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White Oak Tree Upcycle

The failing white oak tree above Anderson Pond, a landmark in the Park, was replaced and its wood was repurposed into benches for the Park and other useful products.

Project Background

For an estimated 200 years, a magnificent White Oak stood sentinel above Anderson Pond. It was a landmark in The Park, well-known to sledders in the winter, and a haven of shade for visitors in the summer.

Inevitably, the tree reached the end of its lifespan and, in 2022, needed to be felled for safety reasons. The Conservancy decided to recycle as much wood as possible while also planting a replacement oak tree.

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Project Details

Two large trunk sections were reserved, milled, and dried to make wood products. To date, the The Conservancy has made a unique cutting board and two contemporary benches for the Garden Gate patio and provided wood to the Garden Club for new benches in the Walled Garden. Special thanks to The Harlan and Lois Anderson Foundation and to Bill Brock for their generous donations for this project.