Forestry Road Construction

Forest roads provide crucial access to and within a forest. They assist inspection and management, provide and facilitate forest fire protection, permit economic and efficient timber harvesting and provide recreational opportunities within a forest.

A well planned forest road can also enhance biodiversity in the open spaces between the road and the trees.

Roads are costly to construct and should be carefully planned and built. Poor design and construction can lead to high maintenance costs and may result in an adverse impact on the local environment.

Design and Construction

Proper design will ensure that a long-lasting harvesting road is produced. Impediments such as rock outcrop, aquatic zones and man-made obstacles -for instance ESB wires and gas pipelines- will influence the route of the road. Design methods will depend on the soil type present.

Construction works should be carried out by competent and experienced contractors. Where possible, road construction should be carried out in the spring and summer to minimize site disturbance. The availability of roading material e.g. stone or gravel on farm will reduce costs. If a road is constructed well in advance of use and allowed to settle, there is less risk of deterioration.