This paper presents the edge effect of a very low-volume road on the belt of roadside vegetation in the "Puszcza Notecka", Poland - one of the largest compact forest complexes in Europe. The observations were carried out in the vicinity of pine stands in the fresh coniferous forest and fresh mixed coniferous forest sites. Twelve rectangular experimental sites 30 and 50 meters wide at a distance of 0 to 10 meters from the edge surfaces were established. 75 species characteristic for the 13 phytosociological classes and 20 species associated devoided of the diagnostic value were recognized in the roadside area. Native species dominated, where the most numerous species belonged to meadow communities (Molinio-Arrhenatheretea) and ruderal (Artemisietea vulgaris). Despite the significant participation of synanthropic plants, there was no invasion of alien species. ...
State Forests make various road investments in cooperation with local self-governments. Jointly modernized roads facilitate local transport for both parties. The prerequisite is proper selection of technologies and project parameters for the modernized roads. The paper aimed to analyze the minimum horizontal curve radii for various elements of roads (on exits, road junctions and vehicle maneuvering areas) depending on the vehicle combinations for timber transport. The scope of works comprised:• analysis of technical conditions for public roads;• analysis of kinematic relationships for vehicle combinations for timber transport;• determining the types of vehicle combinations for timber transport;• empirical determination of the turning abilities of timber haulage vehicle combinations and fire engines.Potential vehicle combinations used for timber transport were determined on the basis of data collected from the customers. Tests of turning abilities of vehicle combinations used for long and short timber transport and for forest fire fighting used by the State Fire Service units were conducted on a maneuvering area, at the curves with radius R = 11.0 m; 13 and 15 m and steering angle α = 90o.A combination of a truck with a trailer or steered cart revealed the best turning parameters. It was demonstrated that the rounding radius R = 11.0 m ...
