Applying the Decision Support System, TRACER, to Forest Road Design

Abstract

Abstract A three-dimensional forest road alignment model, TRACER, was developed to assist a forest road designer with rapid evaluation of alternative road paths. The objective is to design a route with the lowest total cost considering construction, maintenance, and transportation costs, while conforming to design specifications, environmental requirements, and driver safety. The model integrates two optimization techniques: a linear programming for earthwork allocation and a heuristic approach for vertical alignment selection. The model enhances user efficiency through automated horizontal and vertical curve fitting routines, cross-section generation, and cost routines for construction, maintenance, and vehicle use. The average sediment delivered to a stream from the road section is estimated using the method of a GIS-based road erosion/delivery model. It is anticipated that the development of a design procedure incorporating modern graphics capability, hardware, software languages, modern optimization techniques, and environmental considerations will improve the design process for forest roads. West. J. Appl. For. 20(3):184–191.