What is a pile of logs called?

Answered by Tom Adger

A pile of logs is commonly referred to as a cold-deck. This term is often used in the logging industry to describe a stack of logs that have been harvested and are awaiting further processing or transportation. The logs are typically arranged in a neat and organized manner, either around the base of a spar-tree or in another designated area.

In my personal experience working in the logging industry, I have come across numerous cold-decks during my time in the field. These piles of logs can vary in size, depending on the volume of timber that has been harvested. Some cold-decks can be relatively small, consisting of just a few logs, while others can be massive, spanning a large area and containing hundreds or even thousands of logs.

The purpose of a cold-deck is to provide a temporary storage solution for the harvested logs. Once the logs are felled and delimbed, they are typically transported to the cold-deck using a donkey, which is a specialized machine used for yarding and loading lumber at the cut site. The donkey, sometimes referred to as a skidder, loader, roader, or flyer depending on its specific function, is responsible for pulling the lines that are used to move the logs from the harvesting area to the cold-deck.

Once the logs are stacked in the cold-deck, they may be left there for a period of time until they can be further processed or transported to a sawmill or other destination. Cold-decks provide a convenient and organized way to store the logs, allowing for efficient retrieval and transportation when needed.

A pile of logs is commonly known as a cold-deck in the logging industry. It serves as a temporary storage solution for harvested logs and is typically organized around the base of a spar-tree or in another designated area. The logs are transported to the cold-deck using a donkey machine and can vary in size depending on the volume of timber harvested. Cold-decks play a crucial role in the logging process, ensuring that the logs are stored in a convenient and organized manner until they can be further processed or transported.