How is a Cull tree defined?

• A. A tree with more than half of the sawlog volume rotten or likely to die before the next harvest
• B. A tree with full sound timber
• C. A small understory tree
• D. A tree with high aesthetic value

Answer: (A)

Cull trees are those whose wood isn’t merchantable due to defects or poor vigor. The option fits because it defines a tree where more than half of the potential sawlog volume is rotten or at risk of dying before the next harvest, so little of the stem would yield saleable lumber. The other descriptions don’t match this idea: full sound timber implies good, saleable wood; a small understory tree is typically not considered in harvestable volume; and high aesthetic value relates to appearance, not timber quality or likelihood of becoming merchantable.