"SLASHBUSTER"® as Reforestation Equipment

Slashbuster vs. Dozer piling

Before reforestation efforts can proceed the residual logging slash must be cleared. This aerial photograph shows the differences between "SLASHBUSTER"® treatment and conventional dozer piling. Note how dozer piling obliterates the soil and exposes the light-colored mineral layer. In contrast, "SLASHBUSTER"® equipment conserves the organically rich soil necessary for good seedling survival. Also notice how evenly the planting sites are distributed on the "SLASHBUSTER"® side compared to the other side where large islands of logging slash block access to the ground.


Slashbuster plantable micrositesThis close-up of "SLASHBUSTER"® planting sites shows how the evenly distributed coarse woody debris acts as a physical barrier from the elements and grazing (deer and cattle don't like to step through the large debris). The organic layer is disturbed, but not obliterated, and just a couple feet away from the seedling it remains untouched. A reforestation project can establish itself much easier in this environment than in the exposed mineral soil dozer piling leaves behind.

"...a cost effective alternative to broadcast burning or brush piling without any of the negative smoke management or long term site productivity concerns"

White River Ranger District, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Compared to other site prep methods, "SLASHBUSTER"® reforestation equipment:
  • Cuts through logging slash that planters cannot take the time to do and that would otherwise be unproductive.
  • Spaces the planting sites evenly, which planters cannot do in deep slash.
  • Warms the soil by reducing the insulating effect of the slash.
  • Does not compact the soil, which can have the long term effect of reduced forest productivity.
  • Returns nutrients to the ground slowly, rather than burning them off.
  • Increases long-term mychorrizal activity by retaining coarse woody debris. (Jergensen, Harvey, Graham, et al. 1996)
  • Increases water retention and microclimate humidity.
  • Eliminates burn planning, monitoring and the possibility of fire escape.
  • Is plantable immediately, rather than sometimes waiting years for a burn window.
  • Is favored by a public concerned with health effects and impaired visibility that seasonal burn windows bring.
  • Reduces planting costs by 50% or more

Related Applications:

  • Cleaning up slash corridors after cut-to-length operations
  • Restoration of areas invaded by exotic plant species