Abstract: The tree harvesting apparatus and method of this invention are particularly useful in congested areas where the range of equipment movement is limited and where unrestrained heavy tree bolts would cause damage to surrounding property if allowed to free fall to the ground. The subject apparatus is adapted to engage and sever large tree limbs, tree tops and tree bolts from free standing trees by means of tree gripping and severing means which is operable to form a kerf without becoming bound within the same. Further, the subject apparatus is adapted to weigh a tree bolt or tree top immediately upon its formation and while in juxtaposition with the free standing tree.

Abstract: A tree harvesting apparatus and method is particularly adapted for use in crowded housing and industrial areas where there is concern for relatively heavy cut tree portions causing damage when allowed to free fall to the ground. The tree harvesting apparatus and method enables a cut portion of a tree such as a tree top to be weighed after being cut but before it is lowered or allowed to free fall to the ground dependent on its weight. A camera mounted on the harvesting apparatus enables the cutting and weighing operation to be observed by an operator on the ground. The tree harvesting apparatus mounts on the outer end of a boom which in turn mounts on a turntable which can rotate 360°, thus making the apparatus and method useful for harvesting a plurality of trees from one location of the apparatus.