Pruning/ Scaling/ Falling EWP

[MassPine]

New to the forum.
I have about 7 acres of mixed Oak/ Elm/ and Eastern White Pine on the Southcoast of MA that I am interested in manufacturing into timber for various uses. My main interest is in learning how to properly scale a tree for limb removal prior to falling. The approximate tree size of the EWP's are 1-2' in diameter, 65-95' tall,  > 100 trees...some are straight, some are not! I would like some expert advice on tree climbing equipment and the proper way to fall these trees so they don't split. I was advised by a local sawmill that it is extremely important to fall the tress correctly to avoid splitting. I have never scaled a tree for limb removal, but I dropped many trees for routine removal. Any advice would be helpful, and appreciated!

[bill m]

Do you really need to climb and limb these trees before you drop them? If you need to climb them call Shelter Tree in North Attleboro Ma. and talk to George Mellick. Tell him your plans and he will point you in the right direction.

[Gary_C]

Chances are the guy at the local mill was talking about the need for proper felling techniques rather than a need to limb those trees before felling. And I would echo those thoughts.

If you don't know how to make a notch, hinge, and a back cut you can easily split those trees and you can destroy the value of those logs as well as injure yourself. Get some training or hire an expert feller. And knowing how to drop trees is not enough experience.

[thecfarm]

I feel the branches will keep the tree from splitting or breaking when it hits the ground.There is no way that I would climb a tree and cut branches off without alot of training.I suppose you have worked in the woods before.How do you plan on getting the trees out of the woods?
Welcome to the forum.

[MassPine]

Excellent advice. Thanks for all your suggestions.
There is room to fell the trees without limbing, but I am concerned that the trees might get hung up on other standing trees. Plus, some are rather close to a house and shed on the property, which require a little more attention. As far as getting the trees out of the woods...Well, I'm still working on that! The land borders two common roads, so removing the wood will not be an issue when that time comes. The issue will be the best way to get the wood to the mill, or the safest. I will probably have to hire some one with a flat bed to haul the trees to Dartmouth, or Rochester. Again, Thanks for the advice. 

[Captain]

MassPine, where are you located?  We would be glad to help you out with anything that you need; from skidding to hauling, even portable milling...or just a conversation to point you in the right direction.  We're located in Norton.

Captain

[steveforest]

As an amateur forester, I have gotten pretty good at tree falling. Read, observe, practice, it's not that hard. Climbing with a chain saw is not for amateurs in my opinion, watch a guy that's good at it and you'll say "no way"! Just drag hangers by the butt with a tractor, winch or whatever.

[mr_buff35]

Climbing is sort of an art, which is practiced by intuitive craftsmen.  No tree is ever the same, and no climb as well.  A tree should only be climbed if it is only TRULY necessary, and ONLY by someone that is competent to do so.  There are many externalities to try to account for every time a tree must be pieced down.  If you are going to learn to climb for purposes of trimming or take down, i would suggest much training from a highly trained climber.  Lack of training, and the understanding of proper techniques can result in severe injury or death.  Dont do anything stupid because you find a pair of spurs, a harness and a few ropes at a yard sale! THINK IT THROUGH!!!

[DirtForester]

No need to climb.  Pine limbs will not cause stem splitting unless you are talking about a forked tree.

As mentioned, correct felling technique is critical, especially around buildings.