rblank wrote:Because this is so far out of the way can I make a few suggestions?
Jen here's a little system that I use when scouting/ marking/ cutting trails. I get a few different color trail tapes. Let's say orange, pink, and white for the time being. I designate each color to a specific task. I'll make Orange the "access" or easier trails (I've not seen the land so not sure if this applies). I'll walk through and mark out where I want the trail to go. I also occasionally carry a can of spray paint of the same color to mark rocks and direction. When I come to a tree that needs to be cut down, I mark it with another color, usually white. I don't mark EVERY little thing that needs to be cut, usually just the larger stuff as necessary. I also try to mark both sides of the trail. Then I'll take another color, pink in this case being the only one left, to mark another trail, probably harder.
You can develop names for the trails later, but in the beginning is an easy way to let people know what to expect before they're half way in. Now, if someone wants to do a cut and you're not available, you just let them know the color code system and they can have at it. more mild folks can cut the "orange trails", hard core guys cut the others, and so on.
I think this may be a system we want to develop and expand upon for all the properties. That way people can schedule the cuts when it's convienent to them and the land manager doesn't need to be there EVERY time.
I also watched SAWYER on PBS the other day.
SAWYER featured Cynda Jones from Cowls and a local independent logger, among others.
One independent logger that contracts for Cowls showed his system for marking trees.
What I thought was VERY important and helpful was that they mark all trees to be cut in two places. Above the cut line, and on the stump. Marking below the cut line shows that the correct tree was cut.
Also, the term skidder... A skidder drags trees. Cowls prefers to use a Forwarder (front engine, articulating middle) that carries trees. Their independent foresters may use either.
Wicked cool show, loved it. www.pbs.org
