Source: WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY submitted to NRP
ADVANCING FOREST LOGGING RESIDUE HARVESTING AND COLLECTION LOGISTICS IN THE EASTERN UNITED STATES
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
AFRI COMPETITIVE GRANT
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
1018857
Grant No.
2019-67020-29287
Cumulative Award Amt.
$999,993.00
Proposal No.
2018-07012
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
May 1, 2019
Project End Date
Apr 30, 2024
Grant Year
2019
Program Code
[A1414]- Bioenergy Feedstock Logistics Program
Recipient Organization
WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
886 CHESTNUT RIDGE RD RM 202
MORGANTOWN,WV 26505-2742
Performing Department
(N/A)
Non Technical Summary
The goal of this project is to develop and optimize forest logging residue harvest and collection logistics in the eastern United States. Project objectives include: (1) investigate production rate and costs of various methods and systems for forest logging residue harvest and collection, (2) configure and optimize the logistics of logging residue harvest and collection systems, (3) quantify the environmental impacts and implementation of Best Management Practices on forest residue harvest and collection, and (4) conduct techno-economic analysis of the forest logging residue supply chain and market impact potential in the region.The project will divide the eastern U.S. into four physiographic regions; Northeast U.S., Upper Mid-Atlantic, Lower Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast U.S. as each of these regions is unique in terms of species composition, terrain, climate, and typical timber harvest practices. This will allow for development of more precise and regionally specific logistics and supply chain models of forest logging residue harvest and collection. The project is unique and innovative to integrate the biomass logistics in the eastern U.S.; and to improve the efficiency of forest residue harvest and collection, to generate biomass price curves specific to the region, and to provide data sharing across the eastern region for further utilization of residue biomass and development of the bioeconomy.
Animal Health Component
40%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
30%
Applied
40%
Developmental
30%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
12306503100100%
Knowledge Area
123 - Management and Sustainability of Forest Resources;

Subject Of Investigation
0650 - Wood and wood products;

Field Of Science
3100 - Management;
Goals / Objectives
The goal of this project is to develop and optimize forest logging residue harvest and collection logistics in the eastern United States. Project objectives include: (1) investigate production rate and costs of various methods and systems for forest logging residue harvest and collection, (2) configure and optimize the logistics of logging residue harvest and collection systems, (3) quantify the environmental impacts and implementation of Best Management Practices on forest residue harvest and collection, and (4) conduct techno-economic analysis of the forest logging residue supply chain and market impact potential in the region.
Project Methods
Inthis project,1. The regional field time-motion studies will be conductedto evaluate integrated harvesting systems for forest residue collection and the biomass feedstock quality of forest logging residue will be analyzed.2. Regionally specific residue harvest and collection logistics models will be developed using the mixed integer linear programming model based on the two-stage multi-objectivedecision model.3. Impacts of best management practices compliance on forest residue harvest and collection will be assessed.4. Life cycle analysis and techno-economic analysis of the entire residue collection supply chain will be conducted.Furthermore, the market impactpotential of forest logging residue will be explored and analyzed in the region. A business model will be used to identify the conceptual representation of the business logic of a logging residue utilization company as driven by corporate and business strategies.

Progress 05/01/19 to 04/30/24

Outputs
Target Audience:Researchers, educators and practitioners in forest operations, biomass harvest and logistics. Woody biomass producers and consumers along with accompanying stakeholders such as foresters and landowners. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The project has provided a robust training platform for emerging scholars. A total of 13 graduate students have enhanced their research skills and academic outcomes through their involvement in this project. Nine graduate students have achieved their academic ambitions, earning Master's or Doctoral degrees. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Our research team has made substantial academic contributions to the field. We have published over 20 articles in peer-reviewed journals, and multiple manuscripts are in preparation. This has expanded the body of knowledge related to forest residue collection and utilization. Additionally, our team has shown our findings in 29 presentations delivered by both students and faculty members, further extending the reach of our research. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Over the five-year duration of the project, we successfully conducted comprehensive field time-motion studies across multiple regions, which allowed us to evaluate and refine integrated harvesting systems customized for efficient forest residue collection. Our rigorous analysis of biomass feedstock quality has led to a deeper understanding of the characteristics and variability of forest logging residues. We developed innovative, regionally-adapted logistics models for residue harvest and collection, which have been instrumental in accurately forecasting feedstock quantities and optimizing related costs. Through our assessments, we have ensured that best management practices are not only compliant but also enhance the sustainability of residue harvest and collection processes. Our life cycle analysis has provided a clear picture of the environmental footprint of the residue collection supply chain, allowing for more informed decision-making. The techno-economic analysis has been pivotal in identifying the economic viability and potential bottlenecks within the forest logging residue supply chain. Furthermore, our assessment of market impact potential has revealed significant opportunities for forest logging residues in various markets, paving the way for increased utilization and value creation. To maximize the reach and impact of our findings, we have developed a comprehensive outreach program. This program has successfully disseminated our research outcomes to stakeholders and industry partners, fostering knowledge transfer and encouraging the adoption of best practices. The culmination of these efforts represents a significant advancement in the sustainable management of forest resources and contributes to the broader goals of environmental stewardship and economic development within the forestry sector.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Garren, A.M., Bolding, M.C., Barrett, S.M., Hawks, E.M., Aust, W.M. and Coates, T.A., 2023. A Comparison of Forest Biomass and Conventional Harvesting Effects on Estimated Erosion, Best Management Practice Implementation, Ground Cover, and Residual Woody Debris in Virginia. Biomass, 3(4), pp.403-421.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J., Hu, J., Schuler, J., Grushecky, S., Jiang, C., Smith, W., Nan, N. and Sabolsky, E.M., 2024. Combustion Behaviors, Kinetics, and Thermodynamics of Naturally Decomposed and Torrefied Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra) Forest Logging Residue. Energies, 17(7), p.1607.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2024 Citation: Louis, L.T., Daigneault, A. and Kizha, A.R., 2024. Constraints and opportunities in harvesting woody biomass: perspectives of foresters and loggers in the Northeastern United States. International Journal of Forest Engineering, pp.1-16.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Parajuli, M., Gallagher, T., Cristan, R., Daniel, M.J., Mitchell, D. and McDonald, T., 2023. Opportunities and challenges of woody biomass harvesting practices in the Southeastern region of the United States. International Journal of Forest Engineering, 34(3), pp.303-316.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Nan, N., Hu, W. and Wang, J., 2022. Lignin-based porous biomaterials for medical and pharmaceutical applications. Biomedicines, 10(4), p.747.


Progress 05/01/22 to 04/30/23

Outputs
Target Audience:Researchers, educators and practitioners in forest operations, biomass harvest and logistics. Woody biomass producers and consumers along with accompanying stakeholders such as foresters and landowners. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Two graduate students were trained through this research project as interns. Two master's students were trained through this research project over the last 4 years. Nine Ph.D. students were trained through this research project six of whom completed their Ph.D. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Nine papers have been published, while seven are currently being prepared, three are currently under review and five have been submitted. Twenty-seven Presentations have been presented at various conferences or have had their abstracts accepted. One conference paper has been published. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The team will host the year 4 annual meeting. There is ongoing data compilation and analysis for the recently completed field studies. Manuscripts for the ongoing work will be completed and submitted during the year 5 period along with the final project report.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The team has made several major accomplishments in year 4 while producing several products and deliverables in the format of published journal articles and presentations.Three additional time-motion studies were conducted in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, making a total of six studies for the Upper Mid-Atlantic region, with ongoing data analysis.The chemical and thermal degradation properties of hardwood and softwood logging residues samples with different years of harvest were analyzed.The forest residue supply chain model was optimized based on a holistic modeling framework. LCA and TEA models to evaluate the life-cycle economics and GHG emissions of forest biomass harvesting, logistics, and utilization for alternative value-added bioproducts in the eastern US have also been developed and refined.Nine papers have been published, while seven are currently being prepared, three are currently under review and five have been submitted. Twenty-seven presentations have been presented at various conferences or have had their abstracts accepted. One conference paper has been published.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR, Bick S, Bolding C. Economic analysis of thinning operations. International Journal of Forest Engineering
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Under Review Year Published: 2023 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. Economic Feasibility of Semi-mechanized Harvesting in a Small-scale Forest Operation. Journal of Forest Research
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Garren, A.M., M.C. Bolding, S.M. Barrett, W.M. Aust, and T.A. Coates. 2022. Characteristics of forest biomass harvesting operations and markets in Virginia. Biomass and Bioenergy 163:106501.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Garren, A.M., M.C. Bolding, W.M. Aust, S.M. Barrett, and T.A. Coates. 2022. Evaluating the productivity and costs of five energywood harvesting operations in the lower Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. International Journal of Forest Engineering 33(3):170-180.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Under Review Year Published: 2023 Citation: George AK, Kizha AR. Soil Erosion Potential of Major Timber Harvesting Methods in Northeastern US Sustainable Horizon.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J., et al., Characterize direct and indirect hydrothermal KMnO4-modified hydrochar derived from logging residue.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J., et al., Combustion characteristics and energy properties of torrefied and untorrefied post-harvested Red Oak (Quercus rubra) forest logging residues.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J., et al., Properties and combustion characteristics of various-year-harvested logging residues by different thermal pretreatments.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Garren, A.M., M.C. Bolding, S.M. Barrett, W.M. Aust, and T.A. Coates. 2022. Best management practices, estimated erosion, residual woody debris, and ground cover characteristics following biomass and conventional clearcut harvests in Virginias Mountains. Forest Science 68:299-311.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J., et al., Quality and utilization of forest logging residues in the eastern United States: Temporal and spatial analyses.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J., Hu, J., Schuler, J., Grushecky, S., Nan, N., Smith, W., & Jiang, C. (2023). Thermodegradation of naturally decomposed forest logging residues: Characteristics, kinetics, and thermodynamics. Bioresource Technology, 128821. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2023.128821
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Under Review Year Published: 2023 Citation: Louis LT, Daigneualt A, Kizha AR. Constraints and opportunities in harvesting small-diameter trees: Perspectives of foresters and loggers in the Northeastern United States.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Louis LT, Kizha AR, Daigneualt A, Han HS, Weiskettle R. 2022. Factors effecting operational cost and productivity of ground-based timber harvesting machines. Current Forestry Reports. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40725-021-00156-5
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Louis LT, Kizha AR. 2021. Wood biomass recovery costs under different harvesting methods and market conditions. International Journal of Forest Engineering 32 (2), p 164-173. https://doi.org/10.1080/14942119.2021.1874206.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Luke Chasuk, Thomas Gallagher, Richard Cristan, Marissa Jo Daniel, Dana Mitchell. 2022. Forest Biomass Harvesting Operations Costs and Production Rates in the Southeastern United States. Journal of Forest Engineering.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Manisha Parajuli, Tom Gallagher, Richard Cristan, Marissa Jo Daniel, Dana Mitchell, and Tim McDonald. Forest stakeholders' perceptions of woody biomass harvesting and biomass markets in the Southeastern US. Journal of Forest Engineering.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Parajuli, M., T. Gallagher, R. Cristan, D. Mitchell, M. Daniel, T. Mcdonald. Forestry Best Management Practices, Ground Cover Analysis, and Erosion Potential Comparison between Conventional Clearcut Harvesting and Biomass Harvesting Operations in the Southeastern USA.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Smith, W. and Wang, J. Analysis of production and cost of forest biomass harvest and collection in the Mid-Atlantic region.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Smith, W. and Wang, J. Market impact assessments of forest biomass production and utilization.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Other Year Published: 2023 Citation: Smith, W. and Wang. Use a drone to assess BMPs of forest and biomass harvests.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2023 Citation: Vance, J., Wang, J., Zhang, X., Grushecky, S. and Spinelli, R., 2023. Chipping operations and chip quality from mixed hardwood forests for bioenergy. International Journal of Forest Engineering, pp.1-13. DOI: 10.1080/14942119.2023.2187677.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Zhang, X., J. Wang, and M. Strager. 2022. Industrial development and economic impacts of forest biomass for bioenergy and bioproducts: A data-driven holistic analysis framework. Resources, Conservation & Recycling. 182 (2022) 106296. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.resconrec.2022.106296.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zhang, X., Wang, J. Life-cycle Economics and GHG Emissions of Forest Biomass Utilization for Alternative Value-added Bioproducts in the Eastern US
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zhang, X., Wang, J. Supply Chain Optimization of Forest Residue Utilization for Bioenergy Industry Development: A Holistic Modeling Framework.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR, George AK, Louis TL. Carbon footprint and impacts of mechanized timber harvesting in the Northeastern USA. International Conference of COFE-FETEC 2023. May 23  25, 2023. Flagstaff, AZ
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. 2020. Equipment Selection: A Bridge Between Financial Feasibility and Productivity for Small Woodland Owners. University of Maine 2020 Student Symposium. April 3. Bangor, ME.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. 2020. Timber Harvesting Costs Associated with Commercial Thinning. Society of American Foresters National Conference. Oct 29-31. Providence, RI.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. 2021. Estimating the cost and break-even point of a small-scale timber harvesting operation. University of Maine 2021 Student Symposium. April 3. Bangor, ME.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. 2021. Small-scale Forest Operations: Pre-commercial Thinning using Semi-mechanized Harvesting System. Council on Forest Engineering COFE. Aug 3. Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Garren, A.M., M.C. Bolding, W.M. Aust, S.M. Barrett, and T.A. Coates. 2021. Evaluating the productivity and costs of five energywood harvesting operations in the lower mid-atlantic region of the U.S. In: Proc. 53rd Annual International Symposium on Forest Mechanization (FORMEC) and joint 43rd Annual Council on Forest Engineering Meeting (COFE); Virtual meeting hosted by Oregon State University; Corvallis, OR. September 27-30, 2021. In-person presentation given at Auburn University, Auburn, AL. August 3, 2021.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: George AK, Kizha AR. 2020. Soil Erosion Potential of Major Timber Harvesting Methods in Northeastern US: A Comparative Study. Society of American Foresters National Conference. Oct 18-Nov 1. Providence, RI.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J. 2023. Combustion characteristics and energy properties of torrefied forest logging residues. The Forest Products Society Annual International Conference, Morgantown, WV. June 6-8, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J. 2023. Thermodegradation of naturally decomposed forest logging residues: Characteristics, kinetics, and thermodynamics. The SWTS 66TH international convention. Ashville, NC, June 25-30, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J., and N. Nan. 2022. Combustion characteristics and energy properties of torrefied and untorrefied various-year-harvested Red Oak (Quercus rubra) logging residues. The 75TH Annual International Conference, Madison, WI. June 13-16, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J., and N. Nan. 2022. Early results of removal heavy metal ions using surface-modified forest logging residue hydrochar. 2022 North American Biochar & Bioenergy Conference, Morgantown, WV, Aug. 8-11, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Hu, W., Wang, J., and N. Nan. 2022. Fundamental properties of various-year naturally decomposed forest logging residues in the eastern United States and pretreatment to solid biofuel. 2022 North American Biochar & Bioenergy Conference, Morgantown, WV, Aug. 8-11, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Kizha AR, Alex A, George AK, Louis LT. 2020. Cost of Harvesting Small-diameter Trees: Comparing Semi-Mechanized and Mechanized Harvesting Operation. Society of American Foresters National Conference. Oct 18-Nov 1. Providence, RI.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Parajuli, M., T. Gallagher, R. Cristan, D. Mitchell, M. Daniel, T. Mcdonald. 2022. Forestry Best Management Practices, Ground Cover Analysis, and Erosion Potential Comparison between Conventional Clearcut Harvesting and Biomass Harvesting Operations in the Southeastern USA. International Conference of Forest Engineering, COFE, FORMEC, IUFRO. Corvallis, Oregon, USA. October 4-7, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Parajuli, M., T. Gallagher, R. Cristan, T. Mcdonald, D. Mitchell, M. Daniel. 2022. Opportunities, Constraints, and Attitudes of Forest Stakeholders in Harvesting and Supplying Woody Biomass in the Southeastern US. SAF National Convention, 2022. Baltimore, USA. September 19 - 24, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Parajuli, M., T. Gallagher, R. Cristan, T. Mcdonald, D. Mitchell, M. Daniel. 2022. Perception of Forest Stakeholders on Woody Biomass Market: Opportunities and Constraints in the Southeastern US. 2022 Southern Region Council on Forest Engineering. Clemson, South Carolina, USA. April 28, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Smith, W., Aryal, B., Hu, W., Zhang, X., and Wang, J. 2022. Use of Drones to Assess Forestry Best Management Practices. Poster presented at: 2022 North American Biochar & Bioenergy Conference August 8-11 2022 Morgantown WV.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Smith, W., Aryal, B., Hu, W., Zhang, X., and Wang, J. 2023. Use of Drones to Assess Forestry Best Management Practices at Biomass Harvest Sites. International Conference of COFE-FETEC, Flagstaff, Arizona. May 23-25, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Wang, J. 2023 Machine learning-based forest biomass supply chain management for bioenergy. The 55th International Symposium on Forest Mechanization (FORMEC) and the 7th Forest Engineering Conference (FEC), Florence, Italy. September 20-22, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Zhao, J. and Wang, J. 2022. Machine learning applications in forest and biomass supply chain management. Poster presented at: 2022 North American Biochar & Bioenergy Conference August 8-11 2022 Morgantown WV.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Louis LT, Daigneault A, Kizha AR. 2022. Biomass harvesting amidst market and policy constraints: perspectives of foresters and loggers in the Northeastern United States. Council on Forest Engineering and International Symposium on Forestry Mechanization (COFE-FORMEC). Sep 27-30. Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Louis LT, Kizha AR, Daigneault A. 2020. Uncertainty in Timber Harvesting Cost and Productivity: A Review. Society of American Foresters National Conference. Oct 18-Nov 1. Providence, RI.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Louis TL, Kizha AR. 2020. Woody Biomass Harvest: Comparing Conventional with Exclusive Cost Apportioning Methods. University of Maine 2020 Student Symposium. April 3. Bangor, ME
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Luke Chasuk, Tom Gallagher, Richard Cristan, Dana Mitchell, Jo Daniels. Evaluating the productivity and costs of three energywood harvesting operations in the southeastern region of the US. Council of Forest Engineering and FORMEC virtual Conference, September 28, 2021.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Luke Chasuk, Tom Gallagher, Richard Cristan, Dana Mitchell, Jo Daniels. Evaluating the productivity and costs of three energywood harvesting operations in the southeastern region of the US. Council of Forest Engineering Conference Presentation, August 3, 2021 in Auburn, AL.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zhao, J., Mandal, D., and Wang, J. 2023. Integrating GIS and optimization method for multi-feedstock biomass supply chain management. The Forest Products Society Annual International Conference, Morgantown, WV. June 6-8, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2023 Citation: Zhao, J., Wang, J., and Anderson, N., 2023. An integrated modeling and analytical framework of machine learning, optimization, and spatial analysis in forest biomass supply chain management. International Conference of COFE-FETEC, Flagstaff, Arizona. May 23-25, 2023.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Louis LT, Kizha AR. 2019. Comparing the cost of harvesting sawlogs and small-diameter trees from different silvicultural prescriptions utilizing two harvesting methods. Session: Forest harvesting systems. 42nd Annual Meeting of the Council on Forest Engineering and 52nd International Symposium on Forestry Mechanization (FORMEC), 6-9 October 2019, Sopron, Hungary. http://formec2019.com/down/FORMEC2019_PROCEEDINGS.pdf


Progress 05/01/21 to 04/30/22

Outputs
Target Audience:Researchers, educators and practitioners in forest operations, biomass harvest and logistics. Woody biomass producers and consumers along with accompanying stakeholders such as foresters and landowners. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Nine graduate students were educated and trained in the various topic areas and specializations of the research project, five students have graduated: one Masters and four PhD. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Project findings have been disseminated through 13 peer-review publications and prepared manuscripts in year 3. The team has also delivered 10 presentations at relative conferences and meetings. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The team will host the year 3 annual meeting in July 2022. There is ongoing data compilation and analysis for the recently completed field studies. Manuscripts for the ongoing work will be completed and submitted during the year 4 period along with the final project report.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The team has made several major accomplishments in year 3 while producing several products and deliverables in the format of published journal articles and presentations. Six time-motion studies were completed in year 3 across all four sub-regions and bringing the total to more than 15 harvesting and productions time studies have been completed during the duration of the project, while more than 10 field assessments of best management practices have been completed in each sub-region. The team has developed a holistic modeling framework to optimize the supply chain of forest biomass delivery across the eastern US. LCA and TEA models to evaluate the life-cycle economics and GHG emissions of forest biomass harvesting, logistics, and utilization for alternative value-added bioproducts in the eastern US have also been developed and refined. Using forest biomass for pellet fuel in the Mid-Atlantic region as a case study, a data-driven holistic analysis framework was established to assess the industrial development and economic impacts of forest biomass for bioenergy. Market assessment surveys were distributed both electronically and through mailings in each sub-region. The responses have been analyzed in two regions while others are following up survey distributions to obtain more responses. Findings will identify the barriers between producers and consumers and work to further advance the bioeconomy through connecting biomass producers and consumers. Project findings have been disseminated through 13 peer-review publications and prepared manuscripts in year 3. The team has also delivered 10 presentations at relative conferences and meetings.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Garren, A.M., M.C. Bolding, W.M. Aust, S.M. Barrett, and T.A. Coates. 2022. Evaluating the productivity and costs of five energywood harvesting operations in the lower Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. International Journal of Forest Engineering 33(x):x-x.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Garren, A.M., M.C. Bolding, S.M. Barrett, W.M. Aust, and T.A. Coates. 2022. Best management practices, estimated erosion, residual woody debris, and ground cover characteristics following biomass and conventional clearcut harvests in Virginias Mountains. Forest Science 68(x):x-x.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Garren, A.M., M.C. Bolding, S.M. Barrett, W.M. Aust, and T.A. Coates. 2022. Characteristics of forest biomass harvesting operations and markets in Virginia. Biomass and Bioenergy 163(2022) 106501.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2022 Citation: George AK, Kizha AR, Louis LT, Alex A, Perera P. Soil erosion potential of different timber harvesting methods in the northeast USA. Sustainable Horizons (HORIZ-D-22-00037).
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2022 Citation: Louis LT, Daigneault A, Kizha AR. Biomass harvesting amidst market and policy constraints: perspectives of foresters and loggers in the Northeastern United States [In preparation].
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Wang, Y., Wang, J., Zhang, X., Bhattacharyya, D., & Sabolsky, E. M. (2022). Quantifying Environmental and Economic Impacts of Highly Porous Activated Carbon from Lignocellulosic Biomass for High-Performance Supercapacitors. Energies, 15(1), 351.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2022 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. Economic feasibility of semi-mechanized harvesting in a small-scale forest operation [In preparation].
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2022 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. Economics of timber harvesting for early commercial thinning and group selection treatments [In preparation].
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Garren, A.M. 2022. Evaluating energywood harvesting operations in the lower mid-Atlantic region of the United States. PhD Dissertation. Virginia Tech. 220 p. https://vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/handle/10919/109653
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Zhang, X., Wang, J., & Strager, M. P. (2022). Industrial Development and Economic Impacts of Forest Biomass for Bioenergy: A Data-Driven Holistic Analysis Framework. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 182, 106296.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2022 Citation: Zhang, X., Wang, J. Supply Chain Optimization of Forest Residue Utilization for Bioenergy Industry Development: A Holistic Modeling Framework. [In preparation].
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2022 Citation: Zhang, X., Wang, J. Life-cycle Economics and GHG Emissions of Forest Biomass Utilization for Alternative Value-added Bioproducts in the Eastern U.S. [In preparation].
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. 2021. Small-scale forest operations: pre-commercial thinning using semi-mechanized harvesting system. Council on Forest Engineering (COFE) Southeast Annual Meeting. August 3, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Garren, A.M., M.C. Bolding, W.M. Aust, S.M. Barrett, and T.A. Coates. 2021. Evaluating the productivity and costs of five energywood harvesting operations in the lower mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. In: Proc. 53rd Annual International Symposium on Forest Mechanization (FORMEC) and joint 43rd Annual Council on Forest Engineering Meeting (COFE); Virtual meeting hosted by Oregon State University; Corvallis, OR. September 27-30, 2021. In-person presentation given at Auburn University, Auburn, AL. August 3, 2021.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: George AK, Louis LT, Alex A, Kizha AR. 2021. Cost of logging and residual stand damage: insights from the MASN study. Cooperative Forestry Research Unit, UMaine, Field Demonstration, Nashville plantations, Maine, October 22.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Louis LT, Daigneault A, Kizha AR. 2021. Biomass harvesting amidst market and policy constraints: perspectives of foresters and loggers in the Northeastern United States. Council on Forest Engineering and International Symposium on Forestry Mechanization (COFE-FORMEC). Sep 27-30. Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Submitted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Smith, William, BibekAryal, WanheHu, XufengZhang, JingxinWang. Use of Drones to Assess Forestry Best Management Practices. Poster presented at Society of American Foresters 2022 National Convention; Sept 20-24, 2022; Baltimore MD.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Zhang, X., Wang, J.. A Machine-Learning Holistic Analysis Framework for Biomass to Bioenergy Facility Siting Optimization, Oral Presentation, In 2021 Conference of ASABE: Virtual, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Zhang, X., Wang, J., Vance, J.. Quantifying the Life Cycle Impacts of Forest Logging Residue Logistics, Oral Presentation, in COFE-FORMEC 2021 Joint Meeting: Virtual, USA.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Zhang, X., Wang, J.. The Siting Suitability Assessment and Recovery Cost Analysis of Logging Residue Utilization for Bioenergy, Oral Presentation, in 2021 Meeting of the International Society of Forest Resource Economics (ISFRE). 2021: Virtual, USA.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2022 Citation: Chasuk, Luke, Thomas Gallagher, Richard Cristan, Marissa Jo Daniel, Dana Mitchell Forest Biomass Harvesting Operations Costs and Production Rates in the Southeastern United States. Submitted to Journal of Forestry June 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Parajuli, M., T. Gallagher, R. Cristan, T. Mcdonald, D. Mitchell, M. Daniel. 2022. Perception of Forest Stakeholders on Woody Biomass Market: Opportunities and Constraints in the Southeastern US. 2022 Southern Region Council on Forest Engineering. Clemson, South Carolina, USA. April 28, 2022.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2022 Citation: Smith, William, BibekAryal, WanheHu, XufengZhang, JingxinWang. Use of Drones to Assess Forestry Best Management Practices. Poster presented at: Davis College Graduate Student Research and Creative Scholarship Day; April 26, 2022; Morgantown WV.


Progress 05/01/20 to 04/30/21

Outputs
Target Audience:Researchers, educators and practioners in forest operations, biomass harvest and logistics. Changes/Problems:Field data collection as well asin-person presentations, meetings,and outreach activities were limited in year 2 due to restrictions related to Covid-19. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Eight graduate studnets have been trained through research, field and lab activities. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?A total of 2 publications and 7 presentations were produced by the team in year 2. Outreach activities and other in-person meetings were limited in year 2 due to the covid-19 restrictions. Publications 1. Wang, Y., Wang, J., Zhang, X. and Grushecky, S., 2020. Environmental and Economic Assessments and Uncertainties of Multiple Lignocellulosic Biomass Utilization for Bioenergy Products: Case Studies. Energies, 13(23), p.6277. 2. Wang, Y., Wang, J., Schuler, J., Strager, M., Volk, T., Eisenbies, M. Hartley, D. A multi-stage spatial analysis decision approach to facility siting for biomass energy production in the Northeastern United States, Submitted to the journal of GCB Bioenergy. Presentations 1. Alex A, Kizha AR. 2021. Estimating the cost and break-even point of a small-scale timber harvesting operation. UMaine Student Symposium (virtual) April 16. 2. George, A.K., Kizha, A.R. 2020. Soil Erosion Potential of Major Timber Harvesting Methods in Northeastern US: A Comparative Study. Society of American Foresters National Conference. Virtual. Oct 29-Nov 1. 3. Kizha, A.R., Alex, A., George, A.K., Louis, L.T. 2020. Cost of Harvesting Small-diameter Trees: Comparing Semi-Mechanized and Mechanized Harvesting Operation. Society of American Foresters National Conference. Virtual. Oct 29-Nov 1. 4. Alex A, Kizha AR. 2020. Timber harvesting costs associated with commercial thinning. Society of American Foresters National Convention (virtual) October 30. 5. Alex A, Kizha AR. 2020. Equipment selection: a bridge between financial feasibility and productivity for small woodland owners. UMaine Student Symposium (virtual) October 2. 6. Zhang, X., Wang, J., Wang, Y.. Life-Cycle Environmental and Economic Impacts of Highly Porous Activated Carbon for Energy Storage Purpose from Lignocellulosic Biomass, Oral Presentation, in American Center of Life Cycle Assessment XX Conference. 2020, ACLCA: Wisconsin (virtual), USA. 7. Zhang, X., Wang, J.. The Siting Suitability Assessment and Recovery Cost Analysis of Logging Residue Utilization for Bioenergy, Oral Presentation, in 2021 Meeting of the International Society of Forest Resource Economics (ISFRE): Virtual, USA. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The team will conduct additional field work including production studies and BMP inspections to complete Tasks 1 and 4. The ongoing lab testing of the properties for collected residue samples will be completed in year 3 for Task 2. Data analysis from the field studies will be completed and compiled into a single dataset for all regions to feed into the supply chain modeling of Task 3 and to further refine the techno-economic and life cycle analysis of Tasks 5 and 6. The market survey results will be summarized for Task 7. Additional publications, presentations, and workshops will be produced to provide outreach and diseminate the project findings for Task 8.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Major accomplishments in year 2 of the project include; five production studies were completed across the Lower Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions for field data collection while additional studies are ongoing in the Upper Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. Site impact studies were completed for 26 sites across the four regions to evaluate BMP effectiveness among traditional and biomass harvest sites. An online web-based survey was developed to assess market impact potential of forest logging residues the survey has been distributed in 3 of the 4 regions. Forest residue samples of both hardwoods and softwoods have been collected in each region with sample processing and analysis of the forest residues ongoing at the WVU lab facilities. A total of 7 presentations and 2 publications were completed during year 2 of the project while additional manuscripts are in preparation to be completed in year 3. Task 1 - Conduct regional field time-motion studies to evaluate integrated harvesting systems for forest residue collection (Gallagher, Bolding, Wang, and Kizha) Subtask 1.1 (Gallagher) - Southeast: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida: Conducted 3 production studies. Determined production rates and associated costs. Subtask 1.2 (Bolding) - Lower Mid-Atlantic: Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky: Two addition Task 1 sites were visited over the last year. One was in the Mountains of Virginia near Wise, VA, and one was in the Coastal Plain of Virginia, near Emporia, VA. Subtask 1.3 (Wang) - Upper Mid-Atlantic: West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, Delaware, and New Jersey: One study is ongoing with integrated sawtimber and biomass harvesting near Mount Storm, WV. The system being used is a mechanized harvest system with feller-buncher, two grapple skidders loader, and chipper. Subtask 1.4 (Kizha) - Northeast: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island: Data analysis progressing on two time-motion field studies. First study focused on a semi-mechanized harvesting system involving chainsaw and cable skidder in a pre-commercial thinning operation. Second study was a mechanized harvesting involving harvester and forwarder in two different silvicultural prescription. Task 2 - Analyze biomass feedstock quality of forest logging residue (Wang, Bolding, Kizha, Gallagher) Forest residue samples of both a hardwood and softwood samples were collected by one year age classes up to five years old in each of the four sub-regions and delivered to the team at WVU for processing and analysis. In total 52 samples were collected and have been milled and dried. Initial testing for moisture content and density test were completed for all samples. Proximate and ultimate analysis for two of the four sub-regions were completed. The pyrolysis and combustion testing for softwood samples (Red Pine) were finished and related analysis is ongoing for hardwood residue samples (Red Maple/Red Oak). Additionally the calorific heating value testing will be conducted. Task 3 - Develop regionally specific residue harvest and collection logistics models, and determine feedstock quantity and cost (Wang) A high-resolution feedstock potential investigation was conducted with statistic and spatial analysis techniques, based on Billion-ton 2016 data. Then an integrated modeling framework was developed for facility siting and supply chain optimization to aid in forest residue utilization. The results indicate that across the entire eastern U.S., the non-suitable areas account for 16.00%, low-suitable for 23.23%, medium suitable for 36.51%, while the high-suitable for 24.26%. Within the high-suitable areas, 30 optimal sites were identified for priority for future biomass industry development. Task 4 - Assess the impacts of best management practices compliance on forest residue harvest and collection (Bolding, Gallagher, Kizha, and Wang) Subtask 4.1 Southeast (Gallagher): Conducted site impact analyses on two sites. Quantified BMP Compliance, ascertained erosion estimates, and categorized ground cover composition for both sites. Subtask 4.2 Lower Mid-Atlantic (Bolding): The two Task 1 sites completed during 2019 were revisited for the completion of Task 4 during the summer of 2020. Three other biomass sites and 10 conventionally harvested sites were also completed, which will provide additional data and a basis for comparison to conventionally harvested sites. Subtask 4.3 Upper Mid-Atlantic (Wang): A field inspection checklist was developed based on the WV Division of Forestry BMP manual and the Virginia BMP audit sources. Field inspections are planned for summer 2021 to visit 10 sites each for traditional sawtimber sites and sites with integrated forest residue collection or biomass harvest. Subtask 4.4 Northeast (Kizha): Nine BMP field inspections were completed to compare between Whole-tree (WT), Tree-length (TL), and Cut-to-length (CTL) harvest methods done in Maine. For each harvest method five study sites will be inspected in the summer 2021. Five TL, three CTL, and one WT field inspection were completed during the current evaluation period. Task 5 - Conduct life cycle analysis of entire residue collection supply chain (Wang) The LCA scope as defined as the unit processes of feedstock establishment, harvesting, preprocessing, storage, transportation, while considering all the inputs of resources, material, and energy and the output emissions from the system. The functional unit is defined as one dry ton forest residue delivered to processing facility gate. Based on the preliminary life cycle inventory, the preliminary results indicate that the global warming potential (GWP) impact of the logistics of one oven dry tonne of forest logging residue varies from 42.00-69.87 kg CO2 equivalent depending on logistics alternatives and transportation distance (30-70 miles). Task 6 - Conduct techno-economic analysis of forest logging residue supply chain (Wang) An economic analysis model was developed based on TEA theory and the machine rate methodology, with the newly developed model having additional consideration for the value of time. The remainder of data collection and compilation of the sub-regions into a single dataset to further refine the models is ongoing. Task 7 -Assess market impact potential of forest logging residue (Bolding, Gallagher, Kizha, Wang) The survey was developed into an online version using Qualtrics software and distributed in 3 of 4 regions through email to contact lists developed from forest products industry, agency, and association contacts for each region. One region is complete with the response period ongoing in two regions and the final region will be distributed in summer 2021. The market survey data will be finalized and summarized during year 3. The completed Northeast survey obtained a total of 300 responses. The major findings showed biomass harvesting is mostly done to satisfy the landowner objectives and for aesthetic values. Major applicability of biomass was for bioenergy and institutional heat. Lack of markets and trucking distance were the major constraints.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Accepted Year Published: 2020 Citation: Wang, Y., Wang, J., Zhang, X. and Grushecky, S., 2020. Environmental and Economic Assessments and Uncertainties of Multiple Lignocellulosic Biomass Utilization for Bioenergy Products: Case Studies. Energies, 13(23), p.6277.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Submitted Year Published: 2021 Citation: Wang, Y., Wang, J., Schuler, J., Strager, M., Volk, T., Eisenbies, M. Hartley, D. A multi-stage spatial analysis decision approach to facility siting for biomass energy production in the Northeastern United States, Submitted to the journal of GCB Bioenergy.


Progress 05/01/19 to 04/30/20

Outputs
Target Audience:The team has worked with logging operators and crews to conduct residue logistics studies for improving effeciency of logging residue collection across the eastern U.S. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Nothing Reported How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Nothing Reported What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Additional harvest sites will be visited for logistics time-motion study in order to complete five studies per sub-region in task 1. Completed harvest sites will also be revisited 6-12 months post harvest for BMP assessment according to task 4 guidelines. The wood properties and characteristics will be further tested for collected residue samples to assess feedstock quality in task 2. Data collected from field studies will be utilized to further build a dataset to refine the logistics model and complte the life-cycle and techno-economic assessments. The marketing survey will be distributed to industry stakeholders across the project study areas. Two additional manuscripts are in preparation to be submitted in the next period and additional presentations and a webinar will be hosted for project outreach.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? 1. Major Accomplishments Major accomplishments of year 1 include development and implementation of standardized field data collection protocols for logistics field studies across the four Eastern U.S. subregions. Five field time-motion studies were completed on biomass harvest and logistics operations across the four sub-regions to generate data and initiate the base case techno-economic and life cycle models development. Forest residue samples representing both hardwood and softwood species from fresh to 5 years have been collected for biomass quality testing. 2. Proposed Work Tasks and Outcomes Task 1 - Conduct regional field time-motion studies to evaluate integrated harvesting systems for forest residue collection A field protocols manual "Protocols for Field Studies and Data Collection of Forest Logging Residue Harvest and Collection in the Eastern U.S." was developed to standardize field study methods and data collection practices across the four designated sub-regions of the eastern U.S. to allow integration and comparison of data collected for residue harvest and collection studies. The manual includes protocols for site selection and samples size, stand information data collection, machine data collection, transportation cost data collection, time and production data collection, residue sample collection and testing, and BMP assessment field data collection. Subtask 1.1 Southeast: One operation in Florida was studied. It was a small diameter, mostly hardwood stand that was clearcut and chipped to a pellet market. The feller-buncher, skidder and chipper were all observed and the data is currently being analyzed. Another operation will be studied during summer 2020 and then another will likely be completed near the end of the year. Subtask 1.2 Lower Mid-Atlantic: Two sites have been completed thus far. The first site was in Stony Creek, VA, and was a relatively high production job on flat terrain using conventional large equipment and a large chipper. The second site was in Covington, VA, was a relatively low production job since it was in the mountains, and used a tracked feller-buncher with two smaller skidders and a smaller chipper. Additionally, two other operations have agreed to allow data collection on one of their sites. One of those sites should be near Emporia, Virginia, and the other site should be near Duffield, Virginia. Site selection for the fifth site is underway. Subtask 1.3 Upper Mid-Atlantic: Multiple residue collection practices in the region were identified and harvest operations located to perform field studies to compare various residue collection practices in the region including in-field processing at the harvest site and centralized processing at a wood yard. Subtask 1.4 Northeast: Two timber harvest operation studies were conducted. One of the time-motion study was done on an industrial timberland and the other one represented small landowner operation. Time-motion study was also completed on a chipping operations. The data is currently being analyzed. Two more detailed time-motion studies will be completed. Task 2 - Analyze biomass feedstock quality of forest logging residue Hardwood and softwood species forest residues were collected from harvest sites including fresh residue through 5-year post harvest residue. Samples are being processed by the WVU Renewable Materials and Bioenergy Research Center to provide physical and chemical wood property analysis to indicate the biomass quality in terms of species, age, and region for available residue feedstocks. Task 3 - Develop regionally specific residue harvest and collection logistics models, and determine feedstock quantity and cost Data collection sheets were included in the protocol manual developed in task 1. A base case model is being developed. The collected machine cost and productivity data will be used to further refine and improve the models specific to each sub-region. Data analytics framework and specific approaches for enhancement of forest and biomass supply chain management has been thoroughly reviewed and summarized to create a solid foundation for further supply chain modeling and optimization. A base mathematical programming model has been developed for the optimization of harvest and logistics for biomass feedstocks. The model has been run with the case of the northeastern region of the U.S. Task 4 - Assess the impacts of best management practices compliance on forest residue harvest and collection BMP assessment guidelines were developed and included in the protocol manual. The data collection approach for BMP assessment is designed to 1) estimate the erosion rate using the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE-Forest) for each operational area, 2) evaluate the harvest operational areas (roads, decks, skid trails, harvest area, stream crossings, and SMZ zones) as a percentage of total harvest area to determine a weighted average erosion rate for the entire tract, 3) evaluate post-harvest ground cover as litter, light slash, heavy slash, piles, bare soil, or rock using the protocol developed by Eisenbies et al. 2005, 4) score each site based on specific BMP audit questionnaire for roads, decks, skidding, stream/wetlands, SMZ, harvest planning, mechanical site prep, fire and chemical applications. Harvest sites will be assessed for BMP effectiveness at a time period of 6 -12 months post-harvest completion in order for BMP's to be fully implemented. Three BMP compliance audits have been completed and other sites will be revisited at the appropriate post-harvest time period. Subtask 4.1 Southeast: We will revisit harvest sites this winter to collect BMP data. Subtask 4.2 Lower Mid-Atlantic: The site from Stony Creek, VA has been revisited and completed. Additionally, the site in Covington, VA is scheduled to be revisited the week of 7/5/2020. The other three sites will be completed 6-12 months after harvest is completed. Two additional biomass sites and 6 conventionally logged sites have also been completed to provide additional data and a basis for comparison to conventionally logged sites. Subtask 4.3 Upper Mid-Atlantic: Harvest sites will be visited 6-12 months post-harvest for BMP compliance assessment. Subtask 4.4 Northeast: One field study site BMP assessment was completed using the field protocol set. Field studies will be conducted at four additional harvest sites. Task 5 - Conduct life cycle analysis of entire residue collection supply chain The study boundary for logging residue Life Cycle Assessment has been defined, and a preliminary LCA modeling was conducted for forest biomass conversion to value-added bioproducts, specifically, activated carbon. In the following years of the project, the model framework and details will be refined/modified based on the research progress to fit different scenarios for analysis. Task 6 - Conduct techno-economic analysis of forest logging residue supply chain Nothing to report in this period Task 7 - Assess market impact potential of forest logging residue A two component market survey was developed to address both the producer and consumer ends of the residue supply chain. In the next quarter the survey will be adapted with regionally specific questions for each sub-region and distributed to forest logging residue producers and biomass consumers. Task 8 - Develop outreach program to disseminate the project findings and results A total of two publications and five abstracts/presentations have resulted from the project findings in year 1.

Publications

  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Zhang, X., J. Wang, J. Vance, Y. Wang, J. Wu, and D. Hartley. 2020. Data analytics for enhancement of forest and biomass supply chain management. Current Forestry Reports. DOI 10.1007/s40725-020-00111-w.
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Wang, Y., J. Wang, J. Schuler, D. Hartley, T. Volk, and M. Eisenbies. 2020. Optimization of harvest and logistics for multiple lignocellulosic biomass feedstocks in the northeastern United States. Energy. 197:117260.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2020 Citation: Kizha AR, Alex A, George AK, Louis LT. 2020. Cost of Harvesting Small-diameter Trees: Comparing Semi-Mechanized and Mechanized Harvesting Operation. Society of American Foresters National Conference. Providence, RI. Oct 18-Nov 1 (Abstract accepted).
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2020 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. 2020. Timber Harvesting Costs Associated with Commercial Thinning. Society of American Foresters National Conference. Providence, RI. Oct 29-31 (Abstract accepted)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2020 Citation: George AK, Kizha AR. 2020. Soil Erosion Potential of Major Timber Harvesting Methods In Northeastern US: A Comparative Study. Society of American Foresters National Conference. Providence, RI. Oct 18-Nov 1 (Abstract accepted).
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Alex A, Kizha AR. 2020. Equipment Selection: A Bridge Between Financial Feasibility and Productivity for Small Woodland Owners. University of Maine 2020 Student Symposium. April 3. Bangor, ME (Abstract published; Conference cancelled due to COVID 19).
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2019 Citation: Zhang, X., W. Hu, J. Wang. Life Cycle Assessment of Activated Carbon Production from Woody Biomass, Oral Presentation, in American Center of Life Cycle Assessment XIX Conference. 2019, ACLCA: Arizona, USA.