A Sustainable Farewell: Repurposing a Historic Valley Oak in Atherton, CA

Step 1: Safely Removing the Tree

Trimming the ends of a big valley oak before cutting slabs on the Lucas Mill DSSM

The first step was to safely dismantle the fallen giant. Given the tree’s enormous size, this was no small feat. Our team used specialized equipment and techniques to carefully cut and section the trunk and larger branches, ensuring that the integrity of the wood was maintained throughout the process.

Step 2: Milling the Wood

Lucas Mill in Action

Once the tree was sectioned, we set up the Lucas mill. This portable mill is specifically designed to handle large logs, making it perfect for our needs. Over several days, we meticulously milled the tree into slabs, each revealing the beautiful grain patterns and natural history embedded within the wood. The rich textures and unique characteristics of the Valley Oak were preserved, capturing the essence of this historic tree.

Step 3: Preparing the Slabs for Future Use

After milling, the slabs were carefully placed stacked and stickered so that they can dry properly. The end grain was sealed to slow the natural air drying process which limits the amount of movement the slabs will undergo during this period. This preparation phase is crucial for transforming raw wood into material suitable for fine furniture and other crafted items.

The life of a 350+ year old Valley oak

The removal of the Valley Oak was indeed a bittersweet moment. It was sad to see such a mighty tree come down, but we are so glad that its wood will live on. Each piece of furniture crafted from these slabs will carry a piece of Atherton’s history, serving as a tangible reminder of the tree that once stood so proudly.

As we reflect on this project, we are inspired to continue our mission of sustainable tree care . Every tree has a story, and it is our job to honor those stories, even when their chapters come to an end.