How to Debark a Tree

Debarking a Tree

• 1

  Hold the hand saw or chainsaw at a downward angle and cut the tree trunk. Make an upward angled cut below the first cut to create a notch in the trunk. Relocate to the opposite side of the tree and make an even cut level to the middle of the notch on the other side.

• 2

  Cut into the tree until only approximately 1/10th of the tree's diameter remains between the two cuts. Retreat to a clear distance and wait until the tree has landed.

• 3

  Use the chainsaw or handsaw to cut off the limbs of the fallen tree. Attempt to cut the limbs as flush to the trunk as possible.

• 4

  Move to the base of the trunk, or log. Insert the end of the steel trowel between the cambium layer of the log and the bark.

• 5

  Lift the steel trowel handle up to separate the bark from the log. Once a section of bark separates you can pull it free with your hands and set it aside. Repeat this process along the length of the log, starting at the base of the log and working your way up to remove all the bark.