Close Utilization of Timber 31 



reverse, because timber left in the tops is of as high grade as 

 much of the material now taken ; and the cutting of a tree for 

 quality as well as quantity will increase the percentage of 

 "uppers." 



SUGGESTIONS 



The successful solution of this problem can only be brought 

 about by thorough inspection of felling and log-making. Where 

 ten or more saw crews are employed, the proper supervision of 

 this work will require the services of a saw boss, who should be 

 responsible to the team boss in order that close cooperation may 

 exist between felling and skidding crews. 



A man to be a competent saw boss must understand thoroughly 

 the mill requirements for logs, in order that the timber may be 

 cut into the most desirable and profitable lengths ; should be an 

 expert log scaler ; and must have the ability to teach and handle 

 men successfully. 



DUTIES OF THE SAW BOSS 



(1) The distribution and care of all tools issued to fallers 

 and log-makers. Economy is effected by a system of accounting 

 for tools and other equipment. Special attention should be given 

 to checking up the length of measuring sticks each day. 



(2) Culling all trees and logs that are not worth handling. 



(3) The instruction of the workmen in marking off log lengths 

 on felled trees in order to enable them to secure the maximum 

 quality and quantity of timber. 



(4) The thorough inspection of the work of the felling and 

 log-making crews to point out mistakes for the purpose of avoid- 

 ing them in the future. 



(5) The scaling of all timber that is felled. 



Difficulties will be experienced at the start, but instruction by a 

 saw boss for three or four weeks will result in a marked improve- 

 ment in the work. Careful supervision, however, will be required 

 constantly, for it is easy for workmen to fall back into old habits. 



The saw boss should, after a few weeks, have sufficient time to 

 scale the timber at the stump, since his inspection duties will 

 require him to visit every felled tree. The wages of a scaler can 

 thereby be saved. 



The salary of a competent saw boss should be at least $100 per 

 month, because a man without proper conception of the work would 

 be of little value. 



