8 PRELIMINARY MEASUREMENTS 



A. Method of Procedure. 



1. In a manner similar to that explained above draw a diagram illustrat- 



ing the principle and work out the formula for deriving the length 

 of graduations of the Biltmore stick when used for securing the 

 16.2-foot log lengths in standing trees. 



2. Compute the length of graduation measured upward from the zero 



end of the Biltmore stick for each 16.2-foot log from one to eight. 



3. Mark these graduations on the reverse side of the Biltmore stick con- 



structed in Problem 4. 



PROBLEM 6. (Field) The Collection of Data for Volume Studies. 



Explanation. — The object of this problem is to illustrate practically the 

 methods of taking measurements necessary for volume studies of every 

 character. The student should realize at the outset that certain special 

 studies require only certain of the measurements here called for and that 

 when such special studies are to be made the first step in the work should be 

 to determine just what measurements are necessary, so that all unnecessary 

 measurements may be eliminated. 



The organization of parties and the routine as here suggested have been 

 found efficient in Pacific Coast timber, though it may not prove so for the 

 timber of other regions without slight modifications. Likewise, when a 

 smaller variety of measurements is required, some changes in this routme' 

 may be necessary. The proper key to the situation has been found only 

 when each member of the party is kept busy without any "waits," for if any 

 man has to wait on any of the others, the party is not efficiently organized. 

 The lengths in which the sections will be measured and the top diameter 

 limit to which D.O.B. (diameter outside bark) will be taken will ordinarily 

 depend upon the use which is to be made of the data. If they are to be used 

 for the construction of a rough "Used Volume Table" showing the average 

 contents of trees as utilized at a specific logging operation, measurements 

 will be taken to the last saw cut, and the length of sections will correspond 

 with the log lengths cut by the logger. 



If on the other hand the data are to be used in the construction of a general 

 volume table, a practically uniform volume should be secured for all trees of 

 the same size and shape. To do this the sections muEt be taken in regular 

 lengths up to a certain fixed diameter in the top, independent of the variable 

 lengths into which different trees are cut by the logger. In such cases a 

 certain length, such as 10.2 feet, 16.2 feet, or other regular length with a 

 slight overlength above the even foot to allow for trimming in the mill, 

 is determined upon in advance of the work, and trees are all measured in this 

 length of section up to a certain fixed limit in the top, as for example 6, 8 or 

 10 inches. 



The tree will then be divided into sections of this length up to the fixed 

 top diameter limit, regardless of whether the bole is broken or defective or 

 of how the tree has been cut into logs by the logger. In case the bole of the 



