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Distance Estimation by the Appearance of Trees

The following table is a method for estimating distance by the appearance of tree trunks, their branches and foliage (using the naked eye).

Distance Trunk Main or Inner branches Minor or outer branches Remarks
500 to
1000 yds.
Visible Visible Visible The foliage pertaining to each branch toward the observer can be easily distinguished.
1000 to
1500 yds.
Visible Visible Distinguishable The foliage begins to blend in cluster-like shape, but does not appear so dense but that some of the larger branches can be seen through it. With the sky as a background daylight can be seen through the foliage.
1500 to
2000 yds.
Visible Visible Blending with or obscured by the foliage The foliage is more densely clustered, presenting a rough surface. The outlines of the foliage of a large branch or group of branches are distinguishable.
2000 to
2500 yds.
Visible Distinguishable Blending with or obscured by the foliage The foliage is in clusters appearing as a smooth surface. The outlines of the foliage of separate trees distinguishable.
2500 to
3000 yds.
Visible Distinguishable Blending with or obscured by the foliage The foliage assumes the appearance of a continuous cluster blending with the foliage of adjoining trees.
3000 to
3500 yds.
Lower half Visible Blends with foliage Blending with or obscured by the foliage The foliage assumes the appearance of a continuous cluster blending with the foliage of adjoining trees.
3500 to
4000 yds.
Lower half distinguishable Blends with foliage Blending with or obscured by the foliage The foliage assumes the appearance of a continuous cluster blending with the foliage of adjoining trees.
4000 to
5000 yds.
Blending with foliage Blends with foliage Blending with or obscured by the foliage Surface of each cluster or group of clusters, smooth; motion caused by ordinary winds cannot be detected.
5000 yards and beyond the whole area covered by trees appears like a bushy area at about 1000 yards, except that the surface is smoother and blacker.

From: Notes on Training Field Artillery Details by Captain Robert M.Danford and Captain Onorio Moretti. New Haven: Yale University Press (1917); page 146-147

 

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