The bucking (or dissection of the tree's stem into logs) of hardwood trees establishes the ultimate end product of the timber being processed, and hence the ultimate financial value of the resource. A bucker may, by altering the choice of cut locations along the stem, produce logs suitable for a valuable veneer product, or factory grade lumber of lesser value. Hence the improvement of bucker performance is of vital importance to the efficiency of hardwood harvesting operations.

Training Resources

Hardwood Defect Trainer : This prototype web based information resource was developed by the Hardwood Researcg Group at MTU with funding provided by the USDA Forest Service. As a hyperlinked trainer, it can also be distributed and utilized offline via compact disk. A final version of this tool is pending funding.

HW Buck Game : A stand alone software package that allows buckers to improve their skills, by comparing the results of their bucking decisions with competitors as well as the optimal solution.

Slide Shows (Power Point and Acrobat-.pdf files, outlines, and speaking notes)

Bucker Training: A real world case study of the importance, results, and future of bucker training.

Defect Identification for Buckers: This slide show teaches how to recognize hardwood defects as well as understand their implications.

Grading and Scaling for Buckers: An approach to grading and scaling for application in bucking.

Improving Bucking with HW Buck: An investigation in the characteristics of optimal bucking patterns as well as methods for training oneself to be an expert bucker.

Scaling and Grading Trainer: This conceptual tool completes, the suit of resources necessary to properly enhance bucker performance. This concept is awaiting funding for development.

Recommended reading

Last updated: September 25, 2006