the diameter measurement on the scale stick where the right edge of the tree trunk intercepts the stick (see photo 3). Diameter of standing trees is measured outside the bark.

Photo 3.  At the 4 1/2 Foot Height, Move the Tree Scale Stick Right or Left to Line the Zero-end of the Scale Stick up with the Left Side of the Tree Trunk.  Without Moving Your Head (Move Just Your Eyes), Look Over to the Right Side of the Trunk and Notice the Diameter Reading Where the Right Side of the Tree Intercepts the Scale Stick (Yellow Arrow).  If You are Holding the Scale Stick the Correct Distance from Your Eye, This Reading is the Tree's Diameter.  Diameter Should Always be Measured on the Uphill Side if the Tree is Growing on Sloping Ground.

Because a tree's trunk is not round and is often more egg-shaped, it is necessary to take two diameter measurements to get an average diameter reading.  Take the second diameter measurement 90 degrees to the first measurement (see photo 4 on the next page).  Add the two diameter measurements together and divide by 2 to determine the tree's average diameter. It is important to remember that on sloping ground always measure diameter on the uphill side of the tree.

How to Determine the Merchantable Height Measurement

Merchantable height refers to the length of the usable tree and is measured from a 1-foot stump height to the cutoff (merchantable height) point in the top of the tree. The cutoff height will vary with locality, with the product being produced, and with