Vandalism threatens Corvallis trees

One or more vandals are cutting chunks of sought-after wood from maple trees in Corvallis’ Willamette Park. Officials say the illegal poaching will likely kill the trees.

The burls, rounded masses of specialized tree tissue prized by artists and furniture makers for their unique patterns, can fetch a high dollar, said Jennifer Killian, an urban forester with the city of Corvallis.

“They are very tough, resistant to splitting and absolutely stunning,” Killian said. “They’re prized for their use in woodworking.”

The burls don’t serve a particular purpose. But for the injured trees, the cost of cutting them out is likely death.

The first tree was vandalized in December, and so far, 25 burls have been cut out of six trees. Killian estimates the trees range in age from 75 to 100 years old.