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The results of various methods of thinning adopted o on different 
estates are very noticeable, the mature crops in some places being 
much denser than in others whilst there is little to choose between 
the cubical contents of average trees. There is no doubt that one 
all-round system of thinning would be impracticable as conditions 
vary so frilly in even a small area, yet one has to admit that less 
thinning in many cases would be advisable. 
Fewer new plantations are being formed than one would have 
expected, considering the quantity of waste ground available and 
the fact of the region having proved itself to be peculiarly adapted 
for the growth of trees. Though difficult to form anything like an 
accurate opinion from a hu tried visit, it would appear that no 
greater area of land is being planted than that which is being 
Here and there plantations are noticed in unsuitable places such 
as on very high and exposed land, and in such cases the trees are 
usually poor and stunted. At present there is plenty of land lying 
idle at fairly low elevations and moderately well sheltered. Unti 
such land is planted up there appears, therefore, to be little reason 
for undertaking phe hazardous experiment of planting the less 
favourable position 
Taking the aesads visited as a fair sample of those existing 
throughout Deeside, however, they impress one favourably, an 
were the woods in every district of the country in as good order, 
forestry in the British Isles would be in _— condition, 
however, been found in the past by young foresters, in obtaining 
experience in anything except practical work. To meet this want 
the authorities of Aberdeen University and the North of Scotland 
College of Agriculture have instituted courses of lectures on the 
theotetioal and scientific sides of forestry for men who have had 
practical trainin 
A course of instruction which has proved to be very it pone’ 
extends from October to March. This is purely academical a 
includes lectures, ‘oa work and occasional excursions - 
woods in the vicinity for demonstration purposes. 
Last winter 24 students, 11 of whom were young foresters in the 
North of Scotland, attended the course, the ages of the men being 
between 18 and 22. The fees for the course amount to three 
guineas and the cost of board and lodging to each student is about 
15 shillings a week. The expense is sometimes horne by the 
student and sometimes by his employer, or the cost may be divided. 
here is also an opportunity for men to obtain County Council 
Bursaries valued at from £10 to £15 each. 
A four weeks’ course of instruction for foresters who cannot leave 
their employment for a longer period has also been arranged. 
fee is charged for this course and students are given the free use of 
microscopes and any other instruments they may require. Men of 
all ages between 17 and 60 enter as students, and in many cases 
their Euid-al pocket expenses are paid by their employers, 
