Be Careful of Springpoles

Springpoles are typically saplings that have been bent over by falling trees or big limbs. They are an unfortunate byproduct of most tree-felling operations, although you can (and should) take steps to minimize their occurrence. You do that by anticipating where the tree will fall, and cleaning up a place for it before you cut it down. But when you inevitably encounter a springpole, the best way to deal with it is by making a series of progressively deeper cuts into the top of the arch, until it collapses.

The big hazard presented by springpoles is that they're under a lot of tension and if you cut them in the wrong place, they can easily snap up and hit you. The other day I cut one at the base and it jumped out pretty violently. I was careful not to be in the way, but it could have easily broken my leg if it happened to be in the wrong position. It got my attention, so I thought I would post this reminder.

From a male perspective, probably the worst thing you could do would be to cut a springpole loose while straddling it, but any part of your body hit by a piece of wood moving that fast is going to feel the pain. Unless you get hit in the head, of course.

I have found a Fanno pole saw is a handy thing to carry around for just this reason alone.

Thanks for the "heads-up" Eric. Next time please give us the warning a little sooner. ;-)
Just this past weekend as I was cutting off the limbs of a felled tree I got slapped right in the face
with one of your Springpoles. I was lucky not to get seriously hurt because I was wearing my
brand new gear. http://www.labonville.com/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=47&idproduct=125
It was hot, but after the slap in the face, I was happy to wear the safety gear. :coolsmile:

George

Last year I dropped a big tree and it landed in a wooded area, what I didn't see was this two inch sapling hiding in the branches. So I start cutting her up and whap it hit me on the forehead and gave me a nice welt. I never saw it coming. That night went down to the local pub and no one said a word. The next night they saw me again and said we were afraid to ask you what happened last night it looked sore. They thought it was funny. If it would of hit my schnoz it would of broke it. Lets just say I am a lot more careful now. Never had that happen before. But always expect the unexpected.

Wow! I appreciate the heads up. Maybe I can learn something here without having to experience it myself! I'm older, just still not sure if I'm wiser yet.

A very good reminder.... from experience hangers and springpoles are loaded mouse traps to say the least.

As was mentioned a tiny two inch piece of wood can surprise you when you least expect it. Seeing a two inch piece "split" and then straighten out a couple feet is a word to the wise.