The Joint FAO/ECE Working Party on Logging Technique and Training of Forest Workers, meeting in June 1954, discussed barking problems and recommended that the author should assemble, in co-operation with the Secretariat, available information concerning mechanical barking in forest operations. The present report, containing the results of this investigation, is intended to give a picture of barking problems and their solution in Europe, Canada and the U.S.A. It is based on material supplied by Governments, manufactures and individual experts in reply to a questionnaire. In addition, the author has had recourse to technical rewies, articles, etc. published in different countries. The report consits of three parts. Part I gives a short description of the composition and physiological and chemical properties of bark, and discusses the barking problem from the technical and economic viewpoints in relation to the method of processing and possible end uses of the timber. In Part II the principle, design and performance of the different types of barking machines now being produced are discussed. The importance of rational planning of work site is illustrated. Part III consists of an illustrated catalogue, arranged in alphabetical order, giving a detailed description of the mechanism and operation of the various machines.
