 In preparation for the tree 's felling , some preliminary cutting was undertaken in the tree 's north side in the afternoon hours of September 22 . This work was done in order to manipulate the course of the tree 's fall , and to estimate the length of time it would take to cut through the remainder of the trunk . After a saw had been worked approximately 2 feet ( 0 @.@ 61 m ) into the trunk , it was discovered that the tree was decomposing and open in its center . The lumber crews trimmed the tree 's initial cut , and the further work to topple the tree was adjourned until the following morning . 
