[Illustration: FIG. 138.--Government Foresters in Missouri Studying the
Growth and Habits of Trees. They are standing in water three feet deep.]

Where cutting is to be done on a National Forest, the conditions are
investigated by a technically trained forester and the cutting is
regulated 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.