Forest Utilization 215 



wrench a saw loose. When the tree starts to fall, remove 

 the saw, and step back from the tree. Keep an eye 

 aloft for falling limbs either from the falling tree or its 

 neighbors. If the tree shows a tendency to lean back 

 on the wedges, stop the saw when within a couple of 

 inches of the notch, take off one handle, remove the saw 

 and force the tree over with the wedges. Keep a sharp 

 look-out in this case, for there is always danger that the 

 wood may give way and the tree fall backwards. When a 

 tree starts to fall, stand comparatively near the trunk, 

 it is the safest place, then move back to avoid any jump- 

 ing of the butt. 



Dividing the log 



The tree once felled, it is necessary to mark off the log 

 lengths. The purpose for which the logs are to be used 

 must be kept carefully in mind. As a general rule, long 

 lengths are more valuable than short ones. However, 

 two straight short logs are more valuable than one long 

 crooked one. Unless for some special purpose, logs 

 are usually cut either 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 or 18 feet long, except 

 in the Adirondacks where odd lengths are the rule. Short 

 lengths are cut more in the hardwoods ; conifers are seldom 

 cut less than 12 feet. 



First measure the total length of the stem that can be 

 used for logs and so divide it that the whole stem is 

 utilized. In doing this it must be remembered that a log 

 must be cut at least three inches longer than the required 

 length. Cut the butt log 18 feet if it is straight ; if not, 

 it is better to make it shorter. A considerable crook 

 can be avoided by cutting right at the middle of the bend. 



