148 PROCEEDINGS OF THE SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FORESTERS 



ination of the seed. (This would usually remove one-third of 

 the merchantable stand.) 



2. Cut moderately, so that seedlings may develop. (This would 



usually remove two-thirds of the original merchantable stand.) 



3. Cut all but a few "protectors," so that seedlings may be prepared 



for standing without an overhead shelter. 



4. Clear cut; no overhead shelter, buf protection from mature trees 



on strips 3, 2, 1, and the main stand adjoining these. (This 

 would usually remove everything merchantable i. e. } generally 

 all over 6 to 12 inches D. B. H.) 



Thus the cutting advances gradually into the closed stand. This 

 progress is usually about two chains per annum, but should be varied to 

 meet the specific conditions. The method aims to utilize the seed which 

 is produced each year, and thus in years when little or no seed is pro- 

 duced the selection cuttings are not pushed on into the closed stand, but 

 attention is centered on the seedlings already secured. At the prospect 

 of an ample seed year the selection cuttings are pushed farther than 

 usual into the closed stand in order to utilize the larger production of 

 seed. In this manner the effects of a bountiful seed crop can be extended 

 over several years. The method is essentially flexible in its adaptability 

 to the needs of various species and sites, though it is primarily suited to 

 coniferous forests. Thus in regenerating light demanding species the 

 clean-cut strip can be wider; in tolerant species not so wide. Again, on 

 steep slopes or easily eroded soils the clean-cut strip can be kept narrow. 



The method admits of modification very easily and brings into play 

 the keenest judgment of the trained forester. For example, it allows the 

 very desirable natural creation of mixed stands, through the variety of 

 shade and shelter which it offers. This can be encouraged by removing 

 large, heavy-crowned tolerant species first, then those of medium toler- 

 ance, leaving the intolerant species (provided they be wind-firm) to 

 the last to scatter seed and to furnish protection to the seedlings (mostly 

 of tolerant species) below and around them. 



The brush disposal is identical with that now in vogue; the decay of 

 the debris is, of course, accelerated because of complete exposure to the 

 elements. In general, brush scattering is recommended where the fire 

 menace does not necessitate partial or complete burning. 



The absolute north to south progress of cutting is, of course, only 

 possible on comparatively level ground (slopes of 5 degrees equal 9 per 

 cent or less). In mountainous country the direction of the cuttings 

 must be such that the material is always removed down hill. Therefore, 

 the normal north to south direction need not be changed on slopes facing 



