William F. Watson

Indonesia's developing forest industry

Indonesia is a major exporter of tropical hardwoods. The countrys goal is to establish integrated wood industries by reducing the export of unprocessed sawlogs. The value of hardwood sawlog exports has decreased by twothirds in 1986 dollars since 1978, while the value of hardwood sawnwood and plywood exports has increased sixfold. Sawlog exports are now banned. This article contrasts the official governmental policy on forest industry development with the operational realities of doing business in Indonesia.

Timber harvesting technology: Environmental and site preparation costs

Reforestation is a critical need in many areas of the world. Where intensive forestry is practiced, after timber is harvested the land must be prepared for reforestation. Site preparation costs are influenced by the amount of biomass remaining after harvest. Timber and pulp products are removed by comparing costs and values per unit. Harvest intensity is therefore influenced by forest products demand and by timber harvesting and transportation costs. More reforestation and less environmental damage may result when timber harvesting and site‐preparation are jointly considered.