceded the control qualitative al. 2020). Optimization approaches to the evaluation of assessment. Quality class “III.C2” of these technical qualitative features in the form of expensive technolo- conditions was referred to on the strains as class “III.D”. gies are still economically unprofitable in field forestry Standard certie fi d tools were used for measuring and operations. evaluating the quantitative and qualitative features of the The subjective approach of the evaluator can, to a logs – measuring tape, meter, caliper, extrusion blade, large extent, lead to inconsistencies in the area of quali- axe, portable chain saw. Photographic documentation tative evaluation. These discrepancies may have objec- of the logs was made with a Nikon D850 digital camera. tive reasons in the insufficiently precise specification of A simple Huber formula [1] in the form was used for technical conditions in the wood sorting or the purposeful the approximate calculation of the logs volumes (Šmelko approaches of individual workers in the qualitative evalu- 2015): ation. This paper aims to perform an objective evaluation ଶ ଷ of a selected set of hardwood raw-wood assortments in a ܸ ൌ Ǥ݀ Ǥ ܮ ሾ݉ ሿ [1] Ȁଵ ଶ selected forest enterprise and its comparison with the ini- tial quality classification and subsequent control quality Where: classic fi ation, which was performed by the management V – log volume, d – diameter in the middle (m), of the forestry enterprise. 1/2 L – log length (m). MS Excel software was used for electronic calcula- 2. Material and method tions and records. Only an extract from the Forest Man- The case study of the qualitative evaluation of raw-wood agement Plan in the forest division unit in question was assortments included 179 logs in 4 m wood lengths Eng- available within the documents from the forestry enter- lish oak (Quercus robur), Turkey oak (Quercus cerris), prise. Red oak (Quercus rubra), Black locust (Robinia pseu- As part of the objectification of the evaluation of the doacacia) and Wild cherry (Cerasus avium), which were production and evaluation process of harvested timber, harvested in March 2021 and at the time of the inves- we were allowed to inspect the transport point in the for- tigation stored at the wood storage yard of a forestry est from which the assortments were transported. enterprise in central Slovakia. Qualitative classification We did not have an overview of the supplier-customer as of the assessment date was performed twice. For the relations of the forestry enterprise and commerce treaties first time, the logs were qualitatively assessed during the with business partners. We also did not receive a task list implementation of the assortment harvesting method of supply works for harvesting and skidding in the for- by a group of forest workers who carried out harvesting, est division unit in question. We note that the setting of and the work was taken over by a forester in the field, supplier-customer relationships and commerce treaties who reported these logs to the forest enterprise records in the timber trade can be a major factor that affects the in March 2021. A second qualitative assessment by the quality grading and timber trade, especially in hardwood management of the forestry enterprise in August 2021 logs, the qualitative parameters of the logs are left solely was carried out. Within these two qualitative classifica- to the agreement between the supplier and the customer. tions of logs, there was a discrepancy between the classi- The Information List of the Rapporteur of the National c fi ation of forest workers and e fi ld forester, who classie fi d Forestry Center on Wood Prices from the 3rd quarter of these logs as pulpwood, and the second classification by 2021 (NLC, 2021) was used to compare the economic the enterprise management, which classie fi d a large part evaluation. of these logs (137 pieces) as assortments saw-logs. For objective assessment of the quality of produced assortments, a third control classification was per- 3. results formed. A physical measurement and assessment of the logs of the raw-wood assortments and the quality features The resulting part is focused on a comparative analysis that appeared on them on 10 August 2021 was carried of the quality classic fi ation of 179 logs in 4-meter lengths out. For objectivity, in terms of longer storage period (5 in confrontation with the first and second quality clas - months), could be caused by long-term storage (e.g. sea- sification, which took place in the forestry enterprise in soning cracks, suffocation, discoloration, etc.). However, the months of March to August 2021. in terms of the subject matter of the investigation, these 233 M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 rowest place was 8 m. With such dimensional param- 3.1. Production and technical conditions eters with woodpiles placed on an unpaved surface, an and logs production logistics extended area cannot be considered for additional han- The assessed assortments were harvested in the spring dling of raw wood assortments. For these reasons, the period (March 2021). The assortments were produced chosen harvesting method and method of timber removal directly in the stand in the harvesting process or at the can be considered correct. When selling from a collection transport point. The forester was responsible for the point and producing raw wood assortments by untrained implementation in the assigned forest district. In terms workers, there are often quality losses due to incorrect of the scope of work duties on the two forest districts, quality classification. which are cadastral distant from each other, he could not be physically present in the entire process of harvesting and production of raw-wood assortments, which was 3.2. Qualitative analysis of produced approximately 320 m . The harvest was marked by the raw-wood assortments relevant professional forest manager, forest cultivation officer, and responsible forester. In the marking of log - As part of the qualitative analysis, 179 logs of raw wood ging, a discrepancy between the regulation of the Forest assortments were evaluated in a total volume of 73.22 m Management Plan and the real reality of the true tree- (determined by Huber’s formula). Each log was photo- species composition of the stand (absence of English graphically documented, its quantitative and qualita- oak wood) was found. After the harvesting, the produced tive features measured. At the first classification by field assortments were reported to the head of the forwarding forestry and logging workers, all logs were classified wood storage yard and the management of the forestry as pulpwood. Qualitative reassessment and secondary enterprise. classification were performed by the management of the It was not possible to transport the assortments pro- forestry enterprise at the wood storage yard. It took place duced immediately from the forest stand, as in the spring 5 months after the first classification. An overview of the of 2021 unfavorable weather conditions prevailed and the secondary classification of sections into quality classes transport point and the forest road to it were unpaved. by the management of the forestry enterprise is shown The exit from the transport forest road to the first-class in Figure 1. main road was complicated by heavy traffic and poor After performing a qualitative reassessment, which views on both sides. For these reasons, raw logs in full took place in August 2021, by “Technical conditions length could not be transported to the wood storage yard for the supply of softwood and hardwood timber in the and the assortments produced had to be weighed. It was state enterprise”, the management of the forestry enter- not possible to use semi-trailer and semi-trailer trucks, prise classified and identified 137 logs (76.5%) in higher but only solo trucks, as the spatial parameters of the tim- quality classes than the first qualitative classification by ber storage site did not allow such trucks to turn (Allman forester (V. quality class) in a total volume of 59.48 m . et al. 2019). We physically measured the parameters of Control qualitative classification, which we per- the transport site. Assortments of raw wood were stored formed on 6 August 2021 by “Technical conditions for on a total length of 143 m along the haul road. The widest the supply of softwood and hardwood timber in the state place, even with stored piles, was 14.3 m and the nar- enterprise” conr fi med the identical classic fi ation of raw- Fig. 1. Qualitative classification of raw-wood assortments performed by Forest Enterprise Directorate on centralised timber yard. 234 M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 wood assortments, in comparison with the second clas- with insufficient professional qualifications and in dif - sification performed by the management of the forestry ficult production and technical conditions. enterprise, in 65 logs (36.3% of logs). In 114 (63.7%) From the point of view of economic evaluation, with logs, we classie fi d the log into another quality class. In all the classification of all logs into the quality class of pulp- cases, the logs were reclassified to lower quality classes. wood (as performed by a forestry worker in the field), a The results of our qualitative analysis are shown in Fig- monetization of € 3,038.63 would be achieved. With a ure 2. qualitative classification carried out by the management Fig. 2. Qualitative classification of raw-wood assortments performed by aut hors on centralised timber yard (6.8.2021). Our analysis classified a total of 142 logs (79.32%) of the forestry enterprise, the level of monetization would in the V. quality class in a volume of 57.85 m according reach € 7,449.71 (a difference of € 4,411.08). When re- to the Huber formula. 25 logs (13.9%) in quality class evaluating the logs by our qualitative classification, the D (designation III.C2 in the sense of “Technical condi- total monetization would reach the level of € 4,173.63 tions”) in the volume of 10.46 m . In quality class III.C (a difference of € 1,135). However, these values are only (designation III.C1 in the sense of “Technical condi- indicative and only real business practice would show tions”) 11 logs (6.14%) in the volume of 4.53 m were whether they were real. classified. One log in the total volume of 0.38 m was included in quality class III.B. Most of the logs, which were reclassified to the V. quality class in comparison with the classification of the management of the forest enterprise, showed qualitative features of multiple sweep (83 pieces), resp. significant simple sweep over 8 cm / m (5 pcs.), soft rot over 20% of the end diameter area (10 logs), and decaved knots (19 logs). Some logs involved several limiting qualitative features at the same time. Some examples of a false qualitative classification with a classification class are shown in Figures 3 and 4. It should also be noted that in accordance with “Tech- nical conditions for the supply of softwood and hardwood timber in the state enterprise” there were 25 logs classi- fied in quality class III.D (in the “Technical conditions” it is referred to as “III.C2”). The commercial realization of these logs as a sawlog remains questionable. However, this fact could only be confirmed or refuted by real busi- ness practice. Regardless of this, it can be stated that in the implementation of the production of raw-wood assortments at the transport point/stand during the first quality sorting, a total of 37 logs were mi staken, which Fig. 3. Logs nr. 37 and 85 with multiple sweep and decaved represents 20.6%. It is in the expected interval of error in knots classified by forestry directorate in quality class III.D the implementation of qualitative sorting at the transport (Nr. 37); III.C1 (Nr.85) after control classification in quality point, respectively in forest stand when using workers class V. (both logs). 235 M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 4. Discussion The aim of the expert assessment was primarily to per- form a quantitative and qualitative analysis of 179 pieces of logs stored in the wood storage yard of the forestry enterprise. The performed analysis showed significant differences between the original qualitative classifica - tion and our analysis. The results confirmed the clas- sification of 142 pieces of logs into the V. quality class (pulpwood), as they were classified in the initial phase of the harvesting and production process. 37 logs were classified according to the “Technical conditions” used as sawlogs. Without knowledge of business relations and concluded commerce treaty, it was not possible to assess how many of them will be realized as this assortment, or how many logs from quality class V. customers will take them as sawlogs. In 114 cases, the qualitative classifica- tion was different from the one originally performed by the enterprise’s management. In the future, it is recommended to devote increased attention to the preparation of the harvesting process, the harvesting method used and the logistics of skid- Fig. 4. Logs nr. 89 and 136 with multiple sweep and decaved ding and transporting timber. Although the trend of the knots classified by forestry directorate in quality class III.C1 timber trade is rather moving towards a transport point after control classification in quality class V. (both logs). in forest stands (Borecki et al. 2016), this work has also confirmed that the production of raw-wood assortments 3.3. Economic analysis of produced raw-wood is of better quality at the wood storage yard. However, assortments the conditions and circumstances, in this case, made it very difficult to allow this procedure and, in view of this For the economic evaluation of the produced raw-wood fact, it cannot be described as a significant mistake of assortments, the Price list for III. Quarter for state enter- the workers who carried out the initial classification and prises from the NLC newsletter – Forest Market Infor- production of assortments. mation System (2021). The following table 1 shows a The situation is also complicated by the inconsist- comparison of the qualitative classification in the cases ency of technical standards at the national and interna- carried out in terms of economic impacts. tional levels, as confirmed by work in other countries After taking into account the qualitative evaluation −3 (Malinowski & Wieruszewski 2017). and recalculation of prices in € m by the above price list, the potential realizable amount for the entire vol- ume was € 3,038.63 in the first qualitative classifica- tion, € 7,449.71 in the classification performed by the 5. Conclusion enterprise‘s directorate and € 4,173.63 in the case of our It can be stated that the analysis performed showed sig- qualitative assessment. It can therefore be stated that nificant differences between the original classification after the assessment, the potentially achieved realization and the control classification. Out of the total number of price could have been higher by 1,135 €. However, this 179 pieces of logs in 114 cases, the qualitative classifica- fact can be influenced by many other factors, which we tion was different from the one originally made. have already mentioned above. As a critical qualitative feature when it significantly proved the most common misclassification is a sign of multiple sweep. Table 1. Economic assessment of the qualitative classification in different cases. First qualitative assessment by forester Second qualitative re-assessment by forestry Qualitative analysis performed by authors Qualitative class in forest directorate on centralised timber yard 3 3 3 Volume [m ] Total price [€] Volume [m ] Total price [€] Volume [m ] Total price [€] III. 0 0 1.06 260.99 0 0 III.B 0 0 3.66 701.33 0.38 72.82 III.C 0 0 22.19 1711.74 4.53 349.44 III.D 0 0 32.57 4205.44 10.46 1350.60 V. 73.22 3038.63 13.74 570.21 57.85 2400.78 Together 73.22 3038.63 73.22 7449.71 73.22 4173.63 236 M. Gejdoš, T. Gergeľ / Cent. Eur. For. J. 68 (2022) 232–237 The accuracy of the preparation of the harvesting Gejdoš, M., Suchomel, J., Slováková, I., 2014: Creation process, the harvesting method used and the logistics of of new standard – wood for the production of musical skidding and transporting timber is crucial for the correct instruments. Akustika, 21:14–21. classification of logs. Depending on the conditions, it is Gergeľ, T., Sedliak, M., Bucha, T., Oravec, M., Slamka, not always possible to ensure accuracy. This work also M., Pastor, M., 2020: Prediction Model of Wooden conr fi ms that the production of raw wood assortments is Logs Cutting Patterns and Its Efficiency in Practice. of better quality in the dispatch centralised timber yard, Applied Science, 10:3003. which is the current trend in the timber trade. Holiga, J., Minďáš, J., 2009: Technické podmienky pre In conclusion, it can be stated that the qualitative dodávky ihličnatého a listnatého dreva v š. p., Lesy evaluation of raw-wood assortments in forestry enter- slovenskej republiky, platné od 1. 2. 2009. Lesy SR, prises in Slovakia is not optimal and correct. However, š. p., Banská Bystrica. there is relatively little work that would strictly evaluate Kankare, V., Vauhkonen, J., Tanhuanpää, T., Hol- the accuracy of the qualitative evaluation of raw-wood opainen, M., Vastaranta, M., Joensu, M. et al., 2014: assortments in forestry enterprises. This work should Accuracy in estimation of timber assortments and thus contribute to the improvement and setting up of stem distribution – a comparison of airborne and ter- optimization processes in the production phase in for- restrial laser scanning techniques. Journal of Photo- estry enterprises. grammetry and Remote Sensing. 97:89–97. Karaszewski, Z., Bembenek, M., Mederski, P. S., Szc- zepanska-Alvarez, A., Byczkowski, R., Kozlowska, A. et al., 2013: Identifying Beech Round Wood Qual- Acknowledgements ity – Distributions and the Influence of Defects on This project has received funding from the European Union’s Grading. Drewno, 56:39–54. Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant Malinowski, Z., Wieruszewski, M., 2017: Comparison agreement No. 862681 and APVV-20-0118 “3D CT detection of the large-size wood defects in the European Union and beech log yield optimization”. countries normalization. Sylwan, 161:795–803. Malinowski, Z., Wieruszewski, M., 2017: Comparison of the large-size wood defects in the European Union references countries normalization. Sylwan, 161:795–803. Suchomel, J., Gejdoš, M., 2010: The Inu fl ence of Selected Allman, M., Allmanová, Z., Messingerová, V., Janko- Factors on the occurrence of false heartwood in beech vský, M., 2019: Preprava dreva cestnou a železničnou (Fagus sylvatica). Acta Facultatis Xylologiae, 52:5– dopravou na Slovensku, súčasný stav, technika a technologické možnosti. Technical University in Šafránek, Z., Honzová, M., Vala, V., Dvořák, J., 2016: Zvolen, 154 p. 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Availa- Forest Science, 73:635–648. ble online: http://www.forestportal.sk/lesne-hospo- Geerts, J., 1984: Mathematical solution for optimising darstvo/informacie-o-lesoch/trhove-spravodajstvo/ the sawing pattern of a log given its dimensions and Informan%20listy/3q2021.pdf [accessed on 10. 2. its defect core. New Zealand Journal of Forestry Sci- 2021]. ence, 14:124–134. STN 48 0055 Qualitative classification of hardwood Gejdoš, M., Danihelová, Z., Suchomel, J., 2021: Analysis round timber (2007). of Qualitative Features Of beech and Oak Trunks As STN 48 0056 Qualitative classification of softwood a Determinant of the Quality Assessment. Forests, round timber (2007). 12:15. STN EN 1309-3 Round and sawn timber – Methods of Gejdoš, M., Gergeľ, T., Bucha, T., Vyhnáliková, Z., 2019: measurements – Part 3: Features and biological deg- Possibilities of image analysis for quality wood sort- radations (2018). ing. Central European Forestry Journal, 65:218–222.

Journal

Forestry Journal – de Gruyter

Published: Dec 1, 2022

Keywords: raw-wood assortments; qualitative sorting; technical standards; qualitative features; qualitative classes

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