To Fell a Tree by Jeff Jepson

To Fell a Tree by Jeff Jepson is an illustrated guide to tree felling, from sizing up the tree to the notch, hinge and back cut. It is written for arborists, loggers and landowners who want to fell with more control.

What it covers

Felling goes right when the planning is right. The book walks through assessing lean, defects and hazards, choosing a lay, clearing escape routes and then making the cuts: open-face and conventional notches, hinge sizing, bore cuts and back cuts. It also covers wedges and pull lines for trees that need help.

Clear drawings show what a good hinge looks like and what goes wrong when it is cut through or left too thick.

Experienced fallers also use it as a refresher, especially when training new crew members who need to learn the vocabulary of felling cuts. Going over a diagram before a removal helps everyone on the ground understand the plan, the escape routes and their role in the job.

Using it safely

A book cannot replace hands-on chainsaw and felling training. Learn under a qualified instructor, wear full saw PPE including chaps, helmet, eye and hearing protection, and follow ANSI Z133.

Use it to prepare for training, to review before a tricky removal and to teach new crew members the reasoning behind each cut. Browse more books and training materials.

Felling near buildings, lines or roads calls for extra planning, extra people and sometimes a crane or rigging instead. Know when a tree is beyond your skill or equipment and call in help.