I'm Going Tornado Hunting In A Few Weeks

[BillsBayou]

Here's a photo I took last year. I know exactly where this tree is. It's a beast. I'm going to collect it in a few weeks. I'll post photos after I've extracted the tree.

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Sorry, but I don't have any photos of the root base. IT'S UNDERWATER! I like the taper of this tree. It should develop nicely.

What really gets me about this tree is the visible twist of the trunk. This tree is loaded with character.

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Look at the cords of this trunk. Such definition! I'm thinking about letting this tree go for a year, then carving out every other cord with a chainsaw.

I'm thinking of bringing out a camcorder and making a how-to video of bald cypress collecting.

[Mitch Thomas]

Hey Bill
Do you want any company? Sure would like to go!

Mitch

[BillsBayou]

No problem, Mitch. It will most likely be the the first Saturday in February. I hit the swamps at 7am west of St. Rose. Weather permitting. I won't be out there if it is going to rain, or if the expected high for the day is lower than 45 degrees.

Be warned, I'm definitely going to be video taping this. So I might be an hour-and-a-half getting this one tree. I figure 30 minutes setting up the cameras and microphones, 20 minutes digging and explaining as I dig, and another half-hour getting the camera equipment put away. I've decided to make this kind of an instructional video.

Be sure to check my articles on the site where I explain what you should have when it comes to gear.

[Mitch Thomas]

Hell yea
I'm ready to roll! Just let me know when and I'll be there! I have been chomping at the bit to do some collecting! Coming from a life long outdoors person I don't like fighting mother nature, low temps, rain is a no go fo dis guy!

Thanks Mitch

[kaveman]

[color=#408000]Bill
That tree looks like it has tremendous potential. BUT - if you collect it - please reconsider the craving you are thinking about doing. To do that type of carving to this tree would be a sacrilege! Nature has designed that base and I can't see your plan improving on it. I would only use that technique on a base with no character; one that needs improvement; or maybe one that already has some dead wood. Just my humble opinion. Kirk[/color]

[BillsBayou]

Thanks, Kirk. I think you're right on that one.

[Jim Osborne]

Wow,....I ddin't know that was your tree Bill,....I collected that very same tree two weeks ago,...I'll post pictures soon,...sorry,..I had no idea!

[BillsBayou]

No problem, Jim. I'll come by tonight after 1am to pick it up. No need to get up. I'll let myself in.

[BrianG]

Incredable find. I'm very envious of you on this one. Looks like world class bald cypress material for sure. I totally agree with Kirk a 1,000% JMO. Can't wait to see the pic and videos. Good