Old-Growth Again - Forever Redwood Furniture
by Michael Graham Richard, Gatineau, Canada on 06.17.05
Yes, some of this outdoor furniture is made from old growth wood – But wait! Don't go yet! There's a twist. They use logs that were left on the ground from when old growth forests were logged in the 1950s. They even harvest them with two horses named Ike and Sparky instead of with heavy machinery that would damage the soil. Their furniture seems quite heavy & robust. It should last almost forever, with thick boards that are bolted together and metal plates underneath the legs for "extra strength and protection". You can even ask them to make a customized piece if what they have doesn't fit your needs (including kid-sized versions). They state that their "true mission" is forest restoration; They make the furniture to fund the restoration of a 580-acre forest in Annapolis, CA, so if you buy from them you are helping a good cause.
I thought decaying trees were part of the ecosystem, especially redwoods. Young redwoods grow from the dead stumps and fallen trees. And their web site states that they use younger trees as well--not sure how "green" this really is. Any more knowledge out there? (The furniture really is beautiful.)
Hi,
I am the founder of Old-Growth Again. I was surprised to find your piece on Old-Growth Again. As far as downed woody debris is concerned, yes, it is an integral part of a forest ecosystem. We remove about 15% of the downed logs every ten years. Our site contains a 62 page forest restoration manual that details our forestry practices. It can be found under Restoration vs. Sustainably forestry. Thank you for mentioning our work. Raul Hernandez