WHAT IS THE PROGRAM?
The Kentucky Logging Bridge Program provides temporary wooden bridges (skidder bridges) to you as a logger during operations requiring crossing streams or channels. These bridges are designed to:

• Improve efficiency of skidding speed.
• Prevent sediment and mud from entering waterways.
• Protect fish, wildlife, and aquatic ecosystems.
• Help loggers meet state environmental regulations while maintaining efficient operations.

This program offers a rent-to-own option that essentially sells skidder bridges for 25 percent of the actual skidder bridge. For example, an 18-foot panel for a bridge costs 425 dollars. We charge 106
dollars for it. Once you complete the payments the bridges are completely yours.

The Kentucky Logging Bridge Program for Temporary Stream Crossings is a new initiative designed to help loggers protect the environment while improving their efficiency on the job. Led by the University of Kentucky’s Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, this program offers a practical solution for crossing streams and channels during timber harvesting operations.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
The program provides three types of wooden bridges with three panels considered to be a full bridge available in different sizes:

• 18-foot bridge sections
• 20-foot bridge sections
• 24-foot bridge sections

These bridges are reusable and easy to transport. Loggers can rent them for six months or purchase them outright at an affordable cost. For example:

• A full 18-foot bridge costs $300 upfront or $50/month for six months.
• A full 20-foot bridge costs $600 upfront or $100 for six months.
• A full 24-foot bridge costs $800 upfront or $133/month for six months.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
In Kentucky, logging often involves crossing streams or channels, which can lead to sediment pollution, habitat destruction and increases your skidding time. This program is designed to:

• Protect streams and rivers.
• Safeguard threatened and endangered species.

Using temporary wooden bridges has been proven to significantly reduce sediment runoff compared to other speed methods like fords or culverts. This helps keep streams clean and ecosystems
healthy. 

WHO IS BEHIND THE PROGRAM?
The program is run by the University of Kentucky’s Department of Forestry and Natural Resources in
partnership with the Kentucky Master Logger Program and other industry organizations. The U.S. Forest Service supports the initiative and is part of a larger effort to promote sustainable
logging practices. 

HOW TO GET INVOLVED?
The Kentucky Logging Bridge Program is open to loggers in Kentucky. In addition to providing bridges, the program offers training on proper installation and best practices for protecting water resources. 

For more information or to get started, contact Michael Ammerman at 859.257.0580 or email at michael.ammerman@uky.edu

This program is an opportunity to make your logging operations more efficient and environmentally friendly while helping protect Kentucky’s natural resources.