Moisture Mapping, a crucial aspect of wood maintenance and preservation, involves measuring the moisture content in wood to assess its condition and prevent potential damage. ### What is the Moisture Content in Wood? Wood's moisture content refers to the amount of water it holds in relation to its dry weight. Moisture can be present in wood in three distinct forms: **Bound water:** Strongly bound to wood fibers and unavailable for use. **Free water:** Present in the wood's pores and easily evaporates. **Equilibrium moisture content (EMC):** The moisture content at which wood reaches equilibrium with its surrounding environment. Measuring moisture content is essential for proper wood handling, as it influences wood's strength, stability, and vulnerability to decay.