Forestry Practice and Research

Abstract

THE leader on forestry research in NATURE of May 16, and previous letters from Dr. Rayner and Prof. Tansley, would suggest that attempts to grow timber on poor land are in their infancy, and that the work of the Forestry Commission and other State forest departments throughout Europe is being carried on in complete ignorance of fundamental principles. It is fairly evident that no representation of this kind was intended, but at the same time the impression might be conveyed to the casual reader (if such an individual ever reads NATURE) that research in connexion with afforestation has been practically ignored. This view may be perfectly correct in certain directions, but I think the practical forester is as fully aware of the value of genuine research as those engaged in any other industry influenced by biological factors. As regards the British forester, whether in the capacity of employer or employee, I scarcely think that he is guilty of the charge advanced by Prof. Tansley. Forest botany and pedology he may have failed to study through lack of opportunity, but in connexion with geographical botany, estate owners throughout the British Isles have carried out most valuable work for practically two centuries in testing exotic species on varying soils and situations. These tests of exotic species have already enabled two or three cubic feet of timber to be grown where only one grew before in connexion with the planting of species like Douglas fir or Sitka spruce, while they have conclusively proved the unsuitability of other species for the British climate, although strongly advocated by enthusiasts.