Download lumber sizing program how to#
Download lumber sizing program free#

Measure tree heights with the Merritt rule by the following method (see Fig. This will bring out the color of the indelible lead, as well as protect the stick from moisture and discoloration. Then give the stick a coat of clear var nish or polyurethane. Make the graduation for both the diameter scale and the height scale with a sharp pencil or marker. Inscribe half-log marks halfway between the 16-foot log marks. Each graduation represents a 16-foot log length. To inscribe the Merritt rule on the stick, simply mark graduations of 6.1 inches from the zero end of the stick (see Fig. One should then measure the distance between stump height and usable height.ДЄ Merritt rule for measuring tree heights can be inscribed on the reverse side of the Biltmore stick then both rules, one for measuring tree diameter and the other for measuring tree height, will be on the same stick. With older trees, however, excessive branching or forks may reduce the usable height. In slender, straight trees, this measurement is taken to a point on the upper trunk of the tree where the diameter inside the bark is 8 inches.

Tree heights are measured in units of 16-foot logs or fractions thereof. Measuring tree diameter with a Biltmore stick. Divide the circumference by 3.14 (ПЂ) to calculate the diameter of the tree.ДЇig. Wrap the tape around the circumference of the tree at 4.5 feet above its base. Tree diameter can also be measured using an ordinary tape measure. Read the diameter on the stick nearest the point at which the line of sight crosses it. Without moving your head, shift the line of sight to the right-hand side of the trunk.Д¤. Adjust the stick so that the left or zero end is lined up with the left side of the tree.ДЈ.

Look straight at the tree without moving your head from side to side. Hold the beveled edge of the stick against the trunk of the tree at breast height.Дў. Hold the stick 25 inches from your eyes in a horizontal position. Measure tree diameters with the Biltmore stick in the following way (see Fig. The stick is then graduated on the unbeveled side according to the figures given in Table 1.ДЎThe Biltmore stick may also be purchased from forestry equipment catalogues such as Forestry Suppliers or Ben Meadows.Дistance in inches from end of stick to diameter graduations Sand the sides and edges of the stick smooth. Dimensions of Biltmore stick designed to measure tree diameter on one side and merchantable tree height on the other side. The stick should be 30 inches long, 1 вЃ„2 inch thick and 11 вЃ„2 inches wide, and beveled on one edge.ДЇig.

Download lumber sizing program free#

Use a straight piece of hardwood that is free from knots or other defects, as shown in Fig.1. Although diameter tapes are often used to take this measurement, another tool, called a Biltmore stick 1, is easy to construct in the home workshop. Tree diameters are measured at breast height, which is 41 вЃ„2 feet above the average ground level. More complex techniques are involved in estimating volumes on a large scale, which are beyond the scope of untrained individuals. If an estimate of the entire woodlot is needed, however, the owner should contact an area forester or a consulting forester for this service.

Download lumber sizing program how to#

This bulletin describes how to estimate the amount of lumber in a tree with easy-to-make tools. Tables 2, 3 and 4 summarize these volumes using various log rule techniques.ДЄnyone can determine the board foot content of their trees by following a few simple steps. The first step in determining the board foot contents of standing trees is measuring their diameters and usable heights. A board foot is 1 inch thick, 1 foot wide and 1 foot long. Sawtimber is measured and sold in terms of board feet. Large trees that will yield boards for lumber are called sawtimber trees. Volume calculations can also help the woodland owner avoid harvesting more trees than necessary and can give him or her an accurate accounting of the number of board feet for sale. Measuring the volumes of standing trees enables the property owner to select the proper combination of available trees to provide the desired amount of lumber. There are times when a woodland owner may want to determine the board foot volume of certain trees in his or her woodlot for building purposes or for sale.