INTRODUCTION 
THE study whose results are here presented had its 
origin in a conversation between Dr. W. Seward Webb 
and the writer in November, 1896. The arrangement 
then made contemplated a division of responsibility 
according to which Dr. Webb’s contribution should 
consist of the funds necessary for the pay of assistants 
and the necessary field expenses, while my share in- 
volved the planning and supervision of the work, and 
the preparation of its results for publication. The 
whole undertaking was to have for its object the ‘« pres- 
ervation and proper management of Spruce lands in 
the northeastern United States.” 
It was evident at that time, and it is still more evident 
now, that the original forests cannot long suffice to 
supply the increasing demands for Spruce which are 
made upon them. To provide fora second, and for suc- 
ceeding crops of Spruce is the obvious and necessary 
way to prevent a scarcity of this valuable tree, and the 
consequent crippling, in the comparatively near future, 
of the industries which depend upon it. The purpose 
of the present study was to acquire such a knowledge 
of the laws which govern the growth of the Red Spruce 
that the main facts necessary for the conservative treat- 
ment of Spruce forests might be put within the reach of 
the men most likely to undertake it. 
I 
