22 WOODLOTi FORESTRY. 



yield enough material to cover the cost. To thin a forest prop- 

 erly, then, begin when it is about twenty years old, and thin it 

 regularly at intervals of from five to ten years until the final 

 crop is ready for harvest. 



Points to observe in thinning: 



i . Choose the trees to leave, rather than the ones to take out. 



2. Try to develop an even spacing between the trees. 



3. In the early thinnings, let the value of the species in its 

 final product be important in determining the trees which are 

 to be left. 



4. Have in mind that trees with long straight boles are of 

 greatest value for lumber. 



5. Save the best grown trees of the most valuable species. 



6. Try to maintain a nearly complete crown canopy as a 

 means of preserving soil fertilty. Do not take out too much, 

 rarely should more than 20 per cent, of the volume come out at 

 a time (see Fig. 3). 



7. Mark the trees to be removed, not those that are to stay, 

 as every wound lessens the vitality and the value of a tree. 



STATE AID IN FORESTRY. 



Since forest owners know little about the methods employed 

 in forestry, the Forest Commission offers the services of its 

 foresters, so far as their time will permit, to all who ask for them. 

 The assistance given includes the examination of woodlands and 

 the making of recommendations for their management. Where 

 cutting is necessary, a part of the trees to be felled will be 

 marked to guide the owners in the removal of the rest. Advice 

 in regard to markets will be given, but in no case will the forester 

 have part in a sale. Those interested in forest planting will be 

 advised regarding the most suitable species for their situations, 

 how to obtain the trees and how to plant them. The State sup- 

 plies no planting material. Fire protective plans will also be 

 formulated. 



