George Washington preserved and protected the forest around his home beginning in the last quarter of the 18th century. Because his working plantation required wood for many uses, he sought to avoid clearing additional forests for fields by improving the fertility of land already under cultivation. He maintained his woodlands and kept his forested land relatively clear by using fallen timber for firewood and fence rails. He also aimed to create living fences that would not need replacement, valuing them because they saved timber and labor while also being ornamental and reputable. In Washington's time, wood was not used on the plantation for railroad ties, because railroads as they are known today were not in the vicinity of Mount Vernon in the 18th century.
