ANNOTATION: This paper analyzes harvesting per se as well as its role in the total forest management picture. Models are presented for testing the sensitivity of total management cost and the harvesting components of cost to alternative silvicultural, utilization, and other forest management objectives. These models are used to discern opportunities for new harvesting technology. ABSTRACT: Because of increased emphasis on utilization of residues and smaller timber, rising energy and labor costs, and more severe environmental constraints pertaining to logging and road construction, the criteria for harvesting systems in the future will require both technological and institutional innovation. This paper analyzes harvesting per se as well as its role in the total forest management picture. Models are presented for testing the sensitivity of total management cost and the harvesting components of cost to alternative silvicultural, utilization, and other forest management objectives. These models are used to discern opportunities for new harvesting technology.