LOGGING IX THE DOUGLAS FIR REGION. 95 
two and one-half hours for the starts and stops to straighten the 
logs out in the roads ; two and one-half hours hauling the main line 
in and out. Average ground conditions were assumed. 
It is obvious that estimates made in this way are artificial and of 
questionable value. Yarding records can be found which indicate 
that the above estimates are in error. In fact, the man who made 
this estimate has since exceeded it in small timber. 
Without doubt, experience of the right character is the best basis 
for estimating the yarding output with specific conditions. One can 
acquire a satisfactory basis for estimating yarding output through 
observation, including a careful examination of the different factors 
of each chance, together with an analysis of output records. In the 
following discussion of the labor cost, a body of such records is given, 
with the factors in the case stated as fully and accurately as possible. 
Labor cost. — As a rule it is the labor cost only that is given under 
the heading " Yarding cost " in the logging cost statements of opera- 
tors, for the labor constitutes the bulk of the yarding cost, though 
by no means all of it. Cost is largely determined by output, but 
the size of the crew and the wages paid also count. 
Statements giving the average labor cost per thousand feet, be- 
cause they vary so much and because it is so difficult to relate average 
costs to practical assumptions, are of little value. The following 
statements may afford some clew to this cost, but should not be taken 
too seriously: 
Labor cost per thousand feet {ground yarding}. 
Average logs: 
2.000 feet per log $0.44 
L750 feet per log : . 50 
1,500 feet per log- . 57 
1,250 feet per log . 64 
1,000 feet per log . 66 
750 feet per log . 87 
500 feet per log 1.15 
250 feet per log 1. 50 
[Based on the assumption that the logs averaged 1,200 feet in volume.] 
Stand per acre: 
20.000 to 40,000 feet SO. 64 
40,000 to 60,000 feet .60 
60.000 to 80,000 feet .57 
80,000 to 100.000 feet .54 
The number of men in a yarding crew is more or less fixed, but if 
can not be said that there is a standard crew. Foremen have differ- 
ent ideas of the proper size of a crew, and the members of the amount 
of work thev should do. In addition, the size of the crew varies to 
