26 
Improving the Woodlots by Selective Cuttings. 
Under natural conditions where the growth of trees is 
thick and uncared for, thinning will be brought about through 
a struggle for existence, in which the weaklings will be 
killed out by the stronger and hardier trees. When 
artificial thinning and selective cuttings are put into 
practice by the farmer, a great deal of energy wasted in 
the struggle for existence, may be done away with. In- 
creased growth and earlier maturity would result. There 
is just as much reason for thinning the woodlot as there 
is for pruning the orchard. 
In the process of thinning, which could be carried on 
during the winter months, the inferior trees could be cut 
out for firewood, or fencing material. This would leave 
the more valuable timber trees in better condition, for 
it would obviate much of the struggle for existence that 
is so evident in any average woodlot. 
The only knowledge required in thinning the woodlot 
is a familiarity with the best and most rapid growing 
the 
timber trees. In this respect farmer should become 
acquainted with the trees that grow best on his soil. 
Sources of Damage to the Woodlot. 
The principal sources of damage to the woodlots in 
Tompkins County are : (a) indiscriminate cutting, whereby 
a great deal of young stuff is destroyed and the rubbish 
