Dropping down (or felling) a tree involves a carefully planned and executed series of steps to ensure safety and control the direction of the tree's fall. Based on the information provided from Lawnstarter.com, the process involves evaluating safety, preparing the site and tools, planning the direction of fall, and making specific cuts.
Essential Steps for Felling a Tree
Safely felling a tree requires preparation and precision. Here are the key steps involved:
1. Decide if it's Safe
Before starting, assess the tree and its surroundings. Consider factors like the tree's health, lean, nearby structures, power lines, and weather conditions. If the tree is large, hazardous, or near valuable property, it may be safer to hire a professional arborist.
2. Gather Equipment
Ensure you have the necessary safety gear and tools. This typically includes:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, heavy-duty gloves, and safety boots.
- Tools: Chainsaw (properly maintained and sharp), felling wedges, felling lever or breaking bar, measuring tape, bright flagging tape, and a first-aid kit.
3. Estimate the Fall
Carefully observe the tree's natural lean and use a technique (like holding an axe handle at arm's length) to estimate the tree's height and determine the intended direction of fall, ensuring it's clear of obstacles.
4. Clear Escape Routes
Plan and clear at least two escape routes away from the base of the tree, typically at a 45-degree angle away from the planned felling direction. These routes must be free of brush and obstacles to allow for a quick retreat as the tree falls.
5. Plan the Notch
The notch, or undercut, is crucial for controlling the direction of the fall. It's a wedge-shaped cut made on the side of the tree facing the intended direction of fall. The depth and angle of the notch are critical.
6. Cut the Notch
Execute the planned notch using your chainsaw. This typically involves two cuts: a horizontal cut made first, followed by a downward angled cut that meets the horizontal cut, removing a wedge of wood.
7. Insert Wedges
Once the notch is cut, insert felling wedges into the back of the tree, opposite the notch. Wedges help prevent the saw blade from getting pinched and can assist in guiding the tree's fall.
8. Make the Felling Cut
The felling cut is made on the opposite side of the notch, slightly above the bottom of the notch. This cut should be horizontal and aimed to meet the back of the notch, leaving a hinge of wood between the notch and the felling cut. The hinge is what controls the direction and speed of the fall. As the cut progresses, the tree will start to lean and fall towards the notched side, guided by the hinge and potentially helped by tapping the wedges.
Summary of Steps
For a quick overview, here are the fundamental stages:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Assess Safety | Check tree condition, surroundings, and weather. |
| Gather Equipment | Collect PPE and necessary tools. |
| Estimate Fall Path | Determine the safest direction for the tree to fall. |
| Clear Escape Paths | Create unobstructed routes away from the tree. |
| Plan the Notch | Decide on the size and angle of the undercut. |
| Cut the Notch | Make the directional cut on the fall side. |
| Insert Wedges | Place wedges to prevent binding and aid felling. |
| Make Felling Cut | Cut from the opposite side, leaving a hinge. |
Important Note: Felling a tree is inherently dangerous. If you are not experienced, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from a qualified professional arborist.
