looking for Michigan carvers

[Donny b]

I have heard that Diamond Willow can be found in Michigan, can someone tell me if this is so and where I can find some? I live in Colorado but have a brother-in-law living there. Thanks

[AlArchie]

Diamond willow definitely grows here in Michigan. where is your brother located? I don't know if it grows heavilly down-state but here in the UP, it's quite common. The best spots to look are along old railroad grades, and on the edges of wetlands, just toward the higher ground. It grows among the tag alders and is distinguishable in that it grwos in clumps that have several trunks coming from one small area, like flowers placed in a vase. The tag alders grow in tangled masses. You can also find them along the edges of abandon fields where they tend to infringe onthe old field. Once you find some, odds are good that there wil be quite a few in the same area.

Al

[Donny b]

Thanks for the reply My brother-in-law lives in Millington, I haven't lived in Michigan for several years and I plan on seeing my sister and brother in-law in Oct. and would like to have him bring me some, The only ones I can find around here is a bit pricey, and being on a fixed income makes it hard, the boss said it was either a stick or a pot of beans, so guess what... Thanks again don

[AlArchie]

Don, one more possibility......seems to me I've seen some diamond willow along the Shiawassee River over in Livingston county so maybe there is some up toward your brother's place. Same river runs over by Chesaning. check with Bette Franke on this board...maybe she knows of where some can be located.

Al

[Donny b]

Thanks I have sent this to him maybe he will be able to find me some don

[woodknomb]

Originally Posted by Donny b

I have heard that Diamond Willow can be found in Michigan, can someone tell me if this is so and where I can find some? I live in Colorado but have a brother-in-law living there. Thanks

I locate my diamond willow in low areas where water builds up,boggy soil,railroad grade,snowmobile trails Etc. I was just out yesterday and picked up 3 or 4 sticks. He will have to becareful of getting some rotten willow. I made that mistake a few times. Where is your brother in law located? Archie? have you carved the root buld of a diamond willow? I got one and when it drys up I am going to get to carving it.

[woodknomb]

Check with ebay? I see they have it for around $10.00 + shipping. I sent one to lower Wisconsin for $3.50 I believe.

[woodknomb]

here is the one diamond willow with the root buld

[AlArchie]

Pat, can't say I ever did one with the root part, but that looks like it has a lot of potential! a pic when you get it done. those root sections can make great handles.

Al

[Bfranke]

News to me! I was not aware that it grew in Michigan. A friend took me to see where it grew in Nebraska a number of years ago, but of course was not harvesting any then. Nice to know it grows close to home.
Bette