Optimization Model of Selective Cutting for Timber Harvest Planning Based on a Simulated Annealing Approach

Abstract

An optimization model for Timber Harvest Planning (THP) is used to form harvest areas with the objective of maximizing the tree harvest volume subject to harvest regulations. Most optimization models for THP currently in use are based on clear cutting and restricted to adjacency constraints to prevent the creation of large clear-cut openings in the forest. However, an optimization model based on selective cuttingthe cutting technique utilized in tropical countries-has rarely been described in the literature. The aim of this study was to propose an optimization model for THP based on selective cutting and subject to a maximum number of trees to be harvested and a minimum number of trees to be damaged during each planning period. The model was solved using three optimization techniques to identify the most suitable technique for use in the process of harvest area formation: Monte Carlo Programming (MCP), Simulated Annealing (SA) and Threshold Acceptance (TA). The obtained results indicate that the SA method provides better solutions than the MCP and TA methods, regardless of problem size. As a conclusion, the proposed model provides a tool to generate timber harvest plans with the improved monitoring and control techniques used in harvesting operations in tropical countries.

A Utility Maximized Harvest Decision Model for Privately Owned Coniferous Forests in the Republic of Korea

“…Our model assumed that the forest owner's decision to maximize utility determines the optimal harvest strategy through their consumption levels and the constraint is the sum of the total consumption which cannot exceed the total profit generated from forestry. Dissimilar to other studies using LP models [13], this study did not set the ending age constraint to improve the current unbalanced forest age structure in the ROK. Instead, this study showed that the unbalanced age structure might be improved through the harvest prescription derived from the utility model.…”

“…They also formulated the Economic Harvest Optimization (ECHO) model as a quadratic objective version. Abdullah et al [13] developed an optimization model for timber harvesting planning based on the selective cutting technique. Their study subjected a maximum number of trees to be harvested and a minimum number of trees to be damaged during each planning period.…”