Impact of forest exploitation operations on river water quality indicators in afforestation areas: Case study of the Series 2 poplar plantation, Tanian, Soumehsara

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Forestry, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Guilan, Sowmeh Sara, Iran.

10.22059/jfwp.2025.397690.1351

Abstract

Forest management can significantly affect water quality in watershed areas. This study assessed the effects of timber harvesting using a Clark rubber-tired skidder on water quality parameters and heavy metal concentrations in a poplar plantation (Series 2) in Tenyān, Someh Sara County. Sampling of the Khon Abkash River was conducted within the plantation. Water parameters including temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids were measured in three replicates along the watercourse. Water samples were collected at 40-meter intervals for analysis of heavy metals and sediment weight using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry. Results showed a significant relationship between harvesting intensity and increases in water temperature, electrical conductivity, dissolved solids, and pH variation. Mean concentrations of lead, nickel, vanadium, chromium, zinc, and iron varied significantly across river sections, while cobalt showed no significant change. The highest changes were observed for iron (58.002 mg/L), sediment weight (21.1429 mg/L), and vanadium (5.1486 mg/L), while the lowest changes were for cadmium (0.0371 mg/L), lead (0.434 mg/L), and copper (1.2196 mg/L). An independent t-test confirmed significant differences in water quality between the harvested area and the control site. Overall, the reduction in canopy cover and ground vegetation due to logging and skidder operations increased sediment load and heavy metal concentrations, thereby reducing river water quality. These findings emphasize the need for careful forest harvesting management to safeguard water resources.

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References

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Forest and Wood Products
Volume 78, Issue 2
September 2025
Pages 209-221

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