Building Roads and bridges
20221-2022
General
The VCF maintains and upgrades as needed the roads and bridges that the VCF has a Permit on.
Road development and access are critical to harvesting success. Road surfaces require time to set up, therefore, having the roads built in advance (a year ahead or longer) is ideal. Road surface quality is determined mostly by how water running across it is controlled. Culverts, ditches, water bars and the use of geo-textile fabrics and gravel all contribute to a dry surface. Proper grading keeps the road surface in good shape for vehicle use.
Pre-built roads provide access for the block layout crews, shortening their distance to work and lowering costs to the company. Good roads provide access for more than logging and reforestation. Recreational users appreciate all weather roads for many activities, from self-propelled sports to horse riding, hunting, trapping and motorized sports. Good roads can also provide access in the event of lightning strikes and wildfires, avalanches and rescue operations.
The bridges are reviewed by engineers for condition and weigh loads. The bridges have there decks replaced and the abutments from time to time.