METHODS OF MAP MAKING 
113 
SECTION VII 
METHODS OF MAP MAKING 
1. Introductory 
There is a well defined call at the present time for good 
maps of small forest areas — maps which show topo¬ 
graphic features and record essential facts about timber 
stand. With the consolidation of large forest properties 
and their more careful and foresighted management, the 
need is felt for good maps of these as well, and it is certain 
that this demand will increase. 
The maps of the past are of all grades of accuracy and 
utility. A checkerboard of lot lines, with the waters 
roughly laid down, and estimates of the stand of timber, is 
the utmost that many lumber companies can command. 
Some improve this by hatching to represent mountains and 
divides, and by going more carefully into water lines and 
areas. 
Hatched Maps. The accompanying map represents part 
of a township owned by a Maine lumber company, and is a 
good example of a class of maps now having wide use. For 
the purposes of the map and of administration, the township 
was divided into sections, and as the lines were run, chain- 
age was taken at the crossings of streams and main divides. 
In addition, some cruising was done within the lots, 
chiefly to ascertain the amount of timber. On this basis 
the map was drawn. The course of streams is shown 
approximately. Mountains and prominent ridges are 
hatched in. Main existing roads may be put in roughly. 
A map like this, with lines on the ground to correspond 
with it, is of great service in the management of forest 
property. Logging contracts can be let with clearly 
defined boundaries; distance to haul is approximately 
known; in a rough way the nature of the ground is repre¬ 
sented. It has, however, very evident limitations. Off 
the section lines, it is all judgment or guesswork, and the 
details of the country, such as have a very material effect 
