41 



simple manner possible. Frequently it is suflBcient to state 

 whether species other than principal are abundant or rare. 

 Numerical ratios may be misleading, for instance where 

 there are a large number of injured or unsound trees, or 

 where the species are very irregularly distributed. Species 

 of minor importance need only be mentioned collectively if 

 they are abundant or rare, or are characteristic of the soil or 

 state of growth, or if they are confined to certain compart- 

 ments. Where there is more than one stage of growth, 

 as in coppice with standards, each stage should be separately 

 described. 



As regards age, if the crop is composed of two or more 

 distinct classes the respective ages of each should be given. 

 If the crop is irregular, the dominant age should be slated. 



The density of a crop is described by stating whether 

 the leaf canopy is complete or not, close, open, varying, 

 etc. 



The state of growth can generally be explained in a few 

 words, such as " active" or " slow ;" but the condition of the 

 crop, and such facts as the proportion of unsound trees, the 

 probable time during which the trees will continue in good 

 condition, etc., sometimes require to be specially explained. 

 It may occasionally be possible to note the origin of the crop. 

 As a rule forest history cannot be traced very far back ; - 

 but in any case it is expedient to mention what operations 

 have been last carried out. Where fires, grazing, etc., have 

 caused serious damage which has left its traces in the crop, 

 this should be stated and the effect noted. Generally there 

 is peculiar to each crop, as to each forest, some special 

 characteristic which, if not observed and noted, will render 

 the descriptions of compartments, however lengthy and care- 

 fully drawn otherwise, deceptive. 



Lastly it is useful to note the probable future treat- 

 ment or the cultural operations that might usefully be 

 executed in the immediate future. It does not necessarily 

 foUovrthat such operations will be carried out. This will 

 depend on various considerations which will be discussed in 

 connection with the organisation of a forest considered as a 

 whole. But such notes are of great use when the time comes 

 for preparing the plan. 



As an example of a description of a block, the following 



is given : — 



Name. — Dalnnr. . 



Area.-Sl^ aoies, of which 6 acres blank, and 10 acres unproductive rock. 



