Logging systems and method

A skyline transfer apparatus comprising:

• a main yarder;
• a tensioned skyline;
• a mainline;
• a haul-back line;
• a carriage comprising:
• at least one carriage side-plate comprising an inbound end closest to the main yarder and an outbound end furthest from the main yarder;
• a first skyline riding sheave rotatably attached at the inbound end of the carriage side plate(s);
• a second skyline riding sheave rotatably attached at the outbound end of the carriage side-plate(s);
• wherein the skyline riding sheaves ride upon the tensioned skyline during operation of the carriage;
• wherein a first end of the skyline is connected to the main yarder providing tensioning force to the skyline;
• wherein a second end of the skyline is fixed to an anchor point;
• a mainline attachment point at the outbound end of the carriage side-plate(s);
• wherein a first end of the mainline is connected to the main yarder providing tensioning force to the mainline, the mainline configured to move the carriage along the skyline toward the main yarder;
• wherein the mainline passes the inbound end of the carriage side-plate(s) and is connected to the mainline attachment point;
• a haul-back line attachment point at the inbound end of the carriage side-plate(s);
• wherein a first end of the haul-back line is connected to the main yarder providing tensioning force to the haul-back line, the haul-back line configured to move the carriage along the skyline away from the main yarder;
• wherein the haul-back line passes the outbound end of the carriage side-plate(s) and is connected to the haul-back line attachment point;
• and
• an independent drop line to support a load extending below the carriage;
• a jack pivotably attached to an intermediate spar;
• wherein the intermediate spar supports the jack above a ground surface;
• wherein the jack comprises at least one side-plate(s) with at least one skyline supporting sheave rotatably attached to the at least one side-plate(s);
• and
• a haulback sheave and a mainline sheave rotatably mounted to the jack to directly and continuously support the haulback line and the mainline.