ABSTRACT
The geographical situation has given Russia a mixed civilisation; besides, the enormous distances have exercised a decisive influence on the history of the country. Before the War the administration of the forests was deplorable; only 18 per cent of lumber available in European Russia and 1 per cent in Siberia was regularly worked. Afforestation was likewise very limited. The efforts made by the new Government have resulted in a very increased growth. The Soviet Government has applied itself to restoring the railway system. Plans have been drawn up for the construction of lines. The important system, called the Turksib, 1,800 km in length, which links Turkestan and Western Siberia, was completed in 1930. The Soviet Government has endeavoured to form a river-fleet. It has undertaken the construction of new canals, the most important being the one which is to link up the Don and the Volga.
