What's wrong with clear-cutting? :heh:
Seriously - I have a Lang 48. I am not quite sure what you are asking. You bought a stick-burner - you're gonna have to burn some wood!
I use split oak. I start my fire with some charcoal and about 5 splits. After that, I probably add a new split about every 45 minutes (I'm guesstimating - I have not actually timed it.) So, for an 8 hour smoke, I think I use about 15 pieces.
I let it get pretty hot at first (300-400), then shut the fire-box door. I put the meat on, spin the dampers to almost closed, and prop the smoker door open until the temp drops to about 250. I have to fiddle around with the smoker door and/or dampers for about 10 minutes until the temp gets steady. (I have not yet even used the damper in the smokestack. I just use the ones on the firebox.) Once the whole thing gets hot, it is pretty easy to keep the temp steady. I am always amazed at just how sensitive the fire is to those dampers.
I bought a stick-burner because I enjoy sitting outside and tending the fire. But, it's not like you have to watch it every minute.
Good luck and enjoy! I am really happy with my Lang.
