Current Literature. 251 



In the chapter on silvics the composition of a forest and the 

 recognized forest types are discussed. Under silvicultural sys- 

 tems the various methods of forest utiHzation and reproduction 

 are considered, not always as clearly as is desirable however, 

 for both in the text and in the illustrations there is sometimes 

 a doubt. For one thing the terms "system" and "method" are 

 used indiscriminately or indefinitely. One need not be a stickler 

 for form or for authority when one insists that in the development 

 of a new profession every term and expression must have a 

 definite meaning. All this is well shown on page 26 where 

 figure 8 rather ineffectively illustrates the "system" of clear 

 cutting in strips, because the succession of fellings, or cuttings, 

 is not made plain. Diagrams of this sort when carefully pre- 

 pared are a most valuable means of illustrating work of this 

 character. Fortunately most of those employed are entirely 

 satisfactory. 



In chapter III the most important New England trees are con- 

 sidered specifically. The presentation is direct, and perhaps as 

 brief as possible, though in view of the many times that matter 

 of this kind has been printed one questions whether it was neces- 

 sary to repeat it. 



The detailed directions for planting and making improvement 

 cuttings, form in many ways the most important part of the 

 book, for here those who are attempting to ,handle woodlands 

 will find most of their immediate problems considered. In dis- 

 cussing available species for planting the authors especially recom- 

 mend red pine, although the work in general lays stress upon 

 the availability and value of white pine. It may be questioned 

 whether there is not danger in placing so much dependence 

 upon a single species. The recommendation of red pine there- 

 fore needs emphasis. Another point of value made is that clear 

 cutting followed by planting is a recognized practice worthy to 

 be followed in many situations. Overemphasis has undoubtedly 

 been placed upon the selection method, especially in spruce for- 

 ests subject to wind-fall and in mixed forests from which most 

 of the valuable species have been removed. Very wisely the list 

 of insects and fungi is limited to the forms that are commonest 

 or most to be feared. 



The chapter on forest fires is rather general. Something more 



16 



