178 TIMBERS AND THEIR USES 



early stage of the investigation which took place 

 it was found to be necessary to bring these 

 denuded regions under strict forest control. 



A beginning was made by erecting stone 

 barriers or terraces on the slopes, and along 

 these collecting sufficient soil for the planting 

 of binding grasses, shrubs and tree seeds. On 

 the higher levels, strongly rooted trees such as 

 Pines, Larches and Firs were thus planted, in 

 order that their dense foHage and thick deposits 

 of leaves and needles on the surface might form 

 an effective cover to retain and gradually dis- 

 tribute the water of the heavy rains and snows 

 which fall in these districts. On the lower and 

 more sheltered parts the Cork Oak, Chestnut 

 and Carob were largely planted, preference 

 being given to finest bearing species as far as 

 possible. Under the law in force since 1882 

 these reclamation works can be carried out 

 either by the State or by the proprietors, the 

 latter being chiefly the village communities. 

 When, after careful examination, it is considered 

 necessary that a private area should be replanted, 

 the State can take the land either by agreement 

 or as a compulsory measure, compensation being 

 paid to the owners. The area is then under 

 forest law, ^nd the works are carried out at the 

 cost of the State. Should the owners wish to 

 keep the land they must undertake the reclama- 



