Data from 317 oaks and yellow poplars wounded by a spring fire in Virginia were analyzed by means of multiple linear correlation. A method was obtained whereby the size of wound can be predicted provided the areas of discolored bark and diameters of injured trees are known. The method of prediction so far is safely applicable only to groups of trees similar to those studied. Of the species examined, yellow poplar was most resistant to basal damage, scarlet oak was the most susceptible, and black, white and chestnut oak were intermediate.