FOREST FIRES 



145 



be utilized for this purpose. The original cost of construction 

 will vary greatly with the amount and character of the growth 

 to be cleared, and whether the line is plowed, burned over, or 

 raked. Under the best conditions a ten- to fifteen-foot Hne can- 

 not be constructed for less than $10 per mile, while in less favor- 

 able places the cost may easily run up to $50 or $75 per mile. 



By permission of Ihc U. S. Forest Service. 



Fig. 54. — Fire line cleared through a hardwood stand. The line has not been properly 

 maintained and is covered with a thick growth of weeds. The fire hazard is now greater 

 on the Hne than in the forest. 



After it is constructed the cost of maintenance should be below 

 $10 per mile per annum. 



The location of fire Hnes is largely controlled by natural condi- 

 tions. It is well to take advantage of brook beds which form a 

 barrier in themselves and where water can be obtained for 

 fighting fires; also of roads and trails; and especially of ridge 

 tops. Fires burn downhill very slowly and can, therefore, be 

 most easily checked at the top of a ridge. 



