While it may not replace conventional logging systems completely it does have many advantages over other types of logging methods in many stands of timber. One of the major advantages being that we now have an economical and efficient way of thinning dense stands of timber without putting a person on the ground in a dangerous position. This system also requires less road density, leaves less damage to the remaining trees, and since it limbs in the woods, the branches and needles are left on the ground. This material is not only an important source of soil nutrients but also acts as a mat which reduces erosion and soil compaction effects of the two machines.
			This system fits in so well with Bennett's land management philosophy that we currently have two of these systems working on company ground. While being light on the land these highly specialized systems are not light on the pocketbook, with a harvester and forwarder costing well into the $750,000 range. This system also requires well trained and dedicated operators. Operators need to be adept at maintenance, mechanics, hydraulics, computer programming and forest practices. All of these factors require a dedicated commitment from the logging contractor as well as the mill to make a new system like this successful.