LESSONS FROM THE FOREST' 53 



of wood supply, the forest exerts certain well known beneficial 

 influences to human interests. These are influences: 



1. Upon the climatic conditions within the forest area. 



2. Upon the distribution and character of the water flow. 



3. Upon the mechanical condition and erosion of the soil 



under its cover. 



4. Upon the sanitary and esthetic conditions of the peo- 

 pie. 



About the only influence the forest has upon climate is to 

 keep it more uniform within its own limits and to shelter our 



The Forest Prevents Excessive Erosion and Regulates Stream Flow. 

 Courtesy of A. B. Brooks. 



homes from storms and winds. The forests' greatest influence 

 is upon the distribution and character of its water flow. The 

 forest crown and floor catch and hold the rainfall, and allow it 

 to sink slowly into the ground to supply a uniform flow in 

 springs and streams, at the same time preventing destructive 

 floods and excessive soil washes. The forest air and water is 

 pure and healthful and the tired city dweller, as well as the 

 free country man, may find peaceful rest and happy apprecia- 

 tion of nature, beneath the forests' kindly shelter. 



PRACTICAL EXERCISES. 



1. An Observational Study of Forest Conditions.. Go with the 

 class in Agriculture to a forest. Let the pupils scatter out through 



