Other timber cutting and logging workers have a variety of responsibilities. Some workers hike through forests to assess logging conditions and estimate the volume of marketable timber. Laborers clear areas of brush and other growth to prepare for logging activities and to promote growth of desirable species of trees. The timber cutting and logging industry is characterized by a large number of small crews of four or fewer workers primarily fallers, buckers, choker setters, and others whose jobs are labor intensive. Most of these crews work for self-employed logging contractors who possess substantial logging experience, the capital to purchase equipment, and the skills needed to run a small business successfully.
Most contractors work alongside their crews as working supervisors.
Many manage more than one crew and function as owner-supervisors. Although timber cutting and logging equipment has greatly improved and operations are becoming increasingly mechanized, many logging jobs are still labor intensive. Skillful operation of vehicles and equipment is necessary to avoid accidents and to minimize damage to the equipment and environment. The ability to maintain and repair equipment is increasingly necessary to reduce costs and increase productivity. A skillful, experienced logger is expected to handle a variety of logging operations.