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Log yards play an important role in the forest supply chain by connecting raw material supply to manufacturing processes. Log yard design and operations have not been thoroughly represented in the scientific literature, though research in other industrial sectors has demonstrated the strategic operational importance of warehouses. This article investigates the log yard design and operations in current industrial practices. An analysis of existing log yards was conducted in Quebec. Detailed information about throughput, equipment, personnel, inventory management, and design considerations was gathered by means of questionnaires, on-site visits, and meetings with yard managers. The survey of current practices (design, management, and operations) confirms that most existing yards have been designed without a systematic method. Crucial performance inhibitors included log yard shape, in-flow management, and poor surface material. Results point toward a potential gain in competitiveness by improving log yard practices, optimizing log yard shape and layout, better coordinating the forest–mill operations, and enhancing surface material. |
