Fällschnitt

Fällschnitt is a forestry technique used during the process of felling trees to efficiently and safely reduce the timber volume while minimizing damage to the surrounding environment. The term originates from German, where "Fäll" means "to fell" or "to cut down," and "Schnitt" means "cut" or "cutting." The method involves strategic planning of the cut sequence and direction to control the tree’s fall and to ensure the safety of workers.

The main objectives of Fällschnitt are to control the direction of the tree's fall, prevent damage to neighboring trees and property, and facilitate the processing and transport of timber. The technique typically involves making specific cuts, such as the notch and back cut, which are carefully planned to guide the tree’s fall along a predetermined path.

There are various types of Fällschnitt techniques suited to different tree sizes, species, and site conditions. The most common method is the conventional felling cut, which combines a notch cut on the side facing the desired fall direction with a back cut on the opposite side, slightly above the notch’s level. When properly executed, this creates a hinge that directs the tree’s fall and reduces the risk of unpredictable movement.

Fällschnitt is a fundamental skill in forestry and arboriculture, requiring knowledge of tree physiology, understanding of safety protocols, and precision in execution. Proper training and planning are essential to carry out Fällschnitt safely and effectively, especially in densely populated or environmentally sensitive areas.