The use of ‘alternative’ silvicultural systems often necessitates the use of ‘alternative’ harvesting systems and equipment. This in turn has implications for harvest planning and roading within the forested area.

Unlike a clearcutting regime, continuous canopy harvesting means that a proportion of the trees are left standing to grow on and provide shelter for the next crop of seedlings. Special practices and equipment are therefore required to fell and extract trees without damaging those left standing.