370 



FORESTRY IN NEW ENGLAND 



The use of specially constructed fire lines is not recommended 

 as a general thing in this region, because of the difficulty of 

 keeping them in proper condition. Prolific sprouting of the 

 cut stumps on the line follows the clearing, while grass and 

 herbs are very troublesome. In sandy soils and those com- 

 paratively free from stone, as is the case in many instances 

 in the white pine region, plowing is possible, and is a cheap and 

 effective method of keeping the line clear. But in the sprout 



Fig. 139. — A 70 year old stand of mixed oak and chestnut 2 years after a second 

 thinning. Canopy now about .8 density. Present stand 35 cords per acre. Cut in 

 second thinning, 2 years ago, 5 cords per acre. Cut in first thinning, 10 years ago, 

 8 cords per acre. 



hardwoods region the shallow, stony soils, and rough topography 

 usually prevent this. Occasionally along the boundary of a 

 tract, where fires may enter from outside, a cleared fire line ten 

 to fifteen feet wide may be of great value. The brushing out 

 of woods roads to give easy access to the forest and serve as 

 vantage points from which to fight fire is advisable. 



From the standpoint of fire protection the disposal of brush 

 after logging is not necessary. The hardwood tops decay 

 rapidly and are not so easily set on fire as is the litter of leaves 

 on the ground. Hence the tops will not materially assist the 



