A standard cord of green wood will lose almost half a ton of water over the summer. If possible, cut the wood in the early spring, stack it at the woodlot to season over the summer, and haul it home in the fall. You will save yourself and your truck unnecessary work. The growth rate of trees varies for many reasons. A decrease in the growth rate of a stand may result from a problem that is only temporary, such as insufficient rainfall.
All trees grow slowly, and it is difficult to distinguish temporary from permanent setbacks.
Before deciding to remove trees, observe the stand for several years if possible, or discuss the situation with your state forester. Remember that you can always decide later to cut, but once a tree has been felled it will take years to replace. You may ask your state forester to mark trees for harvest operations or removals that will improve the remaining timber stand. This management service is provided free and is the best way to guarantee maximum wood harvest with minimum error. Landowners who maintain healthy forests through such timber stand improvements may qualify for membership in or recognition by the American Tree Farm System.