What is notching in bucking or felling, and when is it used?

• A. Notch is decorative carving on the trunk after felling.
• B. Notch is the process of using a wedge to split wood.
• C. Notch is carved on the side to guide the fall direction.
• D. Notch is used to drill holes for bolts.

Answer: (C)

Notching is a cut cut into the trunk on the side facing the direction you want the tree to fall. This notch directs the tree’s fall and helps create a hinge so the tree falls where you intend, rather than swinging unpredictably. It’s used during felling to control the outcome and is not a decorative operation, not about splitting with a wedge, and not about drilling holes for bolts. After the notch is made, the back cut is performed behind it to release the tree while the hinge wood guides the fall.