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Osage that’s laying on the ground.

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Muskyman:
Okay here is another question. I’m going to go back to my Osage harvesting spot. I’ve been reading on here about people using Osage that has been laying on the ground for a long while and it being okay still. I remember seeing a log laying on the ground that I just worked around. I think it was Osage that had fell/uprooted and was probably about 12-14 inches or more in diameter. I’m guessing that I should probably cut it off at the bottom of the trunk and up 6-8 feet and at least take a look at it to see what it looks like inside. Best I can recall it looked like the bark had decayed off it and was kinda decayed looking on the outside but I’m pretty sure it was Osage. Also I don’t remember seeing any limbs on the first 6-8 feet of it, maybe more so I’m guessing it’s at least worth a look. I’d hate to just leave it laying there if it’s got a chance of being good bow wood still.

Pat B:
Osage laying on the ground should be ok but you will have to open it up and see. The bark will rot off and so will the sapwood but usually the heartwood will still be ok. If you cut it be aware that it's moisture content will he pretty high just by laying on the ground so seal the ends well. Split it down only small enough for you to handle it. Once you get where you are taking it give a it a few weeks to start acclimatize before splitting it into staves.

TimBo:
And make sure to seal the back!  Like Pat said, it will be far from dry if it's been on the ground.

Muskyman:
Thanks gentlemen, I’ll keep you posted on what I find..

Pat, that seems to be the state of the log I’m talking about. It looked, best I can remember like the bark was gone and the sapwood was dark and punky looking.. At that time I figured it was trash or firewood at best but, after reading some past posts on here I thought it might be worth looking into..

BetterTrees:
My first Osage bow was from a stick in the firewood pile that had been laying for three years. The heartwood was fine, except for a few big holes that made me chase an extra three rings, I think.
The end checks went full length and dictated my stave for me.

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