Abstract: A grapple rake adapted for receiving subsoiler shanks is useful for multiple post-timber harvest management activities. A pair of downwardly-depending, forward-oriented subsoiling shanks is mounted on the underside of the rake, allowing the implement to accomplish the tasks of (1) grapple piling to deal with post-timber harvest fuels reduction and (2) subsoiling to improve soil productivity by reducing soil compaction. The implement is optionally equipped with a coulter blade. This invention will be useful for decommissioning forest roads, skid trails, landings, and harvest units with new and/or legacy compaction without the need for multiple pieces of heavy equipment or for multiple entries into the treatment area.

Abstract: An excavator bucket adapted to receive subsoiler shanks and an optional coulter blade enables multiple treatment of compacted soil. In a preferred embodiment, the shanks depend downward below the bucket and curve forward toward the bottom of the bucket. The shanks allow a single implement to be used for both excavating and subsoiling, and also for contouring sloping terrain. One application for such an implement is for decommissioning forest roads without the need for multiple pieces of heavy equipment or for multiple entries into the treatment area.