How to Measure the Length of a Tree

A tree's length is an important factor in determining the amount of lumber the tree will provide. A direct measurement of the tree's length while it is still standing is impractical since this requires you to climb to the top of the tree. One method of calculating a tree's length indirectly takes advantage of the fact that the length of an object's shadow is proportional to its length. This ratio is the same for all objects at a given place and time.

Hammer
Stake
Measuring tape
Calculator

Instructions

- 1
  Locate a spot on the ground next to the tree and to the side of the tree's shadow. Hammer the stake into the ground so that the stake remains firmly in the ground, while ensuring that the stake is vertical.
- 2
  Place one end of the tape measure at the base of the tree where it meets the tree's shadow. Place the other end of the tape measure at the tip of the tree's shadow and record the distance. Assume for this example the tree's shadow is 33 feet in length.
- 3
  Measure the length of the stake's shadow with the tape measure. Assume for this example the length of the stake's shadow is 2 feet.
- 4
  Measure the stake's height from the base of the stake to the top of the stake. Assume for this example the height of the stake is 3 feet.
- 5
  Calculate the length of the tree with the formula L = T x H / S. L is the length of the tree, T is the length of the tree's shadow, H is the height of the stake and S is the length of the stake's shadow. The tree's length is therefore L = T x H / S =
  
  (33 x 3)/2 = 49.5 feet.

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