according to his findings. Special attention is given to
discovering new uses for species of trees which have hitherto been
considered valueless, and the demand upon certain rare species is
lessened by introducing more common woods which are suitable for use
in their place.

Aside from the perpetuation of the national forests, the U.S.
Forest Service also undertakes such tree studies as lie beyond the
power or means of private individuals. It thus stands ready to
cooperate with all who need assistance.

STUDY II. CARE OF THE WOODLAND

Almost every farm, large private estate or park has a wooded area for
the purpose of supplying fuel or for enhancing the landscape effect of
the place. In most instances these wooded areas are entirely neglected
or are so improperly cared for as to cause injury rather than good. In
but very few cases is provision made for a future growth of trees after
the present stock has gone. Proper attention will increase and
perpetuate a crop of good trees just as it will any other crop on the
farm, while the attractiveness of the place may be greatly enhanced
through the intelligent planting and care of trees.

How to judge the conditions: A close examination of the wooded area may
reveal some or all of the following unfavorable conditions:

The trees may be so crowded that none can grow well. A few may have
grown to large size but the rest usually are decrepit, and
overtopped by the larger trees. They are, therefore, unable, for the
want of light and space, to develop into good trees. Fig. 139 shows
woodland in such condition.

[Illustration: FIG. 139.--Woodland which Needs Attention. The trees are
overcrowded.]

There may also be dead and dying trees, trees infested with
injurious insects and fungi and having any number of decayed
branches. The trees may be growing so far apart that their trunks
will be covered with suckers as far down as the ground, or there may
be large, open gaps with no trees at all. Here the sun, striking
with full force, may be drying up the soil and preventing the
decomposition of the leaves. Grass soon starts to grow in these open
spaces and the whole character of the woodland changes as shown in
Figs. 140 and 141.

[Illustration: FIG. 140.--First Stage of Deterioration. The woodland is
too open and grass has taken the place of the humus cover.]

Where any of thes