214 STUDIES OF TREES 



vegetation is generally underestimated. An ordinary ground 

 or surface fire on a woodland area will burn up the leaf- 

 litter and vegetable mold, upon which the trees depend 

 so much for food and moisture, and will destroy the young 

 seedlings on the ground Where the fire is a little more 

 severe, the older trees are badly wounded and weakened 

 and the younger trees are frequently killed outright. Insects 

 and disease find these trees an easy prey, and all related 

 forest conditions commence to deteriorate. 



Constant watchfulness and readiness to meet any emer- 

 gency are the keynote of effective fire protection. Notices 

 similar to the one shown in Fig. 143 often help to prevent 

 fires. It is also helpful to institute strict rules against 

 dropping lighted matches or tobacco, or burning brush 

 when the ground is very dry, or leaving smouldering wood 

 without waiting to see that the fire is completely out. Ther3 

 should be many roads and foot-paths winding through the 

 woodland in order that they may serve as checks or " fire 

 lanes " in time of fire. These roads and paths should be 

 kept free from brush and leaves and should be frequently 

 patrolled. When made not too wide, unpretentious and 

 in conformity with the natural surroundings, such drives 

 and paths can become a very interesting feature of the 

 place, winding through the woodland, exposing its charms 

 and affording opportunity for pleasant driving and walking. 

 The borders of the paths can be given special attention by 

 placing the more beautiful native shrubs in prominent 

 positions where they can lend increased attractiveness. 



In case of fire, it should be possible to call for aid by 

 telephone directly from the woodland and to find within 

 easy reach the tools necessary to combat fire. It is also 

 important to obtain the co-operation of one's neighbors 

 in protecting the adjoining woodlands, because the dangers 



