Learning curve theory can be useful for estimating the long-term development of production rates and costs for forest operations. Making decisions as to the investments in forest operations machines in the initial phases of new forest ventures requires good estimates of production rates and costs. Since policy considerations may include adoption of new technologies, the learning curve analysis should be used in the planning and scheduling of new forest operations. The paper illustrated an application of learning curve theory in the estimation of tree cutting production rates and costs which are essential in planning of forest operations. The analysis suggests a new approach to planning and control of tree cutting forest operations. The models can assist forest managers in planning and scheduling chainsaw tree cutting operations in similar stands. However, the form of the learning curve can be applied in the analysis of learning curves in logging operations.

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