In this regard we will note some concrete instances where accurate 

 cost data will help to reduce logging expense. 



I. Yarding and leading. 



Cost data showing the expense of operating each individual "side" or 

 yarder. This would gradually accumulate figures to show just what it 

 costs to operate in various types of timber and under varying ground con- 

 ditions. Should the question of buying tracts of timber come up, this 

 timber could be classified as to type and logging conditions and a very 

 accurate statement be given as to the probable cost of logging it. 



We could gradually come to accurate conclusions as to which systems 

 of yarding were the most economical under varying conditions. At present 

 we are too apt to try to apply one system to all conditions. 



Logging contracts and estimates of cost for future work could be 

 much more closely approximated. 



There would be a more dependable basis for establishing a "base" for 

 the various bonus systems now being used, which in turn would tend to 

 make these systems more satisfactory both to the company and to the men. 



In cases where it seemed advisable to curtail output it would be of 

 value to know which "sides" were returning the greatest net profit, and 

 from this could be seen just how many and what "sides" could best carry 

 the overhead expenses during a partial shut-down. 



II. Cost of Construction, Maintenance, and Operation of Logging 



Railroads. 



As the cost of logging roads forms an increasingly large part of the 

 expense of getting logs to the mill, this data should be more closely studied 

 and more definite conclusions drawn as to just what percentage of the total 

 cost should go into the various sub-divisions. From itemized cost figures 

 on our railroad operation and upkeep we could determine the proper rela- 

 tion of ballast and drainage to maintenance on both spur and main lines. 

 A study of cost figures on ballasting, draining, and general maintenance 

 of different roads would in the end give an accurate indication of how 

 much it would be practicable to spend on ballast; the relation of the width 

 of the roadbed to the amount of gravel needed and the expense of keeping 

 open drains; the reduced cost of maintenance of roads which had been 

 graded some months ahead of the logging and allowed to settle, in com- 

 parison with those put into operation soon after their construction. 



The cost per M of hauling logs over adverse grades could be deter- 

 mined and would give a basis on which to compare the cost of logging long 

 corners and old bunches of timber by use of several donkeys with the 

 building of spurs to the timber. The cost per M would usually be the de- 

 termining factor. 



Cost data on the operating expense of the different locomotives on a 

 large operation would often be of use and from it could be determined the 

 possibility of using a gasoline speeder for many contingencies where loco- 

 motives are often used, such as sending mechanics, extra tools and parts 

 to the woods for breakdowns where haste is an important factor; taking 

 first aid to injured men and bringing them to headquarters; handling light 

 freight; taking visitors and officials over the roads; hauling small crews 

 of men to work where they are compelled to go some distance from the 

 regular logging crews, etc. 



In details of construction we could show the cheapened cost of doing 

 the grading in the summer months; the advantage in using sawed timbers 

 for small bridges in preference to hewed timbers where the former is often 

 proved the cheaper on account of lessened labor expense; and the greater 

 adaptability of sawed timbers in being used in other places where their 

 use is more or less temporary; the cheapness in the long run in using bolts 

 instead of spikes in bridges on the spurs. 



There is a question of whether we may not get more work out of the 

 steel gangs by providing them with specially low built cars for handling 

 steel and ties; whether the amount of steel to be moved justifies such an 



