In forestry, what is the purpose of a feller-buncher?

A feller-buncher is specifically designed for cutting and handling trees in forestry operations. Its primary function is to cut down trees and then gather them into bunches, which makes the process of logging more efficient. This machine has a specialized head that can cut through large trunks and immediately grip and stack the fallen trees. This ability to simultaneously cut and consolidate makes it a crucial piece of equipment in forestry operations, as it significantly reduces the time and labor required to prepare trees for transport.

Other options are not related to the feller-buncher's purpose. For instance, planting new trees involves a different set of tools and equipment designed for reforestation. The transport of logs is typically handled by other machinery like skidders or trucks rather than a feller-buncher. Monitoring soil health requires different techniques and tools focused on soil analysis, which does not involve the wood-cutting capabilities of a feller-buncher. Thus, its role is tightly focused on efficiently harvesting and accumulating timber.