I had the chance to clear some brush and fallen trees off of a fence-line. Cutting firewood is one of my favorite memories of working with my dad as a kid. Our only heat was a wood furnace or fireplace, so it was a big chore around our house to split and bring in the wood. There were several fall and winter afternoons spent cutting and stacking wood, and dad took a lot of time to teach the importance of chainsaw safety.
Not only did my time this afternoon work to clear the fence-line for repair, but we’ll also have wood for the fireplace this winter.
A Safe Workplace
Safety around a chainsaw and when felling trees is of utmost importance. NDSU has a great information sheet that covers everything from choosing a saw to proper use. There is a long list of safety precautions when using a chainsaw, from avoiding kickbacks, how to fell a tree, or hearing and eye protection. If you’re really looking to read into it Stihl has a great safety document here.
Interesting Fact:
A measurement of firewood is called a rick or a cord. We mostly refer to the rick here in Arkansas, but I have heard cord used. A rick of wood is 4′ high by 8′ long and one log deep (usually about 18″). A cord is 4′ high by 8′ long with 4′ logs. These measurements can vary in different areas.
What about you?
Let me know, what kinds of wood are used for firewoods around your area? We use mostly oaks. Hickory trees are good too, but that wood like to pop while burning and pine takes a while for the sap to dry.
Also, 5 points to anyone who can well me how many times a rick of wood will warm you up before its all said and done!
Do you have some memories of gathering firewood with relatives or as a kid?
