Metsäteho Result Series 12-EN/2026: Seasonal Trafficability Classification (pdf 0,4 Mt)
Attachment
Seasonal Trafficability Classification (Excel 0,1 Mt)
Summary
The aim of the study was to examine: (1) the current status of R&D work on the seasonal trafficability classification of private roads; (2) the needs of the forest sector for a trafficability assessment tool; and (3) requirements for further development measures.
Seasonal trafficability refers to the ability of a fully loaded vehicle combination to travel on a specific section of a gravel road without causing damage to the road. Trafficability varies according to seasonal conditions.
A seasonal trafficability classification system suitable for operational use by companies would consist of a commercial classification tool, analytical models for assessing seasonal trafficability under different conditions, and the public and private geospatial datasets required by these models.
A commercial seasonal trafficability classification tool is not yet available. Factors affecting trafficability and their impacts are currently being modelled in several research projects in Finland and abroad. Testing of the models is expected to commence during 2027. Only part of the data required for the classification system is currently available in a comprehensive, open and up-to-date form. Ongoing research is exploring various data sources and data collection methods to improve data availability.
Forest companies have identified several challenges in the planning of timber harvesting and transport, as well as a number of benefits that a seasonal trafficability classification tool could bring to these planning processes. Climate change, in particular, is increasing the variability of operating conditions and reducing their predictability.
Key next steps include cooperation between forest companies, other companies and ongoing R&D projects, the identification of critical input data and their availability, and a more detailed assessment of the costs associated with the seasonal trafficability classification system and the data required to support it.
More information
Senior Researcher Pirjo Venäläinen
[email protected]
+358 40 8214 942
Metsäteho Oy