# CUT

The Cut command can be used to design simple to complex harvest prescriptions. Beneath this command, tree Priority sort rules and stand-level tree Retention constraints can be defined.

Tree Priority sorting rules allow certain tree species or tree sizes to be given higher or lower cut preference over other trees. You do not need to set the cut priority. The default cut order is thinnest to thickest trees and then by shortest to tallest trees.

OSM will always attempt to maximize the number of trees cut. To retain certain trees, Retention constrains must be defined.

Actions

def MyExampleAction

Cut {cycle delay}

Priority

Retention

Trails

See Actions for information about Cut cycle delay arguments.

### Trails

For partial cut treatments, where trails will be established, the Trails command will force OSM to remove X% of stems from each tree record. This effectively simulates removal of trees on X% of area in the stand. This initial cut is carried out before the main prescription, which may prioritize or retain certain trees during harvest.

One or more proportion arguments must follow the TRAILS command. Each argument defines the % tree removal from trails in each successive cut. The following command will randomly cut 20% of trees in the first cut, and 3% in any subsequent cuts.

TRAILS 20% 3%